Experience the magic of the season at the National Trust’s Treasurer’s House nestled behind York Minster. Open for Christmas from 13 November, visitors to the city are invited to drop in for a relaxing wander, Saturday – Wednesday, and to expect the unexpected.
Head into the house beautifully decorated for Christmas with a brand-new theme this year: Gifts from Afar. The period rooms are transformed with decorations throughout and downstairs the café is open for a festive treat and refuel.
Gifts from Afar shares the stories found in Frank Green’s travel journals. His far flung, and at times far-fetched, tales are the inspiration for a truly unique Christmas offer.
Rebecca Allott, Visitor Experience Officer for the National Trust said, “This really is a Christmas experience like no other. Yes, it’s seasonal and yes, it’s beautiful, but it does more; it helps to connect visitors to the house they’re visiting and the man who created it. I doubt many other displays will have blueprints and a giant bear taking centre stage!”
In 1930 Frank Green gave Treasurer’s House complete with art, tapestries, and furniture to the National Trust. It was the first time that a property had been given to the charity in this way, an enduring gift for generations to follow ensuring the long-term future of the house, along with other historic buildings Mr. Green owned in the city.
For five weeks only in the period rooms, 1920s design elements will mingle with modern touches to create a timeless Christmas and you’re invited to wander at your own pace, making memories as you explore, and getting an insight into a pocket of history and life for wealthy gentlemen like Mr. Green. Of course, it was on these travels he purchased several of the collection items that fill the house to this day.
This season is the biggest Christmas yet. Many of the decorations are hand made by the talented team of volunteers who decorate the house, and with an 18ft Christmas tree in the Great Hall, this can present its challenges.
Don’t miss the exquisite miniature house made by volunteer Lawrence, and the room of boats created by the 2nd York Scouts, Cubs and Beavers. In other rooms materials typically used to conserve the collection take on a whole new purpose and a card to staff from 1940s is the inspiration for the regular business travel to Wakefield.
Treasurer’s House opens for Christmas from 13 November – 17 December 2023, Saturday – Wednesday, 11am – 4pm (last entry 3.15pm). No booking required and at Christmas, explore at your leisure, tours are paused until spring. Free entry for National Trust members and under-fives. For full details and to plan your visit, head to the website.
