Stepping inside a country house at Christmas time is a magical experience. With majestic interiors adorned with mesmerising decorations, it’s like walking onto the set of a festive special of your favourite period drama.
Nestled in the stunning Yorkshire countryside, just a 90 minute drive away from Greater Manchester, is Harewood House, a grand 18th century mansion which is transformed every winter with beautiful festive displays. But, if you’re expecting traditional decorations and scenes at this country house, think again.
This year’s exhibition is entitled Long Live the Christmas Tree! It features installations created by 11 artists and makers from across Yorkshire and further afield, including sculptors, florists and set designers.
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Inspired by the natural world, winter rituals and the Harewood House itself, the exhibition offers a contemporary twist on traditional Christmas scenes. Spread across rooms on the State Floor, visitors are invited to step inside the different spaces and discover the Christmassy creations.
The overall effect is like walking through a life-sized advent calendar - you don’t know what you’ll find behind each door as each artist interprets the theme differently. In the library is an ethereal ribbon tree crafted from paper, which appears to float mid-air.
In the neo Classical-themed hall a giant Christmas wreath stands in the centre of the room surrounded by Greek-inspired friezes. Meanwhile, in another room there’s a Christmas tree constructed from antlers.
One installation is inspired by winter celebrations across the world and it invites you to look for any you recognise within the colourful design. The environment is a huge influence in the displays and one tree is designed to be placed in the garden once the exhibition is over, providing a home for bees.
As well as taking in Harewood House’s gorgeous interior, visitors can step outside and explore the impressive 150 acre grounds, perfect for a winter walk. There’s the Terrace Garden with clipped box hedges and breath-taking views, the Himalayan Garden and the Walled Garden.
For a wintery experience, follow the festoon-lit walking trail across the North Park and Lakeside. There’s an adventure playground to keep kids entertained, and, tucked away in the grounds is the Bird Garden, which is home to a variety of exotic birds including Humboldt penguins and Chilean flamingos.
Afterwards, you can warm up with a hot drink and snack at the courtyard café and browse the gift shop for any last minute Christmas presents. The exhibition is open from 10am to 5.30pm until Monday, January 2. Adults cost £14-18, children £9-10 while under 4s and Harewood members are free. For more information and to book tickets, click here.
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