Until now my visits to Waddesdon Manor, near Aylesbury in
Buckinghamshire, have been in the summer. So it was a delightful
surprise on a grey November afternoon to discover the house and grounds
dressed for Christmas. As dusk fell, the ornate facade was illuminated
with a light and sound show, a
rainbow of lights keeping time with music from hidden speakers.
Throughout the grounds, trees were lit by spotlights.
Beyond the Aviary was the dramatic installation of Bruce Munro’s Field
of Light. Nine thousand glowing glass spheres
carpeted the grass, transforming the glade into a magical wonderland
that stretches on and on. If you follow the dimly-lit path you can walk
right round it, marvelling as the globes wink on and off and change
colour. (The route is reasonably flat, but a torch might be useful.)
Indoors, the theme for the decorations is Magical Materials, inspired by the rare and beautiful objects in Waddesdon’s
collections.
Even this bathroom had been transformed into an underwater paradise.
Among the more conventional trees was one crafted from exquisite
hand-made paper flowers.
More paper flowers adorned these battery-lit candles.
Corridors were transformed as well. One was veiled in white lace, while here, tree decorations continued the Christmas theme..
Christmas at Waddesdon runs until January 2, with the last entry at
5.30 pm. Traditional Christmas food is served in the restaurant until
6pm, with seasonal snacks in the Wigwam cafe. From November 16 to
December 11 there is a Christmas Fair with festive foods from local
producers and independent traders, and of course, the Manor shop is open
for gifts and souvenirs. For tickets and details see
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