A National Trust property and gardens in the North East with 40 miles of footpaths to explore has been crowned one of the best for a day out in the UK.

Cragside in Northumberland was praised by Rest Less, a digital community for the over 50s for its “spectacular” grounds including “clouds of colourful rhododendrons” and “tumbling” waterfalls.

Rest Less commented on its recent travel guide: “The UK has some of the most beautiful green spaces, historic houses, and ancient monuments in the world – and the good news is that we also have the National Trust to look after them.

“The National Trust was founded in 1895, in the wake of the Industrial Revolution when urbanisation was happening at record speed. Its goal was to protect our green and pleasant land and give everyone the chance to enjoy some peace and relaxation away from the cities.

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“Many people have developed a new appreciation for the countryside over the past few years – and if you’re one of them, you might be wondering what some of the best places to visit in the UK are.”

See all of the UK’s top 10 National Trust places to visit here.

Why is Cragside among UK’s best National Trust places for a day out?

Rest Less revealed: “Deep in the wild countryside of Northern England is Cragside, a pioneering Victorian home famous for being the country’s very first ‘smart home’.

“Imagined, designed, and created by inventor and arms manufacturer Lord William Armstrong and his wife Lady Margaret, Cragside was the first house in the world to be illuminated with hydroelectricity and powered by hydraulics.

“The Armstrongs loved nothing more than creating and building new inventions. Together, they turned a desolate heathland into spectacular grounds full of formal gardens, man-made lakes, tumbling waterfalls, soaring conifers, and clouds of colourful rhododendrons.

“There are 40 miles of footpaths around Cragside, so if you’re into hiking, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Just don’t forget your walking boots, as this rocky terrain can be challenging!”

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The publisher added: “The interior of Cragside House is no less beautiful, and it’s one of the best places to visit in the UK if you’re into historical gadgets. Lord Armstrong designed and built dozens of new inventions – from a water-powered laundry to rudimental versions of a dishwasher. And today, the house is chock-full of gizmos that aimed to make Victorian life easier.

“After you’ve explored the house and grounds, be sure to head to the tearoom for an excellent cream tea.”

Those who have visited Cragside already have given it an impressive 5/5 rating from 3,725 reviews on Tripadvisor.

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Someone shared: “This really is a gem in the crown of the National Trust. The house is small enough to feel like a family home but big enough to have an amazing collection of artefacts combined with a fascinating history of a truly incredible man and his family.

“The extensive estate has many paths, walks, lakes, gardens and buildings to explore. We spent 5 hours here and came away tired, educated and enthralled.”

Another wrote: “First visit to Cragside. Lovely gardens. Great walk through the house with lots of interesting facts. Nice cafe and visitors centre plus other locations throughout the estate. I enjoyed doing the 6 mile carriage drive. Even though we were there for 4 hrs we didn’t see half the estate so will definitely be revisiting.”