National Trust Cymru

From fine objects and family heirlooms to artistic works old and new, National Trust Cymru looks after many diverse collections, each with fascinating tales to tell. Visit any one of their special places and you’ll discover hidden gems, family stories and exciting new works. Here are a few of our favourites to explore this summer…

The State Bed at Erddig, Wrexham | Until 29th October

The State Bedroom at Erddig is home to many luxury items of its day, including a rare surviving State Bed from 1720 which is decorated with shimmering white Chinese silk curtains and brightly coloured embroidery.

In 1968 the bed was rescued from near dereliction by London’s Victoria & Albert Museum, but a 2019 condition report showed it needed further restoration and so the National Trust began a six-year conservation project to ensure its future.

Using a ground-breaking technique, the silk curtains were repaired by hand and visitors can now see them up-close for the first time. Take your time to notice exquisite details like the elaborate peacocks on the underside of the canopy that would previously only have been seen by the sleeping occupant.

‘Colour with Kaffe’ at Powis Castle and Garden, Welshpool | Until

3rd September

Internationally renowned fine artist and textile designer, Kaffe Fassett, has brought his colourful exhibition to this spectacular medieval castle in Mid Wales. From cushions and quilts to furniture and carpet, the interiors of the 13th Century castle are adorned with his wondrous textiles.

As well as specially selected pieces in each State Room, a one-off display in the Gateway Room shows seven newly created quilts which take direct inspiration from Powis Castle’s collection and architecture.

‘All that was left,’ at Plas Newydd House and Garden, Anglesey | Until 5th November

Between 1898 and 1904 the 5th Marquess of Anglesey (1875-1905) created a place of joy and creativity at Plas Newydd. He renamed the house ‘Anglesey Castle’ and spared no expense in making it his own. However, the world he created was unsustainable. He was eventually declared insolvent, and his belongings were sold in the Great Anglesey Sales of 1904 to pay off his debts.

Developed in partnership with Professor Viv Gardner, an expert on the life of the Marquess, and Alison Neighbour, an artist and scenographer from Newport, the exhibition ‘All that was left’, looks at the impact of the Great Anglesey Sales and invites us to consider what we value. n