Set in its own large estate, Chatsworth is one of Britain’s most famous historic houses. Owned by Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, The original house was the work of Bess of Hardwick in the late 16th Century.
Little now remains of that original building, but the present house, built by the first Duke in the late 18th century, retains some of the Elizabethan interior walls. The library and north wing were added by the sixth Duke between 1790 and 1858.
The house is situated in the centre of Derbyshire’s Peak District National Park about 3 miles from Bakewell. The park in which it sits is the work of the famous landscape designer Capability Brown who was engaged by the fourth Duke in the mid 1700s. In 1832 the 6th Duke engaged Joseph Paxton as the head gardener, who created the Emperor Fountain, one of the most famous features of the garden. The house and gardens have remained little changed since the 6th Duke's time.
The house, garden, farmyard, gift shops and restaurant are open every day until 21 December. The 1000 acre park, the farm shop and its restaurant are open all year round.
Chatsworth has a long tradition of welcoming local people and holiday makers from around the world.
Chatsworth Garden CentreAs well as the House itself visitors can go to the garden centre which sells plants of many varieties. There is a cafe there, where visitors can get a drink and sit down amongst the delightful displays of plants.
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Chatsworth Childrens' Activity CentreFor children and families there is Chatsworth Farm Activity Centre where a variety of farm animals and birds (cows, pigs, horses, sheep, pheasants, geese etc) can be seen and (for smaller animals) held by children, and there is a large play area for children.
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Other local Places of interest:Bakewell Haddon Hall Crich Tramway Museum |
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