Notes of Christmas

There's something about Christmas Carols that whisk me back in time to school assembly at primary school when I'd be hoping to get the important task of dinging the triangle or shaking the tambourine.

That's the first thought that popped into my head as I heard the organ playing in the Chapel as a nostalgic backdrop to the 'Notes of Christmas' decorative theme at Leeds Castle.

'We Three Kings of Orient Are...' filled the Queen's Room in the Gloriette with a beautifully lit paper sculpture featuring Henry VIII completing the scene. Each room was set to a different carol theme (see extra pics) making for an enchanting display of seasonal sights and sounds.

The Entrance Hall features this huge Norwegian fir tree decorated with musical notes, sparkly gold decorations, huge boubles and topped with a beautiful crown created by the talented Castle florist. Here's a video of it being set up.

Outside at the Christmas market a brass band played Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer which stuck in my head for the rest of the day!

Two very happy looking reindeers visiting from the North Pole sat in a comfy stable full of straw and the Falconry team have a temporary aviary with barn owls to delight children and adults alike.

The atmosphere was most festive and after a hot mulled wine I spent a few more pennies than intended on Christmas gift shopping!