Hire a car and take a day trip

Nottingham to Chatsworth

Nottingham boasts an excellent public transport system, making it convenient for many residents and visitors to get around without the hassle of owning a car. 

You don't have to worry about car insurance, the cost of buying the car in the first place, car tax, unexpected repair bills, parking permits or even finding a parking space. 

However, there are occasions when you want to venture beyond the city's limits for a day trip or longer.

Chatsworth House, Derbyshire

Transport Options:

Public transport is available and you can opt for the train journey from Nottingham to Chesterfield, which takes just 30 minutes. From there, hop on the 45-minute bus ride (bus number 170), on the Chesterfield - Holymoorside - Bakewell route which stops at Chatsworth House.

The average train time from Nottingham to Chesterfield is 44 minutes, the fastest is 30 minutes and the slowest train is 1hour and 11 minutes.

Now, let's talk about fares. Train ticket prices may vary, starting from as low as £12.00 for specific trains on a return journey, with off-peak options at £17.20 per person, and anytime day returns at £18.00.  However, the website does say "Buy in advance from
£3.90 ONE WAY". 

You can find more details about the bus service at this link

Hire a car or take your own

Embarking on a day trip to Chatsworth House, having a car at your disposal gives you flexibility. 

A day trip to Chatsworth House is one of those experiences that truly shine with the freedom of having your own wheels.

It's a one hour and 18 minute drive from Nottingham to Chatsworth if you take the M1 and A615. You can shave a minute off that time if you take the M1 and A619 despite it being three and half miles longer. If you are hiring a vehicle from our Hucknall vehicle hire depot it will take you around 50 minutes to get there.

Parking at Chatsworth House

Chatsworth House includes parking in the ticket price, providing one parking space per transaction when you book your tickets online . So, book your tickets in advance and save.
Now, before you start thinking about hiring a 17 seater to take the in-laws as well, sadly Chatsworth rather draw the line at a minibus, but you could get away with a 7 seater, something like the Ford Galaxy.

Please note that arriving without a prior reservation may result in parking charges.

For your convenience, the Sat Nav postcode for Chatsworth House is DE45 1PN.

Visiting with Kids

Bringing the little ones along? Children aged 4-16 inclusive can enter both the House & Garden and Garden for an enjoyable day out.
Even better, children aged 3 and under are admitted free of charge.

A three arch bridge at Chatsworth
A three arch bridge at Chatsworth

Chatsworth House, nestled in the heart of the breathtaking Peak District in Derbyshire, is a true gem. It's not just a house; it's a Grade I listed marvel with stables, a sprawling 105-acre garden, and an expansive 1822-acre park.

This grand estate is the splendid residence of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, with Peregrine Cavendish serving as the 12th Duke of Devonshire, succeeding his father in 2004.

Between 2005 and 2018, an ambitious £32.7 million investment project, known as the "Masterplan," was masterminded by the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire ( Peregrine and Amanda Cavendish) to enhance and preserve the heritage of this historic place.

Chatsworth House is not just a stately home; it's a hub of events and activities throughout the year.

From Halloween-themed Bonfire and fireworks events to workshops in calligraphy, willow weaving, printmaking, painting, and engaging nature walks, there's something for everyone. 

These events cater to both adults and children and include the Chatsworth International Horse Trials, country fairs, and festive Christmas markets.

On a daily basis, there are 30 rooms to explore within the house, which has been home to 16 generations of the Devonshire family over nearly 500 years. 

It's also the custodian of one of Britain's most substantial and exceptional private collections. encompassing everything from Elizabethan needlework and Enlightenment scientific instruments to Old Master drawings, rare books, historical documents, contemporary art, and remarkable sculptures.

A Prison for Royalty

Mary, Queen of Scots, was held as a prisoner on the east side of Chatsworth House and though the building hs changed significantly over the last four and a half centuries are known as the Queen of Scots Apartments.

There's more to the Derbyshire Estate than just the house and gardens. It's a complete package with farms, shops, restaurants, and cozy cafes.

Moreover, if you seek a peaceful escape, you can book a holiday cottage on the estate, all set against the picturesque backdrop of the Peak District.

Whether you choose a converted stone barn or the charming Hunting Tower, each cottage has a unique history and atmosphere. So, if you're looking for a memorable getaway, Chatsworth has all the ingredients for an unforgettable experience.

It is a given that a visit for a single day could not do justice to the vast estate of Chatsworth house alone, and with so much else to see, do, and explore in the Peak District, it's a shame to only come for the day, so why not stay a little longer?

Keep in mind that complimentary parking at the house applies to all tickets purchased online in advance and grants parking for one vehicle per transaction.

On days when online booking isn't an option, the standard parking charge will apply unless otherwise indicated.

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