A Place for Maiden Fair and Knights of Old

Hidden from view not far from Bakewell in the Peak District (Derbyshire) is the medieval manor house Haddon Hall.

Once you go through the doors you enter the courtyard and finally get a bit more of an idea about the hall.

It's a beautiful building with parts dating back to the 12th century, it has a wonderfully romantic feel.

There are climbing roses all over the building reminding me of Sleeping Beauty.

I think that roses make anything beautiful, although Haddon doesn't really need much help with that.

We were lucky that the weather held for most of the day and the Elizabethan gardens were teaming with life (and not just the human variety).

Don't you think this would be the perfect spot for afternoon tea?

I loved the little wooden doors that were dotted around.  Where did they lead to?

 

Had they ever be used for secret romantic assignations? Oh they must have been.

 

The views were also wonderful.

Finding a bench to sit and take it all in, it wasn't difficult to imagine a Tudor lady and gentleman spending their afternoon walking around the gardens.

The inside of the house was just as wonderful and fascinating, but given that I've already bombarded you with a number of photos I think I'll save that for the next blog post.