A woman in a pale grey winter coat and beret crouching down to look at a Christmas tree with a young girl in a black long sleeved top and gold dres — Visitors enjoying Christmas decorations at Hinton Ampner | © National Trust Images/Megan Taylor

Christmas in and around Hampshire

NOTE: This article relates to Christmas 2024 when we brought together magical scenes and activities inspired by favourite stories and fairytales at our historic places in Hampshire. It will be updated for 2025.

Nutcracker statue in front of hedge decorated for Christmas

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A Nutcracker Christmas at Mottisfont

Heroes, villains, and toys brought to life. Enter the magical world of theatre this Christmas, as Mottisfont unveils visual feast The Nutcracker. Collect your ticket at the ‘Box Office’ then follow the story through rooms filled with sparkling trees, music and light effects. Snowflakes swirl in a frosty wonderland, sugarplum fairies twirl and there’s a thrilling duel scene between the Prince and the Mouse King. Outside, the adventure continues, on The Nutcracker family adventure trail. 23 November to 5 January, trail £2. Closed 24 & 25 December.

Toys under the Christmas tree at Hinton Ampner

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An Enchanted Christmas at Hinton Ampner

Step into an Enchanted Christmas at Hinton Ampner with twinkling decorations, winter light effects and sound. Discover the Snow Queen’s icy hall, a woodland ball with swirling Northern Lights and busy elves in the North Pole Workshop. Outside, tiny tots can spot hidden elves and there are festive games for older kids. Our Christmas sleigh scene creates the perfect backdrop for family photos. 16 November to 5 January, pre-booking essential. Closed 25 & 26 December.

Three Christmas trees with black and white decorations on a black and white marble hall at The Vyne

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A Wonderland Christmas at The Vyne

Lavish decorations and whimsical scenes draw you into Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, from upside-down Christmas trees to the Queen of Heart’s army of cards on the lawn. Look out for life-size characters and a family trail with fun Alice-themed challenges. 20 November to 5 January, trail £2. Closed 24 & 25 December.

Christmas decorations tied onto the wooden beams in the roof space of Winchester City Mill

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A Riverside Christmas at Winchester City Mill

Inside this old mill Christmas trees sparkle with blue and silver baubles, inspired by the river Itchen that rushes beneath. There are winter foliage garlands, stacks of presents, and hidden within tree branches, animal characters reflecting the mill’s wildlife. On 25 and 26 November join willow weaver Mollie McMillen to create your own festive wreath. 23 November to 5 January, booking essential. Property closed 23-26 December.

The exterior of Mompesson House, Wiltshire, in winter, dusted with a light covering of snow.

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Christmas at Mompesson House

As the Victorian family sleep on Christmas Eve, their books come to life…. This immersive storytelling experience at Mompesson House is suitable for all ages. Discover the Three Bears’ Christmas feast, follow Hansel’s trail to the tea-room, and listen to fairytales in the Library. For little ones there a free activity sheet, and weekend storytelling. 22 November to 23 December. Closed from 24 December, re-opens 7 March 2025.