Chatsworth
A Country Palace
Although Bess of Hardwick built the original Chatsworth, she never knew the building we know today - it was changed 100 years after her death. But how she would have loved the grand design and regal air of this ‘palace in the country'. The Hunting Tower, on the hill overlooking Chatsworth, is now all that remains from her time.
It was Bess's great-grandson William Cavendish, 1st Duke of Devonshire, who built the current Chatsworth, and like his splendidly extravagant forebear he spared no expense. Wander through the superb State Rooms with their marble, gold leaf and wonderful painted ceilings, and all is historic magnificence and grandeur.
Yet Chatsworth isn't stiff and stuffy. Inside and out are contemporary art pieces to make you marvel. The present-day Duke and Duchess encourage their guests to explore the gardens and grounds with their flower-filled greenhouses and dozens of footpaths leading through the parkland. Chatsworth isn't a dull museum, but a living and dynamic place.
In Pride And Prejudice, Jane Austen modelled Mr Darcy's house of Pemberley on Chatsworth, and you'll recognise plenty of settings from the famous 2005 film starring Keira Knightley and Matthew MacFadyen – much of it was shot here.
More details of Chatsworth including opening times, events and nearby accommodation >>
