Things to do

Plan a visit to meet Father Christmas in his grotto. You can add a bit of festive cheer to your next family day out and let him know what you'd like for Christmas. At some places, you can even tuck into breakfast with the big man himself and listen to him read a story by the fire.

Christmas markets and fairs are the perfect antidote to the high street this festive season. Enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of a traditional Christmas in special surroundings near you, and pick up some gifts for your loved ones.

Wrap up warm and head outside in search of winter wildlife. From starling murmurations to red squirrels, there's a surprising amount to see. Explore winter wildlife near you.

We host art exhibitions at some of our most magnificent buildings and outdoor spaces. Take a look at our guide to discover all the events, including your last chance to catch the work of Grayson Perry at Nunnington Hall and award-winning garden photography at Calke Abbey. Plus find out what’s opening next year.

Find a Christmas event, go on a winter wonderland walk or see our houses and gardens dressed for the festive season - there's lots to choose from at National Trust places in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

We've got lots of fun activities to try on your next family adventure. Discover wildlife at the places in our care using our handy spotter guides or have a go at activities inspired by the colours and sounds of nature.

We've picked out top recipes to cook with kids. Quick, easy and delicious, take a look at recipes for cakes, biscuits and savoury snacks.

Winter is the perfect time for playing in the snow, stargazing, bird watching, cooking on a campfire and lots more. Jump into winter with '50 things to do before you're 11¾' activities.

Would you like to get more out of your garden in winter? Our gardening experts have lots of ideas to keep you busy in all weathers, including a video on how to lift and pack dahlia cuttings for planting in the spring.

Victorian plant-collectors, arrays of blooms from across the world and Arts and Crafts masterpieces. Read the colourful stories of the most famous gardens we care for – you might discover your new favourite place.

Did you know that we produce podcasts? You can download episodes for free on a variety of subjects, from the stories behind our gardens, collections and outdoor places, to the houses that helped shape and influence the work of great writers.

Our cobbled streets, rolling hills and Tudor mansions have been the backdrop to countless film and TV shows. Discover how places in our care proved the perfect settings for stories from The Secret Garden and Bridgerton to George Clarke’s National Trust Unlocked and Poldark.