Red House Museum gets into the festive spirit

Dec 9 2010 by Barry Gibson, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

A MUSEUM is showing what Christmas was like 200 years ago.

Visitors to Red House Museum in Gomersal can discover how the Victorians celebrated the festive period.

The restored cloth merchant’s home will be decorated with garlands of holly, ivy, laurel and rosemary over Christmas.

And there will be a series of festive events at Red House from Wednesday, December 15 to Sunday, December 19.

Visitors will be welcomed to the museum by the old-fashioned kissing bough hanging in the hall.

In the kitchen they will be able to see long-forgotten Christmas treats like almond shamrocks, whim-wham, hedgehog tipsy cake and brandied fruits.

Visitors will be able to take free recipe sheets to try the dishes at home.

Visitors will also be able to take part in craft activities, including making Victorian tree decorations, paper lanterns, paper chain trimmings and Victorian-style Christmas cards.

Accordionist Hugh Barwell will perform at the museum on Saturday, December 18 followed by the Clifton Handbell Ringers and carol singers Gaudeamus the following day.

Admission to the museum is free. For more information call 01274 335100.