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Christmas at Knightshayes 2026

the house at Knightshayes illuminated by Christmas lights
The house lit up with Christmas illuminations | © Steve Haywood

Step into a Merry and Bright Christmas, where sparkling lights illuminate the house and gardens.

A Merry and Bright Christmas

Sparkling lights fill the house and gardens with seasonal cheer, creating a magical journey for all the family. Rich Gothic Revival interiors are transformed with bold colours, festive decorations and playful games.

This year, pupils from Bolham Primary School have worked with an artist to create handmade decorations spreading joy throughout the property.

The ground floor of the house will be open and decorated for Christmas between 28 November and 3 January (closed 24, 25 & 26 December). Find out more.

 

The Great Hall at Knightshayes decorated for christmas
The Great Hall decorated for Christmas | © Liz Abdey

Festive late nights

The property and café will remain open until 7pm on 3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22 and 23 December, giving you the chance to enjoy the full splendour of the illuminations after dark.

Christmas lights illuminate the house, pool garden and magnificent trees, casting reflections, colours and sparkle across the winter landscape. 

Magic for all the family 

Outside, follow a festive trail through the gardens with family-friendly games and challenges designed to bring everyone together in the spirit of the season. Every day from 18 November to 2 January (Knightshayes is closed 24. 25. 26 December).

Mince pies with star-shaped lids
Enjoy a festive treat in the Stables Café at Knightshayes | © National Trust Images/William Shaw

Seasonal food and drink

Off for a stroll around the gardens? Pick up a hot drink and festive snack to keep your hands warm, from hot chocolates with all the toppings to freshly-baked mince pies. Or warm up with a light bite for lunch in our Stables Cafe. 

Festive shopping

Nestled within the characterful Victorian stables, the shop offers a warm and welcoming retreat brimming with festive inspiration. Discover beautifully curated collections – perfect for finding that special gift.

The exterior of the house at Knightshayes with the garden in front

Discover more at Knightshayes

Find out when Knightshayes is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.

You might also be interested in

Visiting the garden at Knightshayes – a seasonal guide 

Discover the formal and woodland gardens at Knightshayes in Tiverton, Devon, laid out as eight separate areas plus a walled kitchen garden.

pink magnolia blossom

The history of Knightshayes 

Delve into over 200 years of history at Knightshayes. Discover the Heathcoat-Amory family history, how the house and garden was designed and developed, and Knightshayes’s sad connections with the Second World War.

The exterior of the house at Knightshayes with the garden in front

Exploring the estate at Knightshayes 

There are acres of parkland to discover at Knightshayes. It's a great place for the whole family to explore with room to roam with plenty of hidden corners to discover.

Ewes with lambs, by a tree, at Knightshayes, Devon