About the Exhibition

The exhibition will showcase costumes from BBC’s historical drama ‘Gentleman Jack’. Written by Sally Wainwright, the series tells the story of Anne Lister (1791 – 1840) of Shibden Hall and of her relationships with both family, in business and local landowner Ann Walker (1803-1853). Designed by Tom Pye and created by Cosprop Ltd, the costumes can be viewed throughout Plas Newydd Historic House, in the first exhibition of costume ever to be seen inside the house.

Anne Lister and the Ladies of Llangollen

In 1780, Lady Eleanor Butler and Miss Sarah Ponsonby, known as ‘The Ladies of Llangollen’ removed themselves from the aristocratic life laid out for them to set up home together at Plas Newydd. Referring to each other as ‘beloved’ they spent over 50 years devoted to each other, while converting their home into a Gothicised romantic retreat, and the gardens into a haven of practical peace and tranquillity. They fascinated their contemporaries and became celebrated for their lifestyle, welcoming many famous people of the period to their home.

‘’I am interested about these 2 ladies very much. There is something in their story and in all I have heard about them here that… makes a deep impression’’.
Anne Lister, July 1822

One of the visitors to Plas Newydd was Anne Lister (Gentleman Jack), a landowner, business woman, adventurous traveller and lesbian. Like the Ladies, Anne did not conform to society’s expectation of a woman at the time and was greatly inspired by the life and home they had created together.

Visiting

The exhibition will be installed for viewing at Plas Newydd Historic House and Gardens, from 1 April - 1 October 2023. Plas Newydd is open to the public every day from 10am - 4pm throughout the 2023 season.

The costume exhibition is included with entry to Plas Newydd Historic House.

Plas Newydd, Llangollen

For more information, please e-mail: plasnewydd@denbighshire.gov.uk

County Voice: May 2023

Plas Newydd, Llangollen: Gentleman Jack Costume Exhibit