Queen Camilla Recalls ‘Mr. Darcy Moment’ During Chatsworth House Literary Festival Visit
CHATSWORTH, Derbyshire – September 5, 2025 – Queen Camilla fondly remembered a scene from Pride and Prejudice while attending The Queen’s Reading Room Festival at Chatsworth House today, evoking the iconic moment when Mr. Darcy first appears to Elizabeth Bennet. Her Majesty’s visit celebrated the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen‘s birth and highlighted the enduring legacy of the beloved author.
The Queen’s Reading Room Festival, launched in 2023 to champion literacy and a love of books, chose Chatsworth House – a location frequently cited as inspiration for Austen’s Pemberley – as its venue. The event underscores the continuing cultural relevance of classic literature and its power to inspire generations. Today’s visit offered a unique opportunity to connect austen’s world with a historic setting, reinforcing the importance of preserving literary heritage.
During the festival, Queen Camilla watched an open-air showing of Pride and Prejudice on the lawns of Chatsworth House, turning to the crowd afterward to wish them enjoyment of the performance. She also engaged in conversation with Dame Jilly Cooper, author of the rivals series, and Kathryn Drysdale, an actress known for her role in Bridgerton.
Inside the stately home, Her Majesty was shown a selection of artefacts from the Jane Austen House museum, offering a glimpse into the author’s life and work. The room, draped in red and illuminated by candlelight, featured portraits and historical objects, creating an immersive experience.
