Christmas

Make Christmas 2021 extra special by planning a festive visit. There are lots of things to see and do at the places in our care this winter

A group of adults enjoying the Christmas lights at Dunham Massey

Latest visiting update

Our gardens, parks, cafés, shops, countryside locations and many houses are open. You no longer need to pre-book at many places. Some still require booking ahead, so please check the property webpage before you travel.​

More details on visiting and booking >

North Front of Waddesdon Manor lit for Christmas, Waddesdon, Buckinghamshire

Christmas lights and winter illuminations 

Add some sparkle to dark nights with a show of colour and dazzling displays at Christmas lights and winter illuminations. See your favourite places transformed by colours when you step into a winter wonderland at a Christmas light display near you.

Plan a festive visit after dark
Meeting Father Christmas at Scotney Castle, Kent

Visit Father Christmas 

Plan a visit to meet Father Christmas in his grotto. You can add a bit of festive cheer to your next family day out and let him know what you'd like for Christmas. At some places, you can even tuck into breakfast with the big man himself and listen to him read a story by the fire.

See where you can meet Father Christmas
Visitors exploring the Christmas market at Waddesdon Manor, Buckinghamshire

Christmas markets and winter fairs 

Christmas markets and fairs are the perfect antidote to the high street this festive season. Enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of a traditional Christmas in special surroundings near you, and pick up some gifts for your loved ones.

Visit a Christmas market
Victorian Christmas tree trimming at Speke Hall

Historic houses decked out for Christmas 

Experience the traditions of times gone by this Christmas. There's lots to discover, from Tudor feasts and Victorian Christmas trees to the hustle and bustle of a 1930s kitchen on Christmas Eve. Step back in time when you come and visit a historic house dressed for Christmas.

Visit a historic house for Christmas
Attingham Park, Shropshire

Christmas craft workshops 

Come along to one of our Christmas craft events for the chance to make authentic and natural Christmas decorations. Create your very own festive wreath to hang on your front door or make special gifts to give your loved ones.

Attend a Christmas craft workshop
Carolers enjoying the songs in a National Trust hall

Christmas choirs and concerts 

Christmas concerts and carol services at historic places will have you rocking around the Christmas tree this festive season. Local choirs will be performing traditional and contemporary Christmas songs at some places, so bring friends and family along to sing the night away.

Enjoy a Christmas concert
Christmas gift ideas
Christmas decorations hanging off a Christmas tree

Your Christmas gift guide 

Are you searching for the perfect Christmas present but also wanting to be more conscious of your impact on the planet? Take a look at our 2021 Christmas gift guide for a selection of thoughtful gifts that prioritise people and planet.

Be inspired
Couple walking next to Christmas lights at Trelissick

Give a gift membership 

Stuck for Christmas gift ideas? For a more unique way to celebrate the season, give someone special a whole year of discovery with a National Trust gift membership. Whether you're searching for a present for mum, dad, your grandparents or a friend who wants to explore more places, a gift membership could make their year.

low winter sunlight shiing through the branches of a frozen tree

Plant a tree as a gift 

This Christmas, plant a tree as a gift for a loved one, and you'll be helping to plant and establish 20 million trees by 2030. You can plant a tree from just £5 and you'll get a certificate to commemorate your gift too. Your dedication will ensure future generations can enjoy these green spaces for ever.

Festive fun at home

Visitors make paper chains near the Christmas tree at Attingham Park

Christmas crafts how to guides 

From paper chains and pine cones to scented orange slices, keep little fingers busy and learn how to make traditional decorations for a greener Christmas. Plus, watch our wreath-making masterclass video.

Vegan Christmas pudding on a plate with brandy sauce being poured over the top

Christmas recipes for you to try 

Our delicious festive recipes will go down a storm at your Christmas party or lunch. From appetisers and sides to mouth-watering puddings, here are 11 recipes to inspire you at this special time of the year.

Winter getaways
Fountains Cottage in the snow, North Yorkshire

Christmas and New Year holiday cottages 

Make this Christmas holiday extra special by doing something different. For a magical stay, gather family and friends to enjoy a mini Christmas break or a New Year getaway. You won’t be short of unique places to choose from for your Christmas escape.

Find a festive break