Christmas at Dunham Massey

The silhouette of a family walking beside two giant illuminated deer installations — Christmas at Dunham Massey returns for 2025 | © Raymond Gubbay

Step into a world of festive magic as Christmas at Dunham Massey returns for 2025! Firmly positioned as one of the best Christmas events in the UK, this unmissable after-dark illuminated trail promises a breathtaking experience for all ages.

Why You Won’t Want to Miss It:

✨ Brand-new light installations transforming the historic grounds

✨ Wander through a magical illuminated trail filled with festive wonder

✨ Catch a glimpse of Father Christmas along the way

✨ Enjoy seasonal treats and winter warmers from hand-picked vendors*

Whether you're planning a Christmas day out with family, looking for festive things to do near Manchester, or searching for the best Christmas experiences in the North West, Christmas at Dunham Massey is the perfect festive tradition.

Limited capacity – book early to secure your preferred date and time.

Where to go for Christmas? Right here at Dunham Massey!

*additional charges apply

What do I need to know?

When is Christmas at Dunham Massey?

Christmas at Dunham Massey 2025 will run Thursday 13 November 2025 to Saturday 3 January 2026. Tickets are allocated by staggered trail start times and digital or printed tickets are accepted.

How long is the trail?

The trail is approximately one mile long and we’d recommend allowing 1 to 2 hours for your visit. Please be aware that the event closes 1.5 hours after the last allocated entry time.

Is there refreshements and fairground rides?

Food, drink and fairground rides are available onsite. Food and drink can be found at the beginning and end of the trail, with additional refreshments at around the midway point. Separate charges apply for all food, drink and rides.

What should I wear?

The event takes place entirely outdoors and appropriate clothing and footwear is essential.

Is there car parking available?

Car parking is available onsite and all parking must be pre-booked at the time of ticket purchase. Parking is free for National Trust members with a valid membership card. Parking is available at an additional charge for non-National Trust members.
Paths

The Christmas at Dunham Massey trail route follows majority flat paths that are checked and cared for, daily.
Path markers can be non-traditional – for example strings of lights or short barriers – or absent if the route follows an established path.

Seating

Limited seating is located along the route for those who may require a brief pause in the walk. Ask one of our team for the location of the nearest seat. Seating can also be found at the beginning and end of the trail, alongside the food, drink and fairground rides.

Wheelchair and mobility scooter loan

Wheelchairs and mobility scooters are available for booking in advance by calling the team at Dunham Massey on 0161 941 1025. Numbers are limited and are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, please book early to avoid disappointment. This is a free service with donations welcome and used in support of the National Trust’s conservation and care of Dunham Massey.

Dogs and guide dogs

Guide dogs and registered assistance dogs are very welcome at this event. No other dogs can be admitted. Please be aware that the trail can become very busy at peak times.

Specific accessibility questions

If you have any specific questions relating to accessibility or what to expect at Christmas at Dunham Massey, we are very happy to help. You can email us at dunhammassey@nationaltrust.org.uk.
Christmas at Dunham Massey takes place at one of the National Trust’s most visited places.

As a home for important animal species, annual ecological surveys support us to ensure the impact of the event on this beautiful place is carefully managed.

The trail route, lights and sound are planned with bat roosts, animal homes, and ancient trees in mind. Using bio-fuel and efficient approaches to power usage helps us reduce any environmental impact.

As a conservation charity, the care and longevity of Dunham Massey’s gardens and land remain our ultimate priority. Every ticket sold supports the conservation and care of Dunham Massey for everyone, forever.

The house illuminated for Christmas at Dunham Massey, Cheshire

Book your tickets for Christmas at Dunham Massey

This year’s after-dark illuminated trail promises an array of enchanting new light installations. complemented by the beloved elements that have made ‘Christmas at Dunham Massey’ a cherished tradition for many. Every ticket sold helps to support this special place.

Click here to book

Brought to you by Sony Music in partnership with the National Trust.

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