7 remarkable stately homes to visit within an hour's drive of Derby

By Abigail Rabbett
Published 6th Feb 2024, 17:21 BST
Haddon Hall is an English country house on the River Wye near Bakewell, Derbyshire, a former seat of the Dukes of Rutland.Haddon Hall is an English country house on the River Wye near Bakewell, Derbyshire, a former seat of the Dukes of Rutland.
Haddon Hall is an English country house on the River Wye near Bakewell, Derbyshire, a former seat of the Dukes of Rutland. | René Cortin

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Explore the magnificent properties and their rich heritage near Derby

When the weekend rolls around and you're looking for something to do, a walk around a stately house rarely misses the mark.

Luckily for us, there are several magnificent properties within a short drive of Derby, each with its own unique charm and rich heritage.

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From the opulent halls of Chatsworth House, home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, to the neo-classical elegance of Kedleston Hall, our curated list offers a delightful blend of National Trust, English Heritage, and other remarkable properties.

Discover the stories behind the peeling paintwork and overgrown gardens of Calke Abbey, the Elizabethan splendour of Hardwick Hall, and the medieval charm of Haddon Hall.

Whether you seek art collections, picturesque gardens, or a glimpse into the past, these stately homes, all within an hour's drive from Derby, promise an enriching and enchanting experience.

So, pack your curiosity and embark on a journey through time and architecture that awaits just a short drive away from Derby's city centre.

1. Chatsworth House

Chatsworth House is one of the Peak District’s most recognisable landmarks - and there is plenty of natural beauty to be found across the sprawling estate.Chatsworth House is one of the Peak District’s most recognisable landmarks - and there is plenty of natural beauty to be found across the sprawling estate.
Chatsworth House is one of the Peak District’s most recognisable landmarks - and there is plenty of natural beauty to be found across the sprawling estate.

Location: Bakewell DE45 1PP

Distance from Derby: Approximately 30 minutes

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Chatsworth House, home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, is renowned for its stunning architecture, extensive art collection, and beautiful gardens. The house has a rich history dating back to the 16th century.

2. Kedleston Hall (National Trust)

Location: Quarndon, Derby DE22 5JH

Distance from Derby: Approximately 20 minutes

Kedleston Hall is an 18th-century mansion with impressive neo-classical architecture designed by Robert Adam. The interiors boast exquisite paintings and sculptures, making it a perfect destination for history and art enthusiasts.

3. Sudbury Hall and the National Trust Museum of Childhood (National Trust)

The National Trust's Museum of Childhood at Sudbury is a country house unlike any other.The National Trust's Museum of Childhood at Sudbury is a country house unlike any other.
The National Trust's Museum of Childhood at Sudbury is a country house unlike any other.

Location: Ashbourne DE6 5HT

Distance from Derby: Approximately 40 minutes

Sudbury Hall is a late 17th-century house with stunning interiors and beautiful gardens. The National Trust Museum of Childhood on the estate displays a fascinating collection of toys and childhood memorabilia.

4. Hardwick Hall (National Trust)

Location: Doe Lea, Chesterfield S44 5QJ

Distance from Derby: Approximately 40 minutes

Built by Elizabethan architect Robert Smythson, Hardwick Hall is a magnificent example of Elizabethan architecture. The "Hardwick Hall, more glass than wall" saying reflects its grand use of glass in the design.

5. Calke Abbey (National Trust)

Calke Abbey may look somewhat neglected compared to the likes of Chatsworth, but the grand country house near Ticknall provides a fascinating insight into the lives of some of Derbyshire’s wealthiest figures. There is also an outdoor recreation area - Calke Explore - situated in the grounds.Calke Abbey may look somewhat neglected compared to the likes of Chatsworth, but the grand country house near Ticknall provides a fascinating insight into the lives of some of Derbyshire’s wealthiest figures. There is also an outdoor recreation area - Calke Explore - situated in the grounds.
Calke Abbey may look somewhat neglected compared to the likes of Chatsworth, but the grand country house near Ticknall provides a fascinating insight into the lives of some of Derbyshire’s wealthiest figures. There is also an outdoor recreation area - Calke Explore - situated in the grounds.

Location: Ticknall, Derby DE73 7LE

Distance from Derby: Approximately 20 minutes

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Calke Abbey is an unusual and atmospheric 18th-century mansion known for its peeling paintwork and overgrown gardens. The National Trust has preserved the house in a state of decline, offering a unique glimpse into the past.

6. Haddon Hall

Location: Bakewell DE45 1LA

Distance from Derby: Approximately 45 minutes

Haddon Hall is a medieval and Tudor manor house with a charming setting overlooking the River Wye. It features well-preserved rooms, gardens, and courtyards, providing a captivating journey through history.

7. Elvaston Castle

Elvaston Castle near Derby is a must-visit for couples Elvaston Castle near Derby is a must-visit for couples
Elvaston Castle near Derby is a must-visit for couples | Ashley Nadin / Wikimedia Commons

Location: Elvaston, Derby DE72 3EP

Distance from Derby: Approximately 15 minutes

Elvaston Castle is a Gothic Revival masterpiece set in a picturesque park. While the interior is not regularly open to the public, the stunning gardens and grounds make it a delightful place for a leisurely stroll.

Related topics:Chatsworth HouseHaddon HallDerbyNational TrustHardwick Hall

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