Stately homes await our visits
FINGERS CROSSED, NATIONAL TRUST PROPERTIES WILL SOON OPEN THEIR DOORS AGAIN
AT the moment, you can enjoy National Trust gardens, parks and countryside for your daily exercise if you book in advance and stay local.
However, soon you will be able to take your loved ones to the full array of the trust’s stately homes and gorgeous historic venues in England.
Cafes are currently takeaway only, but there are plans to offer outdoor seating areas from April 12, when the trust also plans to reopen its shops.
And as things stand, the trust’s indoor attractions will be open from business from May 17, pending updates to any Government guidance.
So why not take a look at some of the stunning venues in Derbyshire, which can provide magical architecture, glorious scenery, tasty food and drink and a brilliant day out for the family? Most charge an entrance fee, but National Trust members get in free.
Remember to check before you set off in case you need to book and what the restrictions are.
KEDLESTON HALL
The mansion has been home to the Curzon family since the 12th century, and was a key filming location for Keira Knightley’s The Duchess.
Designed for lavish entertaining and displaying an extensive collection of paintings, sculpture and original furnishings, Kedleston is a stunning example of the work of architect Robert Adam.
The hall can be explored freely from 12pm to 5pm every day besides Friday, and the surrounding park is open daily from 10am to 6pm. Families can access the whole property for £35.70.
Address: Near Quarndon, Derby, Derbyshire, DE22 5JH
DUFFIELD CASTLE
The 2.5-acre park was once the site of a grand castle until it was destroyed by King Henry III in 1266. Today, only the foundations remain.
This site can be accessed for free from dawn until dusk and is a good place for a picnic in clement weather. Address: Milford Road, Duffield, Derbyshire, DE56 4DW
SUDBURY HALL AND THE MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD
These two attractions can be found next to each other just 12 miles from the city centre via the A38 and A50.
Formerly the property of the Vernon family, visitors can discover the stories of some of the amazing characters who have moulded Sudbury Hall over the centuries.
Hardwick Hall is beautiful outside and inside. Centre, a member of the local wildlife
The museum exhibits the changing lives of children across time, featuring everything from an interactive chimney sweep demonstration to chocolate bars from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
The hall and museum are open from 11am to 5pm every day. A £43.75 ticket gives families admission to the whole area.
Address: Main Road, Sudbury, Ashbourne, Derbyshire, DE6 5HT
CALKE ABBEY
Described by the National Trust as an “un-stately home”, Calke Abbey in South Derbyshire is easy to find near Repton.
The Baroque mansion’s weathered walls and ungroomed gardens were once home to the Harpurs. Visitors can learn about this isolated, eccentric family in the interactive Humankind exhibition.
Close by to Calke Abbey is a nature reserve that is open from dawn to dusk.
The house itself is open from 11am to 5pm and the whole area can be accessed with a £37.50 family ticket if you are not members of the National Trust.
Address: Ticknall, Derby, Derbyshire, DE73 7JF
NORBURY MANOR
Norbury Manor is the former seat of the medieval Fitzherbert family, and is beloved for its garden and woodland walk.
Families can visit for £15 on Fridays from 11am to 1pm and on Saturday from 1pm to 3pm.
Address: Norbury Manor, Norbury Hollow, Norbury, Ashbourne, DE6 2ED
ILAM PARK
There are numerous sites to explore in this area, including Dovedale and Manifold Valley, as well as a number of tea rooms and shops.
The estate is available to explore for free from dawn until dusk. Address: White Peak Estate, Ashbourne, DE6 2AZ
HARDWICK HALL
Created in the 16th century by Bess of Hardwick, this site boasts a garden,
Calke Abbey offers lots to see, including the old tramway that runs through the grounds. Centre, its gardens are a sight to behold in spring
giftshop, restaurant and fully operational flour mill.
The hall is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, but the park is open from dawn to dusk every day. A family can visit for £37.50.
Address: Doe Lea, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S44 5QJ
WINSTER MARKET HOUSE
Situated in the centre of Main Street, Winster, the Market House is a brick building with information on the village’s history and even a scale model.
Free access to the building is granted between 11am and 5pm every day.
Address: Main Street, Winster, DE4 2DJ