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Christmas tree decor at Rufford Old Hall, Lancashire
Christmas tree decorations | © National Trust Images/Annapurna Mellor

Christmas in Kent

Please note our Christmas events have now finished. Check back later this year to find out what we're planning for Christmas 2024.

Top Christmas days out in Kent

Ightham in the snow
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A Tudor Christmas at Ightham Mote 

*This event has now finished.* Immerse yourself in the sights, scents and sounds of Ightham’s Christmasses past. There are traditional carols in the courtyard, cosy late-night openings and workshops. Families will love the new trail and dressing up box, not to mention the chance of meeting Father Christmas himself. Until Sun 7 Jan. Selected dates only for some activities, see website for details. Normal admission applies.

Walking with The Snowman™ at Winkworth Arboretum
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Knole at Christmas 

*This event has now finished.* Inspired by Raymond Briggs' timeless festive tale, The Snowman™, this winter at Knole you can discover 12 giant The Snowman™ sculptures in the parkland and courtyards, each designed by a contemporary artist. Walking with The Snowman™ at Knole is presented by the National Trust and Wild in Art in collaboration with Penguin Ventures (part of Penguin Random House UK). Sculpture trail runs until Sun 7 Jan. Pre-book tickets to guarantee entry (including members), normal admission applies.

The rose garden at Emmetts Garden covered in a layer of frost

An Ant’s Christmas at Emmetts Garden 

*This event has now finished.* ‘Anta’ Claus has been incredibly busy this year. Now he needs all his ants to help him make presents across the kingdom. Inspired by the name 'emmett', which comes from a local word for ant, follow the willow sculpture scenes around the 19th century garden to discover how the ants prepare for Christmas. Look out for surprise sightings of Christmas characters and stop by the picture-perfect spot on the ants’ sleigh. Join the Willow Reindeer Workshop on 19 & 20 December, 10.30am to 12.30pm (ages 8+, booking essential). 2 to 31 December, £2 per trail plus normal admission.

Images shows an antique rocking horse in front of an illuminated Christmas tree at Basildon Park, with wrapped gifts under the tree and a festive garland in the background
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A storybook Christmas at Chartwell  

*This event has now finished.* Step into a magical storybook world, seen through the eyes of Sir Winston Churchill’s beloved daughter. A room full of clocks, a shadow on the stairs and perhaps a crocodile tail… see if you can spot the book references on your way round the beautifully decorated house. In the Walled Garden, meet characters from classic children's books. Play games, solve riddles, and plan the ultimate Christmas dinner party. Pop by for carol singing at the weekends. 25 November to 23 December 2023 (normal admission applies).

A girl wearing a red winter coat looks at a large gingerbread house covered in snow icing
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A Georgian Family Christmas at Quebec House 

*This event has now finished.* On weekends in December, experience the magic of Christmas through the eyes of the Wolfe children. Handmade displays including a puppet tent, whimsical boats and a spectacular gingerbread creation of Quebec House itself will transport you back to an 18th century Christmas as enjoyed by young James and Edward, aged seven and eight. Treat yourself to hot chocolate Georgian-style with port or spice, and a mince pie. House open weekends in December (closed 23 & 24 December), 11am to 2pm. Normal admission applies.

Christmas at our places near Kent

Paper village snow scene with Christmas tree twinkling in background
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A Writer’s Christmas at Bateman’s 

*This event has now finished.* See Bateman’s house dressed for a traditional Christmas, with real Christmas trees, fresh floral displays, twinkly lights and golden decorations inspired by Rudyard Kipling and his writing. See if you can spot the paraphernalia of Kipling the writer - the manuscripts, typewriters, fountain pens, spectacles, and ink wells that were the tools of his trade - creatively displayed around the house in all its magical Christmas finery. Head out into the garden for a new family trail inspired by the Kipling family Christmas. 18 November to 1 January (closed 24 & 25 December), normal admission applies.

Sleigh and decorated Christmas tree at Bodiam Castle, East Sussex
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Christmas at Bodiam Castle 

*This event has now finished.* Enjoy a magical Christmas at 14th century Bodiam Castle. With trees lining the courtyard, twinkling lights all around and atmospheric tower rooms, immerse yourself in the festive spirit. You’ll find Father Christmas’ sleigh in the courtyard, live Christmas music, a new festive family trail, crafts and storytelling. 25 November to Monday 1 January (closed 24 & 25 December), 10am to 3pm. Selected dates only for some activities, see website for details. Normal admission applies.

All Christmas days out in Kent

    View across the lake towards Scotney Castle, Kent

    Discover more in Kent

    Fairy-tale castles, historic royal residences and the home of Churchill can all be found in Kent.