Day 14!

So today, I took a shuttle to the train station, rode the train to Chesterfield, walked a couple blocks to a bus station, took a bus to Baslow, walked on a public footpath to Chatsworth park, and walked through the park to Chatsworth. Then did the opposite on the way home. I think I'm getting pretty good at this transportation thing.

But, Pemberley, I mean Chatsworth, was absolutely stunning. I was speechless all the way through. I had originally come to just get a picture with Mr. Darcy's bust (that picture is to come) but was amazed at the history and beauty at this home.

It was set in the perfect English countryside with sheep grazing across the river. We walked through the house which was filled with beautiful paintings and furniture and then into the gardens. To be honest, it was FREEZING that day, and it decided to rain every few minutes. However, Taylor and I could not have cared less. We walked around the gardens including the Rock Gardens and walked through a coal tunnel. We skipped the hedge maze. Haha. We went in the greenhouses and took many, many photos.

Back in Baslow, we attempted to eat at a small cafe that had been open that morning but now was closed. Instead, we walked around the small town in the Peak District and then grabbed some local ice cream. Our transportation plans ran perfectly, and before we knew it, we were back in Harlaxton eating pizza and watching a movie. Well.. almost smoothly. One passenger in our train car needed medical attention, and at one point, they asked if anyone onboard had medical experience. Thank goodness paramedics were able to assist at the next stop.

Overall, this has to be one of my favorite days here. I am proud of how we were able to accomplish this transportation feat and made a literary setting come to life. My first independent travel opportunity in England, and it will be a hard one to beat!