Candlelight Launch for New Season

Little Moreton Hall: 18 Feb – 26 Feb 

Candlelight will usher in a new visitor season at Little Moreton Hall, the spectacular Tudor mansion near Congleton.

A nine-day Candlemas festival features candles of various shapes and sizes in most of the hall’s rooms.

Jo Williams, from the hall explained: “Candlemas was important in Tudor times. For a rural family, it meant they had survived the hardest of the winter months and could see the first glimmer of spring on the horizon. They took a candle to church and had it blessed. It was a thanks offering, and an attempt to ensure good times ahead.

Because of the fire risk we now have to use artificial candles in this timber framed building, but the flickering light provides a great atmosphere and adds a new dimension as people walk round.”

You will also be able to make candles, play Tudor games such as ‘Nine Men’s Morris’, explore the mysterious burn marks and ciphers which protected the house from witches and evil spirits, or join one of the very popular free guided tours to hear the fascinating story of the Moreton family and discover why the house is such a wonky shape.

Jo added: “During 2017 we will have lots of special features and events at Little Moreton Hall. Like the Tudors, we believe Candlemas marks the beginning of another busy, lively and enjoyable year.”

Tudor gentlewoman Anna Fielding prepares for bed by candlelight at Little Moreton Hall  ⓒ Alan Ingram/ National trust

Little Moreton Hall is open every day for Candlemas (Sat. 18 Feb- Sun. 26 Feb) then Weds – Sun, 11am – 5pm. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/littlemoretonhall or call 01260 272018.