Event details
Friday 13 March 2026
11am – 12pm | £15 per person
The Hartington Room, Chatsworth Stables
Over 500 years and through 17 generations, the Devonshires have assembled one of the UK’s most important private libraries.
In this talk, Chatsworth's Head of Archive and Library, Fran Baker, reveals more about the rare books, manuscripts and letters featured in this year’s exhibition, House of Stories – Tales from the Chatsworth Library.
Private libraries are often very different to public collections. Much like your own shelves at home, they reflect personal tastes and fashions. In House of Stories, Chatsworth celebrates the world of literature through a remarkable collection of rare first editions, beautifully decorated texts, and personally annotated volumes.
Showcasing works that shaped literary history, it invites visitors to encounter the art of storytelling in its most precious and enduring forms, demonstrating the extraordinary breadth and depth of the literary world that has surrounded Chatsworth over the centuries.
Refreshments
Tea and coffee will be available at the start of the session.
Meeting point and time
Please make your way to The Hartington Room, through The Cavendish Restaurant off the Stables Courtyard.
Doors will open at 10.40am for a prompt start at 11am.
Accessibility
The Hartington Room is a step-free, accessible venue. Accessible toilet facilities are available within The Cavendish Restaurant and The Carriage House Café.
If you have any questions about your specific needs or require a carer ticket, please contact [email protected].
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