Fairytale magic brings stately home to life

Fairytale magic will transform the Derbyshire stately home in to a winter wonderland this festive season with dressed rooms telling the story of The Nutcracker.

To launch the season, ballerinas took on the roles of The Nutcracker, Clara and the Sugar Plum Fairy, who posed with decorated fir trees, twinkling lights and sets which tell the story.

Visitors can now experience the story as though they are both in the audience at the theatre and stepping backstage at the ballet.

Guides become stage managers and wardrobe mistresses. For a special added thrill, visitors of all ages will be invited to enter into the magic of the story with many costumes to try on.

Head housekeeper Janet Bitton said: “The Land of Sweets in the Great Dining Room is the highlight for me.

“The only light is from the chandelier, like a moon above the city with its twinkling lights through the windows, and the glow from the huge Christmas trees in each corner is magical.”

Attracting more than 100,000 visitors during the festive season, Christmas at Chatsworth has become one of the must do events for families across the region.

With the house transformed into The Nutcracker, this year is set to be more magical than ever.

As well as the main event in the house, there is a whole host of festive activity around the estate from magical nativity performances in the farmyard starring the farm animals, to gourmet evenings, floral workshops and wreath making demonstrations.

The annual Christmas Market located on Lodge Hill takes place from 12 to 30 November with more than 100 stalls offering a wide range of Christmas gifts and decorations, crafts, homeware, seasonal produce, toiletries and clothing as well seasonal food and drink to enjoy on site or take home. Christmas Market parking is priced £5 weekdays; £10 weekends but is free when combined with a visit to the house or garden pre-booked online.

For more information, visit www.chatsworth.orgs