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Christmas at Nymans: The Gruffalo Art Adventure

“A Gruffalo? What’s a Gruffalo?” “A Gruffalo! Why, didn’t you know?” Join us this Christmas for The Gruffalo Art Adventure, inspired by the much-loved stories created by writer Julia Donaldson and illustrator Axel Scheffler. Sat 21 Nov - Sun 17 Jan.

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

Explore the garden following the Gruffalo Art Adventure, where 12 giant Gruffalo sculptures have each been painted by artists, with designs inspired by the patterns, shapes, and surroundings of nature. Keep an eye out for Gruffalo-inspired games and challenges during your visit.

The adventure continues in the house, where the rooms are beautifully dressed for Christmas with an enchanting winter woodland theme.

The Gruffalo Art Adventure at Nymans is presented by the National Trust and Wild in Art, in collaboration with Magic Light Pictures. The house will be open Saturday 21 November 2026 – Monday 4 January 2027. Explore the Gruffalo Art Adventure Saturday 21 November 2026 – Sunday 17 January 2027.

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

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Upcoming events

The Art of Illusion: The Theatrical World of Oliver Messel 

Sat 13 Jun– Sun 1 Nov: 11am–3.30pm. Celebrating the life of Britain’s leading stage designer of the mid-20th Century. See the newly opened Oriel Room with costumes designed by students at Wimbledon College of Arts (UAL) and inspired by Oliver Messel.

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on
27 Sep to 1 Nov 2026
at 11:00 to 15:30+ 35 other dates or times

Sneak Peek Tours 

Take a behind the scenes look inside the house on a sneak peek tour. Tours last approximately 30 minutes and are included in general admission. Please go to Visitor Welcome to collect a ticket. (Limited availability).

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on
28 Sep to 30 Oct 2026
at 10:30 to 11:00+ 24 other dates or times

Dream House Tours 

Join a tour around the outside of the house at Nymans, looking at the building and seeing how it developed since 1890 when it was purchased by Ludwig Messel.

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on
28 Sep to 30 Oct 2026
at 11:30 to 12:00+ 24 other dates or times

Sociable walks with the Ranger team 

Weds: 26 Aug, 30 Sept, 21 Oct, 25 Nov & 16 Dec. Join us for a gentle 3-mile, 2 hour walk through Nymans' woodland, lakes and streams — a perfect way to explore nature and meet new people. 11am - 1pm. Meet at Reception. Free walk.

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on
30 Sep to 16 Dec 2026
at 11:00 to 13:00+ 3 other dates or times