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A Christmas Quest

Experience a magical Christmas visit at Canons Ashby with festive decorations inspired by Arthurian wizards, knights, dragons and the wonderful myths that surround them. Running from 29 November - 24 December.

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

This year our Christmas displays will be inspired by the legends that sparked the imagination of John Dryden, who was a member the Canons Ashby family and the first poet laureate. King Arthur, the semi-opera written by John Dryden and Henry Purcell, has been delighting audiences since 1691.

For little adventurers, pick up the Christmas Quest children’s trail, find all the ingredients on the list, and help Merlin the Wizard complete his spell to make a magical Christmas.

Normal admission prices apply.

This is the fourth year of "A Christmas Quest", which won "Best Exhibition" at the Northamptonshire Heritage Forum Awards 2023.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Check admission prices

The basics

Suitability

This event is for all the family.

Meeting point

Please park in the main visitor car park and start your day at Visitor Reception.

What to bring and wear

Please dress for the weather. Part of the event is outside on uneven outdoor surfaces. The ground will be wet if the weather has been poor.

Accessibility

Our decorations are in the house, which has steps, stairs and uneven surfaces. More information can be found on our AccessAble guide. If you have any questions, please email us at canonsashby@nationaltrust.org.uk

Other

This event takes place in the house, so it is not suitable for dogs (except assistance dogs).

Upcoming events

The Magical Forest Trail 

Can you help Merlin the Wizard find his way through the magical forest?

Event summary

on
13 Dec to 24 Dec 2025
at 10:00 to 15:30+ 11 other dates or times

Decorate a Christmas Crown 

Decorate a gold crown with festive stickers and gems and then go to see the decorations based on the legends of King Arthur.

Event summary

on
14 Dec 2025
at 11:00 to 14:00

Snowdrop Stories 

Snowdrops bring the hope of spring, looking ahead to light and warmth whilst it’s still cold outside. On your visit to Canons Ashby, stop to admire the bright white blooms and discover some new stories.

Event summary

on
7 Feb to 7 Mar 2026
at 10:00 to 15:00+ 28 other dates or times

Bugs and Beasties Trail 

As part of your visit to Canons Ashby, wrap up warm and get outside in the fresh air for our Bugs and Beasties Trail.

Event summary

on
7 Feb to 27 Mar 2026
at 10:00 to 15:00+ 48 other dates or times