MONTACUTE House in South Somerset has been named as one of the country's top grandest stately homes.

The Elizabethan mansion, which is managed by the National Trust, was ranked fifth in South Western Railway's official top 10 rankings.

It was compiled based on factors including Google reviews, monthly search volumes, television appearances, and pricing.

The top 10 grandest stately homes in the UK are:

  1. Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire
  2. Hampton Court Palace in Richmond-upon-Thames
  3. Chatsworth House in Derbyshire
  4. Burghley House in Peterborough
  5. Montacute House in South Somerset
  6. Rangers House in London
  7. Hatfield House in Hertfordshire
  8. Bletchley Park in Milton Keynes
  9. Alnwick Castle in Northumberland
  10. Highclere Castle in Newbury

South Western Railway said: "Whether you’re exploring the British countryside or visiting bustling towns and cities, you’re never too far from a stately home in the UK.

"With their sprawling estates, manicured gardens, and rich interiors, these architectural marvels offer a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the aristocracy and Britain’s past."

About Montacute House, the railway company said: "Rounding off the top five and scoring 74.4 in our ranking is Montacute House in Somerset.

"A remarkable example of Elizabethan Renaissance architecture, this stunning mansion has captivated visitors with its honey-coloured Hamstone facade and impressive symmetry.

"The house's Long Gallery is the longest of its kind in England and houses works from the National Portrait Gallery, as well as the rare and highly decorative 15th-century Tournai Tapestry.

"Montacute House’s estate also has one of the few remaining Elizabethan compartmentalised gardens."