Take a stroll through the centuries as historic estates go back in time

Time travellers can meet Saxon warriors, Tudor lords and ladies and Second World War soldiers when two historic Leeds estates turn back the clock this weekend.

Temple Newsam and Lotherton will both be hosting two days of living history, giving visitors the chance to explore the stories behind the fascinating people who have called the sites home through the ages.

Temple Newsam’s amazing Time Travellers weekend will feature demonstrations as well as costumed characters giving fascinating talks and tours.

Historical dancers will be performing in the house’s stunning Picture Gallery while visitors can have a go at testing their skills as a jester, dress up as tiny Tudors, take part in a Shakespeare play and hear some historical children’s stories.

Home Farm will be hosting costumier Suzie Cobwebs, who will be spinning yarns in the Stables Courtyard as well as the chance to bake WW2 Home Front recipes, make a medieval air-dried clay tile and learn some woodworking tips in the joiner’s shop where experts will be crafting some Anglo-Saxon shields.

Activities will be running this weekend from 11am until 3pm. Tickets, which are for both the house and farm are priced at £8.40 for adults and £4.20 for children, with a family ticket costing £20. Leeds card discounts apply.

At Lotherton, visitors can experience the elegant splendour of the Edwardian era during the estate’s spectacular historical gala.

The event, which is also this Saturday and Sunday, will include brass band music, sideshows, face painting, family activities and Punch and Judy shows.

A spectacular circus skills workshop will also give visitors the chance to try their hand at traditional big top skills, alongside two professional circus artistes.

Staff on site will also be dressed in authentic period costumes and visitors have the chance to dress up too and take their own photos to remember the occasion.

Traditional tea and cakes will be available in the estate’s beautiful gardens.

The event takes place Saturday and Sunday from 11am until 4pm on Saturday and Sunday. Activities are free but usual estate admission applies which is £6 per adult, £3 for children and £18 for a family ticket. Members are free.

Lotherton’s estate and Edwardian country house was once home to a number of prominent Leeds couples and families such as The Gascoignes, Nevilles and de Hothams.

Councillor Brian Selby, Leeds City Council’s lead member for museums and galleries, said:

“This is a great opportunity for history lovers of all ages to experience what life has been like at these historic sites over the centuries and learn more about the many enthralling events and activities which have happened there.

“Both Temple Newsam and Lotherton are cornerstones of our city’s heritage and I’m sure this will be a memorable celebration of the part they have played in the story of our city.”

You can book tickets for events at Lotherton in advance at: http://tickets.tygit.com/tickets/buy-now/attractionId/191/l/1

More details on both events are available at leeds.gov.uk/schoolholidays

ENDS

For media enquiries, please contact:

Stuart Robinson

Communications Officer

Leeds City Council

Tel: 0113 378 9182 (please note my new number)

Email: stuart.robinson@leeds.gov.uk

www.leeds.gov.uk