7 remarkable stately homes to visit just a short drive from Nottingham

When the weekend rolls around and you're looking for something to do, a walk around a stately house rarely misses the mark.

Luckily for us, there are several magnificent properties within a short drive of Nottingham, each with its own unique charm and rich heritage.

From the opulent halls of Chatsworth House, home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, to the neo-classical elegance of Kedleston Hall, our curated list offers a delightful blend of National Trust, English Heritage, and other remarkable properties.

Discover the stories behind the peeling paintwork and overgrown gardens of Calke Abbey, the Elizabethan splendour of Hardwick Hall, and the medieval charm of Haddon Hall.

Whether you seek art collections, picturesque gardens, or a glimpse into the past, these stately homes, all under a 65 minute drive from Nottingham, promise an enriching and enchanting experience.

So, pack your curiosity and embark on a journey through time and architecture that awaits just a short drive away from Nottingham's city centre.

1. Chatsworth House

Location: Bakewell DE45 1PP

Distance from Nottingham: Approximately 65 minutes

Chatsworth House, home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, is renowned for its stunning architecture, extensive art collection, and beautiful gardens. The house has a rich history dating back to the 16th century.

2. Kedleston Hall (National Trust)

Location: Quarndon, Derby DE22 5JH

Distance from Nottingham: Approximately 45 minutes

Kedleston Hall is an 18th-century mansion with impressive neo-classical architecture designed by Robert Adam. The interiors boast exquisite paintings and sculptures, making it a perfect destination for history and art enthusiasts.

3. Sudbury Hall and the National Trust Museum of Childhood (National Trust)

Location: Ashbourne DE6 5HT

Distance from Nottingham: Approximately 45 minutes

Sudbury Hall is a late 17th-century house with stunning interiors and beautiful gardens. The National Trust Museum of Childhood on the estate displays a fascinating collection of toys and childhood memorabilia.

4. Hardwick Hall (National Trust)

Location: Doe Lea, Chesterfield S44 5QJ

Distance from Nottingham: Approximately 50 minutes

Built by Elizabethan architect Robert Smythson, Hardwick Hall is a magnificent example of Elizabethan architecture. The "Hardwick Hall, more glass than wall" saying reflects its grand use of glass in the design.

5. Calke Abbey (National Trust)

Location: Ticknall, Derby DE73 7LE

Distance from Nottingham: Approximately 40 minutes

Calke Abbey is an unusual and atmospheric 18th-century mansion known for its peeling paintwork and overgrown gardens. The National Trust has preserved the house in a state of decline, offering a unique glimpse into the past.

6. Haddon Hall

Location: Bakewell DE45 1LA

Distance from Nottingham: Approximately 40 minutes

Haddon Hall is a medieval and Tudor manor house with a charming setting overlooking the River Wye. It features well-preserved rooms, gardens, and courtyards, providing a captivating journey through history.

7. Elvaston Castle

Location: Elvaston, Derby DE72 3EP

Distance from Nottingham: Approximately 31 minutes

Elvaston Castle is a Gothic Revival masterpiece set in a picturesque park. While the interior is not regularly open to the public, the stunning gardens and grounds make it a delightful place for a leisurely stroll.