‘Tis the season to be jolly, but for TV presenter Kirstie Allsop, filming her festive show in the very real setting of Dumfries House proved to be an emotional affair.
The broadcaster, which brought its new series of Handmade Christmas to the 18th century mansion in Cumnock, Ayrshire, earlier this year, admitted it was a bittersweet experience after his father, Lord Hindlip, died in the summer aged 83 years.
The 53-year-old said: “My father died in June, he was a big fan of the King and knew the history of Dumfries House.”
‘It was very difficult being there and not being able to call him and ask him about the furniture and all that kind of stuff.
“I was staying at Dumfries House Hotel and the decoration was done by Annabel Elliot, who is the queen’s sister and was a great friend of my father.”
He added that it had been a “joy and a privilege” to stay in this “magical” place, which is part of the King’s Foundation.
The star of multiple property shows hosted a clever competition judged by Scottish clothing manufacturer Patrick Grant, of Great British Sewing Bee fame.
From decorating the tree with broadcaster Kirsty Wark to handmade baskets and wreaths, she has raised support for crafts in series which first aired in 2014.
Kirstie Allsopp filmed this year’s Christmas shows at Dumfries House in Ayrshire, Scotland.
Allsopp was joined by celebrity guests including Kirsty Wark to help judge the festive crafts.
The series was filmed at King Charles’ 18th-century Scottish mansion, Dumfries House.
Allsop tries out all kinds of crafts while delving into British Christmas traditions.
But the decision to film in Scotland was a departure from the norm, with the presenter posting a series of photos from the set earlier this year saying: “Some glimpses of @DumfriesHouse where we’ve been doing the Christmas show this year, very grateful.” Be in this magical place, working with some of the lovely people who ensure this property survives and thrives @KirstiesHandmadeChristmas.
‘Are you ready for the holiday season?’
Before the series was screened on Channel 4, she said: “I’ve learned that everyone has a craft – I can’t knit or crochet, I really can’t – it’s their rhythmic nature.” I just can’t keep it in my brain.
“But it’s actually part of me, of what I do.”
Kirstie’s Handmade Christmas is available on the Channel 4 streaming service.