Hopwood Hall Estate open day

Date published: 22 June 2022

The Hopwood Hall Estate open day to celebrate the kick-off of summer and the publication of Hopwood DePree’s new book ‘Downton Shabby’ took place on Saturday 18 June.

The day was divided into two sessions and was full to capacity with approximately 200 people attending throughout the day. Many had bought beautiful picnics and Hopwood Hall provided plenty of tea, coffee and cake. 

The dedicated volunteers helped make everyone welcome and were able to show visitors around the beautiful reclaimed gardens as well as into the workshop to showcase the art of making and painting stained glass windows.

Hopwood DePree signed copies of his book and spoke with attendees, and a new piece of artwork of Hopwood Hall by local artist Ros Liddle was unveiled.

Guests were mainly local but one couple – who have Hopwood family connections - had travelled from Dorset, and another group from as far away as New York.

Over the last couple of weeks, 77 new members have signed up as ‘Hopwood Foundation Friends’ and the numbers are still rising. Many new requests continue to come in from people who want to help with the effort.

Hopwood said: "I am absolutely overjoyed by the enthusiasm and warmth of those who attended and want to extend my thanks to everyone who came along and all who helped to make this a truly magical day.

"It has given me even more courage and belief that Hopwood Hall Estate will be restored in all its glory for the local community to enjoy."

To join the Friends group visit: https://hopwoodxiv.com/hopwood-hall-estate/#getinvolved

More summer tours and workshops will be announced soon at: https://hopwoodxiv.com/tours-and-events/