Tabley Friends’ Next Project: Bringing the Chapel back to Life!

Plus their New Programme of Spring and Summer Events

The Friends of Tabley House have just announced that their next project is to raise money for the redecoration of the House’s Chapel.  They are also unveiling their Spring and Summer events.

“After our great success in raising nearly £30,000 for the Dining Room re-decoration, we’re turning our attention to the House’s Chapel” said Nick Payne, Chairman of the Friends. “The interior is beginning to look a bit sad, with cracks in a few places, so we’re getting highly specialised examination of the interior of the building, and we’re hoping to receive a proposal and costing soon.”

The specialist restorer will be Charles Hesp, who also restored the House’s now-stunning Dining Room.  He had previously carried out restoration work at St. Paul’s Cathedral and Alnwick Castle.

“The Chapel has an extraordinary history” said Mr Payne.  “Originally built in the 17th century on an island in the middle of a lake, where the old mediaeval house had stood, it was dismantled brick-by-brick and re-built next to the House itself in the first half of the 20th century”.

The Friends’ events start with an intriguing talk after their AGM on 21st April, 7.30pm. This is entitled  “Panting Hearts & Coronets: Romance and Scandals of the Leicesters of Tabley”.  The talk will be given by a Trustee of the House, Sarah Webb and should be great fun. Wine and nibbles during the evening.

Thursday 13th May sees a great triple-bill of a trip when the Friends take off to Tissington Hall & Gardens, the stately home of the Fitzherbert family for over 500 years.  The Friends will also explore The Tissington Trail and experience the First Day of Well-Dressing there. Lunch in a local hostelry.

Wednesday 16th June sees the Friends off to Blackburn Museum & Art Galleries and Blackburn Cathedral.  Another full day trip, including lunch, the Friends will enjoy guided tours at both venues.

Tuesday 13th July rounds off the Summer events with a great Concert.  An Evening of Songs, Strawberries and Sparkles has been such a success for the last two years that it is being repeated. The Cheshire choir, Consort sing delightfully varied music from the 15th to the 21st centuries. Prime strawberries and a nice bubbly in the interval add sparkle to the proceedings!

More details of each event will be announced nearer the time.  If you would like to know about prices or wish to book now, please contact Anna Smyth on 01565 651979