Christmas at Chatsworth -
November 1 to December 23

Chatsworth is delighted to be working with the eminent book illustrator, Jan Pieńkowski, to realise the lifesize recreation of the five scenes in his beautiful book, The First Noel. The timeless Christmas story is magically told with life size silhouettes. Beautiful traditional decorations on the lower floors of the house and a second year of collaboration with 'Galvanize', the Sheffield metalwork festival, all combine to make a rich Christmas experience.

The timeless Christmas story is magically told with life size silhouettes

The First Nöel
Inspired by the silhouette illustrations in Jan Pieńkowski's classic Christmas book, The First Nöel, this year's Christmas displays will be the most original and spectacular seasonal decorations yet seen at Chatsworth, offering a unique experience for children and adults alike.

Beautiful traditional decorations on the lower floors of the house

As well as life-size recreations of these stunning silhouettes, rooms on the two lower floors of the house are richly and traditionally decorated to evoke the sights, sounds and smells of the season. The Duke and Duchess, and their grandchildren, will add to the displays by each personally decorating their own tree.

Lower floors of the house are richly and traditionally decorated to evoke the sights, sounds and smells of the season

Galvanize
For Galvanize, Chatsworth is hosting the CONNECT display of contemporary silver work, on loan from the Association of British Designer Silversmiths. Outstanding work by both leading and up and coming makers will be displayed, providing a fascinating contemporary vision within this historic interior.

The CONNECT Collection is the product of a collaboration between forty members of Contemporary British Silversmiths and three industrial companies. Participating silversmiths were asked to create a new piece of work based on the theme of dining in response to two objects: a simple, white porcelain soup bowl, designed by Jasper Conran, and manufactured by Wedgwood, and a more ornate, cut and etched crystal glass manufactured by Tudor Crystal.

Chatsworth is hosting the CONNECT display of contemporary silver work

Farmyard and adventure playground
Throughout the winter season, there are craft activities, and weekend entertainment, as well as all the usual animals, and the fabulous woodland adventure playground.

There are craft activities and weekend entertainment

Farmyard Nativity Play
One of the most endearingly popular Christmas events at Chatsworth is our Farmyard Nativity Play with a show-stopping cast that includes some of our own farm animals. Bring the children along for an enjoyably memorable re-enactment of the story of Christmas. December weekends, first come, first served.

Special evening Openings
Why not come and enjoy the memorable experience of Chatsworth at twilight? Between 26 November and 18 December, we offer eleven evening openings, where a limited number of guests can view the house, enjoy a glass of wine and some live seasonal entertainment, and take advantage of a leisurely stroll around the shop; you can also book dinner at the Stables. Don't miss out on this extraordinary experience; book your tickets early by calling the booking office on 01246 565300.

The memorable experience of Chatsworth at twilight

Christmas Shopping
Chatsworth offers a growing range of shops, including the elegant interiors, garden and gift shops, to inspire you with ideas for presents for everyone on your Christmas shopping list. Contemporary craft by leading and up and coming makers is also available. Live music in the stable courtyard every weekend.

And why not enjoy a true taste of Chatsworth at your Christmas dinner table with some of the fine local produce on offer at our famous farm shop?

To help you give some truly special gifts this year, Chatsworth will also be hosting Christmas Markets on 15 to 16 and 22 to 23 November, featuring a wide range of seasonal stocking fillers for all the family.

Chatsworth offers a growing range of shops and catering facilities

Seasonal food and drink at Chatsworth
With all there is to see and do during a Christmas visit to Chatsworth, you'll be in need of some refreshment. So, while you're here, be sure to come and enjoy some of the wide range of delicious home-made food in our selection of restaurants and cafes.