Derbyshire is rich in stately houses and churches as well as having many smaller vernacular buildings of interest. There are several Derbyshire based architects of note, working from the eighteenth century onwards. Although our main interest is in Derbyshire, talks and visits may also be centred on places in the neighbouring counties.

The Architectural Section, as its name implies, promotes interest in aspects of British architecture. This is achieved by visits to mainly local buildings and locations where there are buildings of interest, and sponsoring lectures during the winter months on aspects of architecture by experts in their field. Usually three talks and outings are organised each year. When possible, a talk on a particular site is followed by a visit, often guided by the same person that gave the lecture.

Recently, visits were made to Breedon-on-the-Hill Church, followed by Stoneywell Cottage (NT) and to Tutbury Church and Castle. The visit to Stoneywell followed a talk on the property the year before. Talks have included Maxwell Craven on Alderman Leaper, Survival of Church Architecture by Professor Janet Spencer and Rufford Abbey by Peter Smith (prior to a visit).

Other notable recent visits include the wall paintings at Ellys Manor, Ingestre Hall, Polesworth Abbey, Barlborough Hall, a tour of Long Eaton and guided visits to several churches, examples being Norbury, Melbourne and St. Werburgh’s in Derby.

The Derbyshire Buildings Record was started by one of our members several years ago. Now containing some 300 records, smaller vernacular buildings are surveyed and knowledgeable eyes cast over its features to try to establish its original design and later developments. These records are made under the aegis of the Section.