Science

‘It is the range of biodiversity that we must care for, the whole thing- rather than just one or two stars.’ – David Attenborough

An ancient gateway to ecological discovery

The land within Haddon’s Medieval Park is ancient or of successive continuous habitat. It is also unusual for having an extraordinary breadth of alternative habitats within the relatively small space of 187ha. The proximity and mosaic nature of these alternative environments make the park of significant ecological interest and value.

Never before has the private medieval park been available for study or research but it is now Lord and Lady Edward Manners’ ambition to build a comprehensive scientific programme of learning and research within the park via the help of experts, academics, universities, foundations and sponsors.

If you would like to be involved or to find out more, please contact: admin@haddonhall.co.uk

The Derbyshire Wye, considered one of the cleanest rivers in England indicated by its associated abundance of gammarus and invertebrates

Within the park is 90 ha of untouched virgin pasture, featuring miles of Yellow Meadow Ant mounds

It has already been discovered that Haddon houses critically important lichen, including Skyttea viridis, not only new to Derbyshire, but new to England and only the second of its kind to be recorded in the world.

Haddon is buzzing with a rich population of wild bees, and has an estate policy to control disease by the prevention of commercial hives being introduced to its territory.

Many endangered flora and fauna have found sanctuary within the Medieval Park.

We are opening our gates to scientific exploration

The preservation of rare breeds, such as the English Longhorn, is part of our plan.

Trees and all the lichen, beetles, fungus and wildlife they support are an essential element in the regeneration of the land.