Country Houses of Derbyshire

The county of Derbyshire boasts several of the finest country houses in England, and this tour provides an introduction to their rich heritage, from exemplary architecture to renowned art collections and stories of extraordinary families.

Overview

Our tour takes in a selection of magnificent country houses in Derbyshire where acclaimed architectural designs, fabulous art collections and the narrative of extraordinary families combine to illuminate the complex tapestry of the county’s gentry from the medieval period to the present day. 

Dominating the surrounding countryside from its hilltop perch, Bolsover Castle provides powerful insights into its fascinating and enduring legacy, from its medieval history as a Norman stronghold to Jacobean and Italian-inspired architectural developments in the 17th century.

Another property with compelling medieval origins is the romantic Haddon Hall. Set within extensive ancient parklands, its interiors feature a grand Banqueting Hall; Long Gallery, complete with intricate oak panelling and decorative plasterwork; and the Parlour which showcases a rare Tudor painted ceiling. We will also explore the property's Elizabethan walled gardens, where terraced arrangements, pretty cultivated borders, climbing plants and wonderful topiary come together to create the atmosphere of a bygone era. 

The iconic Chatsworth – fondly known as the ‘Palace of the Peaks’ – provides a brilliant opportunity to encounter historical and modern design in combination. Visually, Chatsworth represents hundreds of years of evolving aesthetic tastes, as seen in the grand Baroque architecture integrating Italianate features, as well as the lavish State Apartments adorned by red velvet embellishments and ornate painted ceilings. This incredible stately home also contains ‘The Devonshire Collections’, one of Europe's most renowned private collections, which presents an array of artistic treasures from Old Masters paintings to ancient Egyptian artefacts and modern sculptures.

To supplement our knowledge of the region's historical context, we will visit St Oswald's Church in Ashbourne, which boasts a romantic 13th century spire and a rich history, from its Norman origins to early 20th century stained glass designed by Christopher Whall. 

We also hope to include visits to a selection of private houses in the region such as Tissington Hall, where layers of history can be traced through the estate’s handsome Jacobean architecture and 18th century additions, immersed in picturesque grounds. Melbourne Hall is thought to possess the best surviving early 18th century garden in England, in the manner of the famous French landscape designer André Le Nôtre; while Radbourne Hall, a Grade I listed Georgian country house on an estate held by the Chandos family since the Norman Conquest, is rarely open to the public.

Cost Details

Country Houses of Derbyshire