The Institute of Classical Architecture & Art (ICAA) announced today that its original documentary, Chatsworth Through Time, will air on public television stations across the United States in August 2026. The film offers an in-depth look at Chatsworth, one of Great Britain's most renowned estates, located in the Peak District National Park and home to the Devonshire family for 500 years.
The documentary traces the evolution of the house and its collections from the Tudor period to the 21st century, highlighting how each generation of the Devonshire family renovated and expanded the estate to reflect new political developments, social realities, and changing styles. Hosted by Chatsworth's senior curators, the program culminates in an extended interview with the current Duke and Duchess of Devonshire.
Produced by the ICAA, Chatsworth Through Time features unprecedented access to the estate's archives, architecture, fine craftsmanship, and rare artworks accumulated over seventeen generations. "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 distributed by American Public Television (APT), a leading syndicator of high-quality programming to public television stations. APT's catalog includes prominent documentaries, performance, and how-to programs such as America's Test Kitchen and Rick Steves' Europe. The broadcast will be available on stations like Connecticut Public Television (CPTV), which serves more than 1.2 million people each week through its television, radio, and digital platforms.
Chatsworth itself comprises a Grade I listed house and stables, a 105-acre garden, a 1,822-acre park, a farmyard and adventure playground, and one of Europe's most significant private art collections. As a registered charity, the Chatsworth House Trust is dedicated to preserving the estate for everyone, with visitor income funding conservation, exhibitions, events, learning, and community outreach.
The documentary is part of the ICAA's broader mission to advance the appreciation of classical and traditional architecture and its allied arts. The organization offers classes, travel programs, lectures, awards, and conferences, and publishes the academic journal Classicist and the Classical America Series in Art and Architecture. Its documentary film series, Design in Mind, and biweekly content series, World of Classicism, provide additional resources for enthusiasts and professionals.
For viewers, Chatsworth Through Time offers a rare opportunity to explore the history and art of a legendary estate without leaving home. The broadcast underscores the importance of preserving historic landscapes and collections for future generations. More information about Chatsworth can be found at chatsworth.org, and details about APT's programming are available at APToneline.org.
