Showing posts with label Castle. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Castle. Show all posts

Tuesday, 21 April 2015

Visit the Treasure Houses of England Website for all the latest news and offers.

Visit our new website at www.TreasureHouses.co.uk for all the latest news and offers plus lots of additional information on the historic houses, palaces, castles and gardens of the Treasure Houses of England, UK.


http://www.treasurehouses.co.uk/news

http://www.treasurehouses.co.uk/houses/Castle+Howard

http://www.treasurehouses.co.uk/houses/Chatsworth

http://www.treasurehouses.co.uk/houses/Hatfield+House

http://www.treasurehouses.co.uk/houses/Hatfield+House

http://www.treasurehouses.co.uk/houses/Holkham+Hall

http://www.treasurehouses.co.uk/houses/Blenheim+Palace

http://www.treasurehouses.co.uk/houses/Burghley+House

http://www.treasurehouses.co.uk/houses/Woburn+Abbey

http://www.treasurehouses.co.uk/houses/Leeds+Castle

http://www.treasurehouses.co.uk/houses/Beaulieu

Thursday, 12 March 2015

Capture The Castle - Castle Howard Photography Competition

Castle Howard, one of Yorkshire’s grandest country houses, is inviting amateur photographers to put their camera skills to the test and capture the castle, its grounds and gardens as well as the wider estate in a new photography competition ‘Castle Howard: Through My Eyes’, from Saturday 14 March to Thursday 31 December.
 

Photographer Nick Howard
From its imposing architecture, sweeping vistas, lakes, woodland, monuments and fountains to the formal gardens, flora and fauna and rolling Howardian Hills, Castle Howard offers endless opportunities to be inspired.

Nick Howard, who will judge the competition, commented: ‘Having grown up at Castle Howard I am well aware of the unique qualities of our beautiful Yorkshire landscape, with every season bringing something new to admire and enjoy. As a keen photographer myself, I feel inspired every time I venture out, camera in hand, and look forward to reviewing the many fantastic entries I am sure we will receive.’


For more information please click here:  http://www.treasurehouses.co.uk/news/Capture%20The%20Castle

Thursday, 24 April 2014

What’s On in May at Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle


During May, Leeds Castle in Kent has a rich variety of daily events and attractions with activities to suit visitors of all ages. There are plenty of tours and trails to discover, many of which are included with your entrance ticket.  Annual tickets are valid for 12 months, so you can pay once and visit all year round or upgrade a day ticket before departing.

'Outrageous Fortune:
Growing Up at Leeds Castle' Book Signing: Step back in time on Saturday 10 May with The Honourable Anthony Russell, Grandson of Lady Baillie, the last private owner of Leeds Castle, for a book signing of his memoir ‘Outrageous Fortune: Growing Up at Leeds Castle'.  Join in free talks at 11am or 3pm in the Maiden’s Tower Garden.

Museums at Night: Leeds Castle will be joining other heritage properties for the Museums at Night festival on Friday 16 May with an exclusive evening at The Gatehouse showcasing the new exhibition of the history of the Castle. The event takes place from 6.30pm to 8.30pm and includes a private talk with the Head Gardener in the beautiful Culpeper Garden.  Tickets are £7 bookable in advance on the Leeds Castle website.

Supercar Seige: Get up close to hundreds of iconic supercars on the Castle lawns on Sunday 18 May. The event, run in aid of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Children’s Fund, will include a military marching band and ‘British Motorsport’ section. A Merlin helicopter will be on static display with a chance to explore inside the cockpit (subject to aircraft availability). For a donation to charity, visitors can take a ‘dream ride’ in one of the supercars, driven by the owners.

The Chelsea Fringe: On Thursday 22 May Leeds Castle will celebrate The Chelsea Fringe.  See a ‘flower bedecked punt’ drifting gracefully on the moat featuring a colourful arrangement of seasonal flowers from the Castle grounds created by the gifted Castle Florist Louise Roots. Local school Invicta Grammar will be singing and reciting poetry in The Culpeper Garden where there will also be a special flower trail set up for children.  For garden enthusiasts, the Head Gardener will be giving specialist talks.

May Bank Holiday Fun – Saturday 24 to Monday 26 May


Circus Skills Workshops will be running on the Pavillion Lawn from Saturday 24 to Monday 26 May for children and adults of all ages. Test your balance and co-ordination with stilts and spinning plates, juggling, hula-hoops, diabolos and have-a-go on the juggling machines. On Sunday 25 May and Monday 26 May children can re-enact the legends of ‘Heroes, Heroines and Hoods’ in Hilarious History, a fun and interactive outdoor theatre event. The stories of Robin Hood and the Silver Arrow, What-ho Henry and Horatio’s Last Hurrah will keep children entertained as they take the lead roles in these hilarious short plays.

Jousting with The Knights of Royal England - 27 May 2014 to 1 June 2014

The Knights of Royal England will return on horseback ready to entertain children and adults during half term week with action packed medieval activities and entertainment. Watch displays of spectacular daredevil stunts, medieval weaponry, falls, fights and galloping horses. Meanwhile, the Knights school includes hobby horse jousting, mini battles and try‑on‑armour for younger children. There will also be a mini medieval market to explore.

Flowers, Food and Family Fun


The spring sunshine provides the ideal opportunity to enjoy a gentle stroll through the beautiful English cottage-style Culpeper Garden full of colour and variety at this time of year.  Meanwhile, newly-planted pine trees and cactus plants add variety to the exotic Lady Baillie Mediterranean Garden overlooking the Great Lake.

Float gently through the ancient arches in an elegant wooden punt for a leisurely 20 minute glide on the moat of the Castle. Suitable for all ages, available weekends and school holidays, punting at Leeds Castle is excellent value for money at £5 for adults and £3 for children. A discounted family ticket is available and there is no need to pre-book.

The whole family can enjoy the falconry demonstration, taking place daily at 2pm in the Falconry Arena, while the new-look toddlers’ playground ‘Squires’ Courtyard’ provides entertainment for children aged two to six.  For older children the Knight’s Realm adventure playground, maze and grotto are perfect for burning up some energy in Half Term.

Walk, Talk, Run and Discover

Throughout May a series of walks, talks and activities will be running including Meet the Falconer, Wildlife, Woodland and Parkland Walks, Garden Tours and the new Leeds Castle Run Club meeting every Wednesday evening at 7pm.

Behind the scenes tours give an opportunity to glimpse life at the Castle through the ages from life below stairs as a servant in the 1930s back to the colourful tales of life during the Middle Ages. Learn about the Royal and private owners of the Castle through the stories behind the paintings and tales told through the architecture of the buildings. For full details of the activities in May and to book visit www.leeds-castle.com/events

Annual tickets cost £24 for adults; £21 for seniors and visitors with disabilities (carer goes free); £16 for children (under 4’s free). Annual tickets are valid for 12 months so you can pay once and visit all year round. Day tickets are also available to purchase on the day of your visit or in advance online. Adults cost £19, concessions £16 and children £11.

Leeds Castle is located near Maidstone in Kent just off Junction 8 of the M20 within easy reach of London. Grounds open at 10am daily and the Castle is open from 10.30am. Last admission is 4.30pm and gates close at 6pm.

Wednesday, 19 February 2014

Treasure Houses Win at Hudson's Heritage Awards 2014 - Leeds Castle Win the Award for BEST ACCOMMODATION

WINNER:  Leeds Castle, Knights’ Glampsite
BEST ACCOMMODATION sponsored by Signpost Hotel Guide
Leeds Castle Knights' Glampsite

Our winner provides a rather different accommodation. Last year Leeds Castle laid out a ‘Knight’s Glampsite’. The idea came from the fact that Henry VIII’s procession to the famous Field of the Cloth of Gold in 1520 stopped at this historic castle en route.  Guests are accommodated in specially commissioned double pavilions in jaunty stripes with really civilised bathrooms, wood burning stoves and luxurious furnishings incorporating silk, wool and fur. The tents are named after Henry VIII’s champions and this year a Knight’s School is planned to give families something extra.


It is camping certainly, but camping with a twist, more reminiscent of a top of the range safari camp but with a distinctly mediaeval flair.  Last year’s Knightly Glampers all particularly enjoyed the experience of having privileged access to the castle after the general public had left and this is all the better now, Leeds Castle opens its restaurant for evening diners.


2014 Hudson's Heritage Award Winners

About Hudson's Awards


The Treasure Houses Of England

The Treasure Houses of England are 10 of the most magnificent palaces, houses and castles in England today. Together they attract in excess of 2.8 million visitors annually.

Members are Beaulieu, Blenheim Palace, Burghley, Castle Howard, Chatsworth, Harewood, Hatfield House, Holkham Hall, Leeds Castle and Woburn Abbey.

One of the most compelling features of the Treasure Houses of England is that they all offer the visitor a living history. Most are still homes to the great families who have owned them for generations. Others keep their heritage alive by re-creating scenes and events that have dominated and shaped England from the 9th century to the present day.

Between them they house some of the most important art collections in the world with famous works from artists such as Van Dyck and Gainsborough. The connoisseur of fine furniture, porcelain and china will find priceless examples of Chippendale, Wedgwood and Meissen.

Each house is an architectural masterpiece surrounded by beautiful parklands and gardens.

Friday, 29 November 2013

Christmas at the Treasure Houses of England

Expect a fabulous feast of festive entertainment and events this Christmas at the magnificent Treasure Houses of England.  Shop in style with magical Christmas markets and discover beautifully and stylishly decorated Treasure Houses for a unique and inspired day out, not to mention the opportunity to pick up some beautifully bespoke presents for your nearest and dearest.


Beaulieu
Christmas at Beaulieu is a time of magic with fun, activities and entertainment for all.  Beaulieu’s festive celebrations (21 December – 5 January) will feature carol singing around the Grand Piano in the decorated Palace House complete with a magnificent Christmas tree.  Victorian characters will be on show- to divulge fascinating details on life – upstairs and downstairs at Christmas time.




Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace’s will be decorated for a ‘Dickensian’ Christmas (9 November – 13 December) with plenty to see and do, from late night shopping, storytelling, carol singers, Santa’s grotto and more. The renowned Living Crafts for Christmas (15 - 17 November) will also take place showcasing a series of high quality and contemporary creations from over 150 British designer-makers. For festive fun and splendor visit Britain’s Greatest Palace this Christmas.


Burghley House

Burghley House’s Crafts for Christmas - (28 November –1st December) will be the perfect place to pick up some very special presents featuring a wide range of new products and ideas. Graham Pickett Antiques will also be at Burghley in their usual Old Kitchen location with fabulous furniture and divine collectables.

Castle Howard
Enjoy Castle Howard in all its festive glory and take in the magical Christmas atmosphere of the candlelit house.  There will be yuletide entertainment, festive foods and gifts from 23 November to 22 December, plus a late night Carols and Candlelight event on 19 December will include a late night market, Christmas parade and carols in front of the house as dusk falls.


Chatsworth
From 9 Nov until the 23 Dec, Chatsworth will be magically transformed for the Christmas season, with the lower floors of the house decorated in the theme of 'The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.  With events such as twilight evenings, Christmas markets and nativities starring real farmyard animals, as well as beautiful festive displays, there is something for everyone at Chatsworth this winter.

Hatfield House

Don’t miss Hatfield’s Frost Fair (22 – 24 November) held in Marquees on Palace Green, childhood home of Elizabeth 1 you’ll find wonderful original and unusual crafts and gifts for the family and home alongside exclusive ranges from The Hatfield Gift Shop.  Plus drop in to workshops, including creative Christmas decorating using fresh flowers and greenery.

Holkham Hall

Catch awe-inspiring Holkham Hall on two weekends (7/ 8 and 14/15 Dec) and get festive with a traditional Christmas in true Holkham style! See the magnificent state rooms beautifully decorated, complete with handmade decorations. Or walk through the snowy winter wonderland, where there’s a chance for children to see Father Christmas in his magical grotto.



Leeds Castle
Christmas is growing at Leeds Castle this year. Nature has crept into the magnificent castle rooms to create a glittering Twelve Days of Christmas from 7 to 24 Dec. Meet real reindeer on the castle island and children will love our new husky sleigh rides. Our first Christmas Market with German style chalets and traditional carousel rides is here from 7 – 22 Dec, open daily from 11am to 6pm with late night shopping until 9pm on 12, 13, 19 and 20 Dec.
Woburn Abbey
Book now for Woburn Abbey’s Luminaries Woburnensis on Saturday 7th December. Explore the magical gardens illuminated after dark and discover the trail ice and fire sculptures. Visit the gift hall to pick out that perfect present and snuggle up with a hot drink to listen to the live band.


www.treasurehouses.co.uk

Monday, 28 October 2013

NSPCC Christmas Fair at Castle Howard

Castle Howard
Friday 8th November 2013.

Each year, this popular shopping fair raises over £30,000 for the NSPCC and is organised by the volunteers of the Norton & Villages fundraising committee.

This year there will be over 50 stalls selling a wide range of gifts for adults, teenagers and children. There will also be a raffle with prizes kindly donated by local businesses.

All proceeds go directly to the NSPCC. Tickets cost £7.00 per person (under 13s free), available on the day from our ticket office. Open from 9.30am until 3.30pm.

Or why not attend a special preview evening on Thursday 7 November with wine and canapés. Tickets cost £15.00 and must be bought in advance by emailing: admin@nspcccastlehowardchristmasfair.org

To find out more visit http://www.nspcccastlehowardchristmasfair.org/Home.html

Thursday, 10 October 2013

Chills and Thrills at Castle Howard



Castle Howard firs Halloween event
Castle Howard will host its first ever Halloween event when the magnificent  grounds of the historic house are transformed into a spooky wonderland for a family friendly ‘Chills and Thrills’ spectacular on Wednesday 30th October 2013.



Walk the flare lit path and catch glimpses of the house and statues rising out of the mist before encountering the headless horseman and his flame bearing guards amongst the trees.  The fire damaged South East wing will be brought to life by our spine-chilling story tellers, whilst terror face painters and magic mirrors will transform you into a frightening sight this Halloween.



The ‘Horses of Halloween’ grand finale will see Yorkshire based Atkinson Action Horses, who have appeared in productions including War Horse, The King’s Speech and Wuthering Heights, perform death defying stunts and breathtaking displays with fire and explosions.



Fire eaters and stilt walkers will appear from the darkness and owls, toads and creepy crawlies will take up residence in the eerie grounds of Castle Howard this Halloween. There’ll be prizes for the most ghoulish costume and best carved pumpkin too.



Katy Pryor, Events Manager said: ‘This is our first ever Halloween event and now that we are putting together the finishing touches we’re all getting very excited. It will be a unique Halloween experience, with Castle Howard making the perfect backdrop for this family friendly evening’



Tickets are on sale now and cost £15 for adults, £10 for concessions and Under 5s go free. Gates open at 4.30pm with tasty Halloween treats on offer throughout the evening.



To find out more, or to book visit www.castlehoward.co.uk

Monday, 2 September 2013

Castle Howard Autumn and Christmas event listings

Tuesday 10 September & Tuesday 8 October
Stable Courtyard Craft & Produce Markets – 10am

Over 25 stalls selling delicious food and beautiful crafts in the stunning surroundings of Castle Howard Stable Courtyard.
Free admission


Friday 4 October
Photography Course – 10.30am – 5pm

An ‘Introduction to Landscape Photography’ with York photographer Chris Ceaser including photographic sessions in the grounds and gardens, lunch and exclusive opportunity to shoot in the Long Gallery.
6 places only per course, £115

Friday 11 October
From Bach to Bond – 7.30pm

A charity piano recital to raise funds for York Against Cancer. Yorkshire born Emmanuel Vass will perform a range of pieces from Back and Debussy to Gershwin as well as his own arrangements of the Bond theme and Bohemian Rhapsody.
Tickets £15

Wednesday 30 October
Chills & Thrills Halloween Spectacular – 5.30pm – 8pm (approx)

An evening of Halloween entertainment for all the family. Castle Howard will be transformed into a spooky wonderland with witches, wizard, ghosts and ghouls. There’ll be spooky storytelling, face painters, fire eaters and stilt walkers as well as a ‘Horses of Halloween’ stunt riding show.
Adults £15, Concessions (Under 16s/Senior/Students) £10

Friday 8 November
NSPCC Christmas Fair – 9.30am – 3.30pm

Over 50 stalls selling a wide range of gifts perfect for Christmas fill the House. All proceeds go directly to the NSPCC and each year the fair raises over £30,000 for the charity.
Tickets £7

Celebrate your wedding with us. Photo Ryan Browne
Sunday 10 November
Wedding Open Day – 11am – 3pm

Meet our professional wedding team and a handful of our carefully selected wedding suppliers and discover Yorkshire’s most romantic venue, dressed for a civil ceremony and wedding breakfast. Pre-register at www.castlehoward.co.uk to receive complimentary admission.

Saturday 16 November
Premium Monumental Tour – 10.00am

This all-day event begins with a circuit tour that takes in the Avenue, Gatehouse, Mock Fortifications, Pyramid, Mausoleum, and Temple with exclusive access to these buildings, followed by lunch and access to the Castle Howard archives.
Tickets £60.00

Saturday 23 November – Sunday 22 December
Christmas at Castle Howard

See Castle Howard in all its festive glory and take in the magical Christmas atmosphere of the candlelit House. There will be yuletide entertainment, festive foods and gifts, plus pre-book a fireside audience with Father Christmas at weekends (charges apply).
Usual admission prices apply

Weekends from Saturday 23rd November – 22nd December
A Fireside Audience with Father Christmas

Join Father Christmas and his wizard friend for festive stories, singing and magic tricks in front of a roaring fire in the Grecian Hall
£12 per child, accompanying adults usual admission prices apply.

23rd, 24th, 25th November & 9th, 10th, 15th, 16th, 19th December
Christmas Courtyard Craft & Produce Markets – 10am – 4pm
Christmas in The Great Hall at
Castle Howard. Photo Andy Bulme
r
With over 20 stalls, our Christmas markets sell an array of handmade gifts and local produce perfect for the festive season. Stop by our gift shops, farm shop or plant centre too and pick up that extra something special.
Free admission

Thursday 19th December
Christmas Carols & Candlelight - Last House admission 6.30pm, Courtyard and Market close at 8.30pm.
Come along and enjoy an extended day of Christmas festivities; see the house at dusk, enjoy carols on the South Front and join our Christmas parade. This event includes a courtyard market, audiences with Father Christmas and the chance to meet reindeer.
Usual admission prices apply

For more information on any of our events visit www.castlehoward.co.uk



Castle Howard sits within a 10,000-acre estate, in the Howardian Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is located 15 miles north east of York, just off the A64.