by Oldwoodpusher » Tue Mar 23, 2021 4:24 am
The website says: The grounds, policies and surrounding woodlands offer a peaceful and relaxing space to spend time in throughout the seasons. There are 6000 acres, so access legislation gives you the right of access (not, as the website says, as a "guest') provided you follow reasonable requests to allow estate work, avoid the curtilage of dwellings (ie the garden) and don't cross standing crops (grass isn't a crop for this purpose).
There is exemption from Inheritance tax and capital gains tax, for property open to the public in a rather restricted way, as is the case at Arniston. I suspect that this is the reason for the guided tours of the house--which are of considerable interest and recommended.
However, the grounds and estate must be accessible, and there seems no reason for Covid restrictions to affect that, if you live locally and can legally travel there for exercise. Many estates still haven't come to terms with this and rather resentfully try to make you feel unwelcome. Don't be put off.