Hylands House in Chelmsford is the second most visited attraction in the whole of England with almost two million people flocking there every year.

The Grade II* listed building in Hylands Park is owned by Chelmsford City Council and is topped only by the Tower of London in a new survey, one of the world’s most iconic monuments.

According to VisitEngland’s Annual Attractions Survey, Hylands House boasts more visitors each year than notoriously popular tourist hotspots such as Stonehenge and the Houses of Parliament.

A staggering 1.9 million people entered the grounds of Hylands Park in 2014, while Westminster Abbey only mustered 1.8 million. The Tower of London reached 3.1 million.

Hylands Park consists of 574 acres of parkland with the Georgian Mansion at its heart, which has been meticulously restored to its former glory by Chelmsford City Council. The gardens and parkland are kept in excellent condition all year round.

Chelmsford City Council’s Cabinet Member for Parks Leisure, Councillor Ray Ride, said: “We are delighted that Hylands is now recognised as the second most popular English tourist attraction by VisitEngland.

“Hylands Park is a distinctive and magical place, which is always full of people either just enjoying its superb parkland and gardens, attending business conferences and weddings or having fun at the various events for people of all ages that are held within the park. We are very pleased that we have restored it to its former glory for all to use.”

Major events held at Hylands include the award-winning 3foot People, the Fling and V Festivals. There are also workshops, City Camps, organised garden walks and Heritage weekend events. The House itself is also recognised as the number one heritage wedding venue in Essex.

VisitEngland chief executive James Berresford said: “Our attractions are core to England’s tourism offer, contributing to economic growth and employment and we are fortunate to have such a wonderful and wide variety available to suit all visitors.”

For more information about what is happening at Hylands, visit www.chelmsford.gov.uk/hylands