We’re lucky to have such lovely walks and heritage destinations all around us here in Manchester, and one we’re particularly proud of is Lyme Park in Disley. Nestled on the edge of the Peak District, Lyme Park and Estate is the perfect spot for a day trip from Manchester, and not only is it a great day out for all the family, it has hosted some pretty iconic scenes on TV.
Unlike many great estates, Lyme was a much-loved home to generations of one family and their valued and loyal workers. Living through England’s most troubled times, the Legh family hung on to their home and (mostly) their heads, and this impact can still be seen across the estate today.
The largest estate in Cheshire, Lyme has been designed on a grand scale over a number of centuries. It has been a place to receive occasional royal guests, take friends hunting or to entertain on a lavish scale.
Lyme is a country house which was built and rebuilt, embellished and enlarged throughout its ownership by the Legh family, over six centuries with each generation making its mark and creating the house we see today. Explore rooms of exquisite furnishings and unusual objects at your own pace to discover stories of medieval battle, furtive rebellion, and grand tours.
Lyme Park as Pemberley
Lyme Park is also famous for playing the exterior and grounds of Pemberley, Mr Darcy’s home, in the BBC’s Pride and Prejudice (1995). Jennifer Ehle’s Lizzie was shocked by the approach of the soaking wet figure of Mr Darcy, played by Colin Firth, after his dip in the lake. The scene cemented Firth’s sex symbol status and turned Lyme Park into one of TV’s most iconic backdrops.
Experience Lyme like a Jane Austen character and get dressed up in full Regency dress. Spend the day in costume whilst exploring the house and gardens. Dress up in suits, day-dresses, or childrens clothing true to the silhouettes and tailoring of the Regency era, represented in Pride and Prejudice and reflected in Bridgerton‘s period styling.
Stay at Lyme
From a hunting lodge to a country house there’s 600 years of history hidden at Lyme. It’s the quaint hunting lodge, Lyme East Lodge, on the grounds that can be rented for two-night stays, with prices starting from £315.
Swap grey window views for vast panoramas of green countryside and roaming red deer, as Lyme East Lodge is nestled on the eastern boundary of Lyme’s 1,400 acre historic deer park. The two-bedroom Edwardian cottage overlooks the moorland plateau of Kinder Scout and the historic cage banqueting tower, which was used as a 16th-century hunting lodge.
Inside the sandstone house you’ll find an inviting interior with spacious rooms that retain some of their original features. It can also accommodate dogs too, with a garden at the rear of the cottage for pup to stretch his legs.
You can find availability for Lyme East Lodge here.
Park and gardens
If you are in need of some fresh air, you can explore over 1,400 acres of historic parkland. Head out to the wider estate for walks through woodland and across the moor for far-reaching views. Seek out the built structures dotted through the landscape for some of the best views. There’s plenty of wildlife and nature to see along the way.
The historic garden at Lyme offers variation throughout the seasons so it’s always a good time to visit. Nestled on the edge of the Peak District, the garden provides a carefully cultivated contrast to the rugged and wild moorland beyond its confines.
