Horn Fair at Charlton House

Built during the reign of James I, Charlton House is the finest and best preserved Jacobean Mansion in London. It illustrates a phase in the evolution of the English country house, linking the sprawling style of the Tudor age with the compact geometrical character associated with Inigo Jones. The original oak staircase remains, as do many fireplaces and plasterwork ceilings.

The Horn Fair, which began during the reign of King Henry III, traditionally takes place on October 18th in celebration of the Feast of St Lukes. The house, will celebrate the day by opening their doors to allow the public free entry as well as providing entertainment for the whole family.

History buffs can discover the story of the house and its ornate décor under the expert guidance of Master craftsmen Philip Gaches and his team, meet master stonemasons and try your skills at the crafts that build Charlton House. Our young visitors are invited on an architectural treasure hunt, with the opportunity to create their own one of a kind gargoyle to take home and keep.

Activities include:

Historic Plaster with Philip Gaches
Discover how our magnificent ornate ceilings were constructed under the guidance of Master craftsman Philip his team

Plaster Groteques
An architectural treasure hunt. Find all of the horrid faces hidden around the house and create your own grotesque to take home

Master Masons in Practice
Demonstrations of traditional stone masonary. Watch and have a go!

Horn Talks
You've heard of TED Talks? Drop in to hear our short but inspriational talks on a broad range of topics, including architecture and beepkeeping.

Postcards - Scenes of the Past
Our exciting new exhibition will be open in the Long Gallery with Curator Isabel Benevides on hand to answer any questions

Travelling Trunks
Take a journey into the past with our mini exhibitions

Music, Mead and Munchies
Pop into the Old Library where there will be:

London Glider Cider
Hopstuff Brewery beer
Gosnells Mead

And various food stalls!

Fun for all the family..... face painting, tile printing and much more

There will also be wide selection of food and drink available on the day.