You guys, DAY SEVEN. Possibly my favorite day.

We woke up from our beautiful Christmas Cottage, packed our things and headed out for breakfast. We didn’t realize the Stillhouse Cafe was in the Cotswolds Distillery. But the name “Stillhouse” should have been a clue. Sigh. The breakfast was so good, I had avocado toast, and Austin had the Chorizo Hash. Yum! The girls were so nice. One of them complimented me on my dress, which I wore just for our next stop.

Recognize this? *music begins to play* Yes, that is Pemberly from the 2005 adaptation of Pride and Prejudice, AKA Chatsworth House. As we pulled up, I may have regretted only slightly the linen dress bought just for this occasion. The wind was a’blowin’. I could not contain my excitement.

“Keep up!” I said to Austin, as we entered the great hall. No words.

We wandered through the house, passing by beds of kings, magnificent golden statues, and some of the most realistic paintings. A visit to the Veiled Vestel Virgin.

And finally landed here, the Sculpture Gallery!

“Lizzie, is it a true likeness?” Yes, yes I dare say it is. The sign for Mr. Darcy said, “please do not kiss!” Which was not hard for me to follow, ha! I shopped and brought home two miniature busts, one of Mr. Darcy and the other the Veiled Virgin. I did get stopped in Heathrow to be swabbed, as two concrete masses in my carry-on looked a little suspicious. But I got to talk about our trip to Chatsworth with the TSA lady, and all was well.

We wandered the gardens, which were just stunning. I was disappointed that the infamous balcony was closed to visitors, but we were able to stand close enough to feel satisfied. They also had a maze, but we learned our lesson on that one!

I could not contain my absolute delight in getting to visit this house! I’m so grateful my husband took a chance on spot so far out of the way.

We drove next to Nottingham, where we stayed at The Lace Market Hotel. We ate a quick bite at the local Wing Stop (way less greasy than ours here in the States), and rested for our next day.

xo, Amanda