The trailer has teased the steamy, friends-to-lovers romantic beginnings of Nicola Coughlan’s Penelope Featherington and Luke Newton’s Colin Bridgerton. They were photographed at Trinity College Dublin this week, ahead of the next instalment of Bridgerton episodes on June 13. Here’s how to channel your inner Lady Penelope this weekend …
Plant a pretty Bridgeton-inspired garden
One of the prettiest gardens at RHS Chelsea Flower Show this year, in my opinion, was The Bridgerton Garden. This secretive and secluded space was apparently based on Lady Penelope Featherington’s journey from being a wallflower to embracing her true self. Translated to landscaping, the garden’s first focus was a Moorgate which led to an ornate water feature and sunken seating area. A shaded space in one half of the garden was symbolic of of mystery, turmoil and defiance. The planting comprised of ferns and ivy (representing a network of secrets) before opening out into a brighter palette of sophisticated colours.
Try on some Regency-era fashion
If you have dreamed of starring in your own period drama, then Ballyfin, Co Laois can make these dreams a reality. The hotel – admired as one of the most lavish regency mansions in Ireland – has an impressive collection of period costumes from the Lyric Opera Company in Chicago, one of the best opera companies in the world. Guests can visit its specially designed costume room to try on and choose their costumes before enjoying drinks or dinner. The hotel’s trained dressers will ensure that guests look the part and deliver costumes to the room. During pre-dinner drinks, Ballyfin’s photographer will photograph all participants individually and in group shots using the spectacular settings of Ballyfin as a backdrop. Costume hire is €60 per person. Photographer costs €300 – includes all photos on a disk delivered to Ballyfin the following morning. www.ballyfin.com
Stay in splendour
The Heritage, Co Laois has launched “Lady Penelope’s Soirée” a luxurious overnight stay which includes a decadent afternoon tea, a screening of Bridgerton in the in-house cinema, and breakfast the following morning. Stays cost from €255 based on two people sharing. Afternoon tea starts from €39. www.theheritage.com
Book a Bridgerton afternoon tea
Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel has launched its Bridgerton-themed afternoon tea experience to coincide with the third season of the Netflix series. It’s a fitting location as Fitzpatrick Castle was established in 1740 by Col John Mapas and resonates with the authentic charm and grace of the Regency era. As for the afternoon tea, it has been carefully curated with delicate pastries that pay homage to characters from Bridgerton, to early 1800s-inspired savoury delights and cocktails including Penelope’s Prosecco. The waitressing team is also dressed in period gowns as afternoon tea is served. A bespoke letter writing station is on hand and its aim is to encourage guests to write their own Lady Whistledown letters, adding a personal touch to their visit. There will be regency-style hats, parasols and hand fans to don too. The Bridgerton Afternoon tea experience takes place in PJ’s Restaurant at Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel every Saturday in June priced at €35 per person, with a selection of themed cocktails available. www.fitzpatrickcastle.com