Kedleston Hall

Just three miles from the centre of Derby lies this stately Palladian-style house, the seat of the powerful Curzon family since the early 12th century. The house is now owned by the National Trust,. though the Sacrsdale family, descendants of the Curzons, live on in quarters within the house.

The south front and lavish interior (1759-65) was largely the work of Robert Adam. The interior probably represents the most complete and unaltered example of Adam's work still remaining in England. The state rooms are superb, with original artwork and furniture. The paintings are especially strong in 18th and 19th century Italian works. The Marble Hall is supported on columns of pink alabaster rising 25 feet to the ceiling.

Within the house is the Eastern Museum, with a fascinating display of artefacts brought back from the Far East by George, Lord Curzon (Viceroy of India from 1899-1905).

The house is set in over 800 acres of magnificent landscaped parkland, with a pleasure garden, woodland walks, and follies designed by Adam.