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Christmas at Greenway

Decorated Christmas trees with lights in two rooms
Celebrate a traditional Christmas at Greenway | © National Trust / Lauren Hutchinson

Inspired by one of Agatha Christie's short story collections, explore the decorated rooms in her former holiday home and join a festive mystery trail.

Christmas at Greenway

It wouldn't be Christmas at Greenway without a little Christie magic. This year the decorations and family friendly festive trail have been inspired by Agatha's short story collection, and its enigmatic character the Mysterious Mr Quinn. 

Mystery and merriment

Greenway House was the holiday home of Agatha Christie, where Agatha and her family would gather here to celebrate the season. It was also the time of year when Agatha would release a new novel, and devoted fans would purchase one (either for themselves or a loved one) as a gift - prompting the phrase 'a Christie for Christmas'. 

The 'Mysterious Mr Quin' collection was one of Agatha's favourites, and starts off with a short story set on New Years Eve. But did you know, the character Mr Quin was inspired by a set of Dresden figures that Agatha's mother had when she was a child? 

Fascinated by the masked types in Italian theatre, Agatha's first ever works in print were a poem Harlequin’s Song, which she wrote as a child and was inspired by Harlequin. 

To celebrate, the house will be transformed with decorations and nods to the collection of short stories, from the original Harlequin figurine that inspired Agatha's character as well as harlequin themed trees and more in the house.

 

Christmas opening dates

To help plan your day out, Christmas at Greenway will be open from 11am to 4pm on:

  • Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 November
  • Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 November
  • Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 December
  • Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 December
  • Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 December
  • Daily from 27 - 31 December 2025
Wooden sign with words Merry Christmas from Greenway with green foliage and red berries.
Explore the twelve wreaths of Christmas around the garden | © National Trust / Lauren Hutchinson

The Mysterious Mr Pie

'Oh crumbs!'

It's Christmas Eve and the Mr Pie has lost his star. Can you follow the clues and help Mr Pie find it?

Inspired by one of Agatha Christie's beloved characters, join in the festive fun with a puzzle solving trail as the Mysterious Mr Pie (Mince Pie to you) explores Greenway trying to find his star topping. The trail will take Christmas goers around the winter garden and into the house.

There'll be a photo opportunity that will leave visitors starstruck, while in the shop and cafe lots of mince pie treats to enjoy.

A wooden piano and stool in a room, with a lamp behind, framed by out of focus Christmas tree branches and fairy lights
Gather round and sing Christmas carols by Agatha's piano | © National Trust / Lauren Hutchinson

Festive food and drink

Whether you've been around the garden for a winter stroll or need a festive treat, don't forget to stop by the Barn Cafe at Greenway. We've got decadent hot chocolates, spiced lattes and warming cups of tea to keep those mittens toasty, or treat yourself to festive mince pies (could that be Mr Pie's missing star?) and gingerbread biscuits. 

Christmas shopping at Greenway

Why not leave the busy high street behind and let us help with the Christmas shopping this year? Whether you're looking for stocking-fillers or something special to put under the tree, you'll find the perfect gift at the National Trust shop.

There's plenty for food lovers too, from tasty biscuits to handmade jams, indulgent chocolates and quaffable wines. Pick up a treat or two, or choose a combination of things to go in a festive hamper. You can also transform your home into a winter wonderland with a range of decorations available, from festive garlands to handmade ornaments. 

 

Travelling to Greenway

If you're planning to visit by car, you'll need to book your parking space in advance. Parking spaces are available two weeks in advance, and you can book them online here.

 

Visitors in the kitchen at Christmas, Petworth, West Sussex

Get into the festive spirit

From wreath-making workshops and carol concerts to winter illuminations, find Christmas days out near you.

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