Skip to content

Christmas at Castle Ward

Father and Daughter at Castle Ward's Georgian Christmastide
There's loads to do for the whole family this Christmastide! | © James Beck

Indulge in a feast for the eyes this festive season as we host Georgian Christmastide in the mansion and host our annual Christmas Artisan Market.

Christmas at Castle Ward 2025

This festive season, Castle Ward, visit the mansion house and estate for a taste of luxury, over-indulging and a grand party as the house prepares for Christmastide.

The Georgians didn't celebrate Christmas as we know it. For them it wasn't about children or Santa - it was about partying! Excess, luxury items and feasting was the order of the day - for 12 days! We'll be indulging in a taste of Georgian excess with our mansion house decorated for the christmas season. See the dining table laid for a feast and the kitchens busy preparing. Georgian Christmastide will be running in the mansion house on 29 & 30 November, 6 & 7 and 13 & 14 December from 11am - 4pm.

Man and daughter browse christmas market at Castle Ward
Christmas Artisan Market at Castle Ward | © Local staff team

Christmas artisan market, 6 - 7 December

The perfect chance to buy Christmas gifts for loved ones (or yourself!).

Castle Ward will host the annual Christmas Artisan Market, where local craftspeople and food vendors showcased their finest handmade goods. Held in the theatre space and Stable Yard, the market will provide a wonderful opportunity to find unique, locally crafted Christmas gifts and enjoy delicious seasonal treats.

Join in the festive atmosphere with music and a vibrant mix of products on offer—from home décor to artisan foods. 

 

Christmas food and drink

Step inside the warm and cosy tea-room, which has been dressed head-to-toe in traditional Christmas décor. Why not try a delicious mince pie, or chocolate orange shortbread washed down with a flat white or gingerbread latte?

Christmas shopping

Step into our gift-shop to peruse around an enchanting range of gifts, perfect for last minute stocking stuffers or something more curated. Our shop can offer support with choosing, gift wrapping and even a hamper selection.

Christmas at Castle Ward, County Down
Christmas at Castle Ward, County Down | © Neil Watt
Two members of National Trust staff looking up and discussing the ornate plaster ceiling in the Gothic Boudoir at Castle Ward, County Down

Discover more at Castle Ward

Find out when Castle Ward is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.

You might also be interested in

Christmas markets and winter fairs 

Find perfect Christmas presents for 2025 or stock up on seasonal treats and decorations at a Christmas market or winter fair.

Visitors exploring the Christmas market at Waddesdon Manor, Buckinghamshire

Historic houses decked out for Christmas 

Step back in time and visit a historic house decorated for Christmas 2025. Discover traditions from medieval to modern times, join in with crafting and carol singing, and celebrate the season.

Christmas at Powis Castle, Powys

Things to do in Castle Ward house 

Wander through the Georgian rooms of this eccentric mansion, famed for its contrasting architecture and interiors, and explore the servants' world below stairs. The house is open daily except Tuesdays, from 11am to 4pm for free-flow exploration. Last entry is at 3.45pm.

Living History performers baking treats in Castle Ward's Kitchen.

Eating and shopping at Castle Ward 

Tuck into a delightful menu and treat yourself or someone special in the shops. Watch artists in action or pick up a gift to take home.

Family ordering in Tea-Room

History of Castle Ward 

Unique and unusual, this eccentric 18th-century house is famed for having been built with two completely different architectural styles, both inside and out. Find out why.

A small girl with a man in c18th costume, he is pointing out something to her with a cane, in front of the house at Castle Ward

Things to do in the garden at Castle Ward 

Discover one of the best examples of a Victorian garden in Ireland. Explore the 17th and 18th-century pleasure grounds, stroll by the lake and see an important piece of history.

Family Walking through Sunken Garden with Mobility Scooter