Kedleston Hall

Kedleston Hall - Derbyshire

Follow me around Kedleston Hall in Derbyshire - a delightful National Trust property described as "One of the most important and least altered 18th century show-palaces in Britain". It was the home of the Curzon family who arrived in the 12th century, although the house that you see today wasn't finished until 1765.

As you enter the grounds, the grandeur is apparent - the beautiful landscaped parkland was designed in the 1760's as a fashionable "Pleasure ground" - they are a pleasure to drive through - with sheep grazing everywhere.

 Whilst waiting for the house to open, and not wanting to waste any time, I decided to explore the church first. Parts of this building have been here since 12th century - there is so much history associated with this beautiful building. The church is all that remains from the original village of Kedleston, which was moved in 1757 to make way for the new house to be built.

Next I had a walk around the grounds before it got too busy; along the waters edge, over the bridge and amongst the sheep.

The boathouse..........................

At the back of the house, which looks as grand as the front - there are informal gardens with sculptures and architectural features - and extensive views of the parkland.

The front is such an impressive sight .....................

I found this outside the toilets.....................a lying-down statue!!!

There is always a shop to be found and it's always a brilliant place to buy plants as well as many other unusual items.

Then starts the walk around the house, much of which has been lovingly restored over the last few years.

The Marble Hall is absolutely fantastic - it is one of Robert Adam's best examples of interior work in this country (he also did many things to the grounds).

The last part of my tour of the house, found me in a museum section that contained furniture  and artifacts collected by Lord Curzon when he was the Viceroy of India from 1899-1905. There were some fascination pieces here.

I could not believe it when I saw a clock that had been made by one of my ancestors - Whitehurst of Derby!

The park itself, covers 820 acres, which was designed by Robert Adam; he created 5 lakes and several of the small buildings and walks. There are 4 established walks around the grounds, ranging from 1.7 miles to 3.2 miles, through woodland and along the shores of the lakes; and tours are available for several sections of the house. Kedleston has so much to offer, that it is a delightful place to take the family for a whole day out.

For more information on opening times etc - https:// www.nationaltrust.org.uk/kedleston

Thank you,

Lynne 

Please check out my other blogs:-

http://lynnemorley.blogspot.com

http://morleysjourneytoozandback.blogspot.com

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