New in 2012
There's so much that's new to see and do in 2012
We will be revealing the beautifully restored exteriors of the iconic south and west fronts of the house, hosting exhibitions featuring legendary artists, showcasing some of our own works for the first time in living memory and giving an insight into the family history of this living home. Find out more about the other attractions at Chatsworth.
The exhibitions and activities listed below are all included in the ticket price.
In the house
19 March - 10 June
The New Gallery will showcase an exhibition of Modern British Masterpieces from Frank and Cherryl Cohen's art collection from 19 March - 10 June. This is the first in a new programme of loan exhibitions to be brought into Chatsworth to allow a wide range of changing displays to be shown along with our own permanent collection. The Cohens' collection of Modern British paintings has not been exhibited publically before, and will feature artists such as Stanley Spencer, LS Lowry, Frank Auerbach, Leon Kossoff, Harry Epworth Allen, William Roberts, Alan Davie, Edward Burra, Kenneth Armitage, William Turnbull, Eduardo Paolozzi and Reg Butler.
Summer (TBC) - 31 October
In summer (TBC), the transformation of the China Closet into a display space for Old Master Drawings will be complete. 'Masterpieces from the Devonshire Collection' will be the first of a rolling programme of displays, and includes drawings by Leonardo, Rembrandt, Raphael and Van Dyck.
2 June - end of August
To coincide with the Diamond Jubilee, from 2 June the Oak Room will look back to H.M The Queen's Coronation. Historic robes worn by Deborah Devonshire and the future 12th Duke will be displayed with footage of the Coronation showing the Duke and his grandmother, Mary Devonshire.
10 July - 23 December
Completing the nostalgia, from July the New Gallery will add a dash of glamour, celebrating the glory days of theatricals, society parties and shooting weekends in 'A Hundred Years of House Parties'. The exhibition will look at life above and below stairs. Find out how they organised a family Christmas with over 100 guests.
In the garden
28 March - 1 July
Another remarkable exhibition of pieces by Sir Anthony Caro will also be taking place in the garden from 28 March - 1 July. A selection of works chosen by the sculptor will be shown around the Canal Pond, including early steel sculptures, works from the series 'Flats' and the more recent 'Goodwood Steps'.
Free garden tours
Learn about interesting and hidden aspects of the garden in a tour lasting 45 minutes to 1 hour. Look for the signs at Flora's Temple in the garden for details of the day's tours.
In the farmyard and adventure playground
For Easter 2012 we hope to open a new Climbing Forest in the adventure playground, suitable for children over 6 and adults alike. And as usual, we've got lots of friendly animals for you to meet and learn about, not to mention trailer rides, a fun-packed adventure playground and free seasonal activities.
