Open until 23 of December, visitors to Stourhead, a National Trust property in Wiltshire, can take a festive step through time along a guided route in the traditionally decorated rooms of the 18th century Palladian mansion.
Each room displays its own individual theme inspired by members of the Hoare family (who built Stourhead) or objects from the collection, reflected in beautifully decorated trees and handcrafted decorations made by National Trust volunteers. Expect themes of togetherness, family, artistry, heritage, and thankfulness. Whilst exploring the house, a mix of room guides and information points help to explain more about how Christmas was celebrated throughout Stourhead’s history.
Things to look out for include intricate book themed decorations, made using book paper, adorning a tree in the Regency Library. The decorations in this room also take inspiration from Alda Hoare’s friendship with author Thomas Hardy.
Younger visitors are not left out of the festive magic, as children are able to take part in the search for missing robins, which have been placed throughout the house. Stourhead is also welcoming Father Christmas this year and families can enjoy a story with the jolly man in red before the children receive a present.
Lucy Cooper, National Trust Collections & House Officer at Stourhead said, “Believe it or not our amazing craft volunteers started work on this year’s array of new decorations way back in August. As ever, I’m overwhelmed by their skills, talent and commitment to making the Christmas house extra special for visitors to Stourhead.”
Visitors may extend their visit with a wintry walk around the gardens, with seasonal frost beginning to sparkle on the leaves. Explore the landscape as the scenic views and heritage trees are transformed into a winter wonderland.
The Christmas house is open daily until Tuesday 23 December. Doors open at 11am, last entry at 3pm.
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