Welbeck Abbey
Welbeck Abbey
William John Cavendish Cavendish-Scott-Bentinck, 5th Duke of Portland (1800-79), was the eccentric owner of Welbeck Abbey. Living as a recluse in a small suite of rooms in the massive abbey, he employed a team of hundreds of workmen to excavate a series of underground rooms. They include a 53 m (174 ft) long ballroom and a 76 m (250 ft) long library, along with a series of tunnels claimed to be wide enough to drive a horse and carriage. Within the complex, food was delivered to the duke on miniature railways.
Welbeck Abbey remains a private home. The nearby Harley Gallery offers occasional tours.