The 400th anniversary of the death of Bess of Hardwick (1608 to 2008)
2008 sees the 400th anniversary of the death of Bess of Hardwick, one of Tudor England's most fascinating, colourful and dynamic women. Bess of Hardwick built the original Chatsworth alongside her husband, Sir William Cavendish, as a grand Elizabethan mansion. Her legacy is still visible today, especially the Hunting Tower on the hill above the present house.
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The Hunting Tower |
Monday 25th February was the official launch of the 400th anniversary of the death of Bess of Hardwick. Representatives from Derby Cathedral, Hardwick Hall, Visit Peak District, Chatsworth and Bess herself met members of the press to celebrate the launch of this fabulous year of events across Derbyshire.
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Pictured left to right are: Mark Titterton - Derby Cathedral, Denise Edwards - Property Manager - Hardwick Hall, Kelly Measures - Chatsworth, David Bourque - Visit Peak District and Bess aka Judy Williams |
Visit the house during our 2008 season and see various items on display for the first time including Bess' will and her silver ES badge and seal, and fascinating documents associated with her life and times.
For the first time in May 2008, Chatsworth will host a 3 day Tudor Festival. Join our historical performers in the garden; learn how things were done in Tudor times and discover the origins of Chatsworth in the time of Bess of Hardwick.
For more information
There are also events planned at Hardwick Hall and Derby Cathedral, for more information visit the Bess of Hardwick website
Chatsworth, Bakewell, Derbyshire, DE45 1PP | Tel: +44 (0) 1246 565300 | Email | Contact