First Look: Step Inside Harewood’s Bridgerton-Inspired Christmas

Christmas at Harewood is always special – but this year, the stately home has truly outdone itself. Working with TV interior designer Siobhan Murphy, Harewood House has transformed into a Regency dreamscape for its new festive experience, A Glittering Invitation: Harewood’s Grand Christmas Ball.

Inspired by the elegance and drama of Netflix’s Bridgerton, the grand halls are brimming with sparkle, opulence, and a sense of festive theatre that would make Lady Whistledown proud.

And while every room has its own magic, our favourite? The State Dining Room, a lavish creation inspired by Marie Antoinette – complete with bejewelled swans, macaron trees, and iced cakes fit for royalty.

Highlights to look out for

A “feast for the senses” — Siobhan’s signature maximalist style runs through the entire house, from the 18ft ombré Christmas tree made of 700 second-hand ballerina tutus to 300 recycled pointe shoes from the English National Ballet turned into mini rotating trees.

Immersive projections — Created with digital artist Tom Le Bon and BOSUN Studio, guests can expect dancing musical notes, whispered gossip, and even fireworks over Almscliffe Cragg.

A Bridgerton-inspired soundtrack — Classical music fills the Music Room, where Christmas trees sparkle with gold instruments and bright feathers.

Sustainably stunning décor — Over 10,000 handcrafted decorations made from second-hand finds – a testament to Harewood’s commitment to creativity and reuse.

The Spanish Library — A glimpse into the diary of the Ball’s mysterious host, whose thoughts are projected in real time across the walls.

The Servants’ Hall — A glittering afterparty scene for Harewood’s unseen staff, complete with vintage paper chains and trees made of copper pans and brass jugs.

Miniature magic for families — A new free trail features tiny, detailed Christmas scenes by nine miniaturist artists, including 13-year-old Yorkshire talent Arabella Duffy and internationally exhibited Michael Robbins.

The Showstopper: The Marie Antoinette Dining Room

The State Dining Room is a jaw-dropping tribute to 18th-century decadence. Inspired by a festive feast held by Marie Antoinette, it’s filled with pastel tones, shimmering jewels, and desserts that look almost too good to eat.

Siobhan Murphy has collaborated with Great British Bake Off star Helena Garcia to create extravagant centrepieces, while the table itself showcases Siobhan’s exclusive tableware collection for Harewood, available to buy in the Christmas Shop.

It’s indulgence, fantasy, and artistry all rolled into one sparkling scene.

Zoë Hughes, Head of Public Programme at Harewood, said:

“There’s nothing quite like Christmas at Harewood, and this year’s celebrations will be our most spectacular yet. Siobhan Murphy’s dazzling, maximalist designs will reimagine the House in true Regency style, while Tom Le Bon’s vibrant light projections will elevate the experience even further, creating showstopping moments, unexpected surprises, and memories to treasure long after the festive season ends.”

Siobhan Murphy added:

“This Christmas at Harewood is a true feast for the senses. Every room tells a story – from twinkling tutus to decadent desserts – and we’ve created it all with sustainability in mind, repurposing thousands of beautiful items to give them a new life in the most magical way possible.”

Key Facts

• Event: A Glittering Invitation: Harewood’s Grand Christmas Ball
• Dates: Saturday 8 November 2025 – Sunday 4 January 2026
• Location: Harewood House, near Leeds
• Tickets: harewood.org/christmas
• Created by: Harewood House Trust in collaboration with Siobhan Murphy, Tom Le Bon, BOSUN Studio, and DOME (Official Christmas Fragrance Partner).

This year’s Christmas at Harewood is set to be the must-see festive event in Yorkshire — a shimmering, multi-sensory celebration that blends historic grandeur with a bold, modern imagination.