Hardwick Hall is now a National Trust property which neither of us knew anything about and was a change of plan to our previously thought out itinerary. Nevertheless, after another hearty breakfast, we got some directions from our hostess and discovered that it was, in fact, only about 15 miles from the house. Armed with raincoats and camera, we set out across country with great anticipation. What a treat it turned out to be! It is one of Britain's finest Elizabethan houses built for Elizabeth, Dowager Countess of Shrewsbury, who moved into the hall in October 1597. "With its massive windows and fine proportions it is an impressive statement of the power and wealth of its creator who made sure the statement was made quite clear by having her initials ES carved on stone letters
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