Chastleton House has an unremarkable history; what makes it unusual is its timeless setting and atmosphere of undisturbed age and continuity.

'Make do and mend'


© NTPL / Nadia Mackenzie

Built between 1607 and 1612 as a lavish status symbol by Walter Jones, a wealthy wool merchant, Chastleton House came to the Trust in 1991 after 400 years of continuous ownership by an increasingly impoverished family. Their 'make do and mend' philosophy meant that this once grand country house remained virtually unchanged generation after generation, retaining contents and features which are now rare, if not unique, survivals.

Of particular interest are the textiles in the house which include a striped wool wall hanging at the top of the East Staircase known as 'dornix', once found universally in 17th-century houses but today this is one of the only surviving examples. Equally rare are the 'flamestitch' wall hangings from the early 17th century, to be seen in the Fettiplace Closet.

A unique time capsule


© NTPL / Nadia Mackenzie

When it acquired Chastleton in 1991, the National Trust adopted a groundbreaking approach to this unique time capsule. From the soot - blackened ceiling in the kitchen, to the peeling 1960s wallpaper in the Library and abandoned slipper bath under the rafters, the house has been kept 'as found' rather than restoring it to its former glory.

Extensive repairs were carried out to protect it from the further ravages of time and the house is now protected by special conservation techniques pioneered by the National Trust. This new approach to conservation has also been adopted at places such as Calke Abbey and Tyntesfield.

A fragile state


© NTPL / Ian Shaw

The fragile state of the Chastleton House means that visitor numbers are restricted. With no shop or tea-room, the place exudes a timeless and genteel charm which is greatly enjoyed by those who do visit. Light levels are carefully monitored and on days when the house is closed to the public, the house is cleaned from top to bottom to prevent a build-up of dust and dirt which would cause damage to the house and its contents.

During the winter months every surface, including textiles, and each individual item is carefully examined and cleaned using special equipment. The house is then 'put to bed' for its winter rest.

The home of croquet


© NTPL / Rupert Truman

Known as the home of the codified rules of croquet, Chastleton House today exudes its own special atmosphere. A fire burns in the hearth, a cat keeps the mice down, and there are no ropes or barriers in any of the rooms. Children are welcome and families can hire free Explorer Packs to help them enjoy their visit.

Because of the size of many of the rooms, and the delicate state of the fabric of the house and its contents, the number of daily visitors to Chastleton House is limited. Visits should be pre-booked by calling 01608 674 981 between 9.30am and 2.30pm Tuesday to Friday. No same day bookings.