Sugar and Spice, and all things nice

Anuk's Advent Calendar Challenge Day 8 - Smells like Christmas

In 1906 the Edwardian Socialite, Mrs Grenville, purchased Polesden Lacy and transformed it into the perfect setting for her lavish parties where she entertained royalty, politicians and the best of Edwardian society. Today the National Trust opened her house to give us the opportunity to experience the sights, sound and smells of Christmas 1912.

A 16ft tree stands in the main hall, at the start of the visit. Many people like a traditional tree at Christmas as a perfect foil to the tinsel and glitter of the the lights and decoration, they are also supposed to give of a nice scent from the pine needles - though I couldn't smell anything but that deep warm spicy smell of mulled wine. Sure enough, heading into the dining room and on into the servery I found an elegant Edwardian lady serving the aforesaid drink to the visitors. Moving on round the house, every room had a beautifully decorated tree, and a waft of spices.

After a relaxing walk in the fresh air enjoying the bright sun and brilliant blue skies, I ended my visit end by browsing the shop. Here the senses were well and truly bombarded with the spicy perfumes and bouquets so invocative of Christmas.

All in all, a good day.