Christmas at Cliveden

Published:: 20 August 2026

Visitors in the bauble arches in the picnic area | © National Trust / John Miller

From Friday 20 November 2026 – Sunday 3 January 2027, join the story of ‘The Snow Queen’ as a journey through memory, emotion, and winter transformation, unfolding across Cliveden, National Trust and its surrounding gardens. Enjoy winter walks rich with colour and scent, and discover family-friendly adventures across 400 acres of woodland. Seasonal treats across food outlets, a beautifully stocked Christmas shop and more.

Christmas at Cliveden: The Snow Queen

Step into the enchanting world of The Snow Queen as you follow Gerda’s journey through the Water Garden, festive picnic area and into the Sounding Chamber. Along the way, discover a captivating immersive installation, where scenes and fragments of the beloved story unfold through visual and sensory experiences.

Visitors of all ages are invited to explore the seasonal displays at their own pace, engaging with the story through imagination, wonder and reflection. Your journey ends among snow-dusted white trees in the magical setting of the Sounding Chamber. As seasonal displays bring the grounds to life and festive treats await, experience the magic of Cliveden this winter.

Follow the magic around the estate

Young explorers can enjoy the Storybook Play Den and maze in the Water Garden and there are 400 acres of natural woodlands to discover for nature enthusiasts. Finally, we have many dog friendly paths for those with four-legged friends to take in the winter views across the Thames Valley through the frames of the bare trees. Head to 'Visiting Cliveden with your dog' to find out more.

Extended festive open hours

Make the most of your festive visit with extended opening hours in the lead up to Christmas. From Thursday 17 December to Wednesday 23 December inclusive, the main gates will remain open until 7pm, giving you extra time to enjoy an evening stroll through the winter landscape and soak up the seasonal atmosphere. The site will close at 7.30pm. Please note that the Woodland Car Park will continue to close at its usual winter closing time of 4:00pm.

Wrap up warmly and make the most of the enchanting evenings at Cliveden this Christmas. Please stick to the lit paths, remember to wrap up warm and bring a torch.

Accessibility

Gardens have hard gravel paths, some steep slopes, undulating terrain and steps. Map of suggested level access routes around the gardens is available from the Information Centre. Braille and large print guides available from the Information Centre. To plan your visit and find out about accessibility needs, please visit: AccessAble - Your Accessibility Guide

Christmas at Cliveden: The Snow Queen

Christmas food and drink

Warm up after your visit with a seasonal treat, choosing from hot chocolate, mince pies and more at food outlets across the estate.

Your perfect Christmas gifts await you at the Cliveden Gift Shop

Step inside Cliveden’s carefully curated Christmas shop and let the season’s magic unfold. Brimming with festive charm, each display has been lovingly arranged to capture the warmth and wonder of Christmas at Cliveden.

Wander through shelves adorned with elegant ornaments, indulgent seasonal treats, and hand-picked gifts inspired by the estate’s heritage and natural beauty. From locally sourced home fragrances to the perfect bottle of wine for your Christmas table, every item has been thoughtfully chosen to bring a touch of sparkle to your celebrations.

Sustainably sourced and beautifully presented, these treasures offer something special for everyone — whether you’re searching for a keepsake to cherish, a thoughtful stocking filler, or a memorable gift to share with loved ones. Embrace the joy of giving this festive season with a visit to Cliveden’s Gift Shop — where every gift tells a story, and Christmas truly comes to life.

Visitors admiring the Christmas tree in the Walled Garden | © National Trust / John Miller

Planning your visit

Christmas at Cliveden will run from Friday 20 November 2026 – Sunday 3 January 2027.
Please note that Cliveden Estate is closed on 24 and 25 December 2026.
No booking necessary, free event but normal property admission price applies (free for National Trust members).
Gardens and grounds are open from 9:30am – 4:30pm (last entry is 4:00pm).
From 17 – 23 December, the Cliveden estate will be open from 9:30am – 7:30pm with last entry at 7:00pm. Please note that the woodlands car park with close at the usual time of 4:00pm.
On arrival, head to the Information Centre in the Walled Garden to start your winter journey.
The Sounding Chamber is approximately a 20-minute walk from the main car park and is accessible on hard paths and gravel surfaces. Step-free access routes are available, please ask for an accessibly map from the Information Centre.
Cliveden is an outdoor property so please dress appropriately for the weather.
Dogs are welcome in many areas of the Cliveden Estate. There is a dog map available to pick up on arrival, which will show you the on-lead and off-lead areas.
Cliveden's visitor shuttle bus is available upon request at the Information Centre for accessible needs only.
Hearing loops are installed at every fixed till point.
We're putting the finishing touches to our festive food and drink offering. Check back soon for more details.