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Christmas at Canons Ashby

Christmas decorations including candles, potions, witches hat and Christmas lights on table in room at Canons Ashby Northamptonshire
Enjoy Arthurian themed decorations | © Helena Avery Clarke/ National Trust

Discover a Christmas inspired by Arthurian legend, with enchanting decorations bringing tales of wizards, knights and dragons to life. Follow the Christmas Quest trail, settle in for Christmas Story Time and enjoy a range of festive events, including evening tours and wreath-making workshops.

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.

Merlin's Magic Christmas Trail

18 November - 24 December, 10am - 3pm. Normal admission applies and £3.50 per child.

Help find all of the ingredients for Merlin to cast his Merry Christmas Spell. Look around the paddock and get active with the family - and don't forget your wellies! When you've found everything, collect your little christmas gift to take home with you.

Christmas Wreath Making at Canons Ashby

24 and 25 November, (10.30am - 12.30pm and 1.30pm - 3.30pm), £45 per person and pre - booking essential. 

Nothing says ‘Christmas is here’ quite like a wreath on your front door. Spend a few hours with our talented team who will help you craft your own festive wreath using greenery from the grounds of Canons Ashby. Includes a hot drink to keep you going whilst you’re perfecting your creation.

A Christmas Quest

28 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. 

Carols in the Courtyard with Eboracum Baroque

Saturday 28 November, 5.15 - 7.15pm. Adults £19, Children £12. Pre booking essential.

Singers from Eboracum Baroque are delighted to return to Canons Ashby for a festive concert of music through the ages. There will be a chance to join in with well-known Christmas carols and tunes along the way, as well as enjoying professional singers performing music from medieval times through to more recent festive arrangements.

Red toy dragon with sparkly gold horns with green Christmas tree branches in background
Little dragon hiding in the Christmas tree | © Helena Avery Clarke/National Trust Images

Festive Handbell Ringing in the Church

Saturday 5 December, 11.30am - 12.30pm. Normal admission applies. 

Fancy some festive cheer? Come and listen to the Launton Handbell Ringers in the Priory Church. Wrap up warm and take a pew to enjoy their beautiful music. 

The Knight Before Christmas Evening Tour

Friday 11 December, 6pm - 7.10pm and 7.30pm - 8.10pm, £16 per person, pre-booking essential. 

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 even more atmospheric in the evening!

Decorate a Christmas Crown

Saturday 12 December, 11am - 2pm. Normal admission applies and £1.50 per person. 

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.

Christmas Storytime

Tuesday 15 December, 10.15am - 10.45pm. Normal admission applies. 

Bring your little elves to listen to festive stories in the Second-Hand Bookshop. Take a seat in the circle for several stories for under 5's. 

Family by the Christmas tree at Scotney Castle, Kent

Get into the festive spirit

From wreath-making workshops and carol concerts to winter illuminations, find Christmas days out near you.

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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.

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Discover family-friendly activities and days out with the kids at Canons Ashby, including harvest weekend, nature trails, seasonal story time and wild play.

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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.

Grey dog on a lead with shop items in the background