Experience life in Victorian domestic service in our original Victorian kitchens.
This immersive, drama-based workshop is led by two costumed characters – a Victorian kitchen maid and a Housekeeper or Butler. Pupils will be able to dress in aprons, mob caps and waistcoats, and to role-play as maids and footmen, working alongside our Victorian servants. They will experience the hierarchy and etiquette of working in a household that was once owned by the wealthy and illustrious Rothschild family.
Duties will include pounding sugar and spices with a pestle and mortar, scrubbing the floors, beating carpets, learning how to serve dinner, and pretending to do the ironing. Well-mannered children may be interviewed by the Housekeeper or Butler for a permanent position in the household!
Below Stairs is a very popular workshop – the combination of drama, hands-on activities and unique surroundings provides an unforgettable learning experience.
Please note:
We also offer a workshop which focuses on Christmas Below Stairs, which is available to book during November and December.
To find out more about this festive session please
Learning Objectives
To experience working life as a Victorian domestic servant and to discover the local and national importance of the Rothschild family who once owned the Gunnersbury estate.
History
English
