East Midlands - Derbyshire

Haddon Hall, built as a Norman fort in the 12th Century, has been in continuous family ownership for over nine hundred years. It offers the most impressive, complete example of medieval architecture in an unspoiled countryside setting, and is set in the heart of the Peak District, Britain’s first National Park.

Haddon’s exceptional circumstances - lying dormant for two hundred years from the 1700s to the early 20th century - left its late medieval past intact from the time of 16th century Vernon and Manners family, whose descendants still live in the house today.

The hall has hosted royal visits, romantic tales of lovers’ eloping, been a key point of political power in the medieval period, as well as served as a domestic home to generations of families who lived, loved, played, celebrated, and ended their lives within its walls, making Haddon Hall resonate with its ancient past; deep-rooted in this beautiful part of Derbyshire.

“Haddon, our nine hundred year old home, is an extraordinary place that provides a magnificent architectural insight in to a Tudor and Elizabethan residence, with even earlier foundations. It is with great pleasure that we welcome guests to explore and discover Haddon’s wonderful rooms, hidden features and superb setting, as so many visitors have done before now” says Lady Edward Manners, who with her husband Lord Edward and their young twin boys, are the first family to reside at Haddon Hall for several centuries.

Take time to visit Haddon Hall and discover:

• Glorious examples of ancient architectural skill, including Tudor Roses, Talbot Dogs, Bombee glass and brilliantly characterful 16th century stonemasonry
• One of the best examples of a Tudor kitchen in the country, complete with stone bread ovens, chopping blocks and water troughs
• The magnificent Banqueting Hall, with its original table and bench stand on a raised dais, and 15th century French tapestry hangs on a wall – a gift from King Henry VIII.
• The splendid Long Gallery, thought to be designed by the reputable architect Robert Smythson and displaying 110 feet of oak and walnut panelling.
• The exquisite terraced gardens, redesigned by Chelsea – Gold award winning designer Arne Maynard, combining Elizabethan roots with stunning contemporary planting schemes, enhanced by the spectacular views back towards the hall and across the valley and down to the river to ‘Dorothy’s Bridge’.
• There is also a museum on site presenting the fascinating finds from the 9th Duke’s restoration work; a restaurant serving local, seasonal lunches, teas, coffees and cakes, and a lovely gift shop to enjoy.

With a programme of excellent events on offer - see www.haddonhall.co.uk/special-events - come and discover, or rediscover, one of the finest medieval houses in the country.