7 places for The Queen to move up north

Buckingham Palace needs renovating and the Queen may have to move out.

While wiring and plumbing repair work is done, the Monarch may fancy a change and make a move up north.

We have found a selection of Cheshire’s grandest homes which could be her temporary accommodation.

1. Cholmondeley Castle

Standing since 1801, the country house was designed for the Cholmondeley family by local architect William Turner.

Surrounded by a 7,500 acre estate, the extensive gardens are also an appealing part of the property.

Visitors are welcome to go look around such features as the temple garden and the rose garden, where there is also a tennis court.

The Queen would have to deal with occasional disruption in the grounds from petrolheads visiting Cholmondeley Pageant of Power or fitness fanatics completing Tough Mudder.

2. Tatton Hall

The long-term home of the Egertons just north of Knutsford, the current mansion was finished circa 1716 but has seen many changes since then.

Inside is one of the National Trust’s finest libraries and art collections along with extensive domestic and servant quarters.

Again the gardens are a major attraction with Italian and Japanese gardens just two of the distinct areas within the 50 acres.

The annual RHS Tatton Park flower show might provide a busy week for visitors, but the Queen would surely enjoy having the show on her doorstep.

3. Eaton Hall

Should the Queen be wishing to be close to Chester, one could rent a room or a wing from the Duke of Westminster.

It could be the simplest option to strike a deal with the Duchess, who is godmother to her grandson Prince William.

The massive estate covers more than 10,000 acres, but is less than five miles from the city which really cuts the price of a taxi ride home after a day at Chester Races.

4. Chirk Castle

Just across the border is our oldest option - the construction of Chirk Castle was completed in 1310.

As a fortress on top of a hill with its own garrison, this property could claim greater security than any of our other suggestions.

At the moment the castle is available to rent as a wedding venue, so any prior bookings would have to be upheld.

5. Dorfold Hall

Built between 1616-21, the Grade 1 listed Dorfold Hall can be found on the outskirts of Nantwich.

In 1641 during the civil war the grounds were the site of the Battle of Nantwich and the house was used as a shelter for refugees from Liverpool during the Second World War.

It was also appeared in the 2012 film The Making of a Lady starring Joanna Lumley and in the last series of Foyles War.

As tenant, the Queen would be likely to get a free pass to the Nantwich International Cheese Awards held at the hall every year.

6. Arley Hall

Spectacular Arley Hall near Northwich is the home of Lord and Lady Ashbrook and has been in their family for more than 550 years.

Featuring a very distinctive look both inside and out, the site has been heavily featured in film and tv.

A new Disney live-action film Evermoor was shot there in April and is due to air later this year.

7. Steppingstone, Helsby

For something a little different, this semi-underground property on Helsby Hill boasts five bedrooms, an indoor pool and a helipad.

On top of that, the ultra-modern abode has its own zip wire, fingerprint recognition and staff living quarters.

Owned by Steve O’Connor, director of rugby league club Widnes Vikings, the stylish pad has been up for sale at £4.75m since June last year.

Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli was rumoured to have had an interest, but it is still available if the Queen wants to utilise some of her Sovereign Grant.