Step into the Past with Bridgerton Bliss: A Regency Afternoon of tea, tunes and twirls at Houghton Lodge Gardens

Step into the Past with Bridgerton Bliss: A Regency Afternoon of tea, tunes and twirls at Houghton Lodge Gardens

This year, we are delighted to celebrate an incredible 230-year milestone at Houghton Lodge Gardens. To mark this momentous occasion, we are stepping back in time to the Regency era, the period that our charming house and gardens call their own. We cordially invite you to immerse yourself in the charm and elegance of Regency England at our inaugural event, Bridgerton Bliss: A Regency Afternoon of tea tunes and twirls on 6 August from 12:30 pm to 5:00 pm.

The Grand Spectacle

Promising an afternoon filled with dance, music, and quintessentially English pastimes, this event aims to transport you to a bygone era. Our collaboration with the esteemed Hampshire Regency Dancers ensures an authentic experience, offering the chance to not just observe, but also participate in the rhythmic elegance of the era.

As you stroll beside the tranquil River Test, the soothing tunes of the Bossard Quartet will serenade you with live Bridgerton-style Regency music, adding to the enchanting atmosphere.

A Gastronomic Delight

To complete the Regency experience, we have entrusted the culinary aspect of the day to our trusted partners, Bloom Bloom. Known for running the popular tearoom in the Orangery, they will be serving a delightful array of (pre-booked) afternoon tea and pre-ordered picnics, allowing you to dine in true Regency style.

For this day only, visitors can also bring their own picnics to enjoy alongside the River Test whilst the delighting in the Regency atmosphere.

The Tradition of Promenading

As part of our celebrations, we invite you to engage in the time-honoured tradition of ‘promenading’ within our walled garden and lawns. Emulate the graceful strides of literary icon Jane Austen and her contemporaries while exploring our grounds.

A specially curated Regency Trail around the garden will introduce you to plants of Regency origins.

And for those who fancy it, donning a Regency costume is encouraged but not mandatory!

As Sophie Busk, the proud owner and resident of Houghton Lodge, explains, “We eagerly anticipate welcoming new visitors and sharing our rich Regency heritage with them. Our 230th anniversary is the perfect occasion to celebrate and showcase our stunning house and gardens, with exciting activities and delectable Regency-style food.”

TICKET OPTIONS

  • Afternoon Tea in the Orangery Served at 1 pm (£32.00 per person or £38.00 per person to include a glass of Prosecco)

Afternoon tea includes a selection of sandwiches: Rare roast beef with horseradish Fresh Wiltshire ham with mustard Free range egg mayonnaise, Local mature cheddar cheese with spiced apple & pear chutney, Smoked salmon and cream cheese with dill, Freshly baked Plain / fruit scones served with clotted cream and jam Petite fours / homemade cakes. All served to you in the orangery with fresh juice & water. Includes garden admission.

  • Cream Tea in a Box – Collect from 1 pm in the tearoom to enjoy at the riverside picnic. Cost £20.00 per person. Includes garden admission.

  • Picnic Box – Includes finger sandwiches and a slice of cake & some crisps. Collect from 1 pm in the tearoom to enjoy at the riverside picnic. Cost £25.00 per person. Includes garden admission.

  • Event and Garden admission only £11.50 Adult or £5.00 child