Autumn tree colours in the landscape on the approach to Wolfscote Dale

Autumn colours in the gorge

Clinging on: trees precariously close to the gorge’s edge

One of several weirs on the River Dove

Looking south towards Milldale at the junction of Wolfscote Dale and Biggin Dale

After the walk, we had a change of scene in the market town of Wirksworth, where the fine church of St. Mary’s yielded more photos, including the interior.

St. Mary’s church – side altar and stained glass

Sunday 28^th October brought a change in the weather, now rather grey and inclined to rain.  Therefore, a trip east to Hardwick Hall was the favoured option.   http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hardwick_Hall   http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hardwick/

Hardwick Hall was the country house of Bess of Hardwick, latterly Elizabeth Talbot, Countess of Shrewsbury from 1568 until her death in 1608.  She was the richest woman in England after Queen Elizabeth I and the house is a grand statement, containing fine tapestries and furniture.  Given the indifferent weather, the photography was primarily of the rooms and furnishings.   

Hardwick Hall exterior

The High Great Chamber, where the Countess would greet her guests. On the higher part of the wall a plaster frieze depicts hunting scenes

The Green Velvet Bedroom.  This was the main guest bedroom and the bed was brought to Hardwick in the 1800’s by the 6^th Duke of Devonshire

 The dining room

Lamp in a stairwell casting ceiling patterns

The Cut Velvet Bedroom.  The bed was made in the 1740’s and was also brought to Hardwick in the 1800’s

A selection of copper plated utensils in the kitchen