Visionary Victorian Knightshayes architect brought to life in illuminated walking theatre

This weekend an illuminated play will bring the architect of Knightshayes, William Burges, to life on an evening walk around the formal gardens.

Over three evenings from 11-13 November, the play will transport audiences into the renowned architect’s imagination, bringing his influences to life and transforming the gardens at Knightshayes into an enthralling dreamscape.

Working with Pocketwatch Theatre, the secrets of the architecture of the grand Gothic Revival at Knightshayes will unfold as the Victorian visionary returns from the past and observes how his work has stood the test of time.

Burges isn’t alone on this journey and the show encompasses a host of fantastical characters that lead Burges and the audience to the conclusion that missing tower of Knightshayes must be built and the past and present reconnected.

Audiences will experience an evening that is part-theatre, part-illuminated trail and will be drawn into the madcap world of Burges through a curious mix of performance, puppetry and toffee apples.

The Electric William Burges Odyssey is a 60 minute bespoke show created for Knightshayes and has been designed for all ages but especially for families with children 8+.

Theatre goers will need a torch and some warm clothing to enjoy the show. Tickets are on sale now: The Electric William Burges Odyssey | National Trust

With Christmas just round the corner, the house at Knightshayes will be open at weekends during December dressed with traditional Victorian decorations and Christmas tree.

Knightshayes will also be showcasing a range of Christmas traditions, ranging from carols to ghost stories, across its festively decorated rooms, and Father Christmas will return with bookings now open for families to meet the green-suited man himself.

A brand-new winter trail will also arrive as Percy the Park Keeper's takes young visitors on a trail around the grounds. The trail runs from 4 December to 3 January (excluding 24, 25 and 26 December), and families are invited to help Percy and his animal friends give nature a helping hand before stopping in the Stables Café for some festive food. 

The house is open for weekends in December and in the week from 20 December to 31 December (closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day).