Haddon Hall
Britain's best-preserved medieval and Tudor house—a 900-year-old time capsule where history lives.
Haddon Hall stands as one of Britain's finest and best-preserved medieval and Tudor houses, a 900-year-old time capsule nestled in the Peak District near Bakewell. Described by architectural historian Simon Jenkins as 'the most perfect house to survive from the Middle Ages,' this remarkable estate showcases untouched Medieval, Tudor, and early Elizabethan interiors, including a 14th-century Banqueting Hall, a celebrated 110-foot panelled Long Gallery, and a 12th-century chapel with original frescoes. The property's extraordinary preservation stems from its unique history: locked and largely abandoned by the Manners family for nearly two centuries, it remained protected from modern alterations. Today, under the stewardship of Lord and Lady Edward Manners, the hall has been brought to life again, revealing lost treasures and opening new areas to visitors. The estate's award-winning Elizabethan Walled Garden, renowned for its summer rose displays, and the newly accessible Medieval Park complete the experience.
A brief summary to Haddon Hall
- The Estate Office, Haddon Hall, Bakewell, DE45 1LA, GB
- +441629812855
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10:30 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10:30 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10:30 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10:30 am-4 pm
- Friday 10:30 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10:30 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Allow at least two hours to explore the hall and gardens properly. The Spotlight Talks, included in admission, are highly recommended for bringing the house's history to life.
- Children aged 0–15 receive free admission, making it excellent value for families. The Medieval Park now offers guided walks through a landscape unchanged for centuries.
- Visit during summer to experience the Elizabethan Walled Garden at its peak, when heritage roses are in full bloom. The garden is one of England's finest examples of Renaissance design.
- Free guided tours of the hall's highlights run every Monday during the spring and summer season on a first-come, first-served basis and are included in your admission.
- The restaurant in the 17th-century stable block offers everything from fine dining to afternoon tea. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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By Car
Haddon Hall is situated on the A6 between Bakewell and Rowsley, approximately 2 miles south of Bakewell town centre. The estate has a dedicated car park on the A6 with supervised parking (parking fee applies). From Bakewell, follow the A6 southbound for about 3 minutes. From Matlock, travel north on the A6 for approximately 10 minutes. From Derby city centre, the drive takes approximately 45 minutes via the A6.
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By Bus from Matlock Train Station
Take either the TransPeak (TP) or the 6.1 bus route from Platform 1 of Matlock bus station, heading towards Buxton or Bakewell respectively. This is an hourly service during the day, with journey times of 25–30 minutes. Buses stop near the hall. Single fares typically cost £3–5 depending on the operator.
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By Bus from Derby City Centre
Take the TransPeak (TP) bus route from Platform 21 of Derby bus station towards Buxton. This is an hourly service with a journey time of just over 1 hour. Alternatively, travel by train to Matlock and follow the bus route from there. Single fares typically cost £6–8.
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By Taxi
Taxis are available from Bakewell, Matlock, Buxton, and Derby. Peak Premier (01629 636 877) and DJG Taxis (01629 650 025) operate in the area. From Bakewell town centre, a taxi ride takes approximately 10 minutes and costs roughly £12–18. From Matlock, expect 15–20 minutes and £18–25. Uber is also available in the region.
Haddon Hall location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Haddon Hall
A Medieval Masterpiece Frozen in Time
Haddon Hall represents one of England's most extraordinary architectural achievements—a virtually unchanged medieval and Tudor residence that has survived over nine centuries of history. What makes Haddon truly exceptional is not merely its age, but its remarkable state of preservation. The house remained largely sealed and uninhabited for nearly two hundred years, from the early 1700s until the early 1900s, when the Manners family chose to lock it away rather than modernise it. During this long dormancy, while bats and spiders became its only inhabitants, the hall was protected from the architectural interventions and 'improvements' that transformed so many of Britain's historic houses. When visitors step through its doors today, they genuinely step back in time, encountering interiors that authentically reflect the lives and tastes of medieval and Tudor nobility.Architectural Treasures and Historic Interiors
The hall's interior spaces reveal layers of English architectural history. The 14th-century Banqueting Hall commands attention with its original dais table and a magnificent tapestry gifted to the family by Henry VIII himself—a tangible connection to the Tudor court. The celebrated Long Gallery, stretching 110 feet and designed by the Elizabethan master mason Robert Smythson, showcases the refined panelling and proportions that defined Renaissance domestic architecture. The 12th-century chapel contains original fresco seccos, painted plaster decorations that speak to the spiritual life of the medieval household. Beyond these showpieces, the hall contains countless rooms, passages, and chambers that collectively create an immersive portrait of aristocratic life across several centuries. The tapestries, furnishings, and decorative details throughout the house tell stories of the families who inhabited these spaces and the evolving tastes of their era.Gardens and Landscape: From Medieval Park to Elizabethan Splendour
Haddon's grounds are as historically significant as the house itself. The award-winning Elizabethan Walled Garden, with its celebrated summer display of heritage roses, represents one of the finest examples of Renaissance garden design in England. The garden's formal layout and carefully curated plantings reflect the horticultural knowledge and aesthetic preferences of the Tudor and Elizabethan periods. Beyond the formal gardens, Haddon's Medieval Park—now open to visitors for the first time in recent history—offers guided walks through a Grade I-listed landscape that has remained virtually unchanged for centuries. This untouched parkland, with its ancient trees and open vistas, preserves the medieval conception of landscape design and land management. The current owners are undertaking careful restoration work to return the parkland to its 14th-century form, making Haddon not simply a museum of the past but a living, evolving piece of England's heritage.Living History Under New Stewardship
For the first time since the 17th century, Haddon Hall is home to the Manners family once again. Lord and Lady Edward Manners have undertaken extensive conservation and restoration work that has brought the house to life in new ways. Their efforts have uncovered lost treasures, restored historic details that had been hidden or forgotten, and opened previously inaccessible areas to visitors. This active stewardship has transformed Haddon from a static monument into a dynamic historic property where conservation and discovery continue. The family's commitment to revealing and preserving the hall's secrets has enriched the visitor experience, allowing people to encounter not just a building but the ongoing story of its care and restoration.A Favoured Setting for Cinema and Culture
Haddon Hall's authentic medieval and Tudor character has made it one of Britain's most sought-after filming locations. The house has appeared in three film adaptations of Jane Eyre, served as Prince Humperdinck's castle in the cult classic The Princess Bride, and featured in prestigious productions including Elizabeth, Pride and Prejudice, and The Other Boleyn Girl. These appearances testify to the hall's visual authenticity and its power to transport viewers to historical periods. Beyond cinema, the estate hosts exhibitions, events, and educational programmes throughout the year, positioning itself as an active cultural venue rather than a passive historical relic.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Peak District National Park Authority
3.4 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage of Peak District National Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Baslow Edge
8.6 km
Experience stunning panoramas and serene walks at Baslow Edge in Peak District National Park, the perfect escape for nature lovers and photographers.
Carl Wark
15.3 km
Explore Carl Wark, an ancient Iron Age hillfort on a rugged Peak District promontory with sweeping moorland views and rich prehistoric heritage.
CRICH TRAMWAY VILLAGE
15.9 km
Discover the enchanting Crich Tramway Village, a historic tramway museum showcasing vintage trams and offering scenic rides through the picturesque Derbyshire countryside.
Thor's Cave
17.7 km
Explore the stunning Thor's Cave in the Peak District National Park, a natural marvel perfect for hiking and adventure amidst breathtaking scenery.
Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet
18.1 km
Explore the rich industrial heritage of Sheffield at Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet, where history comes to life in a beautifully preserved setting.
Wingfield Manor
18.2 km
Explore Wingfield Manor, a stunning heritage site in South Wingfield, where history meets picturesque landscapes and architectural beauty.
Peveril Castle
18.3 km
Explore Peveril Castle, a stunning historical landmark in the Peak District, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into England's rich medieval heritage.
Peak Cavern
18.3 km
Discover the wonders of Peak Cavern in the heart of the Peak District, where nature's beauty meets fascinating geological history.
Beauchief Abbey
18.4 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and historical significance of Beauchief Abbey, a gem in Sheffield's rich heritage.
National Trust - Ilam Park
18.6 km
Discover Ilam Park, a stunning park and garden in the Peak District, offering breathtaking landscapes, beautiful walks, and rich history for an unforgettable experience.
Ecclesall Woods
18.6 km
Ecclesall Woods: A lush escape in Sheffield, perfect for outdoor adventures, serene walks, and connecting with nature amidst stunning landscapes.
Bamford Edge
18.7 km
Bamford Edge offers stunning panoramic views of Ladybower Reservoir and Hope Valley, a must-visit gritstone escarpment in the Peak District.
Solomon’s Temple
18.8 km
A scenic Victorian folly atop Grin Low Hill offering breathtaking 360-degree views over Buxton and the Peak District.
Winnats Pass
19.2 km
Explore the stunning beauty of Winnats Pass, a limestone gorge in Hope Valley, where nature's wonders await every adventurer.
Unmissable attractions to see
Peak Village
2.4 km
Discover Peak Village, a charming shopping and dining retreat nestled in the scenic heart of the Peak District with nature, artisan shops, and year-round events.
Dotique Peak Village
2.4 km
Relaxed shopping, seasonal dining, and nature experiences in the scenic Peak District village of Rowsley.
River Lathkill
2.4 km
Discover the crystal-clear River Lathkill flowing through a stunning limestone valley rich in wildlife, history, and scenic beauty near Bakewell.
The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop
2.7 km
Historic Bakewell venue famed for its original award-winning puddings, artisan bakery, and charming British restaurant.
Bakewell Bridge
2.7 km
Explore Bakewell Bridge: A Historic Gem in the Heart of Derbyshire, Perfect for Scenic Strolls and Cultural Discoveries.
Bakewell
2.9 km
Historic market town famed for its Bakewell tart, scenic riverside walks, and access to grand Peak District estates.
Bakewell Old House Museum
2.9 km
Step back in time at Bakewell Old House Museum, a Tudor gem revealing centuries of local history through interactive exhibits and family-friendly trails.
Nine Ladies Stone Circle
3.2 km
Explore the ancient mysteries of the Nine Ladies Stone Circle, a captivating historical landmark in the stunning Peak District of England.
Stanton Moor
4.0 km
Explore Stanton Moor’s ancient stone circles, wild moorland beauty, and timeless legends in the heart of Derbyshire’s Peak District.
Cratcliffe
4.1 km
Discover Cratcliffe’s ancient hermitage and breathtaking Peak District views, a serene blend of history and nature near Matlock.
Rowtor Rocks
4.2 km
Discover the mysterious sandstone caves and world-class bouldering of Rowtor Rocks, perched above Birchover in the scenic Peak District.
The Hidden Druids Caves
4.2 km
Explore the enigmatic Hidden Druids Caves in Birchover, a captivating blend of natural beauty, ancient lore, and adventurous rock formations in the Peak District.
Chatsworth Estate Farm Shop
4.5 km
Award-winning farm shop offering fresh estate-reared produce, artisanal goods, and a seasonal café experience with stunning Chatsworth views.
Chatsworth House
4.5 km
Explore the grandeur, gardens, and festive charm of Chatsworth House, a historic estate nestled in England’s Peak District.
Lathkill Dale
5.8 km
Explore the serene limestone valley of Lathkill Dale, where natural beauty meets rich history in the heart of England’s Peak District.
Essential places to dine
The Peacock at Rowsley
2.2 km
Historic riverside inn offering refined rooms, acclaimed dining, and exclusive fishing on Derbyshire’s scenic Haddon Estate.
The Manners, Bakewell
2.5 km
Traditional Robinsons pub in Bakewell serving excellent local ales and renowned pub food, with dog-friendly rooms and a spacious beer garden.
The Woodyard
2.6 km
Historic marble works turned vibrant restaurant with fresh homemade food and a scenic riverside beer garden in the heart of Bakewell.
Restaurant Lovage by Lee Smith
2.7 km
Innovative modern English cuisine with Michelin-starred finesse in a cozy Bakewell setting, blending local heritage with contemporary elegance.
Piedaniel's
2.8 km
A charming family-run French restaurant in Bakewell offering refined cuisine, elegant ambiance, and impeccable service for memorable dining experiences.
The Devonshire Arms at Pilsley
4.7 km
A historic Peak District inn blending rustic charm, elegant rooms, and fresh local cuisine near Chatsworth Estate.
Riverside House Hotel
5.2 km
A 5-star riverside retreat blending historic charm with Michelin-starred dining in the heart of the Peak District.
The Prince of Wales Baslow
6.2 km
A sophisticated country pub in Baslow offering seasonal British cuisine, fine wines, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the Peak District.
The Orangery Restaurant
6.3 km
Refined British dining in a historic setting within Audley St Elphin’s Park, blending heritage charm with tranquil gardens near the Peak District.
White Lion
6.4 km
A charming Peak District gastropub offering hearty British fare, warm welcomes, and a cozy village atmosphere in Great Longstone.
The Crispin
6.5 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Great Longstone offering hearty British fare and local ales in the heart of the Peak District.
Fischer's Baslow Hall
6.7 km
Elegant Edwardian manor with refined British dining, charming gardens, and luxurious accommodation in the heart of the Peak District.
The Eating House
8.2 km
A cozy café nestled in Derbyshire Craft Centre offering fresh, inclusive menus and a warm community atmosphere in Hope Valley.
The Bulls Head
8.4 km
A beloved village pub in Monyash serving hearty British classics with generous portions in a warm, rustic setting.
Stones
8.9 km
Elegant modern British dining with Mediterranean flair beside Matlock’s scenic River Derwent, perfect for relaxed yet refined meals.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Works
2.4 km
Affordable arts, crafts, books, and toys in the vibrant Peak Village outlet near Matlock.
Perfect Gifts Bakewell
2.6 km
Discover unique local gifts and heartfelt treasures in the cozy charm of Perfect Gifts Bakewell, your go-to shop for thoughtful souvenirs.
Bon Voyage Bakewell
2.6 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at Bon Voyage Bakewell, nestled in the heart of Bakewell’s historic market town.
Mini Chic- clothing, gifts, and accessories for children and babies
2.6 km
Charming boutique offering stylish children’s clothing, gifts, and accessories in the heart of Bakewell’s historic town centre.
The Derbyshire Emporium
2.7 km
Local artisan gifts and homemade refreshments in the heart of Bakewell's charming town centre.
Edge of the World
2.7 km
Boutique clothing and accessories shop in Bakewell offering quality fashion with a welcoming atmosphere and expert service.
The British Emporium
2.7 km
Discover a refined collection of authentic British-made gifts and homewares in the heart of Bakewell’s historic market town.
Derbyshire Gift Centre
8.2 km
A charming family-run gift shop and café in Hope Valley offering seasonal treasures and homemade delights in the Peak District.
Bella Figura
8.7 km
Matlock’s bespoke bridal and vintage boutique offering personalized wedding dresses and expert alterations with a vintage charm.
Punnydukes
8.9 km
Whimsical gift shop brimming with unique treasures across multiple enchanting floors.
Ashgate Hospice Matlock Shop
9.0 km
Discover bargains with heart at Ashgate Hospice Matlock Shop, supporting vital palliative care across North Derbyshire.
The Original Factory Shop (Matlock)
9.0 km
Affordable shopping with big-brand discounts in the heart of Matlock, offering fashion, beauty, and homeware under one roof.
The Lost Cauldron
9.5 km
Where an antique cauldron sparked a magical dream, now a beloved destination for enchanted treasures.
The Old Apothecary Shop
10.0 km
Step into Victorian charm and natural wellness at The Old Apothecary Shop, Matlock Bath’s historic haven for handmade beauty and nostalgic gifts.
Equatorial Shop
10.1 km
Discover vibrant fair trade fashion and crafts at Equatorial Shop, Matlock’s hub for ethical, colorful, and culturally rich shopping.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Flying Childers Inn
2.2 km
A cozy, dog-friendly country pub in Stanton in Peak offering fresh, mostly vegan fare and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the Peak District.
Wheatsheaf Pub and Pantry
2.7 km
Cozy Bakewell pub blending traditional charm with modern pantry dining, serving generous portions in a warm, dog- and child-friendly setting.
Castle
2.7 km
A classic Greene King pub in Bakewell serving hearty British fare in a warm, historic setting near the Peak District.
The Packhorse Inn
6.9 km
A cozy, traditional Peak District pub with warm fires, local ales, scenic views, and welcoming rooms near Bakewell.
The Eyre Arms
8.5 km
A charming historic pub in Hope Valley offering hearty Derbyshire fare and warm hospitality in the heart of the Peak District.
The Thorn Tree Inn
8.5 km
A traditional Matlock pub offering hearty homemade food, excellent ales, and stunning views over the Derbyshire Dales and Riber Castle.
The Tipsy Toad
8.7 km
A vibrant cocktail bar in Matlock with funky vibes, great drinks, and friendly staff, open late for memorable nights out.
The Newsroom
8.8 km
A cozy micro pub in Matlock offering an excellent selection of local craft beers and a welcoming atmosphere for all beer lovers.
Twenty Ten
8.9 km
A rustic and lively bar in Matlock, offering great drinks, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Monk Bar
9.0 km
Monk Bar Matlock: Stylish cocktails, vibrant nights, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Derbyshire.
The Bull at Foolow
11.3 km
Historic Peak District pub and boutique inn offering cozy rooms, hearty fare, and scenic countryside charm in the village of Foolow.
Red Lion Inn
11.3 km
A quintessential Peak District country pub offering hearty fare, real fires, and warm hospitality in the charming village of Litton.
Anglers Rest
11.5 km
A cozy riverside pub in Millers Dale offering hearty home-cooked meals, local ales, and a tranquil garden in the heart of the Peak District.
The Barrel Inn
12.0 km
Historic hilltop inn offering cozy rooms, excellent local cuisine, and breathtaking views over Hope Valley and the Peak District.
The George Inn
12.4 km
Traditional Peak District pub and cozy B&B in Tideswell offering hearty food, friendly service, and a warm village atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Loft
8.8 km
A vibrant, intimate nightclub in Matlock offering lively music, friendly service, and a cozy atmosphere in the town center.
Waikiki Beach Bar
15.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Waikiki Beach Bar, Derbyshire's go-to destination for dancing, drinks, and unforgettable memories.
Great Rocks Social Club
17.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Great Rocks Social Club, a welcoming hub in Peak Dale perfect for socializing and entertainment.
Level 2
18.9 km
Buxton’s vibrant two-floor nightclub with diverse music, lively bars, and themed nights, perfect for an energetic night out.
The Association Nightclub
22.8 km
Ripley's vibrant weekend nightclub offering late-night music, dancing, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of town.
The Regal Nightclub
23.0 km
Experience Ripley’s vibrant nightlife at The Regal Nightclub, where lively music and a welcoming atmosphere keep the party going late into the weekend.
Dempseys Bar and Club
23.2 km
Sheffield's enduring gay bar and club: two floors of drinks, dances, karaoke, and late-night energy from noon till dawn in the city centre.
Temple Sheffield
23.4 km
Dive into Sheffield's underground heartbeat at Temple Nightclub, where beats thump till 6am, drinks flow affordably, and nights ignite with raw energy.
Corporation
23.4 km
Sheffield’s iconic nightclub with non-stop dance beats and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
Code Sheffield
23.6 km
Sheffield's ultimate nightclub: massive dance floor, six bars, LED lights, and epic nights till 6am—student favorites and global DJs collide in city-centre chaos.
The Leadmill
23.7 km
Sheffield's 40-year heartbeat of live music, club nights, and comedy in a gritty, immersive venue near the station—where crowds roar and nights ignite.
Popworld - Sheffield
23.8 km
A vibrant nightclub in Sheffield city centre, Popworld offers lively pop beats, affordable drinks, and a welcoming party atmosphere every weekend.
Fez Sheffield
23.8 km
Dive into Sheffield’s vibrant electronic dance scene at Fez, the city centre’s intimate nightclub with pulsating beats and dazzling laser shows.
The Viper Rooms
23.8 km
Sheffield's stylish split-level nightclub: upscale cocktails on the terrace lounge, eclectic beats on the dancefloor—dress sharp for urban nights that pulse till dawn.
ONYX Nightclub Sheffield
23.8 km
Dive into Sheffield's raucous nightlife at ONYX, where neon quirks, bass-heavy beats, and cheap thrills fuel epic nights till dawn in the city centre.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Scenic
- Unique
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
