Dulwich mansion built in 1811 hosts festival weekend to launch its reopening

Kingswood House, an historic Victorian mansion in South Dulwich, is reopening to the public after renovation.

The mansion, which was built in 1811, has been transformed into a community hub for creative arts.

The reopening will be launched as part of a free festival weekend between Friday, April 7 and Sunday, April 9 at Kingswood House in Seeley Drive, Southwark.

The weekend celebrations will include a family fun day with live music, a steel pan band, street food and Easter activities on the Saturday.

On the Sunday, Kingswood House will host a heritage day to deep dive into its history with talks and tours.

Jack Hartshorn, c0-founder and general manager of Kingswood Arts and the driving force behind the restoration project, said: “We are so excited and privileged to be given the opportunity to reopen the doors of this amazing, historic building.

“Our vision is to create a dynamic space that fosters creativity and provides a platform for local artists to showcase their work and connect with each other and the wider community.”

After the reopening, on April 17, Kingswood Arts will launch its programme of free youth activities including dance classes, art clubs, childrens bookstart sessions and holiday clubs.

Towards the end of May, Kingswood House will partake in Dulwich Festival and host a carnival parade with Samba Drumming, Costumes and Dance.

Throughout the year, it will also serve as a venue for weddings and private events, with all profits injected straight back into nurturing the creativity of the local community and continued restoration and upkeep of the mansion building.

For tickets for the reopening of Kingswood House visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/kingswood-arts-launch-festival-tickets-580332308557

Pictured Top: Kingswood House, Dulwich (Picture: Kingswood Arts)