Churchill's Colourful Christmas in the House and grounds at Chartwell
Experience the magic and wonder of Christmas at Chartwell. Explore beautifully decorated rooms in the house inspired by Winston Churchill's love of painting. Enjoy festive trees, seasonal music and enchanting displays.
- Booking not needed
- Free event (admission applies)
Celebrate Christmas at Chartwell with decorations inspired by Sir Winston Churchill's passion for painting. Discover festive displays that bring to life his artistic journey, from the moment he first picked up a paintbrush to the landscapes, gardens and places that inspired his work.
Feel the Christmas spirit as soon as you arrive, with plenty of festive photo opportunities among beautifully decorated trees, twinkling lights and seasonal displays. From the Visitor Centre, Café and Shop to the grounds surrounding the house and studio, immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Christmas at Chartwell.
Throughout your visit, our knowledgeable room guides are on hand to share stories of Christmas at Chartwell and of Churchill's life as a painter.
Entry to the house for self-led visits is by timed ticket, available from the Visitor Centre on the day on a first-come, first-served basis.
Christmas in the house runs from 27 November 2026 to 3 January 2027 (except Christmas Eve and Christmas Day), with timed entry to the house available throughout opening hours. Last entry is at 15.10.
On selected weekends, enjoy live Christmas carols in the garden. Families can also enjoy a new festive activity trail inspired by the stories and illustrations of children's author and illustrator Rob Biddulph. Follow the trail through the garden, complete seasonal activities and collect a prize. £3.50 per trail. Normal admission or National Trust membership applies. Under 5s enter for free.
Times
Prices
Event ticket prices
This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.
Check admission pricesThe basics
- Accessibility
Accessible toilet by the Visitor Centre and in the Garden toilets just past the house. There are steps both between rooms and up/down staircases.
- Meeting point
Head to Visitor Centre on arrival.
- Suitability for children
Children Welcome
- What to bring and wear
Wrap up warm for winter weather.
- Other
The rooms on the ground and lower ground floors of the house are open during the Christmas season. The upstairs rooms are closed at this time of year to allow for essential conservation work.
Upcoming events
Inspired by Chartwell Painting Exhibition
See the winning paintings from the ‘Inspired by Chartwell’ Painting Competition
Rob Biddulph Festive Family Activity Trail at Chartwell
Rob Biddulph returns to Chartwell after a sensational summer. Follow the fox through the garden on a festive family activity trail inspired by his much-loved picture book I Follow the Fox.
Christmas Market at Chartwell
Get into the festive spirit at Chartwell's Christmas Market. Find the perfect Christmas gift from a selection of handmade crafts and local produce.
Christmas Carols at Chartwell
Enjoy live Christmas music in the grounds at Chartwell from a variety of musical groups performing on different dates throughout the festive season.