Planning a day out near Chester? Don’t miss Dunham Massey, one of the most stunning National Trust attractions in Cheshire. With its Georgian mansion, ancient deer park, seasonal gardens, scenic walking trails, and a cosy café, it’s the perfect family-friendly day out from Chester or Manchester.
In this complete visitor guide, find everything you need to know: tickets, car parking, trails, events, history, opening times, FAQs — and why it’s one of the best days out near Chester.
Where is Dunham Massey?
Address:
Dunham Massey Hall and Gardens
Woodhouse Lane, Altrincham, Cheshire, WA14 4SJ
Telephone:
0161 941 1025
Just 40 minutes from Chester, it’s ideal for a day trip in Cheshire.
A Brief History
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Home to the Booth & Grey families since the early 1600s.
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Became a WWI military hospital, beautifully presented inside the house.
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Surrounded by a 300-acre deer park with herds of fallow deer.
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One of the finest Georgian houses near Chester.
Gardens, Deer Park & Walking Trails
Deer Park:
Walk freely among ancient oaks and roaming deer.
Gardens:
Famous Winter Garden, rose garden, orangery and moat.
Walking Trails:
Flat, well-maintained routes perfect for all ages and dog walkers (dogs on short leads).
Tip: Visit in early morning or late afternoon for best deer photos.
Café & Facilities
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Café: Hot drinks, cakes, soups, kids’ lunches.
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Toilets (accessible & baby change)
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Gift shop
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Second-hand bookshop
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Picnic areas
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Manual wheelchair loan (subject to availability)
Parking at Dunham Massey
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Large pay-and-display car park
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Free for National Trust members
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Accessible parking bays
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No EV charging yet (check NT website for updates)
Tip: Arrive early on sunny days & holidays.
Tickets & Prices
| Ticket type | With Gift Aid | Without Gift Aid |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (18+) | £11.00 | £10.00 |
| Child (5-17) under 5s free | £5.50 | £5.00 |
| Family (2 Adults and up to 3 children) | £27.50 | £25.00 |
| Family (1 adult and up to 3 children) | £16.50 | £15.00 |
| Ticket type | With Gift Aid | Without Gift Aid |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (18+) | £18.70 | £17.00 |
| Child (5-17) under 5s free | £9.40 | £8.50 |
| Family (2 Adults and up to 3 children) | £46.80 | £42.50 |
| Family (1 adult and up to 3 children) | £28.10 | £25.50 |
Check Dunham Massey’s official site for updates.
Opening Times (2025)
| Area | Times |
|---|---|
| Gardens | 10:00–17:00 |
| House | 11:00–16:00 |
| Café & Shop | 10:00–17:00 |
Closed 25th–26th December.
Map & Trails
Pick up a free map at the visitor centre, showing:
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House & gardens
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Deer park walks
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Café, toilets, shop
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Woodland trail
Events at Dunham Massey
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Summer holiday family activities
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Autumn deer rut walks
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Garden tours & workshops
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WWI hospital exhibitions
Find full details on the official events page.
Why visit Dunham Massey?
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Historic interiors & WWI hospital story
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See free-roaming fallow deer
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Beautiful gardens all year round
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Family-friendly facilities
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Great café & gift shop
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Only 40 mins from Chester
FAQs
Is Dunham Massey dog friendly?
Yes, in the deer park (dogs on short leads). Not in house or formal gardens.
Do I need to book tickets?
Not always, but it’s wise on busy weekends & holidays.
Is it wheelchair accessible?
Yes: accessible toilets, flat paths, manual wheelchairs to borrow.
How long should I allow?
About 2–4 hours to explore fully.
Can I get there by public transport?
Yes: nearest station is Altrincham, then local bus/taxi.
