For a glimpse into the life of the British upper class in the 18th and 19th century, and perhaps the best insight in the UK into the 'upstairs-downstairs' relationship that existed between masters and their servants, this stately house and gardens make for a highly worthwhile visit. Erddig was the Yorke family's ancestral home for over two centuries (until 1973).
Today the property is managed by the National Trust, which has added a decent cafe and a gift shop. The house and outbuildings trace the historical element of the Yorke family's story while the country estate includes a walled garden, restored in Victorian style, rare fruit trees, a canal and the National Ivy Collection. Best of all, however, Erddig now hosts a huge program of family-friendly activities, school-holiday events and themed days out, ranging from autumnal apple days to Easter egg trails and a Christmas fair.
Erddig is about 12 miles northeast of Llangollen in the village of Rhostyllen, signposted off the A483.
