Buckland Abbey Christmas

Published:: 10 November 2022

A man in medieval knight costume goes to pull a sword from a stone. The lighting is purple and blue, and an out of focus Christmas tree with white fairy lights is in the background. — Christmas at Buckland Abbey | © Steve Haywood

In 2025, we invited visitors to get into the festive spirit at Buckland with seasonal shopping, treats, music and a beautiful display in the Great Barn and Abbey.

Christmas at Buckland Abbey

The Arthurian Christmas at Buckland Abbey ended on 4 January 2026. Please check the website later in 2026 to find out more about this year's Christmas events.

Arthurian legends at Buckland Abbey

29 November - 4 January 2025, 10-4

Step into the Great Barn and into a forest of trees which will transport you into the story of King Arthur.

You'll be surrounded by beautiful twinkling trees where you can listen to the story of Gawain and the Green Knight before you step forward to see a wicker sculpture of the battle itself!

Be sure not to miss the tallest tree at the end of the Barn where you will see the mythical Excalibur surrounded by stars.

The Abbey has been filled with more legendary Christmas delights from Merlin’s Apothecary to Guinevere’s chamber, each room will be filled with festive sparkle and an opportunity to acquaint yourself with characters from the mythical stories of King Arthur.

Mince pie and a cup of tea with a sprig of holly and background of fairy lights — Tasty festive treats are available in the coffee shop | © National Trust/John Parker

See all events

View of Buckland Abbey with a green lawn in front and trees, with one tree turning red and brown in autumn, Devon

Discover more at Buckland Abbey

Plan your visit

Visiting Buckland Abbey and Great Barn

Explore the abbey which is part museum, part house, and filled with treasures. Step inside the medieval Great Barn: a tithe barn unchanged since it was built centuries ago.

Two young women stand beside a rich red Tudor dress in the Great Hall of Buckland Abbey.

Buckland Abbey's estate

Discover Buckland's ancient woodland on one of three colour coded routes. With abundant wildlife and far reaching views, it's a peaceful and fascinating place to enjoy.

Fields and trees covered in frost with low winter sunlight

Eating and shopping at Buckland Abbey

Take a break at the Ox Yard coffee shop, which serves tea, coffee, light lunches and sweet treats, before finding a special gift or souvenir in the National Trust shop, art galleries and second-hand bookshop.

Two visitors sit at a table in the cafe with cups of tea and cakes

Buckland Abbey's gardens

From beautiful blooms to bountiful harvests, the gardens at Buckland Abbey are full of colour and seasonal interest. Soak up the history of this special place as you admire the planting, or simply enjoy the peace and tranquillity as you sit a while on one of the benches.