1700s – The Peacock Inn

There has been an Inn here for so long that it is uncertain when it was built. Originally the famous Peacock Inn, it was the property of the Duke of Rutland and served the turnpike between industrial Chesterfield and the spa town of Buxton.

1830 – The Duke of Devonshire

The Cavendish Hotel became the property of the Duke of Devonshire around 1830, and in the early 1970’s was rebuilt as the Cavendish by Chatsworth Estate. When the original character of the property was preserved, the Duchess of Devonshire selected the decor and furnishings, some of which came from Chatsworth House itself.

1975 – 2008 – The Cavendish Hotel

The Cavendish operated between 1975 and 2008 under the proprietorship of Eric Marsh. This period represented a time of restoration and expansion, with the addition of the 10 room Mitford Wing in 1985. The Cavendish became renowned for its extensive collection of original artwork, antiques, charming furnishings and decor , with many pieces sourced from Chatsworth House.

2008 – Management Contract

In September of 2008, Eric’s lease for the tenancy of the Cavendish came to an end. However, Eric with three other colleagues including Managing Director Philip Joseph successfully negotiated a Management Contract (Peak Leisure Management Ltd) to operate the Cavendish on behalf of the owners, Chatsworth Settlement Trustees.

2018 – Devonshire Hotels and Restaurants Group

2018 sees the conversion of the former Coach House providing an addition four guest bedrooms. The ten year managment contract comes to an end and The Cavendish Hotel joins the wider Devonshire Hotels Group alongside The Devonshire Arms at Beeley and Pilsley, The Devonshire Fell at Burnsall in North Yorkshire and The Devonshire Arms Hotel & Spa on the Bolton Abbey Estate. Philip Joseph remains as Manager, a position he has held since 2001.