Discover more in Northern Ireland.
From the world-famous Giant's Causeway to the world-class Mount Stewart estate, discover the best things to see and do in Northern Ireland.
Christmas in Northern Ireland
Explore twinkling Christmas markets, indulge in festive family activities and visit our historic houses dressed in all the trimmings. Whether you're seeking adventure or a cosy retreat, National Trust has something for everyone this Christmas season. Plan your festive day out in Northern Ireland and discover exciting events and experiences for the whole family.
Top Christmas days out in Northern Ireland
Christmas at Castle Ward
This festive season, at 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.
Christmas at The Argory
Admire The Argory dressed for an 19th century Christmas. Trees, trinkets and garlands will decorate the rooms and the dining room will be filled with festive fare. Experience what life was like for the MacGeough Bond family and their servants as they prepare for the festive season.
Christmas at Rowallane Garden
Join us over the winter season for a homemade Christmas at Rowallane Garden. Look out for alternative Christmas trees on a family-friendly trail through the garden, learn how to make your own decorations, and enjoy a variety of fun festive activities.
Christmas at Mount Stewart
This winter, add a sprinkle of seasonal magic with a visit to Mount Stewart. This Christmas season, join us for a festive children's trail, seasonal storytelling, family activities in the big house, wellness and gift-making workshops, twinkly lights and Christmassy musical performances.
Christmas at Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne
This winter, add a sprinkle of seasonal magic to your days out with a visit to the Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne.
Browse a Christmas market
The Argory Christmas Fair
The traditional Christmas Fair will take place on 5-6 December. The courtyard will be brimming with local stalls, and the sound of the silver band will bring the festive spirit. Trees, trinkets, and garlands will decorate the rooms of the house. Visit the festive food quarter for local delights and tasty treats. Step back in time to a Yuletide of yesteryear and enjoy traditions of the festive period. Families will have a chance to meet Santa.
Castle Ward Christmas Artisan Market
Celebrate the festive season at Castle Ward on 5-6 December. Explore the theatre space and Stable Yard, where local designers, makers and food vendors showcase handcrafted gifts and seasonal treats. A wonderful opportunity to shop for unique Christmas products and enjoy a magical day out.
Rowallane Garden Yuletide Market
Experience the magic of the season at Rowallane Garden with a variety of festive events perfect for all ages. The Yuletide Market, running from 12-13 December, is a highlight, offering local crafts, seasonal scents, and live choir performances. Don’t miss the chance to meet Santa as he strolls through the gardens!
Explore historic houses dressed for the season
Christmas at Mount Stewart
This winter, add a sprinkle of seasonal magic with a visit to Mount Stewart. This Christmas season, join us for a festive children's trail, seasonal storytelling, family activities in the big house, wellness and gift-making workshops, twinkly lights and Christmassy musical performances.
Christmas at Castle Ward
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.
Christmas at The Argory
Admire The Argory dressed for an 19th century Christmas. Trees, trinkets and garlands will decorate the rooms and the dining room will be filled with festive fare. Experience what life was like for the MacGeough Bond family and their servants as they prepare for the festive season.
Get creative at our Christmas craft workshops
Christmas Woodcarving Workshop at Mussenden
Curious about woodcarving? Join Stephen Ryan of Green Woodwork Ireland for a festive Introduction to Woodcarving class on 21 November. Whether you’re a complete beginner or simply keen to try something new, come along and discover the joy of creating something by hand in this Christmas-themed workshop.
Christmas Wreath Making at Hezlett House
Welcome the festive season with a hands-on Christmas wreath-making workshop! Join our talented team of volunteers on 2 or 4 December and learn how to create a beautiful, unique wreath for your front door using fresh foliage and berries gathered from Downhill Demesne. Enjoy a little festive creativity and take home a handmade decoration to brighten your home this Christmas. The workshop will take place at Hezlett House.
Willow Weaving at Castle Coole
Unleash your creativity with the heritage craft of willow weaving at a hands-on workshop at Castle Coole on 5 December. Come along and learn the traditional craft of willow weaving in the magnificent surroundings of Castle Coole in a cosy room in The Grand Yard and create a piece of your own to take home.
Unwind with music and mindfulness this winter
Christmas Carol Concert at Mussenden Temple with Cantemus Chamber Choir
Kick off the festive season on 6 December with our carol concert beneath the cliffs at Mussenden Temple – the Cantemus Chamber Choir bring seasonal harmony in a breathtaking setting.
Christmas Carol Concert at Mussenden Temple with Counterpoint Choir
Soak up the spirit of the season at Mussenden Temple on 13 December as Counterpoint Choir fills this iconic space with beautiful Christmas harmonies overlooking the Atlantic.
Winter Solstice Sound Spa Retreat Experience at Mount Stewart
Join us in the majestic Temple of the Winds on 19 December for a Winter Solstice Sound Spa Retreat - lie back, breathe deep and let healing tones carry you into the season’s light.
Christmas crafts to try at home
Make a natural Christmas wreath
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing activity or a festive way to bring the family together, follow our step-by-step guide to create a Christmas wreath.
Make a pine cone Christmas decoration
Learn how to make a pine cone mouse and other simple, sustainable Christmas decorations, using materials that you can forage when you’re out on a winter walk.
Make festive paper chain decorations
Learn how to make a sophisticated version of the paper chain, a classic 19th-century Christmas decoration that’s simple for adults and children alike.
Recipes for Christmas treats
Quick-mix Christmas cake
Our last minute quick-mix Christmas cake is perfect if you haven't had the time to follow a traditional recipe. It tastes great too.
Mince pie brownies
A festive twist on a classic brownie, these indulgent mince pie brownies make for a great dessert and are a great way to use up any leftover mince pies.
Make a gingerbread house
Fancy making your own gingerbread house? With our simple biscuit recipe and video, and your choice of design, you can't go wrong with this classic tasty treat.
