S

ir Nathaniel Curzon, the 1st Lord Scarsdale, was a pretty cool customer in his day. When he inherited Kedleston Hall in 1758, he did what every young rebel worth his salt would do and tore it down to replace it with something en vogue for entertaining his mates and yes, to show off.

Luckily he met architect Robert Adam, who shared his passion for all things Neo-classical and ultra-stylish, and Kedleston Hall was born. Check out the huge domed Saloon which still retains its wow factor centuries later. Along with Adam’s architectural flourishes, there’s an extensive collection of paintings, sculpture and furniture to admire.

For a journey back into Britain's colonial past head to Lord Curzon’s Eastern Museum; a glittering showcase of fascinating Asian artifacts. Back in 1916, Lord Curzon converted a sculpture gallery to house objects acquired on his travels in Asia and during his time as Viceroy of India.

Hollywood movie The Duchess was filmed in Kedleston's grand rooms. As you take a special trail around the filming locations, be sure to perfect your best Keira Knightly pout. But be warned the real star of the show is always going to be the Hall itself.