I didn't clarify it in my previous post, but Nostell Priory is actually a stately home - built on the site of the mediaeval priory.
I've just returned from Nostell Priory, and both myself and my brother enjoyed our free day out (although the bus fare was £4.60.) The hall didn't open until one o'clock, so we first spent a couple of hours walking around the grounds - the views of the hall's frontage and the lakes were spectacular.
Inside the hall it was just overwhelming; portraits and tapestries covering every wall, plasterwork on every ceiling and many rooms crammed full with Chippendale furniture.
The one item I was particularly keen to see was an early Harrison chronograph...having an accurate means of keeping time onboard a ship meant that the Royal Navy could far more easily and accurately calculate longitude anywhere in the world; thus allowing the British Empire to outstrip its rivals.
I've really enjoyed these last two days, but I'm tired now and my knee hurts. I'll be quite happy with a quiet Saturday night at home and Sunday spent reading the newspaper and pottering about in the garden.