This magnificent mansion was once the home of Victorian Prime Minister, Lord Melbourne, who as the young Queen Victoria's first Prime Minister became her friend and mentor. The Queen described him in her journal as "an honest, good kind-hearted man" who was her friend.
The house, a former Norman rectory became the home of Sir John Cooke in 1628, from thence it has passed down through the centuries to various members of the same family. Female inheritance determined three changes in surname, and today this lovely house which has all the grace, charm and elegance of the English country home, belongs to Lord and Lady Ralph Kerr.
In spite of the historic nature of the house visitors will be surprised at its warmth and ease. It has elegant state rooms furnished with high quality furniture, splendid paintings, sumptuous fireplaces, and many other wonderful objects d'art. There is a sweeping staircase, and glorious wood panelling. From every room there are spectacular views of the beautiful formal gardens, lake and streams which were originally laid out by Henry Wise, who used Le Notre's gardens at Versailles as a blue-print. The gardens contain grand statutory, and The Birdcage - a graceful wrought iron pergola designed by Robert Bakewell in 1725.
There is a Tea Room, Gift Shop and Craft Centre.
The natural charm of this lovely home provides visitors of all ages with a most enjoyable experience - it is well worth a visit.
in the county of Leicestershire
(2.6 miles, 4.3 km, direction S)Staunton was mentioned in the Doomsday Book when it was held by Henry de Ferrers...
in the county of Derbyshire
(2.8 miles, 4.6 km, direction NW)Swarkestone is a small enchanting village which grew up on the reeeded banks of the River Trent...
a Historic Market Town in the county of Leicestershire
(5.1 miles, 8.3 km, direction S)This town takes its name from the La Souche family, lords of the manor from about 1160. The Norman prefix distinguishes Ashby from other towns of similar name...
in the county of Derbyshire
(7.4 miles, 12.0 km, direction N)This is the premier town of the Shire, it is steeped in history with roots stretching to Roman times - the legions had a camp near the east bank of the Derwent, but the town was.....
in the county of Staffordshire
(9.4 miles, 15.2 km, direction W)Burton-on-Trent is an attractive town, it has a pleasing market place surrounded by pleasant properties, some being timber-frame black and white...
All towns in Derbyshire
..
Calke Abbey was built between 1701-1703. The building, in the Baroque style, was built for Sir John Harpur. It is an.....
This is said to be one of the most delightful country houses in Leicestershire, it was the former home of the Ferrers family who.....
Imposing church built in 1653, with fine panelled interior, set in attractive parkland...
The ancient, crumbling walls of Ashby de la Zouch castle keep once rose to a towering 95ft and had four floors. It belonged to.....
Enjoy this site?
Please help us stay online by making a donation today - thank you for your kind support.
Follow PicturesOfEngland.com on social media and help share the beauty of England....
