Insider’s Guide to Chatsworth Estate

Ideally placed within the Peak District, Chatsworth is one of those UK historic homes currently benefiting from the ‘Downton Abbey’ effect that continues to sweep the nation. Chatsworth manages to combine glamour, history, beauty & family attraction all in one!  Once you’ve managed to track down Chatsworth Cheap Ticket Options then follow our guide below to help you make the most from your day out to this popular setting.

Chatsworth; Picnics

Picnics are welcome at Chatsworth & plenty of places to enjoy a spot of lunch around the estate.  Whilst you cannot take picnic hampers around the house, previously you have been able to leave them for free in the storage area close to the house entrance, (please check if this is still available). You can always store picnics in your car as the car park is located close to all three main attractions on the estate.

Our favourite picnic spot has to be with the adventure play are or a more peaceful alternative would be around the Emperor Fountain away from the crowds.  There is a large indoor picnic area within the farmyard too for wetter days.

Chatsworth

The Secret to the Chatsworth Estate

The secret to Chatsworth first hits me in the gardens; it’s the lack of prohibitive signs that gives it away.  This isn’t an attraction where you’re going to find an array of ‘keep off the grass’ or ‘no access to the water’ signs that unfortunately seem to follow many historic settings.

As the boys made a dash for the water cascade, my frantic glances for the over zealous attendants were quickly swept away as I spotted dogs, a couple of ducks & even a pensioner enjoying the delights of this water feature.  Whilst it is pointed out that it can be slippy in the cascade it is left for you to decide. My findings were confirmed later that day when I came across this quote hanging close to the adventure play area;

“You don’t stop playing because you get old.  You get old because you stop playing”

Parking; there are car parking costs in place on top of your entrance charges.  However if you book in advance directly with Chatsworth, you can take advantage of a FREE parking perk.

Flexible Tickets; the great advantage at Chatsworth is that you can opt to explore the full range of attractions in one day or simply opt for the farmyard and adventure playground reduced price ticket.  This second option is ideal for families where you can hop between the family friendly areas throughout the day, (just remember to get your hand stamped).

Chatsworth

Chatsworth; Tips & Tricks

1. Remember the wellies particularly for the paddling in the cascades as well as water-play fun within the adventure playground.

2. Before setting off, plan what you would like to achieve in a day.  We found that, whilst it’s possible to complete all 3 attractions within one day, it is a dash around!  Perhaps wiser to select one or two areas to concentrate upon, particularly those with young families.

3. Look out for any guided tours of the Chatsworth gardens taking place on the day of your visit. Similarly keep an eye out for any free farmyard talks & animal handling sessions taking place at the farmyard.

4. Whilst additional charges are in place for taster tours & audio guides of the house, there are FREE information cards available in each room.  Always worth chatting to the room attendants too who are very happy to answer any queries you have.

5. There is plenty in the gardens to keep the kids amused; don’t miss the Coal Hole & Tunnel for underground fun or the maze!

More information over at Cheap Ticket Guide to Chatsworth.