Description: A building originally stood on the land it now occupies as far back as 1087, but it was not until 1370 that Richard de Vernon embarked on a project of major construction. Dating from the late 14th century, the Banqueting Hall was the principal dwelling room for the medieval manor and would have been home for between forty and fifty people. The roof is of 20th century construction, all the timbers for which were cut from the Haddon or Belvoir estates. Items of interest in the Banqueting Hall include antlers dating from the time of Charles II. Other items include, a 15th century refectory table, a tapestry and a manacle and lock; it is said any guest 'who did not drink fayre' was liable to have his hand manacled and the remainder of his drink poured down his sleeve. A wood panelled minstrel's gallery was added in about 1600 to the existing hall.