Heart of England - Worcestershire

A top secret wartime airbase was once a hub of activity for thousands of service people and its hospital has been restored as a 1940s visitor centre. Visit the fascinating RAF Defford museum and learn about the buildings , technology and people of the secret airbase. The 1940s style canteen serves hot meals and the second hand bookshop, shop and plant centre are a great place to browse.

Outside is the grandest of English landscapes and ‘Capability’ Brown’s masterful first commission, with commanding views towards the Malvern Hills. The parkland was nearly lost, but is now great for walks and adventures with a temple, folly or statue around every corner. 2016 is Brown’s 300th birthday year and there’s lots to see and do in celebration of this extraordinary man at Croome.

Britain’s largest privately owned walled garden opens its doors in 2016 with new paths and planting schemes, restored greenhouses, vibrant border planting, a blooming rose garden and working vegetable plots (access subject to availability).

At the heart of the park lies the ancestral home of the Earls of Coventry, Croome Court. The visionary 6th Earl of Coventry was an 18th century trend-setter, and today Croome follows his lead using artists and craftspeople to tell the story of its eclectic past in inventive ways.

From spring 2016 all four floors of the mansion will be open, and during the year the Coventry collection saved from the 1948 auction will be making its long-awaited return.

On arrival your group will be offered

• A short introductory overview of Croome, its history, highlights and current exhibitions.
• Coach parking space adjacent to the Visitor Reception Centre (approximately 10 metres away).
• Discounted entry tickets for non-National Trust members to the house, park and RAF museum (for groups of 15 people or more).

To enhance your visit, we can also provide

• Fascinating and fun bespoke tours of the house, park, RAF museum and walled garden (from £5 per person).
• Refreshments on arrival at our 1940s style restaurant.
• Pre-ordered food at reserved tables for lunch or afternoon tea.

How to book
For help with planning your day or to discuss your requirements further, please contact Hasnah Sheriff on 01905 370901 or email Hasnah.sheriff@nationaltrust.org.uk