Image: The Book Trust
Families are being invited to step into the enchanting world of The Tiger Who Came to Tea and the Mog series of children’s stories later this year.
Working in partnership with HarperCollins Publishers, Tatton Park will host a year-long programme of activities to commemorate 100 years since the birth of Judith Kerr.
The author and illustrator of the popular children’s classic was born in Berlin, but her family moved from Germany to England in 1933 to escape the Nazis.
She studied at the Central School of Art and later worked as a scriptwriter for the BBC.
She married screenwriter Nigel Kneale in 1954, and left the BBC to look after her two children – who inspired her first picture book, The Tiger Who Came to Tea.
First published in 1968, it has gone on to sell millions of copies throughout the world.
Kerr’s other works include Mog the Forgetful Cat and When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit.
In 2012 she was awarded an OBE for her services to children’s literature and holocaust education, and in 2019 she was named Illustrator of the Year at the British Book Awards.
She died in May 2019, though her much-loved stories will doubtless continue to delight generations of children for years to come.
Tatton Park is hosting a programme of trails, special events and activities which will celebrate the books and encourage families to explore some of its unique places.
“Suddenly there was a ring at the door…”
You’ll find a fun and interactive The Tiger Who Came to Tea adventure trail in Tatton Park’s gardens from 1st April 2023.
Little (and not-so-little) explorers can engage with nature, the great outdoors and the story of the ‘big, furry, stripy tiger’ that continues to capture imaginations of all ages.
Get hands-on playing in Sophie’s kitchen, collect some teatime favourites along the trail and snap a photo with the tiger.
“The garden always made Mog very excited…”
Kerr’s playful story of Mog the Forgetful Cat will be the inspiration behind the mansion and farm’s activities – which launch Tatton Park’s sizzling summer holiday programme from 1st August 2023.
Everyone’s invited to join in with the celebrations! More details will be released in the coming weeks.
Celebrating 100 years since the birth of Judith Kerr
Caroline Jackson, in charge of marketing at Tatton Park, said: “We’re thrilled to be working with HarperCollins Publishers and supporting their activity, marking 100 years of such a wonderful and talented author.
“Judith Kerr’s stories and larger than life characters have sparked little imaginations for generations, and we can’t wait to inspire our visitors…of all ages!”
John Collins from HarperCollins Publishers said: “Tatton Park has proven time and again that it is the perfect place for bringing to life beloved children’s characters and stories.
“We are delighted to be partnering with the Tatton Park team to create new and exciting activities featuring The Tiger Who Came to Tea and Mog.”
Easter bonus
Children who take part in the Tiger Who Came to Tea trail between Friday 7th and Monday 10th April will be rewarded with a chocolate treat.
There’ll also be a chance to meet the tiger himself at various times throughout the day across the whole bank holiday weekend.
There will be a range of Tiger and Mog merchandise stocked in the gift shop.
