Model trains new feature at Gillette Castle for the holidays

A view of the interior of Gillette Castle in East Haddam, CT. Image source: www.popularwealth.com

Gillette Castle has been a popular holiday destination for many local residents who have come to enjoy the elaborately decorated historic site this time of the year.

This year, the display features multiple model trains as a tribute to the castle’s original owner, actor William Gillette (best known in his role as Sherlock Holmes), who loved trains so much he even had a track built on his property, which is now a state park open to the public.

Each room of the castle also is decorated according to a theme, and the main seating area will once again include a large, beautifully decorated tree.

There will be musical performances in the early afternoon each weekend.

Gillette Castle State Park is located at 67 River Road in East Haddam, CT on 204 acres.

The castle was modeled after a medieval fortress and is famous for its unusual interior, as well, which includes ornately carved wooden panels, unusual furnishings and even a few secret passages.

The State of Connecticut acquired the property in 1943 and established Gillette Castle as its 40th State Park.

Gillette Castle in East Haddam, CT is brightly decorated and open for tours on the weekend from Nov. 24 through Dec. 16, 2012. HTNP.com file photo.

The Castle will be open Saturdays and Sundays now (Nov. 24-25) through Dec.16 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets are sold until 3:30 p.m.

The entrance fee is $6 each for adults and children age 13 and older, $2 for children ages 6-12. Admission is free for children age 5 and younger.

There also will be a bonfire, free cider and hot chocolate.

The grounds of Gillette Castle State Park are open daily year round (and close at dusk).

For more information call (860) 526-2336 or visit www.ct.gov/deep/GilletteCastle

Posted November 22, 2012 – based on a CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection press release

Related links:

About William Gillette and his trains http://valleynewsnow.com/2012/11/gillette-castle-to-open-for-holiday-festival-of-trains/

Photos of interior of Gillette Castle http://www.popularwealth.com/index.php/gillette-castle

Another cool place in CT to visit if you love trains http://www.cteastrrmuseum.org/

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