National Trust properties - full up

Last year we went to see how Tyntesfield was after the renovations but picked a 'free open day' so were unable to get into the house. We had to queue for a long time for lunch. Had a nice walk around the grounds but we will pick our time to visit more carefully next time.

When I say we picked that day, we were unaware that it was a 'free for non NT members' day.

Great to hear they are doing well. Must say as we are retired, we would never go at week-ends or at Bank Holidays, for reasons stated.

Well, well Maisie I didn't see you at Coughton Court, but as you say it was a tad busy. Usually avoid the holiday period myself.

We just rolled up at Coughton Court on impulse a couple of years ago on a Thursday in late August and went more or less straight in! ( Coffee and a comfort stop first of course) Maybe your experience was because it was Easter?

I volunteer at a NT Property and this Easter has been manic. If you are going to a house or stately home it's best to 'do' the house between 12.30 and 2.00 when most people are queuing in the restaurant and have either a very early or a late lunch.