Chatsworth

The classic vista of the grand 17th century house overlooking the River Derwent is the most famous image of Chatsworth, but this Peak District visitor attraction offers much more than a stately home tour.

Its parkland, gardens, farm, adventure playground, shops, restaurants and places to stay bring more than 600,000 visitors a year to this beautiful corner of Derbyshire. It’s a testament to the size of the estate (35,000 acres) – and its careful management – that you can enjoy a day out at Chatsworth without feeling overwhelmed by crowds.

Chatsworth House and Gardens

Most visitors head to the main house and gardens which have featured in films and TV shows including The Duchess, Pride and Prejudice and Peaky Blinders. The house is known for its art collections, ornate state rooms, and its atmospheric Christmas tours.

The gardens are best known for their 90m-high fountain and the cascade waterfall that descends in steps across the lawns. There’s a Victorian rock garden, an arboretum, several lakes and a kitchen garden which produces fresh vegetables, fruits and flowers for the cafes and restaurants. With beautiful sights whichever way you turn, a day spent here is a real balm for the soul.

Farm and adventure playground

Children will love the garden’s maze – but they’ll likely still be impatient to get to the adventure playground and farm; two linked attractions which can easily fill an afternoon or morning. Sandpits and hand-turned waterwheels will keep younger children entertained for hours, while older kids can burn off energy on the towering slides and rope bridges of the extensive adventure playground. Thankfully, there’s a coffee kiosk and plenty of benches to park yourself on while you watch.

Walks at Chatsworth

If you’re looking for a country walk, there are paths through the parkland and Stand Wood with its medieval hunting tower and mature beech trees.

A popular 6km walk starts from the Carlton Lees car park and takes you over the hill to the characterful village of Edensor. You return along the River Derwent; the ideal spot for picnics and paddling in summer.

Events, places to eat and places to stay

Events take place throughout the year, ranging from the popular Christmas Markets and Country Fair to gardening workshops and art classes for small groups. Chatsworth has various restaurants, cafes and refreshment kiosks, plus an award-winning farm shop at nearby Pilsley.

If you think a day won’t be enough time to see everything, you’d be right. There are several picture-perfect holiday cottages, hotels, inns and shepherd huts dotted about the estate if you’re tempted by the idea of a short break. You can even stay in the hunting tower, if that’s more your style.