PRIDE OF DERBYSHIRE

Chatsworth Park proves the perfect base for Nigel and Kay Hutson to explore everything from dambusting dry runs to historic houses

We are fortunate enough to have glorious Chatsworth House only half an hour or so from home. But while Kay and I are often in the area, visiting relatives in nearby Baslow and a bit farther afield in Hope Valley, I am sorry to say that we rather take Chatsworth for granted when we are passing by on our travels.

The CAMC has a splendid site in the grounds of Chatsworth Park. It’s been a few years since we stayed there, but to blow away the January blues, we decided to book in for a few days.

We arrived in the afternoon and were soon set up – a good thing too, because shortly afterwards the heavens opened and the winds picked up.

The forecast for the first couple of days wasn’t particularly great, but what the heck, we were here to relax and enjoy a leisurely stroll as and when we could, not rush about.

The following morning, it was still grey and showery, so we decided to visit the Chatsworth Farm Shop, in the nearby village of Pilsley.

Although as the crow flies, the shop is actually less than a mile away, there is no direct pathway and there’s the River Derwent to cross, as well, so for us, a drive was going to be necessary.

It’s well worth it, though – and there’s a good-sized car park with lots of spaces. The wares are all first class, and considering where you are, they are pretty good value, too. We have even been known to make the journey from home just to enjoy one of their excellent breakfasts.

Most of the produce available here is sourced from the Chatsworth estate, and unsurprisingly, the café has such a great reputation, you might find that at times, you’ll have to wait for a while before getting a table.