Chatsworth Estate is one of those places that I know will never lose its magic, hidden in the beautiful Peak District. We didn’t plan a formal route here; instead, we let the day unfold naturally, wandering through the gardens, open parkland and riverside paths. It’s a space where you can make the walk as long or short as you like, which is ideal for families. I took some amazing photos on this walk, I hope you’ll agree!
We parked at the Chatsworth Garden Centre and walked south alongside the river to Beeley. There is a public footpath up the hill, through a field of horses and cows to Beeley Hill Top farm. From here you enter the heather covered woodland walk, then you cross into Chatsworth House gardens. We walked through the woodland, passed the waterfall and Hunting tower and stopped for tea at Chatsworth House. It was magical!
The grounds feel spacious and varied. One moment you’re surrounded by formal gardens and sculptures, the next you’re beside the river looking back at the grandeur of the house. We found quiet corners, open meadows and places where the kids could explore safely while we soaked up the scenery.
What stood out most was how peaceful the parkland felt despite the popularity of Chatsworth. The paths are well kept and there’s so much to see in every direction — from the estate’s historic bridges to the rolling hills further out. We could have spent a few days exploring and seen different things each time.
Our holiday cottage had a book on the coffee table, that I read after our meandering around the grounds, it said that one of the previous owners of Chatworth House built stone tents throughout the many acres of land the estate owns. This was so people that explored and walked around the land would have somewhere safe to stay and didn’t have to carry a tent on their backs.
If you’re visiting, wear comfortable shoes because you’ll inevitably walk further than you expect. The views gently tempt you on, and the landscape shifts with every few steps. It’s the sort of place where the day disappears without you realising. It was every bit as magnificent as it sounds!
If you enjoy scenic family days out like this, you might like our trip to Carsington Water, which had similarly stunning views and lovely places to explore. Feel free to leave a comment if Chatsworth is on your list or if you’ve walked the grounds before.
