Greg enjoyed an exclusive behind the scenes tour of Scotney Castle recently and was able to see first-hand the preparation that goes into their hugely popular Christmas events.

The house was built in 1837 by Edward Hussey III from the sandstone quarried from the grounds of the Old Castle. It is positioned to overlook both the castle and estate, with the garden also designed and created at the same time. This meant that all the three elements: house, garden and estate would work as one in creating a perfect picturesque country home.

Scotney Castle has been in the ownership of the National Trust since Christopher Hussey’s death in 1970. The house remained a private residence of his widow, Betty Hussey, until June 2007 when the house first opened to visitors.

Betty left behind centuries of history for the staff at the National Trust to discover – her rooms and attics were stuffed full of furniture, clothes, toys, letters, books and other significant finds. The team has been lovingly and painstakingly working through them to piece together the important part that this home, and the families that occupied it, played in shaping the history of this little corner of the world.

Greg was shown the house and gardens by John Musgrave, General Manager, Jerzy Bielinski, Curator, Philippa Ellis, External Affairs Consultant, Helen and Natan Cointet

Greg, who has a keen interest in history and architecture explains:

“I feel extremely privileged to have been given behind the scenes access to this important part of our local history. We are very lucky to have this beautiful property and gardens on our doorstep and to have a such a great team working there; they are bursting with knowledge and passion and will continue to being Scotney’s history to life for this, and future generations of visitors to this wonderful attraction.”