Sunday 23 June saw the mansion step back in time with characters in period costume and lots of fun activities for all the family.

‘A Step in Time’, an event forming part of the Story of London Festival attracted over 300 visitors from far and wide and from all age groups.

Visitors were greeted by Victorian characters, and many people commented on how much they “enjoyed talking with Mrs Ingleby”, a former owner and resident of the mansion. One visitor said “The Lady of the mansion and her servant were very interesting. It made the mansion come alive!”

Children were treated to sessions of cake decorating in the recently restored Victorian kitchen, helped by our Victorian cooks. In the Family Room, younger visitors created their own masterpieces for the Children’s Gallery and also got in to the spirit of things by dressing up in period costumes.

There was also the chance to learn more about the history of Valentines Mansion and Park with objects, maps and papers from Redbridge Museum and Local Studies and Archives on display as well as the opportunity to borrow books about local history from Redbridge libraries.

Valentines Mansion runs an exciting events calendar throughout the year, with special events, talks and tours and many activities for children and families. Don’t miss the next free Family Sunday on 5 July - ‘The Victorian Kitchen’ where children will once again have the chance to meet characters in costume and decorate a biscuit to take home.

For a full list of all events taking place at Valentines Mansion, visit the ‘What’s on’ page.