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A Once Upon a Time Christmas at The Children's Country House at Sudbury

Child visitor looking at a Christmas tree in Sudbury Hall and the National Trust Museum of Childhood in Derbyshire
Christmas at The Children's Country House at Sudbury | © National Trust Images/Chris Lacey

For Christmas 2026, we invite you to discover the magical story of The Snow Queen at The Children’s Country House at Sudbury.

Step inside the Hall and discover the enchanting world of The Snow Queen, as Hans Christian Andersen’s classic tale is brought to life through magical scenes inspired by the adventures of Kay and Gerda. Sparkling Christmas trees and festive decorations will fill the Hall with seasonal wonder, while the gardens twinkle with Christmas lights and the Museum offers a host of activities for visitors to enjoy.

On 11, 12, 18 and 19 December, the Hall and Café will stay open until 7pm, offering a special opportunity to experience the Hall illuminated after dark. Warm up in the Café with a selection of warming drinks and tasty treats before continuing your festive adventure.

This year’s celebration of The Snow Queen continues our ‘Once Upon a Time’ theme, reimagining much-loved classic stories with a magical Children’s Country House twist.

Christmas in the Hall 

Step inside the Hall and journey through a series of enchanting rooms, each bringing a different chapter of The Snow Queen to life in festive splendour. From magical scenes to sparkling seasonal decorations, discover the wonder that awaits around every corner as this much-loved fairy tale unfolds before your eyes.

Christmas in the Museum of Childhood 

Take part in exciting festive trails throughout the Museum of Childhood and enjoy seasonal games and activities. 

Christmas in the Gardens

Discover the beauty of the garden in winter and learn more about the plants that thrive throughout the colder months. Take a leisurely stroll through the newly developed Sunken Lawn and see the garden from a fresh perspective as it embraces the winter season.

Second-hand bookshop

Make sure you stop by the Book Jungle, the second-hand bookshop. You may find the perfect Christmas gift for a friend or loved one. Each purchase helps us to look after the nature, beauty and history of The Children's Country House at Sudbury. 

Family enjoying Christmas in Long Gallery
Family enjoying Christmas in Long Gallery | © Caitlin Wood

Festive Events

A Once upon a Time Christmas has been designed and curated by National Trust staff and volunteers. 

Children playing in the garden in winter at Sudbury Hall and the National Trust Museum of Childhood, Derbyshire

Plan your visit to The Children's Country House at Sudbury

With lots to see and do, for both the young and young at heart, plan your visit to The Children's Country House at Sudbury.

Plan Your Visit

Things to See and Do at The Children's Country House at Sudbury 

Enjoy a leisurely visit to The Children’s Country House at Sudbury. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a garden lover or young-at-heart, there’s something special at this late 17th century house for everyone to enjoy.

Two people walking in the gardens at Sudbury

Visiting The Children's Country House at Sudbury with your dog 

Dogs are welcome in the grounds at Sudbury all year round and there's lots to explore with you canine friend.

A dog holding a stick with owner in the background

Access at The Children's Country House at Sudbury 

Find out about access across the different areas of The Children's Country House at Sudbury and how to make the most of your visit.

The south front of The Children’s Country House at Sudbury, Derbyshire, with topiary trees in the foreground

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