Beaulieu’s Palace House will showcase the story of pantomime through a series of soundscapes and projections throughout the stately rooms over the Christmas period.
Based in Hampshire, Beaulieu will host A Palace House Christmas – a magical journey through the story of pantomime from 29th November to 4th January 2026, excluding Christmas day.
The display, created by Charlotte Lloyd Webber and Adrian Lillie at CLW Event Design, will tell the story of pantomime through a series of theatrical installations around the stately rooms.
Lord Montagu said: “Pantomime has become a part of Christmas at Palace House in recent years and we are delighted that Charlotte Lloyd Webber and her team will be telling that story through the installations.”
Highlights of the pantomine exhibition
Masked mannequins will greet visitors at the entrance, with a banquet of sugary treats and jewel-themed glassware laid out in the dining hall. A travelling cart will be packed with props, costumes and musical instruments in the Fountain Courtyard.
A life-size Pollock paper theatre set will be constructed around the fireplace in the Lower Drawing Room, featuring artwork by Beaulieu’s Lady Montagu, whilst weird and wonderful pantomime animals will be on display in the Portrait Gallery, including a pantomime horse.
The house’s grand staircase will be bedecked in lavish, colourful decorations, with visitors able to climb the staircase to see the ‘backstage dressing rooms’ filled with feathers, flowers and gowns. The Upper Drawing Home will feature a 14ft pantomime dame and mirrored catwalk of mannequins depicting young male protagonists, traditionally played by a young actress in boy’s clothes.
The installation will be completed with a number of Christmas trees, including the 20ft centrepiece dressed in the Harlequin theme and a ‘shocking’ pink faux tree with jewelled fruits and gemstone-inspired decorations.
Visiting Beaulieu and group bookings
Admission to A Palace House Christmas – a magical journey through the story of pantomime is included with tickets to Beaulieu, which also gets you entry to the National Motor Museum, We Had One Of Those exhibition, 13th century Beaulieu Abbey, the Secret Army exhibition, unlimited rides on the tree-top monorail, as well as its grounds and gardens.
Groups of 15 or more can get discounted day admission, a range of guided tours, group dining offers and free coach parking. Coach drivers will also receive free admission.
Beaulieu will be offering a festive afternoon tea in the historic abbey Domus. Groups can enjoy a stand of sandwiches, homemade cakes and scones served at their table, with a cup of tea or coffee and the option of a glass of Prosecco.
For more information about visiting Beaulieu, go to www.beaulieu.co.uk.
