A girl looking at a festive festoon at Cragside, Northumberland — The decorated house at Polesden Lacey | © National Trust Images / Paul Harris

Christmas in Surrey

In Christmas 2023 we were bringing festive traditions to life at the country houses, atmospheric gardens and wintry countryside around Surrey.

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A Fairytale Christmas at Polesden Lacey

Celebrate Christmas in style at Polesden Lacey. A 20ft Christmas tree welcomes as you step into the central hall and glittering displays throughout the house show scenes from story book illustrations coming to life. See Cinderella dance the night away under the chandelier, Captain Hook’s pirate feast and an Arabian Night’s cave of wonders. Follow children’s trails to find magic across the gardens and discover fairytale scenes. Visit Father Christmas inside the house for the first time and ride on a vintage, hand carved carousel. 25 November – 7 January (closed 24 & 25 Dec). House open daily 11-3pm.

A child and parent looking at marble room with white snow dusted Christmas trees

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Narnia at Hatchlands this Christmas

This Christmas, we invite you to step into Narnia at Hatchlands, with a trail inspired by The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. Take a magical, festive journey through the house, which is decorated for Christmas. Then step through the wardrobe and be transported into a Narnian wonderland created by artist Imogen Cloet. Outside, a family adventure trail reveals more of the children's story, with life-size wardrobes framing iconic scenes, Narnia-inspired activities, Father Christmas’s sleigh and the throne at Cair Paravel. 1 to 31 December 2023, house open daily 12-3pm (closed 24 & 25).

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The Snow Queen at Claremont Landscape Garden

This historic royal garden is home to the Snow Queen this Christmas, where we’ve recreated this traditional fairy tale into a fun-filled family trail to enjoy this festive season. Come and find the eternal summer garden and the Snow Queen’s castle, have a go at the fun games and stop for a photo at the selfie station. With Christmas treats in the café, this fantastic winter wonderland is where the Christmas magic really begins. 25 Nov – 2 Jan (closed 25 & 25 Dec). Free with normal admission.

Visitor at the view point looking across towards the South Downs on a frosty winter's morning

Surrey Hills Christmas Frost Fair at Box Hill

Come along to the atmospheric Christmas Frost Fair at Box Hill, showcasing the best of Surrey Hills artisan products including local food, drink, arts and crafts. Plus a host of free festival activities including the new Frost Fair family trail. Perfect for Christmas shopping, browse the stalls for unusual gifts and local festive food and drink. Plus enjoy tours and trails. Sat 9 & Sun 10 December, 10am-3pm

A mum and dad outside with their young girl who is holding up a leaf and wearing a Christmas dress

Winkworth Winter Welly Wander

Bring the family out for a winter stroll and burn off that holiday energy on our Winter Welly Wander. Pick up a trail sheet and play a range of welly-based games that will get everyone rosy-cheeked and smiling. Ask at the welcome kiosk when you arrive. 16 Dec – 3 Jan, 10am - 3pm. £2 per child plus normal admission.