Chatsworth House might be one of the most famous landmarks in Derbyshire. It’s the home of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, set in the heart of the Peak District, on the banks of the River Derwent. Home of the Cavendish family since the 1550s, it has evolved through the centuries to reflect the tastes, passions and interests of succeeding generations.
Like many places in the UK, it is having to deal with the coronavirus and the restrictions placed on it from being in a Tier 3 area, but it is bound to reopen in 2021 to welcome back visitors from all over the world.
Here are five fun facts about Chatsworth
1. Originally, the village of Edensor was much closer to Chatsworth House, however, the Fourth Duke of Devonshire felt it spoiled his view so much, he had the entire village, except for one house, moved!
2. The Grade II listed Emperor Fountain is entirely gravity fed. The water that feeds it flows naturally from the moorland above Chatsworth into Emperor Lake, and pipework then brings it down the hill to the fountain. It can reach heights of 90 metres but is usually turned down to save water.
3. The Farm Shop and Restaurant employs over 100 people! And without a doubt, the cherry scones are the best.
4. There are more than 1,200 yew trees that make up the maze in the Chatsworth Gardens. That is a lot of hedge trimming!
5. Over the past few years, Chatsworth has been undergoing a huge restoration and conservation project.
2,200 square metres of stonework has been cleaned, 1.25 tonnes of lime mortar has been used to re-point the facades and 42 windows have been re-gilded with 24-carat gold leaf which looks amazing, especially when the gold catches the sunlight
If you’re planning to visit Chatsworth and Derbyshire in 2021, then why not book bed and breakfast in Castleton!