Tapton House

Tapton House is a Georgian mansion set within 80 hectares of parkland in Brimington, showcasing 18th-century residential architecture with period features throughout its rooms. The building now functions as part of Chesterfield College's campus and serves students and staff in their daily activities.

The house was built by the Wilkinson banking family and became the residence of railway pioneer George Stephenson from 1832 until his death in 1848. After this period, the building underwent changes in use before becoming an educational establishment in the early 20th century.

The house transitioned from a private home to an educational institution in 1931 and housed generations of students in its classrooms. Today you can see how the spaces have been adapted to serve students and teachers who use it for daily learning activities.

The site sits close to Chesterfield railway station and M1 motorway junctions 29 and 30, making it accessible by both rail and road. Since it functions as an active college campus, some areas may have restricted access, so it is wise to check availability before visiting.

The grounds contain Castle Hill, an earth mound that marks the remains of a medieval motte-and-bailey fortification on the site. This archaeological feature reminds visitors that the location held strategic importance long before the Georgian mansion was built.