Festive spirit truly alive at Wentworth Woodhouse

CHRISTMAS may be six weeks away, but preparations are well underway at Rotherham’s biggest former family home — complete with a whopping 16ft tree.

Staff and volunteers at Wentworth Woodhouse were getting into the festive spirit this week as they decorated the Wentworth Woodhouse Preservation Trust’s first Christmas tree at the site.

The towering tree will form part of the decorations on site which will also include greenery from the well berried holly trees on site and a collection of coloured willows decorating the principle rooms of the house. 

Fundraising tours are planned throughout November and December when guests can enjoy a glass of mulled wine and homemade mince pies in front of a roaring fire in the long gallery. 

Scott Jamieson, head gardener at Wentworth Woodhouse, said: “I was really delighted to travel over to Fillingham Christmas Trees to choose this stunning tree as the centre piece for our Long Gallery. 

“This is the trust’s first year here at the site and we really want our visitors to feel at home here — after all, this project is all about community. 

“We are decorating the house with traditional items from the gardens, holly and berries and it looks wonderful.”

Proceeds from the tours go towards the costs of managing and developing Wentworth Woodhouse for future generations. 

A series of fund-raising events are set to take place over the coming weeks to help boost restoration funds.

A Black Diamonds Ladies’ Event with a fashion show is being staged on November 18, featuring vintage gowns in display in the state rooms, a warm high tea and talks about What the Butler Saw from a former member of the royal household.

Spaces are limited and pre-booking of tickets priced £35 is essential through http://www.wentworthwoodhouse.co.uk or on 01226 351161. 

Afternoon teas will be served in the Long Gallery on November 28 and December 5.

Christmas officially begins with wreath-making classes on November 28 and December 5, followed by a Christmas Fair on December 9 and 10 and a festive concert by Thurnscoe Harmonic Male Voice Choir on December 20. 

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