Belsay Hall Castle and Gardens is one of the best English Heritage properties in the area. The Grade I listed hall was built for Sir Charles Monck on an estate that already had a castle and Jacobean mansion, and they all stand in 30 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens. There is a magnolia garden, terraces, rhododendrons, a winter garden and croquet lawn, and a quarry garden. In addition there's free parking, a tearoom (summer only) and various small exhibitions. Opening Times: Daily 24th March -30th September 10am-6pm; 1st-31st October 10am-4pm; 1st November-31st March 10am-4pm (except Tue and Wed); closed 24th-26th December and 1st January.