Paintings, pop-up beach and Rapunzel: Nostell Priory set for summer of fun

Families are invited to engage with Wakefield’s Tudor history in a new way by exploring a famous painting of Thomas More at Nostell via interactive games and activities.

As part of the National Trust’s Summer of Play, which runs until September 1, people can visit the Georgian house and recreate the 16th century portrait of More and his family and try on replicas of Tudor costumes.

Fabrics and dyes were of societal importance during the Tudor period, reflecting wealth, status and identity, much as fashion brands continue to do in modern society.

This experience allows visitors to get up close and personal with replica textiles like those seen within the painting.

Nostell was an important medieval priory before being closed in 1540 by Henry VIII during the Dissolution of the Monasteries.

In the 18th century, the Winn family transformed Nostell, commissioning leading architects and designers to create a new house befitting their social ambitions, resulting in the layered landscape, architecture and collections that visitors experience at Nostell today.

There’s plenty to enjoy outside the house too, with a jam-packed line-up of summer events taking place on the Vista against the backdrop of the house including live bird of prey displays, a pop-up beach, and outdoor theatre.

Wildlife enthusiasts can watch live bird of prey displays on August 28 and 31. Watch flying demonstrations, meet the magnificent birds, and learn more about them with Owl Adventures during the day.

The ‘Costa del Nostell’ – a seaside-inspired pop-up beach, complete with deckchairs, buckets and spades – is open until August 14. It offers families a chance to sit back and relax or build sandcastles in a beautiful countryside setting.

The travelling theatre company, Wrongsemble, will also be landing at Nostell for two weekends this summer sharing their interactive show Rapunzel on the Vista in front of the house.

Catch them on August 15-16 and again on August 29-30 for a lively show with creative storytelling, laughter and plenty of audience participation.

With two 45-minute drop-in performances each day at 11am and 1pm there will be chance for everyone to join in on the fun.

Lauren Lewsley, Visitor Operations & Experience Manager at Nostell says, “We’re really pleased to be able to offer such a diverse range of activities for families this summer.

"Our parkland is free access and with our cycle trails, walking routes, natural play area, den making and brand-new second-hand bookshop we hope it’s an opportunity for everyone to come and experience the very best of Nostell.”

Lockey’s portrait of Sir Thomas More and his family will be undergoing technical analysis using infrared reflectography and a newer imaging technique called MA-XRF in September.

The National Trust is hoping to learn more about the history of the painting. Much of this work will be on display to visitors inside the house at Nostell.

Visit nationaltrust.org.uk/nostell