This geocache is situated in the grounds of the beautiful Hartington Hall. There is presently a sign saying "do not enter" leading to the new garden where this cache is hidden. Please ignore this sign; the Youth Hostel have given us kind permission to lay this cache here and this sign is soon to be removed. The cache is hidden in an area where a lot of old bottles were found.
This magnificent building dates in part from the 14thCentury. Little remains of the original hall though it is believed that parts of the South and East wall of the library date from as early as 1350.
The grand front though dates from 1611 and was built by Hugh Bateman, the Land Steward for William Cavendish ( 1st Earl of Devonshire). Can you find this date on the fine lead rain hopper just outside the original front door? Hartington Hall was designed in a manner typical for a Derbyshire country house during this period.
Just inside is a fine panelled hall with fireplace which dates back to when the hall was built. Upstairs is Bonnie Prince Charlie’s room which is also well preserved. There is no strong evidence that this room was actually occupied by the Prince other than local legend.
The house remained in the Bateman family for over 400 years until it was sold to the Youth Hostel Association in 1948; though it was used as a Youth hostel from the early 1930’s. If you would like to enter this wonderful old building and see some of its historical features then please do, it is open to all!