Life as a SEN mum

This is one of those places I’ve always wanted to visit, when I saw that there was also an illuminated walk over the Christmas period I was sold. We booked for access to the house, farm and gardens (including the illuminated walk). With the exception of a timed slot into the house you can move between all other areas as and when you like. A family ticket covers 2 adults and up to 3 children, and yes at £78 it isn’t exactly a cheap day it was so worth it. There were lots of free craft activities in the farm for kids to get involved in, which is always brilliant to hide from the cold, and it really was cold when we went, as well as giving their legs a rest from all the walking. There were also plenty of festive photo opportunities around the house and grounds.

Chatsworth is also well known for it’s Christmas Market. Whilst it wasn’t on when we went they did still have a few stalls selling festive treats, after all would it be a day out without a mulled wine, or hot chocolate? They also had a fire pit for toasting marshmallows, which did come at a small cost, but who doesn’t love a toasted marshmallow?

The illuminated walk was definitely the perfect way to round off the day, even if it was raining. There’s something very peaceful about walking through woodland even at night, and even for someone as grumpy as Charlotte, Christmas lights have an amazing calming effect.

Overall I’d highly recommend. Both kids managed pretty well round the house, which really is saying something because James gets bored very easily and Charlotte can never understand why she can’t sit on all the old furniture in stately homes. But there was enough to keep them occupied, and the route round the house was just the right length. As for the rest of the grounds, they really are geared up with families in mind, around every corner is something to keep the smiles on those little faces. Even for SEN children it was so well organised, it wasn’t so overly crowded as to cause sensory overload and there was no excessive music, and all the staff were so good with children, answering all their questions. Helping guide them through activities and handing out the occasional treat along the way. But even if you don’t have children, this is an experience not to be missed.