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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 30 November - 24 December.

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

This year our Christmas displays will be inspired by the legends which sparked the imagination of John Dryden, member of the Canons Ashby family and the first poet laureate.

King Arthur, the semi-opera, by John Dryden and Henry Purcell, astounded audiences from 1691 until today.

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.

This is the second year of "A Christmas Quest", which won "Best Exhibition" at the Northamptonshire Heritage Forum Awards 2023. This year it will be even better!

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 If you have questions about accessing this event please email us at canonsashby@nationaltrust.org.uk

Other

This is in the house, so it is not suitable for dogs except assistance dogs.

Upcoming events

Event

Merlin’s Enchanted Tree 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.

Event summary

on
6 Dec 2023 to 1 Jan 2024
at
10:00 to 15:00
+ 21 other dates or times
Event

Sold out - The Knight Before Christmas – candlelit tour 

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.

Event summary

on
8 Dec 2023
at
18:00 to 19:10
+ 1 other date or time
Event

Snowdrop Stories trail 

Wander through Canons Ashby and discover what people have believed about these delicate and beautiful blooms through the years.

Event summary

on
10 Feb to 25 Feb 2024
at
10:00 to 15:00
+ 15 other dates or times
Event

Easter egg hunts at Canons Ashby 

This spring, treat the whole family to an outdoor adventure at Canons Ashby on our Easter trail.

Event summary

on
23 Mar to 14 Apr 2024
at
10:00 to 16:00
+ 22 other dates or times