SOLD OUT - Story time with Father Christmas at Rufford
Meet Father Christmas as you gather round with a drink and a homemade cookie to listen to a magical winter story. After storytelling and games, children will have a special moment to take a memorable photo.
- Booking essential
- Admission applies
This December, join Father Christmas and his elves in the cottage here at Rufford Old Hall.
Settle in with a drink and a homemade cookie, receive a special gift, and enjoy a festive story read by Father Christmas himself. After the story you’ll get the chance to play some festive games and there’s an opportunity to capture this magical moment with a photo with Father Christmas.
Perfect for families, and with limited spaces available, don’t miss out on this magical storytelling experience.
Rufford Old Hall will be transformed by the sights, sounds and scents of a traditional Victorian Christmas, so why not explore the house and gardens during your visit?
Please note: Tickets include a drink and cookie, a gift from Father Christmas and 40 minute story time session with time for a memorable photo with Father Christmas and his elf. Admission to the house and grounds applies.
Please book 1 ticket per child. Accompanying adults only. Maximum two adults per child.
Recommended for ages 0-8
Standard admission charges apply to non-National Trust members to visit the house and grounds.
Hot chocolate and cookie contain milk.
Times
The basics
- Booking number
Call 03442491895
- Accessibility
The cottage garden room is accessible with level floor and wall to wall carpet. Please get in contact with the property team to discuss your requirements. Children can get cosy on the floor with blankets and cushions. If a seat is needed, please let us know in advance. A full property accessibility statement is available on the National Trust Rufford Old Hall webpage.
- Meeting point
Enter the bookshop where you will be greeted by the welcome team. The team will check your tickets and show you to Father Christmas's study. Please arrive 5 minutes before the story time session.
- Suitability for children
Suitable for babies and children up to 8 years old.
- What to bring and wear
The event is indoors but we recommend wrapping up warm as the event room has an external door.
- Other
Hot chocolate and cookie contain milk.
Upcoming events
What's On at Rufford Old Hall
Throughout 2026, Rufford Old Hall will host a programme of free to experience activities and events for all the family, included in the price of admission.
Stranger Folk
Go on a quest with the Stranger Folk app this October and explore Rufford Old Hall through folk tales and interactive games.
Scarecrow Festival at Rufford 2026
Join us this October for our popular scarecrow festival, where this year's theme is 'Rufford Rocks: pop stars and music legends'!
Pressed Flower Pumpkin Decorating Workshop
This Autumn, join local artist Lisa to create pressed flower decorated pumpkins resulting in beautiful keepsakes to enjoy for the season and beyond.