The Forgotten Room
Doddington Hall opened a new room for the public during Easter 2010 – for children in particular to enjoy!
The Forgotten Room shows a glimpse into the Hall’s past as it is full of hundreds of unusual, fascinating and eclectic items that have been collected over the years by both previous and the current occupants and displayed for today’s young visitors to enjoy. Handwritten decanter tags from the 1800s sit alongside an egg carrying box made by current owner Claire Birch’s father Antony Jarvis. Old irons, a Victorian mortar and pestle and a butter churner from the 1950s remind us of times before labour-saving devices. A snake skin can be discovered near camel hooves, both reminders of other places as well as other times. A collection of antique and vintage hats are displayed on the wall, underneath some extraordinary Indian masks. Old boots are taking a well-earned rest from many marches whilst a toy wooden yacht dreams of being launched and nearby Noah’s Ark patiently awaits its animals. A huge pram used by Claire’s grandparents for her mother in the 1940s looks very different from today’s buggies.
The Forgotten Room was originally a bedroom and has a fireplace, high ceilings and a view of the West Gardens and parkland beyond. It has not been decorated for many many years, so offers a chance for people to realise the extent of maintenance that the Hall’s other rooms have received. In the middle of The Forgotten Room is a low table and benches for children: young visitors are able to sit down and handle some of the items*, perhaps to draw them or to ask questions and explore a different time and place. A magical and inspiring visit awaits young minds!
* The Forgotten Room is open as part of the House’s open season from Easter Sunday and every Sunday, Wednesday and Bank Holiday Monday until the end of the season. The room will be open each time for viewing but full access and the discovery table is only available when the room is attended by a steward.
ENDS
Back to news