Christmas at Scotney Castle

The night before Christmas

Saturday 27 November - Monday 3 January, 11am-3.30pm (last entry 3pm). Closed 24, 25 and 26 December

It's Christmas Eve in the early 1900s and the annual Scotney ball has just finished in the hall. Family and friends have taken their carriages for the evening and as the music continues to play, Christmas trees glisten in the evening light and presents lay unopened underneath, ready for the morning. The fires remain aglow as staff busily get tableware ready for Christmas dinner, and the family settle down for the night in preparation for more celebrations tomorrow.

Step back in time this winter and immerse yourself in an Edwardian Christmas as the Hussey family would have enjoyed.

Percy the Park Keeper's winter wander trail

Saturday 4 December – Monday 3 January, 10am-4pm

Join Percy the Park Keeper and his friends on a winter adventure activity trail around the garden. Working with Percy’s animal friends follow the clues and find the activity boards, playing a couple of games along the way. At the end, find Percy and his friends all gathered together and pick up a prize which will help you do your bit for nature at home too.

£2 per trail, available at the garden entrance.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When are you open over winter and Christmas?

We are open every day except for 24, 25 and 26 December. From Saturday 27 November our opening times are as follows:

Garden & Walled Garden                                         10am-4pm (last entry 3pm)

Tea-room                                                                  10am-4pm

Estate walks                                                             10am-4pm

House                                                                       11am-3.30pm (last entry 3pm)

2. Will the house be decorated for Christmas?

The house will be open for an Edwardian Christmas display on the ground floor. It's Christmas Eve in the early 1900s and the annual Scotney ball has just finished in the hall. Family and friends have just left for the evening and as the music continues to play, Christmas trees glisten in the evening light and presents lay underneath ready to be opened in the morning. The fire remains aglow, toys are strewn around the rooms and staff are getting the tableware ready for Christmas dinner. 

3. Is there a children's trail in the garden?

Join Percy the Park Keeper and his friends on a winter adventure activity trail around the garden. Working with Percy’s animal friends follow the clues and find the activity boards, playing a couple of games along the way. At the end, find Percy and his friends all gathered together and pick up a prize which will help you do your bit for nature at home too.

£2 per trail*, available at the garden entrance.

*Garden admission charge applies, free to National Trust members and under 5s

4. Are you serving Christmas lunches?

We will be serving a 3 course Christmas lunch in our tea-room from Monday 29 November - Wednesday 22 December on weekdays only. All lunches must be pre-booked in advance. For more details and to book please call our Food & Beverage Manager Mike on 01892 893869.

5. What will be available in your Christmas shop and when?

From mid-November we will have a fantastic range of Christmas gifts, decorations and cards in our shop. From calendars and books to oranments and jewellery, find the perfect gift for the whole family. Our friendly team will be happy to assist you.

6. Will you be having carol singing?

Sunday 5, Saturday 11 & Saturday 18 December

Soak up the Christmas atmosphere and enjoy carol singing in front of the house at 11.30am and 2pm. This year we are joined by a local Victorian carol singing group who will lead the sing along to all of your festive favourites.