You won't forget your first sight of Oxburgh Hall, an elegant and romantic manor floating on its moat. Built in 1482 by the Catholic Bedingfeld family, it is the legacy of their survival through turbulent times. There are 500 years of history to explore with hidden doors, rooftop views and a secret priest's hole (easier to get into than out of – you have been warned!). Inside there are Victorian Gothic interiors which reflect its medieval past and beautiful embroidered tapestries by Mary Queen of Scots. Outside you can enjoy the walled garden and the French parterre. An added bonus is that dogs are allowed everywhere except in the Hall – the car park has lots of shady parking spots to leave the pooches while you do the history bit. For more information visit the National Trust website.