Skip to content

Christmas at Powis Castle and Garden

A family enjoying the Christmas illuminations at Powis Castle and Garden
A family enjoying the Christmas illuminations at Powis Castle and Garden | © Paul Harris

Celebrate the festive season at Powis Castle and Garden with a rich array of magical events for all ages. Delight in the holiday spirit with special appearances by Father Christmas, ready to bring joy to children and families alike. With twinkling lights, festive décor, and seasonal activities throughout, Powis Castle promises a truly memorable holiday experience for everyone.

An Enchanted Christmas

29 November - 4 January (except Christmas Day and Boxing Day), 11am to 3.30pm (last entry at 3pm).

This festive season, the castle’s first floor is transformed into a Narnia-inspired winter wonderland. Feel the icy grip of a sparkling spectacle as the state rooms transform into another world, guiding you along this wintery tale. Keep your eyes peeled for charming little mice, dressed for their frosty adventure. 

From 12 to 22 December, the festive feeling continues with late-night openings, 4.30pm to 7pm. Step into the historic courtyard and enjoy sparkling illuminations upon the medieval castle walls. Sip on a warming hot chocolate or glass of mulled wine, as the castle lights up the dark winters night before venturing inside.

Steep stairs  
Our Christmas route consists of  111 stairs in total: 

  • There are 10 steps from the Courtyard down to the entrance lobby. 
  • There are 29 steps from the entrance level to the first landing. There is a rest area there with a chair. 
  • There are 23 steps from the rest area to the top floor to continue your visit in the Library. 
  • There are 39 steps from the top floor back down to ground level. 

Please speak to a member of staff if you require assistance. 

Little boy looking at Christmas tree, gifts and lights in the Dining Room at Powis Castle in Powys, Wales
The Dining Room at Christmas, Powis Castle, Wales | © National Trust Images/Paul Harris

Breakfast with Father Christmas

Breakfast with Father Christmas returns every weekend from 29 November to 14 December. Gather in the Bodley Stables bookshop for a buffet-style breakfast, and watch little faces light up as Father Christmas makes his magical entrance. We with then gather in the second hand bookshop for a festive story beside the Christmas tree.

Please see the events page here for more details.

This festive season, Powis Castle invites you to experience the wonder of Christmas—whether by stepping into an Enchanted Christmas, enjoying breakfast with Santa, or marvelling at the stunning light displays. It’s a heartwarming holiday destination for all ages!

Opening times:

  • An Enchanted Christmas, 29 November to 4 January, 11am to 3.30pm.
  • Breakfast with Father Christmas, weekends only 29 November - 14 December, 8.45am to 10.15am.
  • Courtyard Christmas Illuminations and Late-Night Opening, 12 to 22 December, 4.30pm to 7pm.

Find out more about out opening times here

 

Christmas lights in the garden at Powis Castle and Garden, Powys
Christmas lights in the garden at Powis Castle and Garden, Powys | © National Trust Images/Paul Harris

Winter walks

Pull on your winter woollies and blow away the cobwebs with a stroll in the world-famous Baroque Garden. Winter is the best time to appreciate the garden's architectural beauty. See statues sparkling in the frost along the Italianate Terraces, admire ancient evergreen yew hedges standing proud in the winter sun and walk through the Wilderness where bare branches reveal magnificent views of the 13th-century castle. 

  • The garden is open daily throughout December from 10am to 4pm (closed 25 and 26 December).
  • Dogs on short leads are welcome in the garden from 1 November to 28 Feburary.

Eating and shopping at Powis this Christmas

Visitors enjoying a festive afternoon tea on a snow-covered terrace at Powis Castle and Garden in Wales.
Visitors enjoying a festive afternoon tea on the terrace at Powis Castle, Wales | © National Trust Images/John Millar

Indulge in your favourite treats

If you’re feeling peckish or need something to warm you up, there’s plenty of delicious treats and drinks available in the Courtyard Café throughout December. From cakes and mince pies, to festive hot chocolates and afternoon teas, Christmas is the best time to treat yourself.

1 of 2
View of Powis Castle, perched above its terraced gardens, Powys, Wales, in autumn.

Discover more in Wales

A Celtic land with an industrial past steeped in myth, legend, poetry and song. Croeso i Gymru.

You might also be interested in

Family days out at Powis Castle 

Whether you’re visiting with children or grandchildren, there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained at Powis Castle and Garden.

Child taking part in Trail in a Bag at Powis Castle and Garden

Visiting Powis Castle and Garden with your dog 

Powis Castle and Garden is a one pawprint rated place. Find out more about bringing your dog to Powis Castle and Garden. Take in a view of the castle with a drink and bite to eat and your four-legged friend by your side. Explore the garden 1 November - 28 February.

A small white dog sat at a café table

Visiting the garden at Powis Castle 

Dating back 300 years, explore a world-class garden steeped in history. Experience dramatic terraces, flower borders, fantastical topiary and superb views.

A view across an autumn landscape

Eating and shopping at Powis Castle and Garden 

After exploring the castle or traversing the terraces, refuel with a tasty treat from our Courtyard Café or take home a gift from the shop to help you remember a great day out.

A tray of fruit scones straight from the oven being held by the baker

Powis Castle's State Rooms 

Every inch of Powis Castle is decorated with intricate, beautiful detail. As you wander through the castle’s state rooms, you’ll be taken on a journey of eras gone by. From Elizabethan through to Edwardian, be sure to stop and pause in each room to take it all in.

Visitors looking up at Lanscroon's ceiling painting in the Blue Drawing Room at Powis Castle and Garden, Powys.