Christmas Arch

I remember walking through the empty rooms at Leeds Castle in darkness many times in the past (usually seeing out a film crew after a shoot). It always feels like a home rather than a museum as if you can feel the presence of its former owners.

The heating was ticking over to keep the painting and objects at optimal temperature and for the few staff with offices in the building. But it felt so sad with no visitors and no Christmas trees, floral displays or decorations except for the beautiful garland around the door. It is a Christmas arch designed by Louise Roots Floristry (formerly the Castle florist now a freelance wedding florist).

It was nice to see my Heritage Watch colleagues virtually and quite comical for two of us hosting the meeting to sit distanced around the huge boardroom table. I missed the mince pies we should have been enjoying at Canterbury Cathedral (the planned venue for our end of year meeting before covid).

I am so proud of the efforts across Kent to keep our heritage assets safe albeit those who have kept jobs have double the workload. Keeping everything crossed Heritage Tourism can start to recover in 2021.

Had a giggle that Hever Castle has a click and collect parcel ‘shoot’ from the drawbridge!?! Keep you posted on this - I’ve asked for video evidence!