Blog Archive

Thursday, November 18, 2010

CHRISTMASTIME IN BRITAIN

The stately and historic houses in Britain managed by the National Trust are usually closed for cleaning during the winter months, but this is changing as more and more homes are open for the holiday season. Although some are not open for Christmas festivities, they are open for tours as the housekeeping staff  demonstrates how these stately pieces of furniture are cleaned and preserved.  Other homes are open for dining, while others are open for tours for those wanting to see the beautiful Christmas decorations.

This issue of Britain magazine is full of historical material and photographs.  I thoroughly enjoyed spending the afternoon reading the interesting accounts and traditions of this historic country.  I hope that you will ENJOY my choices for posts during this holiday season.

Great Hall at Castle Howard in Yorkshire

Crathes Castle in Aberdeenshire

Pollock House in Glasgow

Plum Pudding at Shugborough

Chatsworth by candlelight

Wollaton Hall in Nottingham

CLEANING

Cleaning the paneling in the Great Chamber 
at Chastleton House in Oxfordshire.

The wooden floors are cleaned and preserved
 using a mixture of vinegar and paraffin.


Pony hair brushes are used on these pieces.

At Cragside in Northumberland demonstrations 
show the work of these conservation teams.

I hope that you have enjoyed this tour.  To see more pick up your copy of the January issue of Britain magazine.

See you soon,
Teresa
xoxo