Get into the festive spirit
From wreath-making workshops and carol concerts to winter illuminations, find Christmas days out near you.
Christmas at Canons Ashby
For Christmas 2025 we invited you to experience a magical visit with festive decorations inspired by Arthurian wizards, knights and dragons. Little ones could explore like an Arthurian knight on the Christmas Quest trail and there were candlelit tours and Christmas wreath making workshops for the grown ups.
Christmas 2025 has now finished at Canons Ashby
The below is information for Christmas 2025. We hope you enjoyed all that we had on offer. Please check back here closer to 2026 when you will see updates of all the exiting plans we have in store for you.
The festive decorations are drawn from the pages of Arthurian legend, which sparked the imaginations of Dryden family writers hundreds of years ago.
Complete your vist by enjoying some warming treats in the Coach House tea-room and take inspiration from the seasonal gifts and decorations in our gift shop with some festive shopping.
A Christmas Quest
29 November - 24 December, 11am-3.30pm. Normal admission applies.
Experience a magical Christmas visit at Canons Ashby with festive decorations inspired by Arthurian wizards, knights, dragons and the wonderful myths that surround them. For little adventurers, pick up the Christmas Quest children’s trail, find all the ingredients on the list, and help Merlin complete his spell to make a magical Christmas.
The Magical Forest Trail
27 November - 24 December, 10am - 3.30pm. Normal admission applies and £3.50 per trail.
Can you help Merlin the Wizard find his way through the magical forest?
Come to Canons Ashby this festive season for our Magical Forest Trail! Help Merlin the Wizard find his way through the forest using your trail clues, and don't forget to pick up your festive prize at the end!
This will be great for those who appreciate audio sensory experiences, as there will be noisy things to interact with.
Festive Handbell Ringing in the Church
Saturday 6 December, 11.30am - 12.30pm. Booking not needed, normal admission applies.
Fancy some festive cheer? Come and listen to the Launton Handbell Ringers in the Priory Church!
Enjoy the festive sounds of the Launton Handbell Ringers in the beautiful acoustics of the Priory Church between 11.30am and 12.15pm. Wrap up warm and take a pew to enjoy their beautiful music. Don’t miss the house - which will be all dressed up for an Arthurian Christmas - before or afterwards.
Decorate a Christmas Crown
Sunday 14 December, 11am - 2pm. Normal admission applies and £1.50 per crown.
Decorate a gold crown with festive stickers and gems and then go to see the decorations based on the legends of King Arthur.
Bring your little princes and princesses to decorate a gold crown with festive stickers and gems and then go to see the decorations based on the legends of King Arthur. This activity will be taking place in the church, where there is a beautiful Christmas tree to see too.
The Knight Before Christmas - now sold out
Friday 12 December, 6pm - 7.10pm and 7.30pm - 8.40pm, £16 per person, pre booking essential.
Bring the whole family and experience the wonder of Christmas the old-fashioned way! Twinkling lights, fresh pine, and a cosy tour through Canons Ashby house; what more could you want for Christmas?
Join us for a special after-hours tour around the house when it is decorated for Christmas. Inspired by Arthurian legend come and see the decorations which are full of knights, wizards, and dragons. They are sure to be even more atmospheric in the evening!
After the tour warm up with a class of mulled wine or hot chocolate and a mince pie, included in the ticket price.
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Explore the historic house at Canons Ashby with grand rooms, stunning tapestries and plasterwork which contrasts with the servants' quarters. Find out more about what you can see.
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The garden provides plenty of space for the family to have a great day out and enjoy the fresh air. You can also stretch your legs with one of the walks in the wider grounds.
Family-friendly things to do at Canons Ashby
Discover family-friendly activities and days out with the kids at Canons Ashby, including nature trails, wild play and school holiday events.
Visiting Canons Ashby with your dog
Canons Ashby is a two pawprint rated place. Dogs are welcome at Canons Ashby, whether it's a walk in the parkland with the family or lunch in the tea-garden whilst your dog(s) companion relaxes. Find out more about bringing your dog(s) friend for a visit.
