This stunning historic property in the heart of the Peak District National Park was a major influence on Charlotte Brontë, who visited the home several times in 1845.

Known as North Lees Hall, the building inspired Thornfield Hall, the iconic residence of Edward Rochester in Brontë’s best-known, Jane Eyre. Though not open to the public, surrounded by the stunning rolling hills of the Peak District National Park it is a truly captivating piece of literary history.

Brontë describes the hall quite suitably: “three stories high; a gentleman’s manor house; battlements round the top gave it a picturesque look." She even named her acclaimed novel after North Lees Hall's architect, Robert Eyre.

13 real-life houses that inspired famous books: how many do you recognize?