Visitors will discover what Victorians really thought about motherhood and the actualities of birth and child rearing. Some saw motherhood as essential for female health; others saw it as a saintly vocation. However this was an age where family planning was rudimentary, large families were the norm and infant mortality high.
The wealthy Victorian lady was luckier than most mothers, able to afford physicians, a monthly nurse, a ‘man midwife’ a wet nurse, a nanny and governess amongst the other servants to take care of the child as it grew up. Visitors will be able to go back in time to the 1860’s to eavesdrop on a visit by the monthly nurse to an expectant mother. The nurse will be giving advice on how to prepare for the birth, whilst lacing her into a maternity corset!
The 18th /19th century mother was also a wife and the household manager. Visitors will hear instructions in domestic life according to Castle Howard’s own ‘Domestic Goddess’ Lady Isabella 4th Countess. Learn about the sometimes painful and often toiling beauty regimes of this era. Meet the historical mothers from Castle Howard’s past and hear first hand what life what like for them.
In the gardens visitors can enjoy one of the outdoor tours and admire the thousands of golden daffodils that cover the extensive parklands. Castle Howard is the perfect special place to spoil your mother and show her just how special she is.
The gift shops offer the perfect present for mother’s day and the cafes provide delicious lunches to treat your mum. The recently re-furbished Castle Howard Plant Centre stocks Estate-grown items allowing visitors to take home a piece of Castle Howard for their own or their mum’s own back garden.
Costumed characters will give performances at 11.30am, 12.30pm, 1.15pm and 2pm.
Normal admission rates for House & Grounds Inclusive are as follows: £9.50 for Adults, £8.50 for seniors/students and £6.50 for children. Family tickets are also available from £25.50. For more information please call 01653 648333 or visit the Castle Howard website at www.castlehoward.co.uk
