Archive: Chatsworth reopened after its restoration in March 2018.

Chatsworth House reopened after its major restoration

Chatsworth House reopened on 24 March 2018 after a major programme of restoration and conservation.

Chatsworth says its masterplan began in 2005, was completed in 2018 and cost £32.7 million.

Before-and-after views of Chatsworth across the water
Before and after the restoration.
Chatsworth House with scaffolding at one end
During the restoration.
Scaffolding viewed through an archway at Chatsworth
During the restoration.
Scaffolding in Chatsworth’s inner court
Inner court during the restoration.

The Chatsworth Renewed exhibition ran from March to October 2018 and celebrated the people and craft behind the restoration. The work included repairing the Belvedere turrets, replacing roofing lead and masonry, restoring artworks and renovating garden features.

A craftsperson working on gilded gates
Re-gilding the gates.
The restored inner court at Chatsworth
Restored inner court.
Chatsworth House and the surrounding grounds
After the restoration, March 2018.

The Duke of Devonshire: “The level of forensic research, expertise and craftsmanship applied by so many people has been absolutely inspiring. It has always been a thrilling moment to see the house come into view as you drive across the park and now that view has been made even more magical. With the years of blackened grime now removed from the stone, it looks truly magnificent.”

The Duke and Duchess of Devonshire in front of Chatsworth House
The Duke and Duchess of Devonshire in front of the fully restored Chatsworth House, March 2018.
Visitors in Chatsworth’s Painted Hall
Painted Hall.
A painted ceiling inside Chatsworth House
Inside the house.
A view across the gardens at Chatsworth
The gardens.

The Chatsworth House Trust was established in 1981 to support the house and collection. Chatsworth says visitor admissions and its Friends programme contributed to the restoration.

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2018 art exhibition: Her Grace Land

Artist Linder Sterling standing in front of an artwork

In 2018, visitors could also see work by Linder Sterling, Chatsworth’s artist-in-residence.

During her 2017–18 residency, Linder immersed herself in the life of the estate. Her Grace Land explored the female voice at Chatsworth through four installations.

For more information go to www.chatsworth.org