Inspire Me

We’ve handpicked our favourite articles, events and stories to inspire your next day out.

Find out what's new in our historic gardens, flick through the latest travel guides and read about seasonal scenic walks. Your next adventure starts here...

Discover what's on at our historic sites across the county.

A family sits together outside a castle

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A decorated Christmas tree in a country house with a large staircase in the background.

Why do we give gifts at Christmas?

With Christmas Day just a month away and many of us busy with our festive shopping, we’re taking a look at the long and fascinating history of gift-giving.

 

Why do we take part in this cherished annual tradition, and how has the custom of exchanging gifts evolved over the years?

 

In this article, our Properties Historian, Andrew Hann, explores the origins and transformation of one of our favourite festive traditions.

Read more about the history of gift giving
A view of Stonehenge from a high angle.

What is a Henge?

Henges are some of the earliest and most intriguing monuments you can spot in the English landscape and they’re definitely worth exploring.

 

In this article author and anthropologist Mary-Ann Ochota tells us exactly what to expect from a henge.

Learn more about henges
The exterior of Brosdworth Hall in the sunshine, underneath a blue sky.

The fall and rise of the English country house

England’s historic country houses are a significant part of our social history, serving as luxurious and beautiful residences for the very wealthy and places of work for thousands of servants and workers.

 

Yet for 70 years or more, the English country house was widely seen to be in decline: around 4,000 were demolished between 1875 and 1975. Explore their rise and fall in this article.

Read more about English Country Houses
Two children talk to Father Christmas in front of a Christmas tree

Celebrate Christmas at our historic sites

Make this Christmas unforgettable with festive markets, twinkling light trails, and Christmas carols at our historic sites across the country.

Find Christmas events near you

The English Heritage Podcast

Every object has a story to tell. But how can one mystery item lead us on a journey through history, people and places? 

In the English Heritage podcast, comedian and writer Amy Matthews brings you entertaining tales from unexpected places. Each week, we begin with a mystery item and with the help of English Heritage experts and special guests, Amy explores what our past can tell us about our present and perhaps our future.

Listen now

Relax this autumn

Put on your headphones and relax to the ambient sights and sounds from a selection of our historic sites across the country, or cozy up by a historic fireplace.

  • BRODSWORTH HALL AND GARDENS

  • PENDENNIS CASTLE

  • WITLEY COURT AND GARDENS

History for Kids

Are you ready to go back – way back – in time to learn all about England’s history? Discover what life was like in the past through fun facts, illustrated stories, games, crafts and more.