Almost every town and village had a manor house at one time where the most affluent and influential family of the area lived. As they became too expensive to maintain many were given over to the nation for posterity. Often restored to former glory, these grand country houses are open to the public to visit.
The English have always had a passion for gardening. When the Lord of the Manor built a fine house he usually also cultivated a beautiful garden. Often you can pay a lower price just to visit the grounds. There are also many public gardens and parks to enjoy.