Secrets of the National Trust at Dunham Massey

Local attraction Dunham Massey is set to appear on the Channel 5 series, Secrets of the National Trust.  In Wednesday night’s episode (18 July, 9pm on Channel 5) Alan Titchmarsh goes behind the scenes at Dunham Massey to uncover its secrets and find out about life across the estate.

Alan spent three days exploring Dunham Massey across the 3,000 acre estate, visiting its extensive garden, ancient deer park and Georgian mansion and meeting the staff and volunteers who look after this special place.

The episode sees Alan spend time with National Trust curator, Katie Taylor as they uncover stories from this grand family home. Alan discovers the scandal that rocked local Victorian society, when the seventh Earl of Stamford, George Harry Grey, rebelled against expectations and married a circus performer. The reaction forced them to flee and leave the estate to decline, until it found a new purpose as a military hospital during the First World War.

Also uncovering Dunham’s secrets were presenters Louis Emerick and Angellica Bell. Louis joined head ranger, Andrew Wyllie on a walk around the ancient deer park. After hearing about Dunham’s much loved herd of fallow deer, Louis was put to work helping the rangers.

Angellica Bell met up with Dunham’s team of dedicated volunteer beekeepers who care for eight colonies of resident honeybees to help them with the annual honey spinning.

Members of the public can follow in Alan Titchmarsh’s footsteps this summer and explore Dunham. With acres of parkland to explore, a beautiful garden to picnic and play in and a house to transport you back in time; Dunham Massey provides the perfect backdrop for adventures this summer.

Families can dream big with the magic of the Midnight Garden. It’s 1906 and after a long time away the family have finally returned to Dunham. There’ll be garden parties and games galore as the whole estate rejoices; even the animals and plants will be brought to life in celebration! Join in with exciting activities throughout the summer holidays – perfect for families looking to make the most of the long summer break and keep their little ones busy all summer long.

 Secrets of the National Trust at Dunham Massey is due to air on Wednesday 18 July 9pm on Channel 5. For more information about the Channel 5 series, Secrets of the National Trust visit https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/features/new-2018-series-of-secrets-of-the-national-trust-with-alan-titchmarsh