Chatsworth at Christmas

Christmas is always marvelous at Chatsworth - so much so that perhaps it's easy to dismiss it as 'what one expects', and not truly appreciate it.

Like any stately home they have the advantage of huge rooms, high ceilings, and space for decorations that would overwhelm any other space - tall Christmas trees, tunnels of light leading from one room to another - and it's always a spectacular display.

This year's theme was an enchanted forest with frosted trees, fairies, and the massive dining table becoming a frozen lake. My husband complained that it wasn't 'Christmassy' enough but I loved it.

While we'd been inside, night had fallen so it was the ideal time to explore the illuminated garden. I wasn't quite so impressed with the outdoor experience but any outdoor space becomes magical and mysterious when seen lit up after dark.

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