Plan your next visit today
You can find more information about the family-friendly events we have coming up at Ightham Mote here
A Timeless Christmas: 700 years of festive cheer
Journey through time as you step into seven centuries of Christmas magic at Ightham Mote. From pagan yuletide customs and Tudor festivities to a traditional Victorian Christmas and the cosy familiarity of 20th century celebrations, each space brings to life the sights, sounds and traditions of Christmas past.
A Timeless Christmas: 700 years of festive cheer
Saturday 22 November—Sunday 4 January
11am—4pm (last entry to the site 3.30pm)
(Closed 24 and 25 December)
Journey through time as you step into seven centuries of Christmas magic at Ightham Mote. From pagan yuletide customs and Tudor festivities to a traditional Victorian Christmas and the cosy familiarity of 20th century celebrations, each space brings to life the sights, sounds and traditions of Christmas past.
Explore beautifully-decorated rooms that capture the spirit of the season across key moments in the property's history.
Inspired by the rich history of this moated manor house, discover the timelessness of this season of festive cheer and goodwill and how it has evolved over 700 years: from the folklore of the Green Man to the more modern American traditions of the last owner of Ightham Mote, Charles Henry Robinson.
As you wander through rooms set with twinkling lights, evocative soundscapes and seasonal scents, you'll experience how yuletide and Christmas have been celebrated through the ages - from the stunning hand-painted Tudor Chapel adorned for a festive mass, to Victorian and Edwardian splendour, 1950s American cheer and a nostalgic tribute to 1985, the year Ightham Mote entered National Trust care.
In the courtyard, little ones can meet Dido the dog beside her grand Grade I listed kennel and her very own decorated Christmas tree – the perfect backdrop for a festive family selfie. Then set off on a playful spotter trail through the house and gardens to discover where Dido has hidden her Christmas bones.
Timeless Nights: Ightham after Dark
Experience the magic of Ightham after dark with our very special 'Timeless Nights' late night openings. On selected Thursday and Fridays in November and December, we'll be staying open right through to 7pm.
Wander the house dressed for the season and soak up the festive atmosphere. Make the most of Christmas shopping at our beautifully-stocked shop, brimming with delights for yourself, thoughtful gifts for others, and all the last-minute foods, decorations and presents you need. Round off your evening with a deliciously festive treat or warming drink in the café.
Why not make a note now and make a date for some pre-Christmas festive fun with family or friends?
- Thursday 27 November
- Thursday 4 December
- Friday 5 December
- Thursday 11 December
- Thursday 18 December
- Friday 19 December
Christmas Shopping Weekend: 29 and 30 November
Join us for our special Christmas shopping weekend on 29–30 November, where you can ‘Meet the Maker’ and discover exquisite, one-of-a-kind gifts from local artisans and producers. More details coming soon.
Seasonal music and workshops
The full programme of our ever-popular seasonal music events and craft workshops will be announced shortly so keep an eye on our Upcoming Events page.
Ightham Mote Estate and Gardens this festive season
Take a moment to escape the busy-ness of advent and Christmas for a peaceful walk in nature around the Ightham Mote estate.
It doesn’t matter if it’s a family adventure or just you and your favourite four-legged friends, this winter is the perfect time to put your hats, scarfs and wellies to good use and explore over 500 acres of Ightham Mote’s estate.
The Ightham Mote estate has always been a place where dogs stretch their legs and enjoy themselves and now, between November and February, we welcome dogs on leads to explore our winter gardens with you.
The garden at Ightham Mote
Make the most of the garden at Ightham Mote as we move from summer into autumn. There’s still plenty of colour and interesting things to be seen as the flowers continue to bloom.
The estate at Ightham Mote
As the weather becomes cooler, enjoy the sights and sounds of the season with misty moodiness and autumn colour across the Ightham Mote estate.
