Spring Gardens, Fashion Exhibition and a new Dressing Room!
Kelmarsh Hall & Gardens are delighted to announce that its 2026 open season will run from Sunday 1st March until Thursday 29th October, welcoming visitors to explore the historic Hall, beautiful gardens and woodland walks throughout spring, summer and early autumn. This year brings exciting new additions, including the opening of a new dressing room within the Hall and a brand-new exhibition, Fashion at Kelmarsh, which celebrates style, society and life at Kelmarsh during the early to mid-20th century.
New Exhibition: Fashion at Kelmarsh
This wonderful new exhibition focuses on Nancy Tree (later Lancaster), a celebrated socialite known for surrounding herself with “lots of unusually nice people”. During her time residing at Kelmarsh Hall, Nancy regularly hosted glamorous parties, lavish ballroom dinners and elegant cocktail parties in the Sunken Garden. The costumes on display reflect the fashion worn by Nancy and her guests during the periods 1928–1933 and 1948–1958, offering a vivid glimpse into the style and social life of the Hall. The fabulous clothes and accessories have been very kindly loaned by the Royal & Derngate in Northampton and are displayed in collaboration with their expert wardrobe department staff.
Nancy’s Dressing Room
Inspired by Nancy Lancaster, Nancy’s Dressing Room is a beautiful new addition to Kelmarsh Hall and Gardens. Featuring archive pieces from Kelmarsh and stunning donations from OKA, the room itself has been lovingly curated by volunteers and the housekeeping team and styled as if Nancy herself had just stepped out – elegant, welcoming, and effortlessly glamorous. Nancy’s Dressing Room and the Fashion at Kelmarsh exhibition can be explored by visitors during the open season as part of the Hall opening.
Gardens, Tearoom & Gift Shop
Visitors can enjoy the gardens throughout the season, with March offering a particularly magical display of spring colour, including daffodils, tulips and the beautiful snake’s head fritillary.
Sweet Pea’s Tearoom will be open throughout the season, serving delicious lunches, homemade cakes and refreshments, while the Kelmarsh gift shop will be stocked with homeware, treats from local suppliers and unique gifts inspired by the estate.
Kelmarsh Hall & Gardens offers a memorable day out combining heritage, horticulture, exhibitions and hospitality, set within the Northamptonshire countryside. For opening days, tickets and further information, please visit www.kelmarsh.com.
