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Christmas at Killerton

A mother holding a young boy looking at decorated Christmas tree at Killerton
See the traditionally decorated house at Killerton | © James Beck

Make Killerton part of your Christmas tradition this year. Wander through the festively decorated house, enjoy an outdoor adventure on the family play trail, and be inspired by the creativity of local community groups. Add a touch of nostalgia to your visit with a ride on our vintage-style helter skelter, bringing festive fun for all ages. 

Visiting the house at Christmas

Experience the magic of a 1923 Christmas in the house with the Acland family. Wander through the ground floor rooms adorned with traditional festive decorations and immerse yourself in the season through the words of Lady Eleanor Acland, as her memories offer a charming glimpse into Christmas celebrations with the Acland family over a century ago:

Ellen [9] and Cuthbert [14]...'sallied forth with an axe, cut down a small fir tree, planted it in a pot, decorated and be-candled it, and produced it in triumph on Christmas morning.'

-Lady Eleanor Acland

 

Would you like to visit during one of our relaxed hours sessions this Christmas? They are designed to be of benefit to visitors who prefer a quieter and calmer experience, such as those living with autism, SEN or dementia, then booking is essential.

 

Please note that the first floor Fashion Exhibition will be closed over the festive season whilst the team install the 2027 display. 

Decorating the house for Christmas
Decorating for Christmas at Killerton | © James Beck

Lighthouse Helter Skelter

All the fun of the fair! Add a touch of nostalgia to your visit with a ride on our vintage-style helter skelter. Standing at an impressive 15.55 metres tall, this classic, fairground favourite promises fun for all ages. 

Climb to the top and enjoy the excitement of the spiral slide as you twist and turn your way back down. As a much-loved feature of traditional fairs, it's the perfect way to add a little extra adventure to your day at Killerton.

 

Festive fun in the garden and parkland

Wrap up warm and set off on a seasonal adventure with our outdoor children’s trail.

Discover playful activities and interactive challenges designed for all ages as you explore the garden, parkland and chapel grounds. Enjoy fresh air, family fun and plenty of opportunities to play and make special memories together.

 

 

A child playing with peek boxes on an outdoor play trail at Killerton
Fun for all ages on the outdoor Christmas play trail at Killerton. | © James Beck

Community Christmas

Community Christmas trees and artwork

This year, we're delighted to welcome a collection of creatively decorated community Christmas trees, displayed in the chapel and at locations around the property.

We're also excited to showcase a special art installation, created in partnership with local community groups and inspired by nature and their visits to Killerton.

Alongside the display in the house, you'll be able to explore a gallery of artwork created by local community groups. The gallery offers a deeeper insight into the images featured in the main display, sharing the stories, inspirations and personal connections behind them.

 

A family looking at the decorated community Christmas trees at Killerton
Visit the decorated community Christmas trees in the chapel at Killerton. | © James Beck

Christmas FAQs

A group of friends sit around a table drinking hot drinks along the Christmas trail at Killerton, Devon
Warming hot drinks along the Christmas trail at Killerton, Devon | © National Trust Images/Steve Haywood

Festive food and drink

Indulge in a seasonal hot chocolate and a selection of tasty treats. Take a mince pie with you as you explore the garden, or relax over lunch after experiencing the festive charm of the house.

Look out for the delicious new winter menu, arriving later this year at The Stables Coffee Shop and Killerton Kitchen Café.

 

Christmas shopping at Killerton

Whether you're searching for the perfect Christmas gift, treating yourself to something special, or adding festive touches to your home, you'll find plenty to inspire you in the shop at Killerton.

Step away from the hustle and bustle of the high street and enjoy a relaxed Christmas shopping experience at your own pace.

A group of felt mice portraying the Nativity scene
Shop Christmas decorations online or at the places in our care | © National Trust Images/James Dobson
Family by the Christmas tree at Scotney Castle, Kent

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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Killerton 

A family home and a great estate. Glorious landscape garden surrounded by parkland with fine 18th-century house.

Exeter, Devon

Fully open today
Highland cows grazing in the parkland in front of Killerton House

Things to do in Killerton House 

Step inside and explore the country house residence of Sir Francis Acland, 14th Baronet, home of the Acland family from the late 17th century. The house is open daily.

A view of the bookshelves and table with the draped windows in the background, inside the Library at Killerton, Devon

Eating and shopping at Killerton 

Stop by the Stables Coffee Shop for some refreshments, before browsing for gifts and souvenirs in the National Trust shop or second-hand bookshop.

Visitors cosy up with a hot drink at the Killerton Kitchen Café, Killerton, Devon

Things to do in the garden at Killerton 

Discover what to see and do in Killerton's diverse garden. There’s plenty of space for walks and adventure at this country estate near Exeter.

Girl running in the garden with a large autumnal leaf at Killerton

Visiting Killerton with your dog 

Killerton is a three pawprint rated place. With miles of paths and tracks to explore, dogs love walkies at Killerton. Find out the best dog-friendly walking routes and where they can run off the lead.

Visitors walk their black pug dog through the autumn leaves