Christmas Events at Historic Houses

Christmas 2021

We’re celebrating Christmas in the very finest of styles this year. This historic gem, Belvoir Castle, will be filled with exquisite and sumptuous Regency-styled decorations, ensuring every state room including the Guard Room, Ballroom, State Dining Room and King’s Rooms is adorned with colour and rich in décor. Come, see and experience for yourself the wonders of Christmas past as you walk through these themed rooms, styled by award-winning interior designer, Charlotte Lloyd-Webber.

There’s more to see and do at Belvoir Castle this Christmas. Outdoors, you can take a tour of our Enlightened Belvoir, an enchanting light trail which runs through our beautifully manicured gardens. This magical walk is 1.3km long and will take approximately 75 minutes to complete. Throughout your extraordinary journey, your path will be illuminated by literally thousands of lights as you pass talking trees, interactive stepping stones, enchanted woodlands and illuminated displays. This is a delightful, multi-sensory experience suitable for all the family.

Regency Christmas

15th November 2021 to 2nd January 2022

Enlightened Belvoir Light Trail

26th November 2021 to 1st January 2022

Regency Father Christmas

20th November to 23rd December 2021

Santa’s Grotto at the Engine Yard

20th November to 23rd December 2021

Santa’s Grotto

There’s not only one, but TWO chances to book to see Father Christmas when you visit.
There is our Regency-styled grotto, situated at the Castle and Santa will also be in his grotto at the Engine Yard.

For both venues, tickets are available on:
November 20th, 21st, 27th and 28th, and December 4th, 5th, 11th, 12th and 18th – 23rd.

Christmas Wreath Making Workshop

We love getting into the Christmas Spirit here at Boughton!  And what better way than by creating your own Christmas Wreath to enjoy throughout the season?

Join Francesca, Gardener at Boughton House and owner of Orchard Garden Flowers, an RHS trained gardener and florist on a special 3 hour workshop in the Tapestry Suite.

We are sourcing materials as locally as possible with the greenery coming direct from Boughton Estate.

The festive afternoon will consist of a step by step workshop to create your wreath with delicious mince pies, biscuits, hot drinks and mulled wine along the way!

Don’t miss this lovely afternoon – please book online below

Tickets are £57.50 per person.

Christmas at the Orangery

The perfect Christmas treat!

Why wait for Christmas Day? Reserve a table for your party and enjoy an exceptional three-course Christmas Dinner inside the magical Orangery Restaurant.

The Christmas Shop

The spectacular Christmas Shop is open!

Begin your Christmas shopping at Burghley – come and find the perfect stocking fillers, decorate your home with the finest festive decorations including Burghley branded gifts.

OPEN Wednesday to Sunday 10am – 4pm

Christmas at Chatsworth

This year, we celebrate 20 magical years of Christmas at Chatsworth. Our displays are inspired by the past two decades of spellbinding decorations throughout the house and we can’t wait to share them with you.

Entrancing scenes will combine nostalgic references to Christmases of years past with the traditions at the heart of Chatsworth’s seasonal celebrations. The Chapel will come alive with festive music; a kaleidoscope of colour will mingle playfully with gems and minerals from our collection; inventive use of recycled materials will illustrate the potential of sustainable decorating; and no winter celebration would be complete without a sprinkling of the white stuff…

Join us as we celebrate the magic of Christmas at Chatsworth.

Enjoy an evening with us

Make your festive visit even more magical with a visit after dusk. A limited number of tickets are available as we open late until 6.30pm Thursday to Saturday from 25 November to 17 December.

Ticket information

Christmas tickets include admission to the house and garden. All tickets must be booked online and include car parking (one car per transaction).

Be transported to a magical winter wonderland at Doddington Hall & Gardens this Christmas as the Estate transforms for the festive season.

HALL DECORATED FOR CHRISTMAS

Imaginatively decorated for this year’s theme ‘Secret Gardens,’ Doddington Hall will be transformed for the festive period.

Inspired by our walled and wild gardens, we’ll be bringing the outdoors in to create spectacular scenes for a magical family day out.

BAUBLE BARN

Our Bauble Barn is bursting with something for every taste, from traditional to naturals, we have something to complement every home!

Entry to the Barn is free and dogs on leads are welcome.

Opening Times:

Mon-Sat: 9am-5pm

Sun: 10am-4pm

Christmas Eve: 9am-3pm

WINTER TEA ROOM

Enjoy a special festive treat with our award-winning Afternoon Tea.

Delight in the sights and tastes of the Christmas season with a delicious selection of festive delicacies including sandwiches, mince pies, cakes and dainty sweet treats.

CHRISTMAS TREE YARD

Make your festive scene complete by taking home one of our stunning Norway Spruce trees.

Grown here on our estate, these beautiful trees will make the ultimate centrepiece in your personal winter wonderland.

Entry to the Tree Yard is free. Assistance dogs only.

For tree prices click here

Opening Times:

Mon-Sat: 9am-5pm

Sun: 10am-4pm

This Christmas, in celebration of life, love and joy, Haddon shall be beautifully decorated and festively dressed with the wish of us all having ‘A wonderful Christmas.’

There will be roaring fires, glistening and sparkling baubles, and twinkling lights to set the scene as you explore the Hall.  And while you are here, you can visit the Haddon Restaurant and Tearoom where our chef, Dean, will be serving wonderful seasonal food.  Then, before you leave,  make sure you call in to our Mercatum Artisan Gift Shop and Gallery in the Gatehouse where you can find beautiful and unusual gifts created by some of our favourite makers.

A magical day out for all the family, we look forward to welcoming you and wishing you a Happy Christmas.

Candlelight Tours

9 Dec, 10 Dec, 11 Dec, 16 Dec, 17 Dec, 18 Dec

Candlelight Tour and Dinner

9 Dec, 10 Dec, 11 Dec, 16 Dec, 17 Dec, 18 Dec

Victorian Christmas

Candle lit trees, roaring fires and magnificent period costume – enjoy festive magic with a Victorian twist at Rockingham Castle.

Visitors will be transported back to Christmas Eve in 1849, to the reign of Queen Victoria, as the Watson family gather for their traditional Christmas celebrations.

With the Castle rooms decorated just as it would have been at the time, guests will be entertained by the housekeeper, governess, butler or footman, who will share delightful stories of Victorian family life.

Delicious homemade, locally sourced, Christmas dishes for lunch and dinner will also be available in the Walker’s House Restaurant, ranging from full festive meals to warming bowls of soup, mulled wine and mince pies.  Our Light Lunch Christmas Menu can be found here.

Get ready for Christmas with our Festive Wreath Making class at Rockingham Castle

New for 2021, enjoy our Festive Wreath Making Class in the courtyard at Rockingham Castle on selected days in December, surrounded by festive music and beautifully lit Christmas Trees.

With the choice of tea, coffee or mulled wine and a mince pie on arrival, join our head gardener, Dean, as he takes you through how to make the perfect Christmas Wreath ready for the Festive Season – just how we make them here at Rockingham!

Each guest will be provided with all materials needed to make your wreath, including a selection of our very own foliage from the Rockingham Castle Estate, and a selection of accessories to personalise your wreath.

This event promises to be a merry experience to enjoy with friends and family, perfect to get everyone in the festive spirit!

Illuminated Garden Trail – 2021

Make the most of the dark winter nights by stepping into a magical world of light, colour and sound, as you explore the grounds of Helmingham Hall adorned with thousands of lights transforming the gardens into an enchanted winter wonderland.

An unmissable event to start off the festive season! Begin the trail by crossing Helmingham Hall’s famous drawbridge (pulled up every night since 1510) and warming up with a complimentary mulled wine within the courtyard steeped in over 500 years of historical charm. Continue through the gardens absorbing the magical sights and sounds, gather around the fire pits to toast marshmallows for s’mores, and end the evening browsing the Stables Shops and pop up stalls where you may be able to find some early Christmas gifts!

The Coach House Tearooms will be serving a range of hot and cold festive treats.

The trail runs from Friday 19th November 2021 to Sunday 19th December 2021 (not open on Mondays or Tuesdays). The first entry time is 4.30pm and sessions are every 15 minutes. The last entry on a Wednesday and Thursday is 7:30pm, and the last entry on a Friday, Saturday and Sunday 8:30pm.

Holkham Hall by Candlelight

We will have decked the halls and lit the hundreds of candles in readiness for you to celebrate Christmas with us and tour the hall by candlelight. This is a truly magical opportunity to relish the magnificent state rooms adorned with opulent Christmas decorations and beautiful flickering candlelight. Lady Leicester, together with Christmas-connoisseur Catherine Zoll, spend the entire year designing the sets and themes for your enjoyment. Collaborating with renowned makers and artists including Claire Owen, Emma Thorburn, Alice King, FX-Live and Natalie Boon, you will be wowed by everything from frozen and jungle scenes to lavish jewelled decadence and a surprising canine masterpiece. In addition, we will be celebrating an alternative Christmas in the Old Kitchen with a handmade festive scene.

Our knowledgeable room stewards will take you on your tour, and share how the installations and unique decorations were created and divulge the inspiration behind each room setting.

We also invite you to enjoy a glass of Prosecco and mince pie in the Courtyard Café before your tour. Our Gift Shop will be open for special decorations and those perfect presents for your loved ones. Please check Courtyard Café and Gift Shop opening times here.

Lunch With Santa

December 5 – December 23

Give your family an early Christmas treat with a fantastic meal at Knebworth Barns, complete with a visit from Santa and a gift for every child.

Packages Includes
Two course meal
Tea and Coffee
Christmas crackers
Visit from Father Christmas with a gift for every child
Christmas colouring and activity sheet on the tables

Main Course
Roast Turkey
Roast potatoes, shaved sprouts and pancetta, glazed carrots, parsnips, Yorkshire pudding and gravy

Nut Roast (v)
Roast potatoes, shaved sprouts, glazed carrots, parsnips, Yorkshire pudding and gravy

Adult Dessert
White Chocolate and cranberry bread and butter pudding (v)
Rum Custard

Child Dessert
Chocolate Brownie

Luminate Sandringham

We are delighted to welcome Luminate Sandringham back for a second year of spectacular Winter Light in an illuminated trail through the Royal Parkland.

This winter, experience the spectacular after dark light trail from 12 November – 19 December, entry times from 4.15pm – 8.30pm.

Enjoy making special festive memories and time together with family and friends as you discover the captivating light trail. Stroll under the stars beneath illuminated historic trees, then warm and toast marshmallows by fire pits or indulge in festive food and drinks from Sandringham Courtyard.

Christmas Wreath Making

Spend time in the old glasshouse, in the private walled garden at Sandringham, with our expert florist. Create your very own festive wreath with foliage and materials gathered from the Sandringham Gardens.

Followed by Afternoon Tea in the Sandringham Restaurant at 3pm to complete your festive afternoon.

Christmas Table Decorating

Spend time in the old glasshouse, in the private walled garden at Sandringham, with our expert florist. Create your very own festive table decoration or centrepiece with foliage and materials gathered from the Sandringham Gardens.

Followed by Afternoon Tea in the Sandringham Restaurant at 3pm to complete your festive afternoon.

Artisan Collective Christmas Fair

Tickets are on sale for the new Artisan Collective Christmas Fair taking place at Beaulieu between 10 – 12 December 2021 for the first time ever.

Join us this December for a festive gift and artisan food wonderland, full of gifts to fill those Christmas stockings and delicious food and drink producers to discover.

Find everything from delicious artisan food and drink to seasonal gifts, plus gourmet street food and live music, all set in the heart of the Beaulieu visitor attraction.

A Christmas Carol

Charles Dickens’ timeless classic ‘A Christmas Carol’ returns to Beaulieu this festive season…Bah Humbug!

On selected dates from 17 December – 2 January,  the London Touring Players will be retelling the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, an elderly miser who is visited by the spirits of Christmas Past, Present and Future.

Set within the heart of the spectacular Beaulieu Abbey ruins and cloister, the outdoor production, performed by West End actors will be packed full of Christmas joy, music, magic and cheer and is suitable for the whole family to enjoy, together.

Performed to small audiences of 150 people per show, this performance is the perfect way to celebrate Christmas with your family this year.

Festive Fun at Beaulieu

Visit us from 18 December – 2 January* to celebrate the festive season in style as Beaulieu comes to life with Christmas joy and spirit.

Ignite your Christmas spark in Palace House, with its stunning decorations, welcoming log fires, and a Christmas tree in each room. See Beaulieu spruced in seasonal decorations, and complete a family fun trail that will take you on an adventure across the attraction.

For those that truly believe, you may even catch a glimpse of Father Christmas!**

*Please note the Beaulieu attraction will be closed on Christmas Day.

The after-dark illuminated trail sparkling in The Great Outdoors

It’s the most wonderful time of the year when over a million lights, lasers and seasonal sounds fill the air with festive fun through the Palace’s picture-perfect gardens. Look forward to some together time with family and friends as you discover glittering tunnels of light, dancing lakeside reflections and trees drenched in jewel-like colour. For a moment of reflection pause at mesmerising flickering flames in the fire garden, gaze up at the larger-than-life illuminations and don’t forget to catch a glimpse of Father Christmas along the way.

Our crew of talented independent street food vendors bring a delicious twist to tasty treats on offer. Have yourself a holly, jolly Christmas and complete your walk under the stars with a *spiced winter warmer or *hot chocolate shared with someone special.

The story of The Nutcracker re-imagined within Britain’s Greatest Palace

New for 2021, explore the Palace rooms, each one exquisitely transformed and filled with hidden surprises – from the toymaker’s workshop on a frosty Christmas Eve; through the glistening Land of Snow and onto the candy-cane Kingdom of Sweets adorned with the sweetest of treats and larger-than-life gingerbread men. It’s a fairy-tale world where nothing is quite as it seems, from a dashing Nutcracker Prince and an army of mice to a Sugar Plum Fairy and a music box with a difference. This fantastical winter wonderland is where the magic really begins….

Enjoy a Christmas workshop in the historic setting of Chawton House’s Great Hall and learn to stitch a Christmas wreath with Abigail Rose.

This beautiful embroidered wreath will be made up of traditional Christmas elements, such as mistletoe, holly and berries, and you will be guided through the process and learn a variety of stitches.

About Abigail Rose: 

Abigail Rose is an embroidery artist based in the Derbyshire Dales. She takes inspiration from her love of literature and the gorgeous countryside that she lives in.

She loves the changing seasons, especially Christmas, and is particularly happy to be hosting a Christmas workshop here at Chawton House.

£55 per ticket, includes all materials. Please bring a pair of small sharp scissors as these will not be provided.

Explore Fulham Palace decorated for the festive season on this Christmas tour. Hear about Christmas traditions through the ages and how the Bishops and their families celebrated at the Palace.

Christmas Wreath Making

Join us in the Great Hall for our traditional wreath workshop.  Booking essential, £45.00 including homemade refreshments.  9.30 am to 12 noon.  Places limited.  This workshop is currently full, to be added to the waiting list please call 01233 643854.

This Christmas at Hever Castle experience the Adventures of Pinocchio

FATHER CHRISTMAS TICKETS HAVE SOLD OUT

Walk-ins are available mid-week 1 – 3 December. 
Last entry time for Daytime tickets is 3.00pm. Last entry time for Twilight tickets is 6.30pm.
For other dates, pre-booking is essential and you should arrive at the time slot booked.

The First Downton Abbey Film

Imagine stepping into the real Downton Abbey to watch the first Downton Abbey Film. Is there any better Christmas experience than watching the magical screening in the Library of Highclere Castle?

This is the perfect opportunity for Downton Abbey fans to enjoy watching the beloved Crawley family and their intrepid staff prepare for the most important moment of their lives, ahead of the King and Queen of England’s arrival, whilst being within the real-life film set itself!

When you arrive at Highclere Castle, you will first set eyes on the twinkling Christmas trees leading you up the main driveway to the front door of the Castle, before you step into the warmth of the House and are welcomed into the Saloon for a special Guided Tour of the Castle State Rooms and Gallery Bedrooms.

Recipes & Traditions from the Real Downton Abbey

Talk by Lady Carnarvon &  Castle Guided Tours

Tuesday, 21^st December 2021

Tickets: £130 per person

Gather in the Saloon in front of the spectacular Christmas tree for a short introduction to Christmas at Highclere led by Lady Carnarvon, after which our Highclere guides will take you on a guided tour through the Castle’s State Rooms, up the staircase and around the Gallery Bedrooms. Guests are then invited to descend to the cellars to explore at your leisure the fascinating Egyptian Exhibition that tells the story of the discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamun and contains antiquities from the earlier tombs in the Valley of the Nobles and Valley of the Queens.

Snowsaurus

After our popular and well received Snowfari in 2020, this year will take you to a landscape full of dinosaurs – Snowsaurus!

The walking trail will see visitors following in some enormous footsteps as they track down dinosaurs roaming the grounds. Discover incredible statues including a large Tyrannosaurus Rex!

What is the meaning of the word Stegosaurus? What did an Allosaurus eat? And… why did the dinosaur cross the road? Find out with our Snowsaurus activity book that accompanies the trail, full of facts, jokes, puzzles and more.

The dinosaur trail is included with general admission.

Wreath making

In this 2 hour Christmas Wreath Making Workshop you’ll make a mossed wire base and Renée will show you how to add foliage, berries and seedheads. Create an evergreen wreath made from sustainably foraged, and sourced, hedgerow and garden materials. So you can bring the colours and textures of Winter to your front door, a tradition that is centuries old.

Winter wreath painting

Under the gentle guidance of Surrey Art School founder Ellie Green you’ll learn how to capture beautiful winter botanicals using a brush and artist-quality watercolour paints. Before bringing these experiments together into a final winter wreath painting. You’ll have the option to add a little sparkle to your final wreath, embellishing your design with gold and silver paints.

Christmas tidings

£6.00 per person + booking fee

Join us this December for a panto-style story in the Baron’s Hall, as we meet little Elf Tidings at the North Pole on his mission to save Christmas! With the help of some spectacular Christmas characters and one very important bearded man, will Tidings the Elf be able to solve the dark magic riddles and save Christmas? Well, there’s only one way to find out…

Christmas Farmer’s Market

Voted as one of the UK’s best farmers’ markets in both The Times and The Telegraph, this year for the first time the Penshurst Farmers’ Market will be hosting a very special Christmas Market!

With a festive-food focus, this market is still very much about local suppliers and produce, but shoppers can enjoy a few new stalls full of Christmassy delights and treats, including sparkling wines, homemade brownies, Turkeys, gin, and a handful of homemade Christmas decorations and crafts.

With carolers and a community feel, this is a sure way to get your festive vibes flying!

The Market is held in our free-to-use visitor car park. There is no charge to visit the market.

Teen Christmas Cookery Class

This year we’re delighted to welcome Skillcook for the very first time who will be running a Christmas cookery class aimed at children aged 11 -16.

As well as learning an abundance of new skills, during the class attendees will make and bake two festive lots of treats to take away, one of which will be packaged to be given as a gift to a lucky recipient!

Sing Along Christmas Carol Tour

Join us for a fun, festive evening of Carol Singing as you promenade around the beautiful State Apartments at Stowe House! Sing along to the carols played by members of the incredible Brackley & District Band, whilst one of our expert guides leads you through the house revealing stories of Christmas past along the way.

Please note the house is not fully decorated for Christmas, as was the tradition in 18th Century country houses.

A glass of mulled wine and a festive treat will be provided before the tour.

Doors open for refreshments from 19.15, tour will begin at 19.45 finishing at 20.45.

14th December 2021 | 5:45pm – 7:00pmTickets to attend our special Christmas Carol Concert in our Chapel are now sold out, but we are delighted, thanks to the kind support of The Drapers’ Company, to be able to invite you to join in the festivities online.  The Chapel will be decked with holly and lanterns, there will be wonderful singing from the Pegasus Choir, with lots of opportunities to join in with your favourite carols.

We are also thrilled to announce that ‘Call the Midwife’ star Jenny Agutter, plus acclaimed historian and writer Tracy Borman, will be joining this year’s readers.  Book now for a perfect festive and joyful lead-up to Christmas – to enjoy online at home. It is free to join online but we would very much appreciate a donation to the charity. (Please note that the event starts at 5.30pm for mince pies, but the Concert itself does not start till 6.30pm when the livestream will begin.)

Advance booking only –book your tickets here.

Christmas at Waddesdon is back with magical lights and the gardens aglow. Join us for festive fun with our enchanting outdoor extravaganza that will brighten the end of your year.

Christmas Fair

Soak up the sights, smells and sounds of Christmas with hand-selected stalls all housed in charming wooden chalets, surrounded by twinkling trees. Wed-Sun, 12noon-7pm until 23 Dec.

Winter Light

As twilight falls see the gardens sparkle brightly with spectacular light displays bringing our extraordinary landscape to life, in partnership with Luminism.

Winter Light will continue Thur-Sun from 6-23 Jan 2022.

Christmas food and drink

We’ve plenty of options for eating and drinking this Christmas, including weekend fish and chips at the Stables.

Christmas shopping

Find unique and unusual gifts exclusive to Waddesdon and a selection of wines.

Christmas Market

Christmas is a magical time at Raby and one of our highlights of the festive season is our Christmas Market. Come and browse our lovely stalls in the Coach Yard and discover lots of delicious treats, seasonal produce and beautiful homemade products from local suppliers. The perfect place to pick up a special gift. Our Stables Shop will be open also and decked to the halls with boughs of holly – and unique Christmas treasures.

Christmas Trees

We are delighted to announce that from Saturday 27th November we will be selling freshly cut Christmas trees to decorate your home for the festive season. Our Coach Yard will be lined with trees big and small, from Nordman Fir to Norway Spruce. Why not make a day of it and enjoy a hot cocoa from the Cafe and a browse around our Christmas Shop? Or explore our Enchanted Forest Trail in the Walled Gardens.

Enchanted Festive Forest

Follow the trail through our Enchanted Festive Forest in the Walled Gardens to discover our magical Christmas scenes. Enjoy our twinkling lights and Christmas music as you wander around our winter wonderland and indulge in a luxury hot chocolate from the Stables Café as you soak up the sights and smells of Christmas. Find all the hidden clues to collect a small prize.

Christmas Day Lunch

Join us in December and dine from our delicious festive menu. Whether catching up with friends or bringing the office out for a Christmas treat, High Force is the perfect location for a festive meal throughout December.

Christmas Shop

Get into the festive spirit with some early Christmas shopping in our beautiful Stables Shop. Discover unique seasonal gifts including our Raby Castle Traditional Ginger Wine, Christmas Cakes, and Sloe Gin. Stacked full of items for the whole family,  children will love our collection of books, games, and puzzles. Don’t forget to pick the perfect decoration for your Raby tree which you can collect just outside in our Coach Yard. Plus plenty of stocking fillers and creative Christmas cards and wrapping to complete your Christmas checklist.

Saints & Angels at Bamburgh Castle

Experience the spirit of Christmas soaring through England’s finest coastal fortress with the north east’s largest indoor festive event of the year – Saints and Angels in The Christmas Kingdom at Bamburgh Castle.

Inspired by Bamburgh Castle’s 3000-year-old history and rich past as a Royal citadel and seat of the Saint Kings of Northumbria, step through entrancing staterooms transformed into a celestial extravaganza, where angels take flight overhead, sending peace, strength and good fortune to all throughout the castle and beyond.

Festive Crafternoons

Attention all knitters, crocheters, sewers, embroiderers, sketchers and other crafters!

Join us for the final Crafternoons of 2021! Crafternoons is an informal community group for all kinds of crafters to come together to enjoy their crafts and each other’s company, gaining inspiration and support from like minded individuals.

Ushaw Christmas Carol Service

What better way to sing in the festive season than with our Christmas Carol Services? Taking place in the jaw-dropping St. Cuthbert’s Chapel we can’t think of a better location!

One Snowy Night – A Christmas Garden event

27 November – 3 January 2022 (selected days).

Our winter gardens host a magical event for families this Christmas. Inspired by Nick Butterworth’s ‘One Snowy Night’, join Percy the Park Keeper and his animal friends for this fun, festive experience.

Stableyard carols

Meet up with friends and family, pick up your song sheet, and join us for this much-loved event 19 December. Also visit our shops for last minute gifts and warming festive food.

Festive Afternoon Tea

Step into our Gardener’s Cottage for a festive tier or two! Cosy up and savour a special menu of traditional finger sandwhiches and tempting cakes.

This popular event continues to bring its seasonal magic to delighted audiences. The concert in the magnificent Great Hall will be preceded by a reception from 5pm in the elegant Long Drawing Room where you can enjoy wine, mince pies and other festive fare by the roaring log fire.

The Christmas trees and twinkling lights create a truly special atmosphere in this most wonderful historic venue. The programme comprises beautiful music spanning over 200 years played by Orchestra Pro Anima directed by Michael Bochmann MBE. This year, the orchestra will be joined by the outstanding French Horn player Stephen Roberts.

The orchestra was launched in January 2017 and is formed of musicians who have played together over a long period as members of the English String Orchestra and who have a real affinity with one another, forged over time. Their programmes, musicianship and warmth of presentation are a winning combination.
Tickets at £42 include the Reception and further refreshments in the interval.

A Creative Christmas

There will be 20 wonderful local makers and creatives who will be showcasing the best of their products – all available for you to purchase at this special event. All other rooms of the Castle will be open and included in admission. No need to book in advance. £5 admission fee.

Bournemouth Musical Theatre Productions presents ‘It feels like Christmas’

Bournemouth Musical Theatre returns to Highcliffe Castle for another brilliant festive performance.

“Bournemouth Musical Theatre Productions returns with another magical selection of Christmas favourites, alongside a smattering of Musical Theatre classics. BMT are renowned for their beautiful voices and amazing close harmonies. A relaxing and uplifting evening, not to be missed.”

Christmas at the Castle is back!

Opening Times

Open Monday 29th November to Friday 31st December (excluding Monday 13th for a wedding and Christmas Day). Closed on Wednesdays, excluding the 22nd.

Daytime opening hours: 12pm – 4pm. Evening opening hours: 5pm – 9pm.

Please note, the castle will be closed between 4pm and 5pm on weekends to give the elves a break!

Day Tickets (12pm – 4pm)

Adults – £7.50
Children – £5

Whats Included?

Castle and Grounds Entry
Secret Garden (Playground and Petting Zoo)
Christmas Market in the Old Riding School with Bars and Food
Garden Games (including North-Pole-In-One, Snowball Shy and Hook-a-Duck
Evening Tickets (5pm – 9pm)

Adults – £10
Children – £5

Whats Included?

Castle and Grounds Entry (including lights)
Secret Garden (Playground and Petting Zoo)
Christmas Market in the Old Riding School with Bars and Food
Garden Games (including North-Pole-In-One, Snowball Shy and Hook-a-Duck
Christmas Grotto

£5 per child, must be purchased with day or evening entry tickets.

The Christmas grotto will be located in the Secret Garden this year. Transport will be available to any with accessibility requirements.

This year….

After last year’s sell out event, we are delighted to announce the return of Christmas at the Castle throughout December 2021! Our light walk will extend over a mile through the grounds and gardens of Powderham Castle. We’ve also modified the route to ensure no steps, grassy paths or muddy tracks!

This year, we’re opening the castle so that visitors can explore! Beautifully decorated for Christmas and with exciting light features, displays and story telling.

The trail will lead all the way to the Secret Garden, where our animal friends will be waiting to meet you. With warm drinks and snacks available from the Potting Shed.

The Christmas Barn will become a magical market, with traders and crafts people, perfect to get some of your Christmas presents. Plus the mulled wine and cider bar and a selection of delicious food vendors perfect for dinner accompanied by festive music.

Plus, our Christmas Grotto will be returning too! Tickets once again will be limited and so we invite you to book as soon as possible.

Spectacle of Light 2021

On selected evenings between 26 November – 30 December 2021
Explore our magical after-dark experience now in its 6th Year.

New and Exciting for 2021!

Discover the new Light Curve and the flickering flames of the Queens garden. Gaze at the sparkling water features and the mesmerising Carpet of Colour. Light beams, lanterns and much much more.

Festive Food and Cheer!

Sip festive warmers of spiced mulled wine and sprinkled hot chocolate as you join the magical trail around these wonderful grounds. Tuck into simple take away hot food and delicious donuts from the Castle Terrace. Before your journey home why not treat yourself to a winter warming drink and browse our lovely gift shop for some unique Christmas gifts and souvenirs.

A visit to this fascinating country house at Christmas is the perfect chance to lift your spirits for the festive season ahead.

Meander upstairs and downstairs though 30 evocative rooms filled with fine art and furniture that will be transformed with seasonal floral displays, stunning decorations and garlands.

Children can experience the magic of the Hall at its twinkling best searching for the Christmas Reindeer hidden in each room.

Hall: open daily 11am – 4pm, last admission 3pm.

Stables, Grounds, Stables Kitchen & Gift Shop: open daily 10am – 4pm.

Normal admission charges apply.

Step through the wardrobe into an enchanting adventure this festive season. Anicyspell has been cast on this mystical land where it is always winter, but will Christmas spirits be restored and will warmth and joy return?

Whilst Castle Howard is open from 10am daily, you can also join us after dark for the most enchanting ‘Christmas in Narnia’ experience. Here at Castle Howard, we think that twilight is one of the best times to visit. Icy twinkling lights at dusk, sparkling trees against the dark sky, and an indulgent winter warmer or two in our cafés, all make your Christmas visit that bit more special.

See the lavishly decorated interiors of Castle Howard transformed. Enjoy breath-taking dramatic installations, lighting and soundscapes evoking everything we love about this special time of year. Marvel at the 25-foot Christmas tree adorned with over 3000 baubles providing a magnificent highlight in the Great Hall.

You can easily enjoy a full day with us as you soak up the jovial atmosphere, enjoy an array of indulgent winter treats in our catering outlets and warm yourself by roaring log fires. Find that special present in our Gift Shops or Garden Centre and why not visit our Farm Shop to choose from the finest local produce for your Christmas dinner party.

Don’t miss your chance to meet the big man himself as Father Christmas will be making some very special visits to Castle Howard this year.

The magical winter world of ‘Christmas in Narnia’ is waiting for you.

Delve into a voyage of the imagination this festive season, as Harewood recounts a Christmas tale and the House reveals its magic to all those in need of whimsical wonder…

Christmas is back and Harewood House has much missed the company of visitors from far and wide. Created by connoisseurs of make-believe Lord Whitney, the House shares its favourite memory of when a little girl was granted a festive wish to experience a Christmas like no other. Never predictable or ordinary, join us in escaping into an immersive Christmas story from Saturday 13 November to Monday 3 January.

A Retro Christmas

Kiplin Hall Trust celebrates 50 years of ownership of the hall with a retro Christmas! Set to the backdrop of traditional Victorian grandeur, memories of the 1970s will come to life with clashing vibrance. Foil decorations, macrame baubles and best-selling toys from the era will decorate the Hall’s festive displays. Fashions of the day will strut on the Long Gallery catwalk, while the tea room menu serves up nostalgic flavours from yesteryear. Families can explore the grounds seeking out clues on the disco ball trail. Step back to the decade that made modern life. Join us as we go kitsch at Kiplin this Christmas!

Festive Music in the Gardens

Join us on selected weekends throughout December to enjoy live festive music in the gardens. From traditional brass bands to local carols and choirs, get into the festive spirit with us!

Family Festive Cinema

Snuggling up and watching a festive film is part of what Christmas so special. Join us for a screening of a Christmas classic in the stunning state rooms of the mansion.

Once upon a Wentworth Christmas

We need your help to save Christmas! The wicked Snow Queen has kidnapped Father Christmas and outlawed all fun and festivities. Embark on an immersive quest through the fairy kingdom, complete a series of tasks and become heroes by restoring the magic of Christmas.

Gin Tasting

Enjoy a special gin tasting, hosted by Allan of Selkirk Distillers (makers of the fantastic Abbotsford Gin). Including 4 tasters of gin with mixers, as well as heaps of knowledge and stories from Allan.

Date and time: 7pm on Thursday 2nd December

Price: £20 per person (£16 for Friends of Abbotsford)

Find out more and book Gin Tasting

Christmas Shopping Evening

Find distinctive presents with Abbotsford’s range of exclusive gifts to celebrate Walter Scott 250, plus a wide range of quality products to suit all ages.

Date and time: Thursday 2nd December until 7pm.

Find out more about Christmas Shopping Evening

Father Christmas & his Elves

On Saturday 4th December, Father Christmas makes his first visit to Abbotsford since the last children lived here!  He will then be visiting every Friday, Saturday and Sunday until Sunday December 19th, to meet local children.  Families can book an exclusive 10 minute session with Father Christmas and children will receive an early gift to put under the tree.

Date and time: timed visits are available to book every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from Saturday 4th December until Sunday 19th December, from 1pm on Fridays and 10am until 3.30pm on Saturday & Sunday (except 4th December which starts at 11.30am).

Price: £12 per child.

Find out more and book your tickets to meet Father Christmas and his Elves.

Christmas in the Historic House

Step back in time to Christmas past and explore our decorated historic house. Our special festive audio guide will invite you to join Sir Walter and his guests as they arrive at Abbotsford for the festive season of 1823-24.

All entry tickets to our house, chapel & gardens are currently half price thanks to Visit Scotland’s Great Days Out in Scotland scheme. Available while offer lasts.

Date and time: 10am- 4pm (last entry 3pm) every day from 4th- 19th December

Price: Tickets will be available at our usual House, Chapel and Gardens ticket prices- currently half price. Book tickets for a festive visit.

Find out more about Christmas in the house.

Wreath Making Workshops

Following a slight hiatus last year, we are over the moon to announce the return of our ever-popular Wreath Making Workshops!

The workshops, let by Michael the Ranger, will take you through a step by step process to create your own magnificent Christmas Wreath.   All the materials are included and most are sourced from the Estate itself.  The workshop will take place in the festively decorated Victorian Kitchen and will include a hot drink and mince pie.

Christmas in the Gardens: Sunday 12^th December 11am – 3pm

Tickets are available to purchase online.

2021 CHRISTMAS CANDLELIT TOUR

Enjoy a welcome glass of Prosecco and a Christmas themed candlelit tour of Dumfries House, with coffee and mince pies to follow, served in the Library. Doors open 15 minutes prior to event.

Santa at Dumfries House Estate

Let your little ones enjoy time with Santa.

2021 CHRISTMAS TOUR WITH FESTIVE FEAST in the LIBRARY

Enjoy a glass of Prosecco on arrival in the Entrance Hall, followed by a Christmas themed candlelit tour of Dumfries House. On each date, we offer intimate dining at individual tables, to suit your party size, in the Library. House wine and soft drinks included. Doors open 15 minutes prior to event.

2021 CHRISTMAS TOUR WITH FESTIVE FEAST in the GREAT STEWARD’S DINING ROOM

Enjoy a glass of Prosecco on arrival in the Entrance Hall, followed by a Christmas themed candlelit tour of Dumfries House. On each date, we offer intimate dining at individual tables, to suit your party size, in the Great Steward’s Dining Room. House wine and soft drinks included. Doors open 15 minutes prior to event.

…and more events. See below to view all Christmas events.

Hopetoun House Christmas Shopping Fair

DECEMBER 10 @ 10:00 AM – DECEMBER 12 @ 4:30 PM

We are delighted that the eagerly anticipated annual Christmas Shopping Fair will return to Hopetoun House on Friday 10th, Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th December 2021, from 10am – 4.30pm.

Wreath Making Workshop

Bring a touch of Kelburn magic to your Christmas. Join one of our Traditional Christmas Wreath making workshops!

Using materials from Kelburn’s forest and traditional decorations, enjoy some festive cheer while you create your own unique wreath. All items required are provided, and you are invited to bring any extra charms / decorations to decorate with too, should you wish. We’ll also be serving hot drinks and mince pies!

Location: Pavilion at Kelburn

Tickets: £25 (8″ wreath) – £30 (10″ wreath)

Santa’s Secret Forest

Santa has lost his Christmas Spirit.
Mrs Claus and the Elves need you to help cheer him up!
Tickets: £12 child (includes gift from Santa) £7 adult. Under 4’s £4 with small gift.
Children must be accompanied by at least one adult over 18.
Recommended age range for this event is 4-12.
Under 4’s require a £4 ticket and will also receive a gift from Santa.
Christmas jumpers and Christmas costumes encouraged!

Our Food & Craft Market tickets are now totally sold out and no further tickets will be issued. Thank you to everyone who has booked, we look forward to welcoming you to Mount Stuart on Sunday 5th December!

Tickets for our Festive Wreath Making Workshops are still available (and include access to the market). Tickets must be booked online and cannot be reserved via email or phone.

Festive Wreath Making Workshop

Get creative with Mount Stuart gardeners Dot and Jude, as they show you how to create your own traditional festive wreath. All materials are included in the cost of the event. The workshop lasts 2 hours and includes a complimentary mince pie and non-alcoholic mulled wine.

Pre-booking is essential as places are limited. Two workshops sessions are available: 11am-1pm and 2-4pm. Please select your preferred time when booking. On the day, please ensure that you arrive at the main entrance to the house 5 minutes prior to the workshop start time.

Christmas Cracker Weekend

3-5 December

For three days, our beautiful Georgian house will be decorated for the season with two magnificent Christmas Trees. Come shopping on Friday 3rd December to solve all your Christmas present dilemmas with our huge selection of local stall holders selling a range of wonderful gifts then refuel with a turkey roll and hot chocolate in our Tearoom. Have a fun filled family outing on Saturday and Sunday 4th and 5th December when you can also visit the Pet Parlour in our Georgian Kitchen, partake in an alpaca trek across the parkland and have fun with some face painting and kids’ arts and crafts plus much more.

Father Christmas Meet & Greet

Enjoy a magical festive experience for the whole family in our beautiful Picture Gallery.  Meet and greet Father Christmas and his elf, receive a gift and get into the Christmas spirit!

Saturday 18th – Thursday 23 December 2021

10.30am – 3.30pm

£14.95 per child, pre-booking essential.

Festive Wreath Making

Join us to make a stylish festive wreath to decorate your door for Christmas.  We have been out in the woods at Paxton House to find evergreen branches and berries to make your wreath extra special. Learn some useful techniques and be creative in our spacious Hayloft Gallery.

Monday 13 and Tuesday 14 December, 10am-1pm. We only have 15 places so book early.

Christmas Candlelit Tours

Sleighbell’s ring, snow is glistening…Get into the Christmas spirit and book onto one of our Candlelit tours.

Christmas Twilight Tours

Sleighbell’s ring, snow is glistening…Get into the Christmas spirit and book onto one of our Twilight Tours.

Christmas at Scone Palace: Santa’s Brunch

It wouldn’t be Christmas without a festive visit to Scone Palace. Santa loves his Palace brunch, and he likes it even more when the children come to visit!

Christmas at Scone Palace: The Christmas Market Weekend

Fill up on festive local goodies with our wonderful Christmas Market held in the stunning Scone Palace grounds.

Christmas Candlelight Tours

6.30pm-8.30pm

We are delighted that our Christmas Candlelight Tours are back this year! We believe an evening spent at Picton in front of our roaring log fire, taking in the splendour of our magnificent Christmas trees and beautiful Victorian themed decorations, is the perfect start to the festive season.

You will arrive at Picton at 6.30pm via the main drive and park in front of the castle, which is a truly grand experience in itself. Inside, there will be a warming drink of mulled wine, or a non-alcoholic alternative, waiting for you, along with a delicious mince pie.

The tour will begin after you have had the chance to take in the beautiful surroundings of the great hall, and will guide you through the other decorated state rooms, including the stunning White and Gold Drawing Room and the Dining Room. You will learn about the history of Picton Castle and how Christmas was celebrated during the Victorian era.

Christmas Wreathmaking Workshop

This year our Christmas Wreathmaking Workshop will be held in our newly restored Heritage Centre, with it’s cosy log burner and beautiful walled garden surroundings, it lends itself perfectly to this popular festive activity. We will supply all the greenery you need to create a wonderful wreath to take home. You are welcome to bring along your own adornments, to personalise your wreath and make it truly special. Refreshments will be provided, and you are of course welcome to enjoy the gardens, and The Welsh Owl Garden & Zoo for the rest of the day.