Christmas at Newark Park

A small child in a Santa hat with their family and Christmas lights in the background — Make memories at Newark Park this Christmas | © Arnhel de Serra

Experience the magic of Christmas past and present as you explore the decorated house and discover the customs that have shaped the festive season.

'Christmas Traditions' at Newark Park

28 and 29 November, 5 and 6 December and 12-20 December 2026

Join us for a magical journey through time this Christmas as you discover the stories behind the seasonal traditions we hold so dear.

Step into a magical Christmas world and a feast for the senses. Wander through beautifully-decorated rooms filled with towering trees, twinkling lights and seasonal scents. Uncover the stories behind treasured traditions, from the origins of the Christmas tree and gift-giving to the yule log and why we hide a lucky charm in the Christmas pudding.

Children can create their own puppet show and play traditional board games, while visitors to the Tudor bedroom can enter the world of the Lord of Misrule, the mischievous master of Christmas merriment.

Christmas Traditions at Newark Park is open 28 and 29 November, 5 and 6 December and 12-20 December 2026 from 10am to 4pm (house 11am to 3.30pm) with last entry half an hour before closing. The tea pavilion will be open 10am-3.30pm, serving hot drinks and seasonal goodies.

Meet Father Christmas

Enjoy a magical visit with Father Christmas as he makes a special stop at Newark Park before his busiest night of the year. Children will meet Father Christmas in his cosy grotto on the ground floor of Newark House, enjoy a personal chat and receive a small gift. There'll be time for photos with the big man as well. Each 30-minute session welcomes up to eight children, with individual visits taking place within the booked timeslot.

Tickets: £12 per child (normal admission charges also apply)

Dates: 28 and 29 November; 5, 6, 12, 13 and 14 December

Booking: Advance booking is essential

More information and to book, head to Book your visit with Santa

Book now

Father Christmas handing gift to young boy in hall at Ickworth — A visit from Father Christmas | © National Trust Images/Rob Stothard

'Handmade Christmas': festive shopping at Newark Park

21–22 November

Find the perfect Christmas gift at Newark Park’s festive 'Handmade in Britain' market. Explore the historic house and garden as it hosts 40-50 exceptional British designer-makers and artisan producers, showcasing beautiful handcrafted jewellery, homewares, ceramics, textiles, food and more.

Set in Newark Park’s atmospheric house and garden, this Christmas event offers the chance to meet the makers, watch live craft demonstrations, take part in festive workshops and enjoy seasonal entertainment.

With inspiring gifts, delicious artisan produce and the house dressed for the festive season, it’s the perfect way to celebrate Christmas and support British craftsmanship.

Normal admission applies and admission to the event is included with entry (free for NT members).

Discover more information at 'Handmade Christmas' at Newark Park | National Trust

Secret Santa in the second-hand bookshop

Find our second-hand bookshop on the second floor with its own Christmas corner featuring fiction, puzzles and games to add an extra activity or two to your festive plans. You can also buy one of our "Secret Santa" mystery titles - perfect for office or club 'Secret Santas', grown-ups stockings or unusual gifts for teachers.

Winter walks

Take in the wintry landscape on one of the estate walks through Newark Park.

Suitable walking shoes or boots are essential for our longer walks. Please talk to the friendly visitor reception team for advice on routes and path surfaces.