There’s a buzz in the air. Just like in the grand drawing rooms of Wanstead House in the early 19th century, word is spreading: something’s happening in Wanstead, writes Camille Leadbeater
Wanstead House, a mansion built in the 18th century, was once home to Lady Catherine Tylney-Long and her husband William Wellesley-Pole, known for his wild and outrageous lifestyle. The couple hosted events of legendary opulence, none more so than a dazzling celebration in 1814 marking Napoleon’s defeat by the Duke of Wellington. That day, Wanstead became the epicentre of high society, not just for its guests, but for the crowds who gathered outside, climbing trees just to catch a glimpse. It was one of the most lavish social events the area has ever seen.
Over a thousand locals rushed to the grounds to share in the festivities. You didn’t need a printed invitation to know something was happening at Wanstead House that day – you just felt it, heard it, maybe you saw the carriages lining up. The privileged few went inside; the rest found ways to be part of it anyway.
Fast-forward over 200 years, and Wanstead is still a place where stories unfold and people come together. But today, everyone is welcome – not just the titled, the wealthy or the well-connected.
At Wanstead Fringe 2025, the message is clear. Outside every venue, you’ll see a banner: ‘Something’s happening here’. It’s a public invitation, not a private summons. Whether it’s a play at The Bull, a film at The Curtain or a throwing class at Wanstead Pottery, you are part of it.
In that spirit, we can look back to Geraldine Roberts’ 2015 book, The Angel and the Cad: Love, Loss and Scandal in Regency England. Roberts brought to life the glamorous world of Catherine and William, retelling the tale of the party that transformed Wanstead into the centre of London society for one shimmering moment. Back then, it was about being seen. Now, it’s about being included.
As part of this year’s Fringe, and in homage to the glittering world of Lady Catherine, we invite you to a unique and atmospheric event on Thursday 12 September to mark the 200th anniversary of her death. In this reflective tribute, we’ll bring the past vividly to life with readings, music and costumes.
So, whether you’re performing, helping, watching, wandering or just curious, if you see that banner, step inside. Something’s happening here. And like Catherine’s party, it might just become a story we tell for years to come.
This is your invitation. No corset or calling card required.
Wanstead Fringe 2025 runs from 6 to 27 September. For more information on the events, visit wnstd.com/fringe
