How to make the most of Chatsworth House events

Home to the Duke of Devonshire and set in the heart of rural Derbyshire, the ‘Palace of the Peaks’ is arguably one of England’s most loved stately houses. Chatsworth Estate has benefitted from a £15 million overhaul and is open to the public year round. It’s easy for visitors to lose themselves in the splendour of the gardens, the beauty of the house interior, and the fun of Chatsworth House events. Let us help you plan your Chatsworth House visit in order to make the most of your time here.

The Garden and Farm

Chatsworth Estate is so big and beautiful it can be difficult to know where to start your visit. Get orientated with a free guided tour of the gardens and learn about the landscape’s evolution, the impressive collection of plants, and the famous water features. Once the tour has ended, there is plenty more to discover! Splash in the cascade, get lost in the maze, let the kids run wild at the playground or marvel at the Emperor Fountain, one of the tallest gravity fed fountains in the world.

A free daily event to keep the kids intrigued can be found at the newly opened petting farm. After saying hello to the animals, there is a free milking display to educate kids (and adults!) about country living. If your little one takes a shine to the farmyard, Chatsworth runs events throughout the year where kids can help care for the animals and learn about farm duties.

A complte Chatsworth ticket with admission to the house, gardens and farmyard costs £13 for kids,  £19 for adults and £55 for a family pass (with 2 adults and up to 3 children). Passes to each part of the estate can also be purchased seperately. Tickets bought online include free parking, otherwise expect to pay £3 for the day.

Exhibitions

Since the estate’s recent renovations, more rooms are open to the public, plus the addition of a lift means that Chatsworth is now accessible for all. One of the most popular exhibitions is the Georgiana display. Georgiana’s vibrant character was embodied by Keira Knightley in the film The Duchess, and the exhibition shows the real woman’s life, loves and tastes.

Chatsworth is also renowned for being Mr Darcy’s silver screen home. While many will be perfectly content to let the ornate displays swoop them off into Pride and Prejudice inspired daydreams, there is also a treasure hunt to keep the kids occupied too!
It is worth checking out Chatsworth’s website before visiting the estate as throughout the year there are a range of talks from classic behind the scenes tours to floral displays, textile tours, and brewery day.

Seasonal Events

Chatsworth also hosts a number of impressive seasonal events such as the Easter Extravaganza that goes down well with kids. The Christmas market is also a favourite for families. There are craft stalls, foodie delights, live seasonal music and a Bavarian beer tent.

If seeing Chatsworth lit up at night sparks your imagination, then head to the estate in November to remember Guy Fawkes. Chatsworth’s striking landscape becomes hauntingly beautiful under the crackling light of the fireworks. There is normally a gigantic bonfire, live music and locally produced refreshments to keep everyone warm and chipper.

The highlight of the year is the County Fair, which has been named the best annual outdoor event in the country. This event takes place at the end of summer and is packed full of wholesome fun with a country heritage twist. Craft stalls, live bands, military displays, hot air balloons, sheep dog trials, archery, bouncy castles, a Red Arrows display, and so much more! Check the Chatsworth website for official dates and ticket prices, although you will find that day tickets are typically 10% cheaper if you buy them ahead of time online.

Whether you want to experience the splendour of a bygone era, daydream of Darcy, let the kids run off some steam, or spice up a seasonal holiday, Chatsworth House events can cater to all occasions. Several camp and caravan sites offer stunning views of the Peak District countryside and are located just a short drive from the estate. To take full advantage of the convenient location, make sure to get the half price return ticket added onto your original £20 entrance price. This way your Chatsworth experience will not be rushed, giving you time to fully explore all the events the estate has to offer.