Christmas at Lyme Park, Cheshire

For the past two years, Lyme Park in Cheshire has invited the talented artist Sophie Tyrrell to design their annual Christmas event at the hall. Sophie’s imaginative concept is titled Animal Crackers, which features a captivating menagerie of extraordinary and colourful creatures crafted from papier-mâché, various fabrics, and even vintage clothing. The festive display transports visitors into a whimsical world where these splendid and unusual animals can be found engaging in a variety of fun activities.

In the grand dining room, various birds appear to be delighting in a sumptuous banquet, while in the elegant saloon, sheep are captured mid-motion as they glide across a sparkling ice rink. Others have found a peaceful moment to rest and take a nap in one of Lyme’s charming bedrooms, adding an extra touch of warmth and charm to the experience.

It was a true pleasure to be invited back once again to photograph this year’s event, capturing the magic of Sophie’s creations in all their whimsical glory. You can view some of the images from the event below. The event is open every day up until Christmas at the National Trust's Lyme Park near Disley, offering visitors a chance to enjoy this unique, festive display in a truly enchanting setting. If you’re in the area, it’s well worth a visit to experience this delightful fusion of art and imagination set in a beautiful stately home.