Haddon Hall

About

Perched above the River Wye, just south of Bakewell, Haddon Hall stands as one of England’s most enchanting and best-preserved fortified manor houses. With origins dating back to the 11th century, this remarkable hall offers visitors a rare opportunity to step into a world where history and romance seamlessly intertwine.

Haddon Hall has been the ancestral home of the Manners family for over 900 years, making it one of the few English houses to have remained in continuous family ownership throughout its existence. Its storied past is rich with tales of love and legacy, most famously the romantic legend of Dorothy Vernon, who is said to have eloped with John Manners in the 16th century, ensuring the estate's passage into the Manners lineage.

Described by Simon Jenkins as “the most perfect house to survive from the Middle Ages,” Haddon Hall showcases a harmonious blend of architectural styles, from Norman to Tudor. Visitors can explore the grandeur of the Banqueting Hall, marvel at the intricate fresco seccos in the St. Nicholas Chapel, and stroll through the Long Gallery, a masterpiece of Elizabethan design. Each room tells a story, adorned with period furnishings, tapestries, and artworks that reflect the hall's rich heritage.

Beyond its stone walls, Haddon Hall boasts beautifully restored terraced gardens that cascade down the hillside, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Derbyshire countryside. Designed with both formality and natural beauty in mind, the gardens feature a mix of manicured lawns, vibrant flowerbeds, and ancient topiaries, providing a serene setting for leisurely walks and contemplation.

Adjacent to the Hall lies one of the UK’s most ecologically significant landscapes — Haddon Medieval Park. This ancient, untouched deer park has remained largely undisturbed for centuries, allowing a rich mosaic of habitats to thrive. Now gently managed by Lord Edward Manners, the park is home to rare lichen, wildflower meadows, and one of the cleanest rivers in the country, the Derbyshire Wye. Visitors can take part in guided walks, specialist tours and workshops throughout the year, discovering the park’s natural beauty, fascinating history, and quiet importance in the world of biodiversity and rewilding.

Haddon Hall’s rich character and untouched historical architecture have made it one of the UK’s most iconic film locations. With its romantic, timeworn stonework and authentic interiors, it has provided the perfect backdrop for numerous acclaimed film and television productions. Directors are drawn to its atmospheric spaces and the rare opportunity to film in a location that genuinely evokes the medieval and Tudor periods without the need for set dressing.

Over the years, Haddon has played host to a variety of major productions. It featured prominently in the cult classic The Princess Bride (1987), as the setting for Prince Humperdinck’s castle, and again in the 2005 adaptation of Pride & Prejudice, starring Keira Knightley. The Hall has also been chosen for multiple versions of Jane Eyre, including the 1996 Franco Zeffirelli version and Cary Fukunaga’s 2011 adaptation starring Mia Wasikowska and Michael Fassbender.

Its enduring appeal to filmmakers only adds to the experience for visitors, who can wander the same halls and gardens once graced by some of cinema’s most beloved characters. Whether you're a film buff or simply love seeing stories come to life in beautiful, historic settings, Haddon Hall offers a little extra magic.

Haddon Hall also hosts a variety of events that bring its history to life. From the Mercatum Christmas Artisan Markets, showcasing local crafts and produce, to the Little School of Ecology and Sorcery, and summer musical performances, there's always something to captivate visitors of all ages.

The on-site restaurant offers a delightful menu featuring locally sourced ingredients, perfect for a leisurely lunch or afternoon tea. Guests can dine indoors amidst historic surroundings or enjoy al fresco seating with views of the hall and gardens, enhancing the overall ambience of their visit.