I can’t remember whether this was a planned visit or whether we just stumbled across it on our way to somewhere else. Either way we ended up here. We pulled up into the car park just as a family was leaving and the rain was starting. It’s quite an impressive sight as you arrive up the narrow lane to the hall which seems to pass through a little village within the grounds. The angry sky only heightened the effect. Could have done without the rain though.
After a few stop-starts with the rain unsure as to whether it was finished or not, we managed to get out of the car and wander around the husk of the hall. Starting off with one of the rooms nearest to the car park we both immediately felt nasuseous….cue lots of Most Haunted-esque talk of ghosts and ghouls making us feel unwelcome.
The car park is at the back of the house, so when we got to the other side, you’re treated to quite a stunning facade with amazing views over the surrounding countryside. Must have been quite a place to throw a party in it’s day!
Set on an old Saxon site, the structure as it stands now is thought to be the 4th or 5th built on the site with this one being built in 1724. It played its part in the English Civil War, when it was strengthened to withstand any attacks from the Roundheads who were had a base at Bolsover Castle on the opposite hillside.
After years of neglect, the estate was bought by local businessmen who sold much of the house off, even the roof. Parts of the house were shipped to America where they ended up being used as sets for a number of 1950s movies. Thankfully, you can still see some of the lavish plasterwork that once lined the walls of the house. This was made by Italian craftsmen Francesco Vassalli and the Atari brothers.
Here’s some links to further information about Sutton Scarsdale Hall:
Wikipedia
English Heritage
Derbyshire UK
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