More than 200 people took the opportunity to look inside one of Wellington’s historic homes when Tone Dale House opened its doors for a Heritage Open Day.
The event proved far more popular than organisers Ben and Victoria Fox had anticipated, with only 30 or 40 visitors originally expected.
Tone Dale House was the residence of Thomas Fox, woollen merchant and founder of Fox Bros & Co Ltd and Fox, Fowler & Co Bank, and visitors were able to learn more about the history and heritage of the house.
Ben and Victoria said they were delighted with the success of the day and thanked everyone who came along and helped to make it such a worthwhile event.
Special thanks went to Louise Winborn for her work in organising and promoting the event, as well as her efforts on the day.
They also thanked fellow volunteers Louise Perrin, Julian Fox, Colin Spackman, Mike Menhenitt and Meriel Thurstan for their invaluable support.
Thanks were also extended to colleagues at The Big House Co, particularly the housekeeping and maintenance teams, who helped prepare the house and gardens for the event between large group-stay bookings.
Ben and Victoria also expressed their appreciation to the local media, Wellington Museum and everyone who helped promote the event.
Nearby Braziers also found themselves dealing with an unexpected influx of customers during the day, with visitors enjoying coffee and cakes.
Following the success of the Heritage Open Day, Ben and Victoria hope to welcome visitors back again next year.
They are also considering holding an additional in-house heritage event during the February half-term, with further details to be announced nearer the time through local and social media.
Anyone who was unable to pick up a Tone Dale House guide booklet on the day can obtain one from Wellington Museum.
