Haddon Hall in Derbyshire, England: Tourist Guide

When you visit Derbyshire, England, be sure to check out Haddon Hall, one of the area's oldest residences. Several of its buildings were built in the 14th century, with still other renovations dating back to the 15th through 18th centuries. The family still owns Haddon Hall, restoring it in the early 20th century to ensure it would be safe for visitors even today.

Haddon Hall in Derbyshire, England: Its history

Haddon Hall was originally owned by William Peverel, whose family ended up losing the deed to William Avenal in a civil war. Avenal subsequently divided this estate between his sons Simon Basset and Richard de Vernon. Some of this original estate are still in existence today, most notably the Chapel and portions of Peverel Tower. The twelve-foot high wall surrounding Haddon Hall was built by Richard de Vernon. Later in the 14th century, his descendent Sir Richard de Vernon IV built the Kitchen and Banquet as an add-on to the home. More renovations and expansions have been done throughout the years. In the 18th century, the family moved out of Haddon Hall and relocated to Rutland.

Haddon Hall in Derbyshire, England: Family restoration

The family took precautions to make sure that Haddon Hall would remain intact even after they no longer lived there. When the family relocated to Rutland, the estate was in the name of one of the daughters, who married the Earl of Rutland's son, John Manners. In the early 20th century, the Ninth Duke of Rutland took it upon himself to restore Haddon Hall to honor his family's heritage.

Haddon Hall in Derbyshire, England: What to see when you visit

Haddon Hall sits up on a hill looking over the River Wye, requiring a slight hike to get to the entrance. Once you come upon the entrance to Haddon Hall, you will see the Lower Courtyard and several of its surrounding buildings. Depending on the date of construction, these buildings may be built from different types and shades of stone. On the left side of Haddon Hall is the Museum, with the Banquet Hall is up on a higher level. On the right side, you will find the Tudor wing, one of the earliest renovations to Haddon Hall. The Chapel is one of the oldest surviving buildings at Haddon Hall, dating back to the 14th century. The ceiling is made from wooden beams with beautiful circular pillars and medieval wall paintings in the interior. The roof of the Chapel is one of the few non-original parts of Haddon Hall, having been completely replaced in the 20th century.