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Open Archives - Electricity

Look behind the scenes and hear about some of the recent research discoveries including the introduction of electricity at Wentworth Castle in the 19th century.

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

Open Archives is back this October – come and meet our dedicated team of volunteers as they dig into the archives at Wentworth Castle Gardens.

Wentworth Castle was one of the first private houses to have complete commercial lighting installation, with the house lit by over 500 Ediswan light bulbs in December 1885. Every room had a light, even the stables, home farm and coach house. The installation event pre-dated the lighting at Buckingham Palace!

Come and talk to our research and archives team to find out more about the introduction of electricity at Wentworth Castle Gardens and discover behind-the-scenes research.

Pop in to discover something new about the fascinating history of the site and share your stories with us. If you have a specific area of interest, please email us in advance at wentworthcastlegardens@nationaltrust.org.uk so the volunteers can be looking into your query.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Check admission prices

The basics

Meeting point

Meet in the Blackbourn Room in the Conservatory building.

Accessibility

The Conservatory building has level access and accessible toilet facilities. Please visit the accessibility pages of our website for more information.

Upcoming events

Orienteering at Wentworth Castle Gardens 

We've teamed up with South Yorkshire Orienteers so you can give orienteering a go any day of the year at Wentworth Castle Gardens.

Event summary

on
14 Sep 2025 to 1 Mar 2026
at
10:00 to 17:00
+ 137 other dates or times

Step into history walk - Builders of Wentworth 

Who were the builders of the Wentworth estate? Discover the story behind some of the most iconic structures on site during this friendly volunteer-led walk.

Event summary

on
15 Sep 2025
at
11:00 to 12:30

Beginners’ Running group 

Meet like-minded people and build up your fitness in the beautiful surroundings of Wentworth Castle Gardens.

Event summary

on
17 Sep to 31 Dec 2025
at
10:15 to 12:00
+ 15 other dates or times

Walk with a Gardener - Weeds, friend or foe? 

Are garden weeds beneficial or a nuisance? Is there more to them than we think? Find out more on this informative walk.

Event summary

on
17 Sep 2025
at
13:30 to 14:30