I never thought that Downton Abbey or Poldark would ever come to my neck of the woods – however, an exhibition going on until the end of August has proved me wrong!
Costumes (ok, only 2 from Poldark, but what the heck!) from the aforementioned Poldark and Downton Abbey are on show until the end of the month alongside other productions such as Mr Selfridge, The Crimson Field, Wolf Hall and (1) from The Hollow Crown, at the gloriously beautiful Worcester Cathedral.
There is an entry fee of £6.50, and a little booklet costs £2.
I have to say that seeing the costumes up close, front and back, has made me realise how much hard work goes into them. The research that goes into these outfits is astounding. Firstly making the pattern itself, then sourcing the authentic materials, threads, beading etc, then actually going on to make them must take an age.
You know that you know this, but until you actually see them in front of you, you don’t really appreciate the pains the costume departments have gone to to produce truly accurate costumes for the production.
The delicate beadwork and stitching, especially on the Downton dresses is truly gorgeous…I have trouble sewing on a button!
So, if you have an hour or so, and are in the Worcester area, check out the Costume Exhibition, it’s in the Chapter House of the cathedral. And whilst you’re there, check out the cathedral itself, it is a stunning, soul soothing place to discover!
I hope you enjoy this selection of pictures, these are but a few of many!
Anne Boleyn – Wolf Hall
Henry VIII – Wolf Hall
Bathsheba Everdeen – Far From The Madding Crowd
Lady Edith Crawley – Downton Abbey
As above, close up
Lady Grantham (Cora) – Downton Abbey
As above, close up
Lady Violet Crawley – Downton Abbey
As above, close up
Lady Edith Crawley – Downton Abbey
As above, back of gown 
Lady Sybil Crawley – Downton Abbey
As above, from left
Costume above, as seen in scene
Demelza – Poldark
Captain Ross Poldark – Poldark