Best Stately Home Christmas Events
The holiday season brings a magical transformation to some of Britain’s most beautiful stately homes, where you can enjoy Christmas markets, enchanting decorations, and festive activities. Here are a few standout events to add to your seasonal calendar:
1. Blair Atholl Castle Christmas Market
When: 1st - 3rd November, 10 am - 4 pm
Where: Banvie Hall, Blair Atholl Castle, Scotland
Entry: £4 per adult, children under 16 free This cozy Christmas market in the Banvie Hall at Blair Atholl Castle showcases unique local crafts and holiday goodies, perfect for finding special gifts and treats in a truly historic setting.
2. Carlton Towers Christmas Indoor Market
When: Friday, 8th November, 4 pm - 8 pm
Where: Carlton Towers, North Yorkshire
Entry: £1 per person (no dogs allowed) The beautiful Carlton Towers opens its doors for an evening of festive shopping. Browse artisan stalls indoors, brimming with handcrafted gifts and seasonal delicacies, making it a delightful stop for holiday preparations.
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3. Doddington Hall at Christmas
When: 9th November - 23rd December
Where: Doddington Hall, Lincolnshire
Entry: £15 for adults, £8.50 for children aged 4-16 For a true Christmas wonderland experience, visit Doddington Hall as it’s transformed with dazzling lights and decor. Perfect for families and anyone wanting to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit, this grand hall offers a magical seasonal experience.
4. Harlaxton Manor Christmas Open House
When: Saturday, 30th November, 10 am - 5 pm
Where: Harlaxton Manor, Lincolnshire
Entry: Harlaxton Manor’s Open House is a special Christmas event for all ages, featuring Santa’s Grotto and mischievous “naughty elves.” This event adds a playful twist to traditional festive celebrations, with plenty of activities and entertainment for children. Consession available for student (with valid ID) and over 65s.
5. Rockingham Castle Victorian Christmas
When: 28th of November to the 1st of December, and again from the 5th to the 8th of December, between 11 am and 4 pm.
Where: Rockingham Castle, Northamptonshire
Guests can opt for guided tours during the week or explore freely on weekends. The castle’s historic charm is enhanced with festive decor, giving visitors a taste of a bygone Christmas era.
6. Lamport Hall Christmas Craft Workshops
Lamport Hall in Northamptonshire hosts a series of Christmas-themed craft workshops, perfect for those looking to create their own festive decorations. Workshops include:
- 5th November: Glass Christmas decorations with Sally McRae, 10 am-12:30 pm (snowflake or tree) & 1 pm-3:30 pm (wreath) at £50 per class.
- 12th November: Linocut Christmas card-making with Emma Britten.
- 19th November: Wilder Floral wreath-making (10:30 am, £55) and cloud-making (2:30 pm, £70).
- 26th November: Punch needle decoration workshop with Caroline Jane Creative, 10 am-1 pm, £35 per person.
- 10th December: Sew a Christmas stocking with Sarah Stringer.
- 17th December: Needle felting with On the Road Crafts, featuring a “gonk” session in the morning and a “robin” session in the afternoon.
These events offer everything from traditional markets to immersive holiday experiences, all set in the grandeur of historic estates. Plan your visits early and enjoy a magical festive season!
