Explore Sudbury Hall

Women of Sudbury, interpreted by Derby College students — Explore the stories of Sudbury's Women

Sudbury Hall tells the story of a house designed and built as a showpiece for 17th-century craftsmanship. George Vernon created the spirit of the Restoration period at Sudbury which has stood the test of time to be enjoyed today. An this year it's not just just paying homage to George but also some of the amazing women who've played a part in Sudbury's history.

It was once said that behind every great man was a great woman, but here at Sudbury we can think of a more fitting proverb. Behind every great Hall is a great woman, which can be said for Sudbury. The Hall has been home to many great women and to celebrate the anniversary of Women's Suffrage we'll be telling some of their stories.

Long Gallery

It is unusual to find a Long Gallery in a Charles II house but this room is one of the most magnificent features inside the house.

It’s just over 167 feet (51m) long and includes many family portraits. Fans of the 1996 BBC ‘Pride and Prejudice’ adaptation will recall the room being used as the place where Elizabeth sets eyes on Darcy’s painting.

Look up and admire the amazing plasterwork running the enitre length of the room, we've put some places to lye down so you can sit back and admire it for the work of art it is.

Staircase

The Great Staircase is considered one of the finest in a country house and we believe was designed by Sir George Vernon himself.

The plasterwork on the ceiling includes garlands of fruit, flowers and palm branches.

sudbury's great staircase — Sudbury's magnificent great staircase

Grinling Gibbons carvings in the drawing room

A work by celebrated wood carver Grinling Gibbons is found in the Drawing Room.

The fine carving over the chimneypiece was created in 1678 and for which, Lord Vernon paid just £40. It depicts dead game and fish as well as fruits and flowers.

get closer than ever before to Sudbury's delicate carvings — Get a closer look

Ceiling paintings

Don’t forget to look up when you visit. There are many painted ceilings to marvel at by skilled craftsmen such as Louis Laguerre. The Great Staircase is just one magnificent example.

Still to come...

1930s Kitchen

This kitchen was remodelled when the 9th Lord Vernon returned to live at Sudbury as it was closer to the dining room, so a better chance of getting a hotter meal.

Enjoy a game of billiards

At first glance, you may think that the Billiard Room is still being restored but it’s shown uncompleted as that’s how it was left by the family.

We believe there was once a billiard table in the Great Hall but have recently installed a table here for you to enjoy a game.

The Basement

We will be opening more of the basement than every before, explore deep into the underbelly of Sudbury. Learn about the importance of this space and how it was relied upon to bring the house to life back in its heyday.

The Chintz Bedroom

This year we are raising money in order to fund a conservation project in the Chintz bedroom. Once part of a key suite of rooms it is in dire need of some TLC. We will be opening the door to the public on this once spectacular room for the first time. We hope it will help to raise awareness of the conservation work the Trust does to maintain our special places and help visitor appreciate the work that has already been done to maintain the rest of the hall.