This baroque mansion, built 1701–4 and set in a stunning landscape park, has become famous as a graphic illustration of the English country house in decline. Little restored, the house contains the spectacular natural history collection of the Harpur Crewe family, as well as a magnificent 18th-century state bed and interiors that are essentially unchanged since the 1880s. The open parkland is managed for its nature conservation value and the attractive grounds feature a beautiful walled garden with Auricula Theatre and an interesting collection of garden buildings. What’s new in 2004: Events to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the completion of the house