I visited Dumfries House at Christmas and was left speechless by one thing
Dumfries House is the headquarters of The King's Foundation, located in Ayrshire, Scotland.
Christmas has arrived at Dumfries House, with glittering decorations, over a dozen Christmas trees and festive garlands strung throughout the 18th-century mansion, transforming it into a magical winter wonderland. Visitors will be able to view the decorations at Christmas events, including candlelit tours, and festive feasts and banquets - and I got a sneak preview this week.
A large Christmas tree awaits visitors in the hallway, with two traditional nutcrackers framing either side of the tree. This created a grand, welcoming feel, and the two figures appear to be guarding the impressive tree. There are 14 other trees throughout the rest of the house, including large wreaths hung in the library and real candles lit on the spectacular pink Murano glass chandelier in the Pink Drawing Room.
I was overawed by the impressive attention to detail and warm, cosy feeling that the traditional decorations ignited. The whole effect was truly stunning, and though I've visited numerous royal homes over the years, none were quite as festive as this.
A general view of Dumfries House, which is part of The King's Foundation near Cumnock, Ayrshire. The Christmas decorations have gone up inside, giving it a very festive feel!
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House steward Michael Russell in the entrance hall as the finishing touches are made to Christmas decorations at Dumfries House. You can see the two large nutcrackers either side of the tree.
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The Christmas tree is beautifully decorated with the traditional colours of red and gold and twinkling lights. Red bows, candy canes and small parcels also hang on the tree.
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House steward Stuart Banks in the Tapestry room as the finishing touches are made to Christmas decorations. The centre of the table is intricately decorated, with silver candelabras lit in the middle. You can also see a festive garland hanging over the fireplace.
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A large Christmas tree sits on top of the grand piano in the impressive tapestry room. It takes about a week to fully decorate Dumfries House.
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