Crown and Country: Grimsthorpe Castle Coronation Exhibition

An exhibition showcasing exceptional items of coronation costume and furnishings, from Grimsthorpe’s historic collection, to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III.

This exhibition brings together a carefully curated selection of coronation pieces, which have been displayed along with associated images and portraits. From seventeenth-century ceremonies to the crowning of Elizabeth II in 1953, this exhibition will follow the key role of the Willoughby de Eresby family through 400 years of English coronations, by exploring themes of power, loyalty, lineage, and memory.

The items on display will be brought to life by associated paintings, prints and photographs, revealing their original context in the dazzling theatrical pageant of the coronation ceremony.

Amongst the exceptional objects on display will be an exact replica of the lavish costume worn by George IV at his coronation in 1821, as well as his throne and canopy, with the highlight of the exhibition being the Norman Hartnell dress and headdress worn by Lady Jane Heathcote-Drummond-Willoughby as Maid of Honour to Elizabeth II in 1953.