National Trust - Kedleston Hall

Having spent an enjoyable afternoon, and with this being our third visit to Kedlestone i felt a review was a little overdue. Symmetry and order is the theme within the house, space and focal points sum up the outside. We have enjoyed a springtime circular walk around the lakes to one side of the picturesque bridge, a field, wooded and lakeside walk to the other side on another occasion. We have had a free roam view of all rooms in the house during early summer and then today's visit was a structured room tour by booking only. Some of the rooms have a major wow factor in particular the Great Hall and the domed ceiling sprung floor ballroom both situated on the first floor. They really have to be seen, pictures do not do them justice. Currently the lower floor rooms are not open or part of the tour but house many treasures from India and the Far East. As mentioned, symmetry runs through the house and can be observed in every room. Vast paintings adorn the walls, oak floors, high ceilings finish the rooms, even the hingeless doors are a work of art. Kedlestone is a masterpiece and as much as I like it, I strangely don't feel connected??... maybe it's just a personal thing? Other halls and houses tend to have at least one room where there is a calmness that makes me feel i could sit and enjoy it for hours or a bedroom i could imagine getting the best nights sleep ever. I can't quite put my finger on it but i don't get that feeling here... I still enjoy it and I'm sure to return again to admire the many things on show and to enjoy the walks in the surrounding estate. Well worth a visit.