HADDON HALL

Haddon Hall dates from the 11th century, was formerly the seat of the Duke of Rutland, and is currently the private home of Lord and Lady Edward Manners.  The Manners acquired Haddon through marriage and can therefore claim to have owned it for its entire existence; the hall is one of the oldest houses in the country.

From the 1700s, the family preferred their main seat at Belvoir Castle, so Haddon was empty for two centuries.  Unaltered by Georgians or Victorians, venturing into Haddon Hall has been described as like stepping back in time.  The Medieval Banqueting Hall remains furnished with its original Dais table, behind which hangs a tapestry gifted to the family by visiting Henry VIII.  The Parlour boasts its glorious Tudor painted ceiling of Tudor roses and marvellous heraldic panelling.  Exquisite and rare 15th century frescos adorn the walls of the Medieval Chapel.  In contrast to the Tudor and Medieval Rooms below, the light and airy first floor Elizabethan rooms culminate in the spectacular 110ft Robert Smythson designed Long Gallery; reputed to be one of the most beautiful rooms in England.

Outside, the terraced Elizabethan Walled Gardens cascade down to the River Wye and provide spectacular views over ancient parkland to the Peak District beyond.

Haddon is a favourite film location, featuring in no fewer than three different film adaptations of Jane Eyre, as well as Mary Queen of Scots, The Other Boleyn Girl, Pride & Prejudice and various documentaries.

Image credit: Historic Houses