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Christmas at Cliveden

Published:
20 August 2026
Visitors in the bauble arches in the picnic area
Visitors in the bauble arches in the picnic area | © National Trust / John Miller

From Friday 20 November 2026 – Sunday 3 January 2027, join the story of ‘The Snow Queen’ as a journey through memory, emotion, and winter transformation, unfolding across Cliveden, National Trust and its surrounding gardens. Enjoy winter walks rich with colour and scent, and discover family-friendly adventures across 400 acres of woodland. Seasonal treats across food outlets, a beautifully stocked Christmas shop and more.

Christmas at Cliveden: The Snow Queen

Step into the enchanting world of The Snow Queen as you follow Gerda’s journey through the Water Garden, festive picnic area and into the Sounding Chamber. Along the way, discover a captivating immersive installation, where scenes and fragments of the beloved story unfold through visual and sensory experiences. 

Visitors of all ages are invited to explore the seasonal displays at their own pace, engaging with the story through imagination, wonder and reflection. Your journey ends among snow-dusted white trees in the magical setting of the Sounding Chamber. As seasonal displays bring the grounds to life and festive treats await, experience the magic of Cliveden this winter. 

Follow the magic around the estate

Young explorers can enjoy the Storybook Play Den and maze in the Water Garden and there are 400 acres of natural woodlands to discover for nature enthusiasts. Finally, we have many dog friendly paths for those with four-legged friends to take in the winter views across the Thames Valley through the frames of the bare trees. Head to 'Visiting Cliveden with your dog' to find out more.

Accessibility

Gardens have hard gravel paths, some steep slopes, undulating terrain and steps. Map of suggested level access routes around the gardens is available from the Information Centre. Braille and large print guides available from the Information Centre. To plan your visit and find out about accessibility needs, please visit: AccessAble - Your Accessibility Guide

Christmas food and drink

Warm up after your visit with a seasonal treat, choosing from hot chocolate, mince pies and more at food outlets across the estate.

Your perfect Christmas gifts await you at the Cliveden Gift Shop

Step inside Cliveden’s carefully curated Christmas shop and let the season’s magic unfold. Brimming with festive charm, each display has been lovingly arranged to capture the warmth and wonder of Christmas at Cliveden.

Wander through shelves adorned with elegant ornaments, indulgent seasonal treats, and hand-picked gifts inspired by the estate’s heritage and natural beauty. From locally sourced home fragrances to the perfect bottle of wine for your Christmas table, every item has been thoughtfully chosen to bring a touch of sparkle to your celebrations.

Sustainably sourced and beautifully presented, these treasures offer something special for everyone — whether you’re searching for a keepsake to cherish, a thoughtful stocking filler, or a memorable gift to share with loved ones. Embrace the joy of giving this festive season with a visit to Cliveden’s Gift Shop — where every gift tells a story, and Christmas truly comes to life.

Visitors admiring the Christmas tree in the Walled Garden
Visitors admiring the Christmas tree in the Walled Garden | © National Trust / John Miller

Planning your visit

  • Christmas at Cliveden will run from Friday 20 November 2026 – Sunday 3 January 2027.
  • Please note that Cliveden Estate is closed on 24 and 25 December 2026.
  • No booking necessary, free event but normal property admission price applies (free for National Trust members).
  • Gardens and grounds are open from 9:30am – 4:30pm (last entry is 4:00pm).
  • On arrival, head to the Information Centre in the Walled Garden to start your winter journey.
  • The Sounding Chamber is approximately a 20-minute walk from the main car park and is accessible on hard paths and gravel surfaces. Step-free access routes are available, please ask for an accessibly map from the Information Centre.
  • Cliveden is an outdoor property so please dress appropriately for the weather.
  • Dogs are welcome in many areas of the Cliveden Estate. There is a dog map available to pick up on arrival, which will show you the on-lead and off-lead areas.
  • Cliveden's visitor shuttle bus is available upon request at the Information Centre for accessible needs only.
  • Hearing loops are installed at every fixed till point.
  • We're putting the finishing touches to our festive food and drink offering. Check back soon for more details.
Aerial view of Cliveden, Buckinghamshire

Discover more at Cliveden

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

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Things to see in the garden at Cliveden 

Follow in the footsteps of dukes, earls, kings and queens as you stroll through a series of impressive spaces at Cliveden this summer, each with its own special charm.

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Family-friendly things to do at Cliveden 

If you’re looking to get the whole family outside this summer look no further.

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Visiting Cliveden with your dog 

Cliveden is a two pawprint rated place. Dogs are welcome across many areas, with woodlands, riverbank and a formal garden all offering a variety of dog-friendly walks.

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Exploring the woodlands at Cliveden 

Discover majestic trees, tranquil glades and far-reaching views as well as some unusual features in Cliveden’s woodlands, including a flint grotto and part of a giant sequoia tree.

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Eating at Cliveden 

Choose from a range of refreshments at the cafes and kiosks at Cliveden fuel your visit around the estate.

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