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A 1950s White Christmas at Buckland Abbey

Step into nostalgia and experience a sparkling 'White Christmas' at Buckland Abbey this winter.

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

Step through the Great Barn and into a forest of trees which will transport you back to a 1950s 'White Christmas'.

Get lost and discover vintage festive wonders such as a traditional market stall, a post box where you can send a letter to the North Pole, or take photographs in Father Christmas's sleigh.

Be sure not to miss the tallest town square Christmas Tree at the end of the barn.

Inside the abbey you can discover how Christmas was celebrated during the 1950s. Step back in time and rock around the clock with 1950s records, discover traditional toys and games, a 'Ritz-style' Christmas party, and learn how Christmas Dinner was made in the rationed and post-rationed era.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Check admission prices

The basics

Accessibility

The Great Barn has step-free access via a ramp. The ground floor of the Abbey is accessible via a ramp - please contact the office or check the access statements for further information.

Meeting point

Head to Visitor Welcome to start your journey.

Suitability for children

Children of all ages welcome

What to bring and wear

Don't forget to wrap up warm as the Great Barn can get cold.

Upcoming events

It's All About Status: A Costume Exhibition 

Discover the diverse clothing and materials worn by Tudor people, highlighting the styles and fabrics of the era.

Event summary

on
10 Sep to 28 Sep 2026
at 11:00 to 16:00+ 18 other dates or times

Buckland 75 Exhibition 

Buckland Abbey has been opening its doors to visitors since 1951. In 2026, we will mark 75 years of its history, celebrating its ongoing significance within the local community and its impact on the lives of countless individuals over the decades...

Event summary

on
12 Sep to 1 Nov 2026
at 11:00 to 16:00+ 50 other dates or times

Heritage Open Days: Visit Buckland Abbey for free 

As part of Heritage Open Days come and visit Buckland Abbey for free.

Event summary

on
14 Sep to 20 Sep 2026
at 10:00 to 17:00+ 6 other dates or times

Historic Cooking 

Join our historical cooking team as they explore the seasons and festivals of the year in Buckland Abbey's kitchen.

Event summary

on
19 Sep to 31 Oct 2026
at 11:00 to 13:30+ 2 other dates or times