The Chatsworth Country Fair is one of the largest and most enduring events of its kind in the UK, but have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes to make each event happen?

Spanning 122 acres of parkland between the River Derwent and East Moor, the fair takes 19 months to plan and a full eight weeks to build and de-rig. It brings together more than 300 staff and contractors, and features over 250 trade stands alongside a packed schedule of displays and activities.

The video below tells the story of the fair; how it began, how it’s evolved, and why it continues to delight tens of thousands of visitors every year.

Video Transcipt:

Preparation is well underway for the 42nd Chatsworth Country Fair. We’re looking forward to three wonderful days of entertainment and activities including grand ring displays, countryside crafts, live demonstrations, and fantastic food.

From the thrill of stunt teams and skydivers in the Grand Ring, to the tradition of massed pipe bands echoing through the valley - there’s something happening in every direction. There are also plenty of opportunities to get involved, including trying your hand at archery, putting your dog through its paces on the dog agility course, and meeting a host of local artisan makers and rural craftspeople. 

There’s a real variety to the fair, which is part of what makes it so special. People come from far and wide to enjoy the blend of spectacle, countryside knowledge, and hands-on experiences.

The story of the fair stretches back more than forty years - and behind the scenes, it’s always been about much more than just entertainment.

The first fair took place in 1980. It was the brainchild of a man called Andrew Cuthbert, who brought experience from other country shows and worked with the Devonshire family to establish something lasting here at Chatsworth. With support from the 11th Duke and Duchess, and their son, the current Duke, it became a much loved annual fixture.

Andrew also set up a team of volunteers to help run the event. To make them easy to spot, he asked them to wear red shooting socks, a detail which has now become synonymous with the fair and those who work so hard to ensure visitors have a great experience.

Today, the Red Socks are a longstanding team of volunteers from all walks of life. Many have been involved since the early days, and others have grown up through it—some are even third generation. Their purpose remains the same: to help ensure the event runs smoothly and everyone has a great time, and to raise money for small charities through the Red Socks Charitable Trust.

Profits from the Country Fair support both the Red Socks causes and the Chatsworth House Trust charity, helping to care for the house, collections, garden and landscape. The spirit of service, fun and giving back has always been a fundamental part of what the event is about.

So whether you’re visiting for the first time, a regular who’s been coming since childhood, or somewhere in between, we look forward to welcoming you to Chatsworth Country Fair 2025.

Come for the spectacle, get involved in something new - and be part of a tradition that brings people together year after year.

Learn more or book tickets for this year's event here.