The Hereford Times

Upstairs, downstairs at Berrington Hall

12:28pm Thursday 24th April 2008

ONE of Herefordshire’s great historic houses, Berrington Hall, is inviting visitors to a Great Country House weekend, packed with activities, on Saturday and Sunday.

The elegant 18th century mansion near Leominster will be hosting a Victorian house party, celebrating the homecoming of Lord and Lady Rodney in 1891 after their society wedding in London.

Visitors can catch a glimpse of a Victorian upper-class household – both upstairs and downstairs – as they prepare for the return of the newlyweds. Guests will meet Lord and Lady Rodney, George Smith the estate steward; and the housekeeper, as re-enactment group The History Team bring the party to life.

Taster tours of the house take place from 11am while, in the courtyard, there will be a demonstration of Victorian dancing and the opportunity to try out a few steps with the First Set Dance group.

In the stables, families can decorate their own spinning top, make peg dolls or a Victorian pocketbook, and design their own waistcoat. They can also sign up to be a servant and dress in costume.

Lord and Lady Rodney will make their grand entrance at 12.30pm.

Below stairs, there will be a tour of the servants’ quarters, laundry, butler’s pantry and dairy, where you can hear what the staff really thought about Lady Rodney.

“We are re-creating the atmosphere of a Victorian house party and inviting families to come along and join in the fun,” says property manager Tina Salter. “There will be historical drama, traditional games and sweets as well as our very popular below stairs tours with the chambermaid.” For further details call Berrington Hall on 01568 615721. Normal admission charges apply.