Costumes include Henry VIII, Catherine Howard, Mary Queen of Scots and an Orange Silk Court Gown

Last Friday we presented two Period Fashion Shows at Muncaster Castle near Ravenglass in Cumbria.

What a beautiful setting for my costumes – The medieval Castle is bordered by beautiful gardens, with the backdrop of the spectacular views of the Lakeland Fells. Unusual plants, trees and flowers from all over the world grow in the landscaped areas and the wild woods. Planted over 200 years ago, the gardens have been described as the Gateway to Paradise.

The Great Hall with its dramatic rich red and wood panelled walls dating from the medieval age.  This room is the heart of the Castle and was the dramatic setting for the shows.  The family’s seven centuries of accumulations fill the castle and the walls of the Great Hall are lined with beautiful portraits.The Castle was a superb venue in every respect

I received excellent feedback – comments from visitors I spoke to after the show included

– “The dramatic finale with Mary Queen of Scots wearing her execution clothes brought a lump to my throat”

–  “I really enjoyed both the history of the Tudors as well as an insight into the design of the fabulous costumes”.

– ” What an excellent King Henry VIII – he really looked the part!”

Everyone said they thoroughly enjoyed the fashion shows.

Henry VIII, Jane Seymour, Mary Queen of Scots and Anne Boleyn

After the final performance the models took part in a photo shoot in the magnificent grounds of Muncaster Castle.  I have included a selection of pictures taken both in the Great Hall and the beautiful grounds – I really hope you enjoy viewing them.

I would also like to thank all the staff of Muncaster especially Andy, Peter and Bronwyn for their help in making the shows such a success. They provided great facilities for the shows as well as excellent hospitality for the whole team – thank you!

My thanks to my friend  Dave Foster for his photographs