Swarkestone Hall

The towers (formerly the gatehouse and now a modernised dwelling) is all that remains of Swarkestone Hall. The Tudor mansion is not far from Calke Abbey in Derbyshire and there is a firm historical connection. The Harpur family.

Recently, one of my friends started researching her family history. She discovered that she is the direct descendent of Sir Henry Harpur, the first Baronet. She was happy to let me go along on her visit to look for more information.

Calke Abbey was bought for £5350 for Sir Henry by his father. The NT volunteers were fascinated by her family connection and were so helpful.

One lady took us to Sir Henry’s portrait, and they’ve promised to get in touch with her again.

It’s exciting to go round somewhere with a person who has a family link to explore. Even her lovely granddaughter (going through a teenage phase) got really interested. “Are we famous.?” She helped take notes.

Plenty of food for thought.

We also found out that Sir Henry and his father and grandfather had lived at Swarkestone Hall. We headed off to see all that remains now.

I loved this Tudor gatehouse.....

A truly exciting day.