A Victorian Cornish Christmas
Step into a Victorian Cornish Christmas on the 14th and 15th of December at The Story of Emily, where our historic Rectory will be adorned with festive décor, twinkling candlelight, and the scents of pine and spices. Capture special moments in our photo studio dressed in authentic Victorian costumes, warm up by the firepits in the courtyard with festive treats and sing along with carollers under our marquee. Enjoy classical readings, engage with our knowledgeable hosts, and immerse yourself in the fascinating stories of Emily Hobhouse’s legacy.
Children will delight in cookie decorating and writing letters to Lowen the mischievous piskie, while adults can craft a traditional Cornish Kissing Bunch in our workshop. Please select and book your activities in advance to secure your place.
Note that the Rectory features stairs and is not wheelchair accessible. For booking changes or cancellations, please email us at hello@thestoryofemily.com.
Join us for a celebration brimming with warmth, wonder, and timeless traditions.
Talk on victorian clothing and explore the rectory
book your sessions below
classical readings and
explore the rectory
book your sessions below
cornish kissing bunch workshop (£40)
book your sessions below
Carol singing performance
book your sessions below
explore the rectory
book your sessions below
NO BOOKING REQUIRED
SAT 14TH AND SUN 15TH
LETTERS TO LOWEN
In days past, Father Christmas was known as St. Nicholas. Instead of elves, he was helped by all sorts of magical creatures. Here in St Ive, his cheerful helper was Lowen the mischievous piskie, who loved delivering children’s letters to St. Nicholas and spreading playful festive cheer.
Children can colour in a picture, write a heartfelt letter by hand, or even use a vintage typewriter to share with Lowen what makes Christmas special to them. While you’re here, help solve a festive mystery: Lowen once played a prank on the Hobhouse girls, hiding their golden walnut Christmas ornaments around the garden, but now he’s forgotten where they are! Can you help find them?
SAT 14TH AND SUN 15TH
COOKIE DECORATING
For just £2, children can decorate two handmade cookies from The Story of Emily Restaurant using colourful piping bags and a variety of sprinkles to share. Set up in our cheerful marquee next to the Rectory, it’s the perfect spot to get creative and make sweet holiday memories.
