See all If You Go Guides
How to get there
The lowest round-trip air fare between Boston and London at press time was $522 on US Airways. Chatsworth is a 2-hour drive north of London, and is 8 miles north of Matlock just off the B6012. Train service is available from London to Chesterfield (a 20-minute drive from Chatsworth). To arrive in style, rent the black stretch limo in which His Grace, the late 11th Duke of Devonshire, used to ride. Part of the fleet of Peak Limos, based in Derbyshire, it offers chauffeur, private bar, CD and DVD players, and radio. If you are stuck in traffic, there's room to lie down and nap. About $150 an hour. Telephone 011-44-8000-935-275 or visit www.peaklimos.com.
Where to stay
The Cavendish Hotel
Baslow, Derbyshire
011-44-1246-582-311
www.cavendish-hotel.net
This 18th-century stone building on the estate has 24 rooms and features open fires, oak beams, antique furniture, a good collection of landscape paintings, and spectacular views. About $200 a night in high season; check the website for promotions.
Wetton Barns Holiday Cottages
Wetton, Derbyshire
011-44-1246-565-379
www.chatsworth.org
Traditional stone barns on the estate have been converted into six guest cottages sleeping four to eight people each. A fine base for exploring the area's walking, cycling, climbing, fishing, and riding opportunities, and visiting stately homes and picture-book villages. Starting at about $310 for three nights in low season, including admission to Chatsworth.
The Hunting Tower
011-44-1246-565-379
www.chatsworth.org
Also on the estate, this Renaissance tower on the escarpment 400 feet above Chatsworth has two twin bedrooms and fabulous views -- the ultimate romantic getaway. Prices from around $1,000 for three nights.
Where to eat
The Cavendish Hotel
(See above)
Informal meals in the airy Garden Room about $25, and complete dinners in the more formal restaurant about $70. Excellent food and service.
Chatsworth Catering Away
011-44-1246-565-366
If you're staying at Wetton Barns or the Hunting Tower, Chatsworth Catering Away will bring you meals, including dishes with pheasant and lamb from the estate. Entree prices for two around $38.
Chatsworth Restaurant and Jean Pierre's Bar
On the Chatsworth estate
Both serve hot meals at about $5-$15 for a main course.
What to do
Chatsworth
Bakewell, Derbyshire
011-44-1246-565-300
www.chatsworth.org
Open March 17-Dec. 19. Guided tours and ''Behind the Scenes" days let you explore the inner workings of the estate. Adult admission about $17.
Sewing school
On the Chatsworth estate
011-44-1246-565-345
The skilled seamstresses who keep Chatsworth's bed hangings looking spiffy also hold full- and half-day courses on soft furnishing skills.
© Copyright 2007 Globe Newspaper Company.
