Gorgeous Georgians trail at Osterley
- Published:
- 06 December 2023
This February Half Term 2025, embark on a fun-filled journey through history with our Gorgeous Georgians Trail inspired by the Horrible Histories series. From elaborate wigs to lavish fashion, and daring tales of pirates and highwaymen, you’ll explore the wild world of the Georgians at Osterley Park and House.
Before your visit
- The trail runs from 17 February – 31 August 2025. Gardens open from 10am-4pm and the house from 11am – 3pm Wednesday to Sunday. Please note opening hours are subject to change seasonally.
- Normal property admission price applies (free for National Trust members).
- Toilets and baby changing facilities available.
- Trail is widely accessible, please be aware preserve corps area can be uneven in places. Read more about accessibility here.
- Trail is buggy friendly, please use the buggy park to place buggies before entering the house.
- The Stables Café located in the Tudor Courtyard with plenty of delicious food, has an indoor and outdoor seating area.
- If you or your children are captivated by the history of Georgian life and want to read more, there will be an opportunity to purchase the Horrible History book – Gorgeous Georgians in the Stables shop.
- Dogs welcome in some areas of the trail, click here to learn about the canine code for your furry friends.
- There is overflow car park availability if the main car park is full on arrival.
About the trail
Written by Terry Deary, the master of making history fun, ‘Gorgeous Georgians’ is one of the bestselling children’s book in the Horrible Histories series. Retelling a number of hair-raising, gruesome and hilarious stories about Georgian life from what the Georgians used squashed fisheyes for to the effects of their toxic makeup, this trail is inspired by the book that helps children and adults grasp history in an entertaining way.
As you follow the trail through the gardens, discover what unusual make up hacks Georgians used and even try on their wacky enormous wigs and hats as you play dress up in the Temple of Pan. Spin the ‘Wheel of Misfortune’ on your journey through the Long Walk and learn what ill-fated job you might been forced to work as child in Georgian England. Prepare for an ambush launched by Highwayman hiding within the trees and see if you can spot them all. Rumour has it, near the Garden Lake, there might be some Pirates awaiting your arrival.
What to expect
Historical Highlights: Wander through Osterley’s grand rooms and gardens, uncovering real-life events, fascinating facts and exciting stories from the Georgian era, including thrilling tales of notorious highwaymen like Dick Turpin and fearsome pirates who once ruled the seas.
Interactive Activities: Dress up as a Georgian aristocrat, solve puzzles, and take part in creative challenges that explore Georgian fashion, culture, and the various lives of Georgians from the 18th century.
Experience the seasonal beauty of Osterley: Witness the beauty of nature all around Osterley transform into the different seasons as the Gorgeous Georgians trail takes its course through winter, spring and summer!
Georgia Matthews, Visitor Operations and Experience Manager at Osterley Park and House says: “We are excited to be the first ever National Trust property to partner with Horrible Histories for a family friendly trail for all ages alike who have experienced the humour, wonder and great insightful storytelling of history worldwide. Osterley being a Georgian country estate gives us the great privilege and opportunity to share stories of Georgians from the 18th century and so we invite you to join us on this interactive showcase of Georgian history!”