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 2023, we invite you to experience a magical Christmas visit with festive decorations inspired by Arthurian wizards, knights and dragons. Little ones can explore like an Arthurian knight on the Christmas Quest trail and grown-ups can join in with a Christmas wreath making workshop. There are after-dark candlelit tours round the house to enjoy and traditional baroque Christmas music outside in the courtyard. 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 Enchanted Tree Trail
11 November - 24 December, and 30 December – 1 Jan. Please check our opening hours carefully. Normal asmission applies & £3 per trail.
Bring your little elves and enjoy the enchanted trail through out outdoor spaces, enjoying some decorations and finding out all about the magical trees all around us.
Christmas Wreath Workshop
£35 per person including all materials, prebooking essential. Find out more here.
Nothing says ‘Christmas is here’ quite like a wreath on your front door. Spend a few hours with our talented flower 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.
Festive Handbell Ringing in the church
Saturday 2 September, 11.30am - 12.15pm, no pre-booking needed and normal admission applies.
Enjoy the festive sounds of the Launton Handbell ringers in the beautiful acoustics of Priory Church. Wrap up warm and take a pew to enjoy their beautiful music.
The Knight Before Christmas – candlelit tour
Friday 8 December, 6pm - 7.10pm & 7.30pm - 8.40pm, £16 per person, booking in advance essential. Find out more here.
Join us for a special after-hours tour around the festive house as a fascinating Christmas treat. The Arthurian decorations, full of knights, wizards and dragons, are sure to be even more atmospheric in the evening. Our experienced guide will show you around some of the main show rooms, tell you some fascinating facts, and we’ll finish with mulled cider or hot chocolate and a mince pie by the light of the Christmas Trees. (The candles will be artificial for the safety of our historic house.)
You might also be interested in
Article
Visiting Canons Ashby house
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.
Article
Visiting the garden at Canons Ashby
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.
Article
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.
Article
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 pup companion relaxes. Find out more about bringing your four-legged friend for a visit.