Discover more in Northern Ireland.
From the world-famous Giant's Causeway to the world-class Mount Stewart estate, discover the best things to see and do in Northern Ireland.
Christmas in Northern Ireland
The halls were decked to enjoy Christmas 2024 at the places in our care. Visitors explored twinkling Christmas markets, indulged in festive family activities, and visited historic houses adorned with all the trimmings. Joy-filled memories made. Check back later this year for Christmas 2025 plans.
Top Christmas days out in Northern Ireland
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Christmas at Castle Coole
Experience an enchanting Christmas at Castle Coole with storytelling by the fireside, festive crafts and baking in the basement kitchen. For the adults, treat yourself to a gift making workshop or a seat at our Christmas Banquet Experience. There's something for everyone to enjoy!
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Christmas at Rowallane Garden
Join us over the winter season for a homemade Christmas at Rowallane Garden. Look out for alternative Christmas trees on a family-friendly trail through the garden, learn how to make your own decorations, and enjoy a variety of fun festive activities.
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Christmas at Mount Stewart
This winter add a sprinkle of seasonal magic with a visit to Mount Stewart. This Christmas season, join us for a festive children's trail, seasonal storytelling, family activities in the big House, wellness and gift making workshops, twinkly light and Christmassy musical performances.
Browse a Christmas Market
Castle Ward Christmas Artisan Market
It’s the return of the annual Christmas Market at Castle Ward on 29 November to 1 December. Artisanal vendors will showcase unique local crafts and delectable seasonal treats. Visitors can wander the charming stalls, indulge in gourmet food and find perfect holiday gifts.
The Argory Twilight Market
It's not Christmas without a visit to The Argory. Experience the brand-new Twilight Market on Friday 6 December and admire the house all a glow dressed for Christmas. This enchanting evening is the perfect place to shop local and support talented stallholders from the community. Wander through a charming array of market stalls, each brimming with beautifully handcrafted gifts, artisan foods, and festive treats.
Rowallane Garden Yuletide Market
Experience the magic of the season at Rowallane Garden with a variety of festive events perfect for all ages. The Yuletide Market, running from 14-15 December, is a highlight, offering local crafts, seasonal scents, and live choir performances. Don’t miss the chance to meet Santa as he strolls through the gardens!
The Argory Christmas Fair
The traditional Christmas Fair will take place on Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 December and the courtyard will be brimming with local stalls, and the sound of the silver band will bring the festive spirt alive. Trees, trinkets, and garlands will decorate the rooms of the house, and the dining table will be dressed for a Christmas feast. Visit the festive food quarter for a tasty BBQ, festive fries or indulge in a luxury hot chocolate. Santa may also stop by to wish everyone a Merry Christmas!
Explore historic houses dressed for the season
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Christmas at Mount Stewart
This winter add a sprinkle of seasonal magic with a visit to Mount Stewart. This Christmas season, join us for a festive children's trail, seasonal storytelling, family activities in the big House, wellness and gift making workshops, twinkly light and Christmassy musical performances.
Christmas Trails
Castle Coole Children's Cosy Christmas
Visit the big house for a festive adventure! From holiday stories by the fire, to baking and decorating your own treats, and even writing your letter to Santa, you're sure to have a festive visit to remember at Castle Coole.
Mount Stewart Festive Family Trail
Embark on a magical winter adventure at Mount Stewart this winter with our festive family trail. Dander around the lake walk from 28 November until 6 January.
Giant's Causeway Christmas Trail
Embark on a magical Christmas Trail to discover the secrets hidden around the Visitor Centre, before enjoying some traditional family games or creating your very own decoration to add a personal feel to your home this Christmas.
Christmas Craft Workshops
Ceramic Brooch Painting at Castle Coole
On Thursday 21 November 6pm, join local artist Caroline Dilworth for an intricate make a gift ceramic brooch decorating workshop. Find your artistic flare and create a unique hand painted gift for someone special this festive season
Fused Glass Decorating at Castle Coole
On Thursday 28 November 6pm, join local artist Michelle Brady for this unique make a gift fused glass decorating workshop. Create a glass coaster for someone special to gift this festive season as well as a little something to take home for yourself.
Painting with Camlake Canvas at Castle Coole
On Thursday 5 December 6pm, join local artist Michelle Duffy from Camlake Canvas for this unique make a gift painting workshop. Find your creative flare and create a unique hand painted hessian bag to gift to someone special this festive season and create a little something to take home for yourself.
Willow Weaving at The Argory
On Sunday 15 December 12pm, come along for a delightful hands-on willow weaving session in our beautiful grounds. Learn the traditional craft of willow weaving and create a small piece of your own to take home. Our Senior Volunteering and Communities Officer, Peter, will guide you through simple techniques suitable for all ages and abilities.
Recipes for Christmas treats
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Quick-mix Christmas cake
Our last minute quick-mix Christmas cake is perfect if you haven't had the time to follow a traditional recipe. It tastes great too.
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Mince pie brownies
A festive twist on a classic brownie, these indulgent mince pie brownies make for a great dessert and are a great way to use up any leftover mince pies.
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Make a gingerbread house
Fancy making your own gingerbread house? With our simple biscuit recipe and video, and your choice of design, you can't go wrong with this classic tasty treat.
Christmas crafts to try at home
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Make a natural Christmas wreath
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing activity or a festive way to bring the family together, follow our step-by-step guide to learn how to make a Christmas wreath.
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Make a pine cone Christmas decoration
Learn how to make a pine cone mouse and other simple, sustainable Christmas decorations, using materials that you can forage when you’re out on a winter walk.
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Make festive paper chain decorations
Learn how to make a sophisticated version of the paper chain, a classic 19th-century Christmas decoration that’s simple for adults and children alike.