The sun had got its hat so we decided to have a day out. It is a long time since we last visited Sudbury Hall, formerly the home of the Vernon family with the museum of childhood located in the19th-century servant’s wing.

We were disappointed to find that both the ‘Grade I’ listed house and museum had been dumbed down since our previous visits and there is no longer a National Trust shop. The room where the shop was previously located looks a little sad with its door currently locked and closed.

The venue is great for children with opportunities for dressing up and other fun activities but the rich history of the hall, art and architecture is not highlighted. If the property doesn’t change to provide information on the history and art in an educational and engaging way ‘to include adults’ I am unlikely to return.

After our visit we weren’t quite ready to go home so we detoured to the nearby Keddleston Hall for tea and cake. It was to late in the day to visit the house and gardens but we were reminded of how much we enjoy this property. We will be back for a full day visit in the near future.