Chatsworth House

Ever since the first grand house was built, visitors have been encouraged to enjoy its beauty and contents, as well as the magnificent grounds of the vast estate. Began in 1552 for Bess of Hardwick and her second husband, Sir William Cavendish of Suffolk, Chatsworth House took the traditional Tudor shape of four ranges round a central courtyard. Their son was created first Earl of Devonshire. No major alterations were made to Chatsworth House until the end of the 17th century when the 4th Earl (later created the first Duke of Devonshire) slowly began to rebuild the entire house, and develop the formal gardens. It is this refined mansion of deep yellow stone with classical features that remains today, an amalgamation of several architects' input spanning some 20 years. During this time the spectacular cascade was built by a Frenchman, Grillet, and the domed temple, sourcing the water supply, was designed by Thomas Archer.

About 70 years later, the 4th Duke made alterations that had a dramatic impact on the approach to Chatsworth House, and engaged the services of Capability Brown to complete the landscaping of the park. When the 6th Duke inherited Chatsworth House, he appointed Joseph Paxton as head gardener and between them they developed the flourishing gardens as seen today. A very extravagant bachelor, the 6th Duke of Devonshire was also responsible for the building of the long north wing of the house, and for a substantial collection of books, paintings and sculptures.

Little changed from that time until after the Second World War, with debts, death duties, and the inevitable maintenance of such an immense estate putting financial restraints on the family. Despite such difficulties, an agreement was worked out between the present Duke of Devonshire and the government, and Chatsworth House is now run by a charitable trust. This ensures that the long tradition of welcoming the public to tread its grounds and marvel at its richly decorated interiors will be continued indefinitely.

Many of the 175 rooms have been converted to flats, offices and storage areas, but those accessible for viewing, including several state rooms, are simply stunning. Everywhere there is the coolness of glistening marble, the brilliance of fine gilt, the rich warmth of abundant oak, and the colourfully painted ceilings by Louis Laguerre. Add to this the sumptuous furnishings, the mass of alabaster carving and statues, the enviable collection of Italian sculptures, hundreds of paintings, and an immensely impressive library, and it becomes quite overwhelming to realise that so much priceless beauty can exist under one roof. Chatsworth House is more than a home, it is a palace, a museum and a display cabinet for fine arts and craftsmanship, and it is surrounded by spacious parkland and graceful gardens.

An aspect which is particularly key to maintaining interest within the house is that the Duke and Duchess are keen to vary the displays of art, and they often exchange pieces from their private apartments with those that have been on public view for a while. They are also active collectors themselves, so regular additions are made to existing displays of rare books, great paintings, and other artefacts associated with their hobbies.