Christmas at Ickworth
Christmas celebrations return to Ickworth this year with nostalgia in the Servants' Quarters throughout November and a wholesome family-friendly story throughout the house in December. Ickworth will come alive with lovable characters and traditional Christmas cheer that will leave the whole family smiling.
November Nostalgia: A 1930s Christmas
17th November - 30th November 2025, 11am-3pm
Join us in the Servants' Quarters as we get ready for the festive season. During the last two weeks of November, while the upper floors of the Rotunda are closed, we are opening up our basements for a special 1930s experience which will have visitors immersed in Ickworth's history below stairs.
We invite you to join us as we stir up nostalgia through costumed interpretation, traditional preparation such as mixing the Christmas pudding, making paper decorations and cleaning the house ready for parties. This glimpse into the life below stairs of the 1930s will bring Christmas traditions of the past to life. The basements will be decked out ready for the approaching festivities, children can get stuck in helping to make the paper chains or chatting to the 'servants' as they work, and there will even be audio recordings from real past inhabitants who would have lived through the 30s and 40s at Ickworth. Experience their story brought to life and get ready for Christmas.
Winter Adventures: The Snow Leopard of Ickworth
From 1st December 2025 - 5th January 2026, 11am-3pm
Have you ever wondered why there are snow leopards carved into the legs of the table in the Entrance Hall of the Rotunda?
The snow leopard, or 'ounce' as he's sometimes known, was actually the animal depicted on the Hervey family crest. The Hervey's were quite the characters of Ickworth and, this Christmas, their snow leopard comes to life to create a story of his own. Throughout December experience Ickworth through a fun, family-friendly adventure. Join our lovable, lonely snow leopard as he explores Ickworth after dark, bringing delightful mayhem and a trail of snow in his wake.
His journey is full of mishaps, adventures and encounters with the local wildlife. As he moves through the night, he builds friendships and community, culminating in a heart-warming winter tale he'll never forget! Why not come along and join in this Christmas?
Opening times
Ickworth Estate is open from 9am - 5pm across the parkland.
Normal admission charges apply for access to Ickworth Estate. Free for National Trust members. You don't need additional tickets for the Christmas events.
During November Nostalgia the upper floors of the house will be closed and the basements will be open from 11am-3pm each day.
During Winter Adventures the upper floors will be open from 11am-3pm each day.
The West Wing cafe and shop are open from 10am-4pm daily.
Please note: Ickworth Estate is closed 24 - 25 December.
Tasty treats and Christmas shopping
A spot of Christmas shopping
It's the perfect time to grab those all important Christmas cards, buy a few stocking fillers or purchase gifts. Whether you're buying something for a book lover, a garden fanatic or a budding chef, there's something to suit all tastes.
Don't miss...
Visiting Ickworth with the family
There are loads of different family activities designed to help you explore and discover Ickworth Estate. However you choose to spend your day with us, your adventure starts here.
Explore the parkland at Ickworth
Explore the parkland at Ickworth, encircled with layers of history, landscape and classic architecture. Enjoy space, freedom and inspiring views as you wander at your leisure.
Cycling at Ickworth Estate
Find out more about cycling at Ickworth, including the cycle hire hub available in the car park. Pack a picnic and start your adventure.
Explore the house at Ickworth
Discover the house and the treasures collected by the flamboyant 4th Earl of Bristol at Ickworth, a magnificent Italianate palace in the heart of Suffolk.
