The Institute of Classical Architecture & Art (ICAA) has announced that its original documentary Chatsworth Through Time will air on public television stations nationwide in August 2026. The film offers an in-depth exploration of Chatsworth, one of Britain's most renowned estates, located in the Peak District National Park and home to the Devonshire family for five centuries.
Over 500 years, the Dukes and Duchesses of Devonshire have continually renovated and expanded the house, adapting it to reflect political shifts, social changes, and evolving architectural styles. The documentary traces this evolution from the Tudor period through the 21st century, featuring insights from Chatsworth's senior curators and an extended interview with the current Duke and Duchess of Devonshire.
Produced by the ICAA, the program provides unprecedented access to the estate's archives and its extraordinary collection of fine art, which is among the most significant in Europe. "It was an honor at the ICAA to work with the Chatsworth House Trust, providing a unique opportunity to thoroughly explore the story of a house rich in architectural and artistic history," said ICAA president Peter Lyden. "By opening the house's archives and hearing directly from the Duke of Devonshire, Chatsworth Through Time provides unprecedented insight into the legendary estate."
The documentary is part of the ICAA's broader mission to advance the appreciation of classical architecture and its allied arts. The organization publishes the Classicist journal, the Classical America Series in Art and Architecture, and produces the documentary series Design in Mind. Its biweekly series World of Classicism includes articles, short films, online courses, and a podcast.
Chatsworth itself is a registered charity, with the Chatsworth House Trust dedicated to preserving the house, collections, garden, and parkland for public benefit. Visitor income funds conservation and an ambitious program of exhibitions, events, learning, and community outreach. The estate also features award-winning accommodations, with interiors, food, and drink sourced from Chatsworth and local producers. More information is available at www.chatsworth.org.
Chatsworth Through Time will be distributed by American Public Television (APT), a leading syndicator of high-quality programming to public television stations. APT's catalog includes popular series such as Rick Steves' Europe, America's Test Kitchen, and Midsomer Murders. The documentary will air on Connecticut Public Television (CPTV) and other stations nationwide. Connecticut Public, which operates CPTV and Connecticut Public Radio, serves more than 1.2 million people each week through its broadcast and digital platforms.
