Powis Castle is best walk in country

Welshpool's impressive castle has been named as the best National Trust walk in an on-line poll run by the charity.

Powis Castle near Welshpool beat seven other National Trust sites in the vote as part of its walking festival.

The castle was built around 800 years ago but has been extensively remodelled over many years and is surrounded by a 10.5-hectare (26-acre) garden.

Croome Park in Worcestershire was second and Newton Pool in Northumberland was third.

Each of the nominated walks was championed by a celebrity, with weather presenter Sian Lloyd backing Powis Castle.

Alison Dyer, the castle's assistant visitor services manager, said: "We are delighted to win this vote.

"It is a real tribute to the beauty of Powis Castle and the joy that many people receive from exploring our grand Italianate terraces, dancing statues and lavish herbaceous borders, framed by a beautiful red Welsh castle."

The vote was organised as part of the trust's walking festival, which was held during October.

More than 62,000 people took part in events at 376 National Trust properties across the UK.

PICTURE: Local celebrity resident Sian Lloyd spearheaded the Castle's bid to become Britain's favourite National Trust walk.