Built by Ralph Lord Cromwell in 1439, the ruins of Wingfield Manor stand high on a hill above the village of South Wingfield.
Mary Queen of Scots was imprisoned at Wingfield Manor on three occasions and it was here that the romanticised plot to free Mary and overthrow Elizabeth I was hatched with Anthony Babington as one of the main conspirators.
Today's visitors can enjoy exploring its superb vaulted undercroft, walking through the late Gothic Great Hall or climb the 100 steps of the tower for a magnificent view of the Amber Valley.
Wingfield Manor has been used as a filming location on several occasions, including Peak Practice and Zefferelli's Jane Eyre.
The Manor is administered by English Heritage. Part of the manor is a private working farm.
Months Open: 1 Apr-30 Sep, Wed-Sun, 1000-1800; 1-31 Oct, 1000-1700; 1 Nov-31 Mar, Sat, Sun, 1000-1300, 1400-1600. Parking is on the road side which means a quarter of a mile walk to the actual manor. An audio aid is available.
Larger photographs of Wingfield Manor can be found at Derbyshire Photographs
