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Christmas at Hughenden: A Victorian Voyage of Discovery

A magical Christmas at Hughenden where visitors journey through the night sky, distant desert, dense jungle and deep ocean.

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

Saturday 28 November 2026 – Sunday 3 January 2027​

This Christmas, we’re transforming the manor into a celebration of Victorian discovery—inviting visitors to explore the globe through the spirit of curiosity, adventure and awe.

From stargazing in the age of scientific fascination, to Darwin’s journeys through South American jungles, each space reveals extraordinary moments that captured the Victorian imagination. ​

Christmas can be a busy time at Hughenden, especially during the holidays. Most of our visitors tend to arrive between 11am and 1pm, which can cause congestion in the car park especially on weekends. If you arrive at 10am you might find the grounds a little quieter, or if you arrive after 1pm, there’s still time to enjoy all that Hughenden has to offer. If you have the flexibility, a weekday visit is generally quieter than a weekend, even during school holidays. If you can only visit over the weekend, Saturdays are usually less busy than Sundays.

Please note that the Manor opens at 11am.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Check admission prices

The basics

Accessibility

All Christmas decorations are wheelchair accessible either outside or on the ground floor of the manor. Please phone ahead if you would like to book a wheelchair.

Meeting point

The magic starts from the woodland walk down from the car park!

Suitability for children

Suitable for people of all ages.

What to bring and wear

The family trail takes place outside in our gardens, so dress appropriately for the weather. Pathways can be uneven and muddy in places so sturdy footwear is recommended.

Other

Drinks, snacks and light lunches with family-friendly options are available from the café and additional outlets.

Upcoming events

Pooch Passport 

Explore more with your four-legged friends! In partnership with Forthglade, visit Hughenden and other participating properties to collect 6 stamps on your free pooch passport to receive a treat.

Event summary

on
9 Oct 2026 to 28 Feb 2027
at 10:00 to 16:00+ 142 other dates or times

Creepy Chilterns 

Best suited to children aged 8–12, this self-guided trail takes you on a journey through the myths, legends and mysterious folklore of the Chiltern Hills.

Event summary

on
9 Oct to 2 Nov 2026
at 10:00 to 16:30+ 24 other dates or times

October Half Term - Stranger Folk at Hughenden 

Forget plastic fangs and horror films - this Halloween adventure crackles with old magic. British folklore sneaks into the real world, set against the backdrop of Hughenden.

Event summary

on
9 Oct to 1 Nov 2026
at 10:00 to 16:30+ 23 other dates or times

The Great Big Halloween Hunt Trail 

Saturday 3 October - Sunday 1 November. Perfect for children aged 2–5, this playful trail is inspired by the Nosy Crow book The Great Big Halloween Hunt.

Event summary

on
9 Oct to 1 Nov 2026
at 10:00 to 16:30+ 23 other dates or times