Revolution House: The Birthplace of the Glorious Revolution

A Historic Cottage at the Heart of a Political Turning Point

Revolution House, nestled in the village of Old Whittington near Chesterfield, is a modest yet profoundly significant 17th-century stone and thatch cottage. Originally an alehouse called the Cock and Pynot—'pynot' being a local term for magpie—this unassuming building was the site of a secret meeting in 1688 that changed the course of English history. Three noblemen, William Cavendish, 4th Earl of Devonshire, John Darcy, and the Earl of Danby, convened here during a stormy day to plot the invitation of William of Orange to invade England and challenge King James II's reign. This meeting catalyzed the Glorious Revolution, leading to a bloodless overthrow of the monarch and the establishment of a constitutional monarchy.

The Glorious Revolution and Its Legacy

The Glorious Revolution marked the end of absolute monarchy in England and the beginning of parliamentary sovereignty. William of Orange, husband to James II's Protestant daughter Mary, was invited to take the throne, which he did after James fled to France. This revolution ensured that future monarchs could not be Catholic or marry Catholics, and it led to the signing of the Bill of Rights, guaranteeing certain rights to citizens and limiting royal power. The Earl of Devonshire was rewarded with a dukedom for his role, becoming the 1st Duke of Devonshire. The political changes set in motion at Revolution House had lasting effects on British governance and influenced constitutional developments abroad.

The Building's Evolution and Museum Exhibits

Over the centuries, the original alehouse was greatly reduced in size, and the building visible today is only a fraction of its former self. In 1788, dignitaries gathered here to commemorate the centenary of the Glorious Revolution, led by the local vicar and the Duke of Devonshire, with a grand procession to Chesterfield. By 1790, the alehouse was converted into a private residence, and a new pub named the Cock and Magpie was built nearby. Today, Revolution House operates as a museum featuring a parlour furnished with authentic 17th-century furniture and an exhibition detailing local history, the building’s story, and the revolution itself. Visitors can also watch a video presentation that vividly recounts the events of 1688.

Visitor Experience and Seasonal Charm

Revolution House is open to the public on weekends from April to September and daily for two weeks before Christmas, with free admission and a suggested donation to help preserve the site. The house is small but packed with historical significance, making for a concise yet enriching visit typically lasting under an hour. It is beautifully decorated seasonally, especially during the Christmas period, enhancing its intimate and atmospheric appeal. The museum often hosts special events, including music and herbal medicine workshops, adding layers of cultural engagement beyond its historical narrative.

The Surrounding Area and Continued Relevance

Located on High Street in Old Whittington, the house sits within a village rich in heritage and close to Chesterfield’s vibrant market town. Nearby, the Cock and Magpie pub continues the legacy of the original alehouse. Revolution House stands as a testament to the power of discreet political action and the transformation of British constitutional monarchy. It remains a cherished local landmark and a focal point for understanding the Glorious Revolution’s impact on modern democracy.

Preservation and Educational Importance

Managed by Chesterfield Borough Council, Revolution House is a protected historical site that educates visitors about a pivotal moment in British history. The original 'plotting chair' used by the conspirators is now housed at nearby Hardwick Hall, but a replica is displayed here, connecting visitors tangibly to the past. The house’s preservation and interpretation efforts ensure that the story of the Glorious Revolution and its significance in shaping parliamentary democracy continue to inspire and inform future generations.