The Oldest Hotel Room

We have a lot of Marriott rewards points, so in finding places to stay in Britain, I looked over the list of potential Marriott’s that might work.  One of the options was Breadsall Priory in Derbyshire.  This hotel was in a perfect location to launch our exploration of the Peak District and I was intrigued by its claim as Oldest Marriott Property in the World. 

Breadsall Priory.  That's our room right above the door.

15th century stonework in our room.

We arrived around 8 after our drive from Brecon Beacons.  After checking in Sara and Mom made friends with a very animated and knowledgeable porter who told them the history of the building (and even gave us a book about it).  While not the first Marriott, it occupies a building that dates back to about 1250 as a Priory of the Austin Canons (a monastic-like group).  The building has been added to numerous times through the years, such that the older parts are buried by the additions.  There are actually only two places where the oldest parts of the building can still be seen.  One is a doorway in the conference center that dates to the original 1250 structure.  The second are two exposed masonry pieces that date back to the 15^th century, and they just happen to be located in room 202 (our room)! Very cool!

Darwin Pet Cemetery.

We also learned that one of the past owners of the house was Dr. Erasmus Darwin, the grandfather of Charles Darwin.  One of the interesting features of the Darwin Family's ownership of the property was that they started a cemetery for their pets, which is still visible today.  Thursday morning we wandered the property and came across this cemetery and also took dozens of pictures of the Priory and grounds.  I which we had more time to explore this place, I would definitely stay here again!

~Shawn