Leighton Hall estate is preparing to welcome visitors for the new season with a Dog Day on May Bank Holiday.

The £3 entry offer is a timely reminder that good value, local days out remain firmly within reach.

With fluctuating household and fuel bills, 66 percent of families report cutting back on planned holiday spending, with more than ever enjoying day trips or choosing to stay closer to home.

Leighton Hall, near Carnforth, has been a popular attraction since first opening its doors to the public in 1959.

From Sunday, May 3, the seat of the famous Gillow furniture-making family will welcome visitors every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday afternoons through to the end of September, alongside August Sundays and Bank Holidays.

“Destinations like Leighton have a responsibility to make heritage enjoyable, inclusive and affordable, especially when many families are looking closer to home for memorable days out,” says estate manager Lucy Arthurs, who is also promoting green travel via public transport, walking and cycling routes through the Arnside and Silverdale National Landscape.

“As well as getting everything ready for opening to the public on May 3 and Dog Day on May 4 we’re lining up lots of events, including four motoring events, featuring rallies, classics, motorbikes and Porsches.

“We’re very excited about our first Local History Weekend in September, leading perfectly into autumn’s popular Apple Day, both celebrating our local heritage and community.”

As households look for affordable leisure options, the historic hall, still very much the family’s home, takes a modern outlook on blending its rich heritage with a modern, accessible and environmentally conscious visitor experience.

Famously, nothing is roped off and visitors can tour the house, sit on the Gillow furniture, explore family treasures and the striking interiors, including the much-loved ‘flying staircase’, wander through flower filled gardens and woodland walks or simply relax in the traditional tearoom.

Underlining its appeal as a stay local destination, half-price entry is available for residents in LA1–LA11 postcode areas via its free Local Residents’ Card, while all Historic Houses members gain free entry.

A season of events will kick off with ‘Dog Day’ on Bank Holiday Monday, May 4, in partnership with Wright Paw Forward.

Including demonstrations, fun dog show, stalls and expert trainers, with a contribution of the proceeds going to support Animal Rescue Cumbria Charity.

For all opening, event, green travel details, and information on the local Residents Pass and Historic Houses cardholders see:www.leightonhall.co.uk