Discover more in Wales
A Celtic land with an industrial past steeped in myth, legend, poetry and song. Croeso i Gymru.
Christmas days out in Wales
Discover Christmas days out in Wales, from castles and historic houses dressed for the festive season, to family trails, craft workshops and Christmas lights after dark. Meet Father Christmas, browse Christmas markets, or escape into nature with a winter walk. Whether you’re visiting with toddlers, teenagers, friends or family, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Christmas at the places we care for.
Christmas at castles and historic houses in Wales
Discover some of the most striking Christmas decorations at castles and historic houses across Wales. From towering trees and richly decorated rooms to theatrical displays and festive traditions inspired by centuries of history, each place offers its own magical way to celebrate the season.
Tredegar House, Newport
Travel through 500 years of Christmas at Tredegar House, where the twinkling decorations throughout the house are inspired by the festive traditions from different periods in its history. From Tudor feasts to the nostalgic buffets of the 1980s, discover how Christmas has changed through the centuries.
Chirk Castle and Garden, Wrexham
Enter the world of The Snow Queen, as ornate decorations, theatrical sets and immersive soundscapes bring this wintery story to life throughout the State Rooms. Follow the tale through the castle before exploring more traditional Christmas trees and decorations in the East Wing.
Penrhyn Castle and Garden, Bangor
Experience Christmas traditions from nineteenth-century North Wales in the lower rooms Penrhyn Castle. Be welcomed by a giant wreath made with locally picked greenery, admire ornate trees and sparkling decorations, stand beneath the glittering tree towering high in the Grand Hall, greenery oversized Christmas cards that bring scenes of festive celebrations from the local community to life.
Erddig Hall and Garden, Wrexham
Join Scrooge on his journey from ‘Bah, humbug!’ to the joy of Christmas morning as Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol unfolds at Erddig. Explore historic rooms dressed for the season with Christmas trees, festive greenery and magical scenes inspired by this much-loved Dickensian classic waiting around every corner.
Dinefwr, Carmarthenshire
Wander through Newton House dressed for Christmas and pause for a photo beneath the much-loved Creatures of Dinefwr tree in the Inner Hall. Look closely and you’ll discover handmade decorations by a local artist, inspired by the wildlife that calls the estate home, bringing nature right into the heart of the house for Christmas.
Family Christmas days out in Wales
From much-loved Christmas stories and creative activities to festive trails and outdoor adventures, there are plenty of ways for families to enjoy Christmas together. Find a day out to suit younger children, older children and teenagers, whether they love crafting, exploring, stories or trying something new.
Plas Newydd House and Garden, Anglesey
For families looking for something a little different, get into the festive spirit with the Christmas silent disco in the Music Room. With a choice of music to enjoy together, it’s a festive experience that appeals across the generations, from preschoolers to teenagers and everyone in between. Booking is essential.
Erddig, Wrexham
Curious kids can look out for Scrooge, the Christmas spirits and scenes from A Christmas Carol inside the house, then head outdoors for more festive fun. Follow the children’s trail through the garden, spot willow reindeer and other characters, and toast marshmallows along the way.
Penrhyn Castle and Garden, Bangor
For children with big imaginations, join interactive family storytelling and magic sessions that bring festive tales to life. Afterwards, explore decorations in the Castle’s lower rooms, play with traditional wooden toys, create gift tags in the Butler’s Pantry and look out for the Christmas mice hosting their own seasonal celebrations in the Victorian Kitchen.
Dinefwr, Carmarthenshire
For families looking for a Christmas day out whatever the weather, explore Newton House dressed for the season, look out for the Creatures of Dinefwr tree and settle down in the Ale House for a Christmas film. If the weather’s kind, head outside to run off some energy on a winter wander around the estate.
Bodnant Garden, Conwy
For children who love crafting, spend a festive day decorating biscuits, making Christmas decorations and toasting marshmallows in the garden. With a whole host of drop-in and self-led activities, families can choose what they’d like to join in with as they explore the garden’s nature-inspired Christmas.
Powis Castle and Garden, Welshpool
For families who like to explore at their own pace, hunt for Christmas stockings hidden around the garden and discover winter wonderland scenes in Orangery. Great for children who love an outdoor Christmas adventure with plenty of festive surprises along the way.
Dyffryn Gardens, near Cardiff
For families who love being outdoors in nature, help Father Christmas find his missing reindeer hidden around the garden then head to the Games Hub to challenge your loved ones in a whole host of family favourites. Borrow a free Explorer or Sensory Backpack to add to the adventure, then warm up with a hot chocolate in the café.
Llanerchaeron, Ceredigion
For families who enjoy a traditional Christmas with plenty to discover, wander through the Georgian villa dressed for the season before heading to the farmyard to meet the animals. Explore vintage vehicles as the Cardi Cranks takeover and enjoy even more festive surprises as part of the new-look Christmas weekends.
Christmas lights and after-dark events
As the evening draws in, discover Christmas after dark at castles and historic houses across Wales. From spectacular projections lighting up castle walls to beautifully decorated rooms and festive displays open into the evening, experience some of Wales's most special places in a new light.
Powis Castle and Garden, Welshpool
Soak up the atmosphere as festive projections light up the castle's imposing medieval walls on 12–13 and 18–22 December (booking essential). Wrap up warm and enjoy the colour, light and seasonal animations, that brings a fresh perspective to one of Wales' most striking historic landmarks.
Erddig Hall and Garden, Wrexham
Spend a winter evening at Erddig during special late-night openings from 14-17 December. Explore beautifully decorated rooms as scenes from A Christmas Carol unfold around you, then head outside to enjoy twinkling lights, festive displays and the cosy atmosphere of the courtyards after dark.
Tredegar House, Newport
As evening settles over Tredegar House, discover the festive displays in a whole new light during selected late-night openings from 14-23 December. Wander through beautifully decorated rooms and soak up the warm seasonal atmosphere as the house and gardens sparkle into the evening.
Meet Father Christmas and festive characters in Wales
From festive breakfasts and traditional grotto visits to encounters with Mari Lwyd and Scrooge, come and meet someone memorable as part of your Christmas day out.
Erddig Hall and Garden, Wrexham
Start the day at Breakfast with Father Christmas on selected dates in December. Spend time with Father Christmas, share festive stories and enjoy a memorable start to the day before each child receives a special gift to take home. Booking essential.
Dinefwr, Carmarthenshire
Visit Father Christmas in the Drawing Room on Sundays with a pre-booked visit. When he’s away, explore his grotto and discover what he’s left behind. Dedicated Additional Learning Needs sessions are available on selected dates. After Christmas, return to meet the mischievous Mari Lwyd and experience a distinctly Welsh festive tradition. Booking essential.
Chirk Castle and Garden, Wrexham
Visit Chirk’s Reverse Grotto on selected weekends and help spread some festive kindness by donating food or toiletries for Oswestry and Borders Foodbank. On selected dates, Father Christmas will also be waiting to thank you.
Powis Castle and Garden, Welshpool
Join Father Christmas for breakfast on selected dates in December. Watch little faces light up as Father Christmas makes his magical entrance, then gather for a festive story beside the Christmas tree. Booking essential.
Tudor Merchant’s House, Tenby
Meet the Lord of Misrule on selected dates in November and December and discover the more mischievous side of a Tudor Christmas. Expect festive revelry and plenty of character as you listen to Tudor tales and follow the Tudor doll trail, with younger visitors taking home a Tudor-inspired toy.
Tredegar House, Newport
Keep an eye out for Father Christmas roaming the garden, while inside, Scrooge does his best to avoid the Christmas cheer. These much-loved characters will pop up on selected dates throughout the season, adding extra moments of surprise as you journey through 500 years of Christmas.
Llanerchaeron, Ceredigion
Meet Father Christmas on Saturdays throughout December as part of the Christmas weekends. Afterwards, explore the Georgian villa dressed for the season, discover festive surprises around the estate and warm up with a mulled wine in the Service Courtyard.
Christmas markets and festive shopping in Wales
Browse Christmas markets, meet local makers and producers, or make time for some seasonal shopping while you visit. From handmade gifts and local food to unique crafts and festive finds, there are plenty of places to pick something special this Christmas.
Dinefwr, Carmarthenshire
Discover Dinefwr’s three-day Christmas Fair from 20-22 November, when the courtyard and front of Newton House are filled with stalls selling everything from handmade jewellery to local preserves. Shop for the perfect gift while carol singers and choirs perform against the backdrop of Dinefwr Park in all its winter glory.
Bodnant Garden, Conwy
Swap busy high streets and crowded retail parks for a more relaxed Christmas shopping experience at Bodnant. Browse the Shop, Craft Centre and pre-loved bookshop, and take your time choosing thoughtful gifts from seasonal homeware collections, locally crafted products, books and tasty treats.
Llanerchaeron, Ceredigion
If you prefer your Christmas shopping without the crowds, browse a carefully curated selection of stalls selling local produce on Christmas weekends throughout December. Explore the Georgian villa dressed for the season, then warm up with a mulled wine in the Service Courtyard.
Christmas workshops and festive crafts
Make something truly personal this Christmas, from traditional wreaths and festive calligraphy to painting, printmaking and seasonal floral design. Book a creative workshop and spend a little time learning a new skill while making something special to take home or gift to a loved one.
Bodnant Garden, Conwy
Get creative with a whole host of Christmas workshops inspired by the garden and winter landscape. Make a festive wreath or centrepiece, try your hand at lino printing, watercolour or pastels, or settle in for a festive Sip and Paint session. Some workshops must be booked in advance.
Erddig Hall and Garden, Wrexham
Learn a new festive skill this Christmas with hands-on workshops in wreath-making and modern calligraphy. Create a wreath using seasonal greenery or learn the art of the traditional dip pen, perfect for adding a personal touch to your Christmas cards and gift tags. Booking essential.
Llanerchaeron, Ceredigion
Make your own Christmas wreath with our gardener Meg, using natural materials gathered from around the estate. The two-hour workshops in December include a mince pie, and entry to see the decorated Georgian villa. Booking essential.
Winter walks and quieter Christmas days out in Wales
Looking for a slower-paced festive day out? Escape the seasonal bustle and discover winter gardens, peaceful walks and relaxed Christmas experiences in some of Wales's most beautiful places.
Bodnant Garden, Conwy
Take a gentle stroll through the Winter Garden, where colourful bark, berries and shrubs bring scent and seasonal interest throughout the colder months. Follow the short circular trail through the upper garden, with places to pause and enjoy the views along the way, then linger over the nature-inspired Christmas displays and warm up in the café.
Dyffryn Gardens, near Cardiff
Just a stone’s throw from Cardiff, Dyffryn offers a peaceful haven from the Christmas rush. Wander through the Grade I-listed gardens, where decorated Christmas trees add a festive touch. Take your time exploring at a slower pace, then warm up with a hot chocolate in the café.
Dinefwr, Carmarthenshire
Swap the Christmas rush for a winter walk through Dinefwr’s historic parkland. Pause to watch wildlife, look out for the herd of fallow deer and take in wide valley views, with routes including the three-mile wildlife walk and a shorter walk through the landscape shaped by ‘Capability’ Brown.
Chirk Castle and Garden, Wrexham
Be welcomed by festive greenery, decorated trees and the traditional kissing bough before heading out into Chirk’s parkland. Choose from two circular walks, with views of the castle towards Shropshire and Cheshire or quieter paths through woodland and open parkland.
Tudor Merchant’s House, Tenby
Step into a quieter Christmas in the heart of Tenby and explore this small historic house, dressed in natural greenery with a Tudor feast laid out for the season. Afterwards, wander through Tenby’s decorated streets or climb Castle Hill for winter views across Carmarthen Bay and Caldey Island.
