The Cockleshell Dress

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For a limited time, the recently conserved Cockleshell Dress, worn by Mary Vere Agar-Robartes in 1899, will go on display in Lanhydrock’s Bay Bedroom.

Mary Vere Agar-Robartes (1879–1946) grew up at Lanhydrock as the eldest daughter of the Agar-Robartes family during a lively period of family celebrations, parties and social events at the house. Featured in the National Trust publication 100 Things to Wear, she wore the extraordinary dress to a fancy-dress New Year’s Eve party in 1899.

The Cockleshell Dress can only be displayed for a short period, making this a special chance to see a piece of Lanhydrock family history more than 125 years after it was worn.

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Discover the story behind one of Lanhydrock’s most distinctive costumes.

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