Friday 16 February | 11am to 12.30pm
£12.50 per person (additional seats released following a change of venue)
Join archaeologist Oliver Jessop as he discusses the archaeological survey that was undertaken during the life of the Chatsworth Masterplan. Costing £32.7 million, the Masterplan began in 2005 and was completed in 2018. It was one of the largest projects undertaken at Chatsworth since the 6th Duke of Devonshire built the north wing between 1820 and 1828.
Oliver will discuss the results of the survey, what was found both above and below ground, and will explore some of the unexpected discoveries that were revealed during the project.
Oliver Jessop is a recognised expert on the survey and analysis of standing buildings and historic landscapes. He was the former Chair of the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists Professional Membership Panel and has served as a Trustee of the Derbyshire Archaeology Society. Since 2008, Oliver has acted as the heritage and archaeological Consultant at Chatsworth involved with the Masterplan restoration of the house and surrounding garden.
This winter talk will take place in the Hartington Room, located off the Stables Courtyard (note this is a change to the venue previously advertised).
Please arrive at 10.45am in the Stables Courtyard where a member of staff will direct you to the venue. The Hartington Room is step-free and has accessible facilities. If you have any questions about accessibility please contact [email protected].
Winter talk: Chatsworth in Song
6 March 2026
Learn about the migratory and non-migratory birds identified through Chatsworth's bioacoustics monitoring programme, and how we're managing the estate to improve important wildlife habitats.
Winter talk: Introducing...House of Stories
13 March 2026
Discover which rare books, letters, and manuscripts are taking centre stage in this year's House of Stories exhibition, with Chatsworth's Head of Archive & Library, Fran Baker
Stay with us
With so much to see, do, and explore in the Peak District, it's a shame to only come for the day, so why not stay a little longer? Our country cottages, shepherd's huts, hotels, and inns are the perfect base for exploring all that Chatsworth, Derbyshire, and the Peak District have to offer. Find out more.