Nestled on the Derbyshire/Staffordshire border in the English Peak District, is the pretty village of Ilam with a former stately home at its heart. The house is now a Youth Hostel which you can stay in, but the surrounding formal garden and park grounds are free to enter and enjoy.
The park covers over 150 acres with the River Manifold flowing through it. The estate was owned by the wealthy Port family for over 250 years from the 1600s, although the current hall is more modern, dating back to 1821. Believe it or not, this hall was in the process of being demolished when it was saved and donated to the National Trust. As such, the hall as you see it today is about half its original size. There’s a great sign board in the garden where you can line up an image of the original hall over the top of the current one to see how it used to look.
One of the highlights of a visit today is the Italian formal garden and terrace. This area is raised, offering lovely views in all directions. The stone staircase in the tower allows access to the lower levels. There’s an attractive sloped garden which leads down to the river. Then, you can cross the stone bridge and follow paths on both river banks to enjoy the park further.
The Stables area near the hall is now a cafe and toilets and there is a children’s exploration and play zone behind it. Here, you’ll find rustic, tree trunk style play equipment. Although the hall is a Youth Hostel, we’d still recommend heading inside. You’ll be able to see the great hall, which is now the recreation area. Another place to visit in the park is the estate church which has the graves of the Port family inside. Ilam Park is a great place to visit and we really enjoyed our time here. There’s lots to see and do, especially in the summer months when the National Trust offer free activities for families and children. If you love walking, there are lots of public footpaths to take from here too.
Admission to Ilam Park is free, but there is a parking charge of £6 (Free for National Trust members). We’d recommend walking down to the Ilam village too as it’s really pretty with chalet-style houses. Also, don’t miss nearby Dovedale which is just down the road. Here you’ll find a picturesque valley and the famous stepping stones across the River Dove.
LOCATION & CONTACT
Address: Ilam Park, Ilam, Ashbourne, England DE6 2AZ
Tel: 01335 350503