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A Fairytale Christmas at Polesden Lacey

Christmas scene, frost leaves with blue background and an open book with fairytale character coming out of the book
A Fairytale Christmas at Polesden Lacey | © National Trust

A Fairytale Christmas is now finished. Thank you for visiting us this Christmas. Please check back later on this year to see what is happening at Polesden Lacey for Christmas 2024.

Saturday 25 November 2023 - Sunday 7 January 2024

This years Fairytale Christmas extravaganza is inspired by Mrs Greville’s love for entertainment and unforgettable experiences with family and friends. So spread the word with your loved ones and enjoy scenes of A Fairytale Christmas at Polesden Lacey this winter.

Peter Pan theme decorated dining table at Polesden Lacey
Christmas decorations in the Dining Room at Polesden Lacey, Surrey | © Megan Taylor

A house fit for A Fairytale Christmas

The house will be sumptuously dressed for Christmas including a 20ft Christmas tree, enhancing the elegant interior of Polesden Lacey with some immersive fairytale scenes inspired by Mrs Greville’s classic fairytale books illustrated by Edmund Dulac. Cinderella must go to the ball so, spread some Christmas cheer to transform her pumpkin into a carriage to meet Prince Charming, see Peter and Wendy setting off to Neverland before the snow storm arrives, and tip toe past Sleeping Beauty.

Follow the Fairytales around the grounds

Bring your winter woollies as there is an outdoor fairytale-inspired Christmas trail to explore. On the way you will see scenes of classic Fairytales such The Three Little Pigs, Peter Pan and see if you can find Alladin’s cave. This is a self-led trail with a trail booklet which encourages you to choose your own fairytale destiny. This trail is £3 per participating child, no booking required you can pay at Visitor Reception and collect a map, book, pencil and crayons. Please note 3.30pm will be the last chance to purchase trail tickets.

Children playing games on a fairytale trail at Christmas
Visitors exploring the outdoor fairytale-inspired trail at Polesden Lacey | © ©National Trust Images/Megan Taylor

For visitor Safety we have had to close the Christmas crousel a day earlier than expected, due to high winds. If you had pre-booked tickets for 02.01.2024, please keep an eye out for email communications regarding ticket refunds. We apologise for the inconvenince caused.

Spectacular sculptures

We know that the hustle and bustle of the festive season can sometimes be overwhelming, so there are also some quieter spaces with fascinating sculptures, including swans and fairytale characters dotted around the formal gardens. If you would like to visit Polesden Lacey at a quieter time, weekdays are usually the ideal time to visit, as weekends are normally busy.

Festive food

Visit the Christmas themed café for some delicious festive favourites. As well as our usual hot drinks there will be seasonal hot chocolates and hot toddies to keep you fuelled after a wintery walk around the grounds, exploring the wider estate trails or enjoying the Christmas festivities.

If you’re feeling peckish there will be some favourite winter warmers on offer for lunch and a range of delicious festive treats at the ready, to enjoy while soaking up the festive spirit.

Mince pies with star-shaped lids
A plate of mince pies | © National Trust Images/William Shaw

Christmas shopping at Polesden Lacey

Don’t forget to stop by our Christmas shop fully stocked with artisan gifts, festive accessories, and food offering plenty of choice to choose a special gift for friends and family.

A National Trust membership is the gift that keeps giving. Enquire at visitor reception to gift a membership this Christmas, creating future memories throughout the year to remember forever.

FAQ'S

A little note of thanks

Whilst you have fun and enjoy the festivities here at Polesden Lacey you are also helping us continue fund projects at Polesden Lacey for future generations to enjoy.

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