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Christmas at Killerton

Visitors looking at a Christmas tree at Killerton
Christmas magic takes over the house. | © James Beck

Experience the magic of a 1924 Christmas in the house with the Acland family. Wander through rooms adorned with traditional festive decorations and immerse yourself in the season through the words of young Ellen Acland, whose diary entries reveal the sights, traditions and excitement of Christmas over a century ago.

Visiting the house at Christmas

Taking inspiration from the diaries of young Ellen Acland, step back in time and experience the magic of Christmas 1924 with the Acland family.

Wander through traditionally decorated rooms and discover extracts from Ellen’s diary, offering a charming glimpse into Christmas celebrations at the house:

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.'

 

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

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 winter garden, parkland and chapel grounds. Enjoy fresh air, family fun and plenty of opportunities to learn, 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, marvel at the creatively decorated community Christmas trees, displayed in the chapel and at locations around the property.

We will also be showcasing a special art installation, created in partnership with local community groups, inspired by nature and their visits to Killerton.

To complement the display in the house, a gallery of artwork created by local community groups will be showcased. The gallery will provide additional insight into the images selected for the main display and the stories 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

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 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
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.

Family visitors playing grass trumpets in the garden in August at Killerton, Devon

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.

Couple walking with dog through woodland