Now that Halloween has been and gone, and the ghoulish pumpkins have been thrown away, some tourist attractions are getting prepared for the next biggest holiday of the year, Christmas – including Derbyshire’s famous Chatsworth House.
Festivities begin early at the stunning mansion, situated by the River Derwent just north of Bakewell and not far from Chesterfield.
No sooner will Bonfire Night be over then Christmas will commence, with its illuminated walk and festive markets opening on Saturday (November 6th).
Visitors embarking on the picturesque stroll around the garden at dusk will be able to see the historic house, which dates back to 1549, lit up with hundreds of twinkling lights. The one-kilometre amble goes past the Emperor Fountain, around the Ring Pond, along the narrow paths of the Rock Garden, finishing at the Cascade.
Those who love to buy festive trinkets will be delighted Chatsworth’s Christmas market runs from Saturday till November 24th. It will boast more than 100 stalls, selling pretty gifts, delicious food and drink, and handicrafts.
Live music will play as shoppers meander through the maze of stalls, sipping a warm mulled wine and tucking into piping hot sausages.
Parents with little children should take the opportunity to see Santa in the flesh at a magical storytime session at Chatsworth between November 27th and December 19th.
Another child-friendly activity being held at the house is the reindeer truffle making workshop, between December 20th and 22nd. This gives kids the chance to create tasty truffles of seeds, nuts and fruit for Father Christmas’s reindeers on their busy night.
For the grown-ups, there will be a Masquerade Ball held over the December weekends, allowing visitors to experience the high life in the regal setting.
If you fancy a trip to Chatsworth to get you in the mood for the festive season, make sure you book a bed and breakfast in Castleton for your stay.
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