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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

For Christmas 2025 we invite you to experience a magical 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 to join in with an after-dark candlelit tours round the house and get into the festive spirit with Christmas wreath making.

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 asmission 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 asmission applies and £3.30 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.

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 6 November, 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.

 

The Knight Before Christmas

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.

Visitors in the kitchen at Christmas, Petworth, West Sussex

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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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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