Christmas at The Vyne

A giant chess board is laid out in a gallery surrounded by black and white Christmas presents in front of three Christmas trees lit up with cold white fairy lights and decorated with black and white decorations. — Step into another world this Christmas where nothing is as it seems. | © National Trust / Virginia Langer

All is not as it seems; from 20 November to 5 January, in The Vyne's house and gardens, lose yourself in Lewis Carroll's dreamlike children's classics Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Alice Through the Looking-Glass. When you need to refuel you can order steaming hot chocolates, coffees or something a little stronger in the cosy Brewhouse tea-room. You’ll find a range of festive gifts in the shop. House open 11am-3pm, gardens 10am-4pm. Closed 24 & 25 December.

Festive family fun in 2024

Wonderland Christmas family activities

Daily until 5 Jan inclusive 11am-3pm (closed 24 & 25 Dec)

All ages can explore The Vyne's gardens and the ground floor of the house lavishly decorated to depict Lewis Carroll's much-loved Wonderland. Collect your trail sheet from Visitor Reception and join Alice on a quest through the gardens dotted with light-hearted displays before entering the house. Enjoy nonsensical fun challenges and activities before collecting your prize. £2 per trail sheet and prize.

Christmas decorations 2024

Daily until 5 Jan inclusive (closed 24 & 25 Dec)

On the ground floor of the house, sparkling trees laden with baubles illuminate whimsical and nonsensical displays inspired by ‘Looking-Glass’ such as a quirky ‘illogical’ room where glittering upside-down Christmas trees point disconcertingly to the floor. In the Stone Gallery, you’ll see a giant chess board where, in the story, Alice must play boldly to become a queen.

At key focal points in the gardens, you’ll encounter depictions of much-loved characters and famous scenes from ‘Alice’s Adventures’ including the Queen of Heart’s army of cards on the north lawn.

Three Christmas trees decorated with black and white ribbons, baubles and presents are illuminated with cold white fairy lights. — Look out for trees aglow with lights and adorned with themed decorations. | © National Trust / Virginia Langer

Festive food and drink

Warm your cockles with hearty one-pots and soups in the Brewhouse tea-room. Or why not pick up an indulgent hot drink such as hot chocolate or spice-infused mulled wine with a mince pie to help take the chill off a winter’s day?

Christmas shopping at The Vyne

Discover a selection of festive bites and beverages, nature-inspired Christmas decorations and Christmas cards and calendars in The Vyne's gift shop, as well as quality books and kitchen and homeware.

Eating and shopping at The Vyne