Chatsworth, a Palace in Derbyshire
This is one of England's Famous Stately Homes
The first house built at Chatsworth was at the behest of Bess of Hardwick in the 16th century. A native of Derbyshire she persuaded her second husband, William Cavendish from Hertfordshire, to move to Derbyshire. Where he built their house. Their son became the 1st Earl of Devonshire.
Not much changed until the end of the 17th century when the 4th Earl was created 1st Duke of Devonshire. His plan was to make a few alterations which eventually became extensive re-building.
It was the 4th Duke who, in the 18th century, decided to make changes to the gardens and hired "Capability" Brown to lay them out in his famous natural style.
The 6th Duke of Devonshire was also interested in gardening and hired Joseph Paxton to be his head gardener. Paxton designed the Great Conservatory and the Emperor Fountain, which shoots 280ft. into the air.
That Great Conservatory was the forerunner of the Crystal Palace that Paxton designed for the 1851 Great Exhibition in London's Hyde Park.
Some of the Rooms
As there are so many rooms these are just a few of the highlights.
The Painted Hall: This vast room is well painted. The paintings on the upper wall and ceiling are the original 17th century ones and depict scenes from the life of Julius Caesar. The room is sumptuously decorated from the black and white floor to the cream and gold walls and pillars, and the elaborate banisters.
The State Music Room: Another room with a fabulous painted ceiling, but the painting for which is most famous is the trompe l'oeil of a violin and bow hanging on a door. The walls are covered with stamped and gilded leather and the furniture includes a green malachite table which was given to the 6th Duke by Tsar Nicholas I.
The Library: There is a painted and gilded ceiling and cornice, plenty of sofas and chairs for relaxing and shelves and shelves of books. At the upper level there is a gallery with yet more shelves of books. Downstairs there are several library tables and cupboards - filled with yet more books.
The Great Dining Room: The warm red carpet beautifully sets off the pink glassware and settings on the table. Above is a white and gold ceiling from which depends a crystal chandelier.
The Gardens
These are huge with plants, flowers and various water works. The most famous feature is the Cascade. At the top of the hill is the Cascade Room with fountains in front and the water cascading down the steps.
Two Famous Ladies
Yes, Mary Queen of Scots slept here. Bess of Hardwick's fourth husband, the 6th Earl of Shrewsbury was the custodian of this ill-fated Scottish Queen. Between 1570 and 1581 she was at Chatsworth. The suite of rooms which she occupied are still here, but much altered.
In 1944 Kathleen Kennedy (sister to JFK, Bobby and Ted) married William Cavendish, Marquess of Hartington, heir to the Dukedom. Unfortunately the Marquess died in action just four months later.
Kathleen died in a plane crash over France in 1948. She is buried in the Cavendish family plot at St. Peter's Church, Edensor, near Chatsworth.
There aren't many families who can boast that they've owned the same estate for over 500 years, but the Cavendish family is one that can.
Open: House - 11.00 a.m. - 5.30 p.m. Gardens: 11.00 a.m. - 6.00 p.m.
Admission (House and Gardens); Adult - GBP11.25/$21. Senior - GBP9.25/$18. Child - GBP6.50/$12.50.
Bakewell is on the A6 north of Derby and Chatsworth is well sign-posted.
Just off the A6 south of Bakewell is the medieval house of Haddon Hall.
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