Some of West Yorkshire's most idyllic National Trust locations to visit in spring

As we are now into the first few weeks of spring, it’s time for the dull and dreary winter to disappear for a while, as the brighter season has arrived in West Yorkshire (even if it has rained a little too much).

The sun is beginning to rise earlier day by day and blooms are beginning to appear all around us, from daffodils to snowdrops.

Best of all, the sign of slightly warmer weather encourages us to spend more time outdoors.

But if you need tempting to get outside to brush off the winter cobwebs, why not make the most of our local historical buildings and blossoming gardens?

Here are some of the best National Trust properties and sites to explore this spring, according to Tripadvisor reviews.

Some of West Yorkshire’s best National Trust properties and sites to visit

Nostell

Location: Doncaster Road, Nostell, near Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF4 1QE

Rating: 4.5/5

This is a Georgian treasure house with landscaped gardens, parkland and stables courtyard.

A recent visitor who said they will be back commented: “We haven't been here before and we wasn't disappointed.

“A wonderful place and fantastic house to explore.

“The surroundings are beautiful and the house has so much history!!

“The staff were so friendly and helpful and very knowledgeable about the place.

“Lovely cafe and shop as well and so much beauty to walk in!!

“I would really recommend a visit and we will go back to do the gardens and parkland.”

East Riddlesden Hall

Location: Bradford Road, Riddlesden, Keighley, West Yorkshire, BD20 5EL

Rating: 4.5/5

The historic house has intimate gardens and a hidden oasis located on the edge of Keighley.

Someone said: “A beautiful place to visit and one that has a wonderful history. Set in beautiful grounds with a small lake in front it offers a great day out for both couples and families.

“We visited at Easter and there was a family event going on with lots of fun things for the children to take part in. The staff are very knowledgeable and really know the back story of the house which we found interesting.

“The café serves lovely food and the gift shop is well stocked. There are also walks in the grounds and a circular one that goes from the house alongside part of the Leeds Liverpool Canal.”

Hardcastle Crags

Location: Gibson Mill, Midgehole Road, Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire, HX7 7AW

Rating: 4.5/5

The National Trust describes Hardcastle Crags as a “spectacular wooded valley with 19th-century Gibson Mill at its heart.”

Have you taken a stroll through Hardcastle Crags? (Image: Tripadvisor)

This account wrote: “A stunning wooded valley with a river going through it with a few waterfalls as well.A beautiful place to go walking with Gibson Mill at the heart of it if you need to stop for refreshments,highly recommended !”

Another walker added: “Love this place. So rugged and stunningly beautiful. Somewhere for a good stroll. Lots of options of different terrains for all abilities.”

Recommended reading:

• 5 of the best spring walks in the Yorkshire Dales – fancy some fresh air?

• National Trust objects to 82ft mast planned for Yorkshire Dales village

• 5 of the best garden centres to visit in West Yorkshire this spring and summer

Marsden Moor

Location: Marsden Moor Office and Information Room, The Old Goods Yard, Station Road, Marsden, West Yorkshire, HD7 6DH

Rating: 4.5/5

Simple Ways to Create a Wildlife-friendly Garden

“Take a walk on the wild side and enjoy the rugged moorland landscape,” recommends the National Trust.

A visitor wrote: “Lovely place to walk around. Beautiful views in each direction. Lots of routes, short and long. Lots of nice cafes in Marsden to finish. What's not to like?”

One person added: “A friend and I spent the whole day walking here and it was lovely! Good paths, lovely open space. Will definitely come back again.”

Please visit the National Trust website to see the latest opening times and booking information for each location.