By Gary Symons
TLL Editor in Chief
Families visiting Osterley Park and House in West London will have the chance to step back in time with a new Horrible Histories-inspired event running for over six months.
The initiative is the result of a partnership between Rocket Licensing, which represents the popular Horrible Histories brand in the UK and Ireland, and the National Trust, Europe’s largest conservation charity.
Elizabeth Scoggins, Nonfiction, Brands, and Licensing Publisher at Scholastic UK, said she’s excited to see the children’s history series represented at an historic estate.
“We’re thrilled to see Terry and Martin’s bestselling children’s history series bring its unique take on the Georgian era to a real Georgian estate,” Scoggins said. “Young and old will love the activities, the stories, and, of course, the venue.”
The event, based on the book Gorgeous Georgians by Terry Deary and illustrated by Martin Brown, will launch on February 17, 2025, during the upcoming half-term holiday.
It will run until August 31, offering an interactive trail through the Georgian estate’s house, gardens, and parkland. The experience aims to immerse families in the quirks and scandals of the Georgian era.
Designed to engage visitors of all ages, the trail features ten interactive stations covering a range of historical topics. These include the roles of child rat catchers and chimney sweeps, the dangers of pirates and highwaymen, and unusual Georgian dining and hygiene habits.
Admission to Osterley Park and House includes access to the Horrible Histories trail, and themed merchandise will be available for purchase in the visitor shop throughout the event.
Melissa Satterly, Brand Manager at Rocket Licensing, says the stunning Osterley estate brings Horrible Histories alive in a new and unique way.
“A wonderful building steeped in history with massive family appeal is the perfect venue for an event that delves into the highs and lows of a truly fascinating era,” Satterly said.
The Horrible Histories brand, published by Scholastic, has been a global success for over 30 years, with more than 30 million books sold across 31 countries. The series has inspired stage shows, a BAFTA-winning TV series, a feature film, and various licensed products, including board games and collectible coins.
The Osterley Park experience adds to a growing list of Horrible Histories-themed attractions in the UK, such as a Roman trail at The British Museum, a themed maze at Warwick Castle, and escape rooms in Liverpool and Coventry. The franchise has also expanded into the Horrible Science brand, which has inspired trails at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew and Wakehurst.
For more information on the event, visitors can check the National Trust website or visit Osterley Park and House during the event’s run.