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UK attraction inspired by ancient Greece – with medieval castle, Jurassic Park-style gardens and kids playground
And some of the best underrated towns to go for staycations this year
AN attraction in the UK that was inspired by buildings in Ancient Greece is also home to a medieval castle and gardens that look like they're from Jurassic Park.
Sometimes it can be difficult to pick a place to take the kids for a day out.
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But Belsay Hall in Northumberland almost has three days out rolled into one, with its hall, extensive gardens and 14th century castle all worth a visit on their own.
The hall is the first thing visitors are greeted with as they arrive at the property.
It was built by Sir Charles Monck, who was inspired by Greek architecture he had seen on his honeymoon, particularly the Temple of Hephaestus in Athens
It was made using stone quarried from the gardens at the site.
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The build was completed in 1817 and was used as a family home until, complete with servants' quarters in the basement.
Today, the home can be explored, with its "imposing pillar hall" one of the highlights, while exhibitions are regularly hosted in its many rooms downstairs.
Out the back of the hall are its quarry gardens from where the stone was taken to build the hall.
Giant towering trees, ponds and exotic plants create an atmosphere that some have compared to scenes from the Jurassic Park films.
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It's a great place to go for a wander and trails are often in place to keep children entertained on their walk through the gardens.
The trail ends up at the 14th century castle tower, which was expanded upon in the 18th century.
To this day, guests are free to climb to the very top of the tower and gaze out upon the Northumberland countryside.
They can also look for the traces of medieval wall paintings that remain in the fortress to this day.
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Meanwhile, just behind the castle is a new children's Wild Man play area, which only opened last year.
It has climbing frames, a winding slide, swings and other things for children to burn off their energy on.
Belsay Hall is a very popular day out for locals and visitors to Northumberland, with plenty praising it on TripAdvisor, leading to it receiving a Travellers' Choice Award last year.
One wrote: "The Quarry garden was like walking through Jurassic Park and the views from the castle roof were stunning even in the rain. Well worth a visit."
Another said: "The walk to through the quarry gardens is fabulous and the formal gardens are lovely. The whole area is awash with ancient trees. There is a great adventure playground too."
A third added: "The quarry gardens are truly special; a magical place. At every turn, a beautiful romantic view. It’s a perfect place for children as it ignites their imagination."
The hall is now looked after by English Heritage and entry costs £12.50 for adults and £7.50 for children, when booked online in advance.
Belsay is one of many fascinating places to visit in Northumberland, with plenty of lesser-known destinations to explore.
Bamburgh
Bamburgh has been crowned the UK's best seaside town three years in a row by consumer champions Which?
It's renowned for its stunning sandy shoreline, backed by the imposing ruins of its ancient castle.
Alnwick
Visitors come to Alnwick for its famous book shop, its treehouse and its gardens.
Last year it also became the site of the world's largest children's play structure.
Harry Potter films were shot at its huge castle as well, while the local beer produced by the Alnwick Brewery is popular across the country.
Alnmouth
Alnmouth is another one of the many under-appreciated coastal towns the north east, with plenty on offer for family trips, or for adults simply after a break.
The beach is one of many impressive stretches of the Northumberland coastline, which some say are like those in other places often considered more exotic than the UK.
wrote: "Where we live in Northumberland, we are spoilt for choice with beautiful beaches which, on really sunny days, could almost be abroad!"
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Meanwhile, this town in Northumberland has pub beer gardens where you can watch dolphins with a pint.
And you can also see dolphins in this north east town that hosts music festivals by the beach.
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