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Christmas at Lyme

A giant cracker in front of a fireplace decorated for Christmas with presents in it.
Animal Crackers at Lyme, Cheshire | © National Trust/Jan-Christof Telford

For Christmas 2023 we invited you to get into the festive spirit with choirs singing, family-friendly events, and the house dressed for Christms. Lyme was interrupted by an animal takeover where families were invited to help Mr. Fox celebrate christmas with magnificent and unusual beasts.

Christmas 2023 has now finished at Lyme

The below is information for 2023. We hope you enjoyed all that we has on offer. Please check here closer to Christmas 2024 when you iwll see updates of all the exciting plans we have in store for you!

Christmas in the house

Christmas starts with a bang as the carnival comes to Lyme. Step into the house where Christmas has been interrupted by an animal takeover. Seeking refuge from extreme rain, the house becomes home to magnificent and unusual beasts.

For the first time, the house will be open every day from 1–24 December.

Christmas music at Lyme

Join in with some Christmas carols in the Timber Yard and you’ll feel jolly in no time. It’s the most wonderful time of the year to get together with your friends and family and sing to your heart’s content. Why not pick up a hot chocolate from the café while you’re there?

2, 3, 9, 10, 16 - 24 December in the afternoon.

(Please note that the performance on Sunday 24 December will take place in the courtyard at the House)

Sensory information

We have sensory bags and ear defenders that are available to borrow from the entrance hall in the house. The Chapel has been transformed into a sensory space with soft lighting and comfortable seating for visitors to step away from the busy house and into a relaxing environment. The Chapel is open daily throughout December from 11am–4pm.

Winter walks

Wrap up warm and explore the garden or head out to the wider estate for walks through woodland and across the moorland for far-reaching views. With over 1,400 acres to enjoy there is something for all ages and abilities. Head into the garden for accessible paths perfect for wheelchairs and buggies. Pick up a walking leaflet from the ticket office or download one from the website.

Image shows a volunteer dressed as Rudolph greeting visitors with children in a courtyard at Lyme
Rudolph greets visitors at Lyme | © National Trust Images/Arnhel de Serra

Festive food and drink

After stretching your legs and exploring the vast estate, refuel with a warming drink and slice of cake in one of our cafés – there’s something for everyone. Or enjoy a festive treat at Lyme this Christmas with our Festive Afternoon Tea in the Servants' Hall Monday - Friday throughout December.


Christmas Afternoon Tea

Treat your loved ones to a festive afternoon tea Monday to Friday throughout December for just £24.95 per person. The afternoon tea includes a welcome drink, a warming winter soup, a selection of sandwiches, sweet treats and scones with tea or coffee and mince pies.

Christmas shopping at Lyme

Escape the high street and do your Christmas shopping at Lyme. Whether it’s environmentally-friendly swaps for a more sustainable life, a gift for a loved one or an indulgence for yourself, you're bound to find the perfect gift at Lyme.

Visitors exploring the Christmas decorations inside the house at Killerton, Devon

Get into the festive spirit

From wreath-making workshops and carol concerts to winter illuminations, find Christmas days out near you.

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