Website: https://www.chatsworth.org/
Physical address: Chatsworth, Bakewell, Derbyshire DE45 1PP
Phone number: +44 1246 565 300
Business hours: – –
DISCLOSURE: This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you buy something after clicking our link to the retailer, we make a small commission on the sale. You can read our full disclosure policy here.
One of England’s most popular great houses, Chatsworth House is the traditional home of the Dukes of Devonshire. Although the duchy passes down the male line, the house was originally purchased by Sir William Cavendish in 1549, in accordance with the wishes of his wife, Bess of Hardwick, who was at one time second only to Queen Elizabeth I amongst the country’s most powerful women. She continued with renovations to the manor after her husband’s death, and some of her improvements, including the Hunting Tower, completed in the 1580s, remain.
Following on from Bess’ efforts, the theme of strong women continued into the house’s literary heritage, with Jane Austen having her heroine, Elizabeth Bennett, visit the house in Pride and Prejudice, prior to taking up residence at Pemberley. When Pride and Prejudice was later converted to a film in 2006, Chatsworth House also served as the filming location for Mr Darcy’s estate, with a number of statues and areas of the house and gardens identifiable to fans of the film.
Other than Elizabeth Bennett, noted guests to Chatsworth have included Charles Dickens and Queen Victoria. Mary, Queen of Scots was held captive there for a period of time, and President John F. Kennedy’s sister, Kathleen, married the elder son of the 10th Duke of Devonshire. Unfortunately, both she and her husband passed away before he became Duke himself. Deborah Mitford, one of the UK’s scandalous It Girls through the 1930s and ‘40s, married the 11th Duke and spent decades working to establish the house’s education and tourism ventures. She also authored several books.
Now held in trust, the house is open to the public, although the current (12th) Duke also continues to reside there. In addition to the extensive collection of artworks on display in the main house, the gardens and surrounding woods and stables provide many opportunities for exploring. A farmyard hosts milking demonstrations and opportunities for children to play with animals, making it a worthwhile place to visit for the whole family.
Enjoy this post? Share it
