A STATELY home chapel has been transformed following the installation of new environmentally friendly lighting to show off its ornate interior.

The family chapel at Castle Howard, near Malton in North Yorkshire, has been untouched for more than 140 years and features painted frescos depicting designs by Charles Eamer Kempe and stained glass windows by Edward Burne Jones.

The space has gilded and fluted columns and under a high, coffered ceiling based on Holbein’s design for the Royal Chapel in St James’ Palace.

The pre-Raphaelite style Anglican chapel was decorated by Morris & Co, commissioned by Edward Howard, the younger brother of the 8th Earl of Carlisle.

The chapel has also featured as the Marchmain family chapel in both film and television adaptations of Brideshead Revisited.

The Hon Simon Howard said: “It has long been an ambition of mine to light the chapel, but it had to be done sympathetically to showcase the magnificent decoration.

“It was also important that the lighting was environmentally friendly, as well as economic; I am delighted with the results and the success of the project.”

“The chapel has always featured in the house tour, but it has been unguided. This year for the first time we are guiding the chapel to share with visitors the intricate detail and amazing stories.

“We hope it becomes a highlight for many.”

Visitors will be able to see the chapel from Saturday, March 22 when the house reopens to the public. Visit www.castlehoward.co.uk for details.