Miniature Worlds

18th century dolls' house at Nostell

See this miniature marvel on display. Only a handful of dolls’ houses have survived from the 18th century and Nostell’s is the only one you can see in the original family home it was designed for.

Conserving Nostell's dolls' house at Nostell, West Yorkshire

In the meantime... 

Click here to find out more about the dolls' house and its conservation. Scroll down to see what Miniature Worlds is all about - we look forward to re-opening the doors when its safe to do so.

Only a handful of dolls’ houses have survived from the 18th century and Nostell’s is the only one you can see in the original family home it was designed for. Arguably the most detailed and authentic of its kind, the dolls' house at Nostell is a true masterpiece of craftsmanship and a window into a past world.

At nearly 300 years old, this rare survival has been in need of vital conservation work. Thanks to generous donations from our supporters in 2019, we’ve raised over £100,000 to conserve, relocate, redisplay and conduct further research into Nostell’s dolls’ house. 

See the tiny treasure house sparkle

The dolls’ house is now showcased in a new permanent exhibition space as you enter the mansion on the ground floor. Beautifully illuminated with state-of-the-art showcase lighting in a bespoke glass case, visitors will be able to see every tiny detail, from the liveried footman and the miniature glass mouse to the hallmarked silver tea set.

The wallpaper in the Drawing Room is an exquisite example of hand painted decoupage on a miniature scale
The Drawing Room in Nostell's dolls' house
The wallpaper in the Drawing Room is an exquisite example of hand painted decoupage on a miniature scale

You’ll also see the dolls' house come to life through 3D digital animation and high resolution photography and hear experts discuss the world of 18th-century design, craftsmanship and social history that this miniature mansion opens up for us.

Footman in the entrance hall in Nostell's dolls' house

The Nostell Dolls' House

To celebrate Miniature Worlds, we've recently published a book, The Nostell Dolls' House, written by our curator Simon McCormack. Please note, the book is currently unavailable, due to the closure of Nostell during this time. We'll update this page as soon as you can buy it again.

Conservation collaboration

Just as the dolls’ house was created by the work of many hands, we've commissioned conservators in a range of disciplines to repair, clean and conserve the house and its contents. 

In the new exhibition you’ll get an insight into the tools, techniques and processes that were used by experts in textiles, stonework, joinery and paper conservation. You’ll also find out about new discoveries they unveiled along the way.

See some behind the scenes videos on our Nostell Dolls' House page.

Interactive activities

Conservator wet cleaning dolls house a rug from Nostell Priory

Design, discover, do 

The Miniature Worlds programme includes two new spaces with interactive activities for all ages. Please note these are currently closed but include the new Housekeeper’s Room where you can explore how to care for Nostell’s treasures, both big and small. The Front Room is for relaxing, playing and letting your imagination run free (Saturdays Sessions only).

A close up of the kitchen in the Nostell dolls' house.

Your thoughts matter 

We look after Nostell's treasures of all sizes, so you can enjoy them. We'd like to continue to ask for your feedback as to what you'd like to experience in the house - watch this space!