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The revolutionary home of Lord Armstrong, Victorian inventor and landscape genius, was a wonder of its age. Built on a rocky crag high above Debdon Burn, the house is crammed with ingenious gadgets and was the first in the world to be lit by hydro-electricity. Cragside is a garden of breathtaking drama, whatever the season. Armstrong constructed 5 lakes, one of Europe's largest rock gardens, and planted over 7 million trees and shrubs. Today this magnificent estate can be explored on foot or by car and provides one of the last shelters for the endangered red squirrel. Children will love the tall trees, tumbling streams, adventure play area and labyrinth. Gardens and estate open 15 March - 2 November 10.30 - 7pm, last admission 5pm. House open 15 March - 5 October 1pm - 5.30pm. 7 October - 2 November 1pm - 4.30 pm. Winter opening gardens, estate, restaurant and shop open Wednesday to Sunday only, 11am until 4pm.