Christmas at Upton House and Gardens

A Christmas dining table at Upton House and Garden, Warwickshire, is laid with a central platter of cheeses, decorated with silver grapes and a little mouse. Also on the table are a bottle of Champagne, glasses, a Christmas card from the National Trust saying 'We wish you a merry Christmas', and golden baubles. — Decadent Christmas dining table decorations at Upton House and Garden, Warks.jpg | © National Trust Images/Pete Cox

For Christmas 2024, the house was decorated with enchanting displays based around Aesop’s fables. There was an Aesop’s Fables Cheeky Creature Christmas Quest for the little ones, wreath making and themed afternoon tea talks. Please check back later this year to see what exciting things we will have planned for Christmas 2025.

Christmas 2025 information will be updated later in the year

Please note, the below information is for Christmas 2024. Up to date information will be added after summer 2025. We hope you enjoyed the festive season.

Aesop's Fables - Christmas at Upton House and Gardens

23 November - 24 December, 11.30am-3.30pm. Normal admission applies.

Join us as we re-imagine Aesop's fables this Christmas. See the house decorated with enchanting displays of some of these ancient moral tales. From the story of the fox that cried ‘sour grapes’ to the vain jackdaw who pretended to be a peacock, each display is inspired by one of the 18th-century fable candlesticks from the Chelsea Porcelain Manufactory, in Upton’s collection. An exquisite set of illustrations encourages you to look closely at the fine detail of the fable sculptures, which provide their own delights.

Aesop's Fables Cheeky Creature Christmas Quest

23 November - 24 December, 11.30am-3.30pm. Normal admission applies and £3 per child.

Enjoy the house decorated with the theme of Aesop's Fables and pick up your cheeky creature activity pack upon arrival at Visitor Reception. Find the hidden clues with animals from the stories across the winter walk and the decorated rooms in the house. Which is your favourite fable? Warm up after in the Pavilion Cafe with plenty of snacks to tempt as well as light lunch options. The Gift Shop will have a range of seasonal stocking fillers including some Christmas books and decorations.

Aesop's Fables inspiration board and image of Peacock with Christmas tree in background, Upton House and Gardens, Warwickshire — Aesop's Fables inspired Christmas decorations | © Fiona Millington Photography

Winter walking

Between November and March, visits to the garden are via the Winter Walk, which includes the hard footpath alongside the Mirror Pool and track through the woodland. Because of the location on the edge of an Ice Age valley, and the steepness of the historic grass paths, the grass wears away and the clay soil becomes compacted and waterlogged. This has serious implications for this much-loved garden and visitor safety.

The joy of the Winter Walk lies in the open views into the heart of the garden and to the surrounding countryside. Winter is also the perfect season to appreciate Upton’s historic cedars.

Normal admission applies. Please check the opening times for Upton House and Gardens over the winter.

New Year's Day walk

1 January, 10.30am - 12.30pm. Adult £12, Children £8. Booking in advacne required, more information and tickets here. (Please note, this event is now sold out).

Start your new year with our guided walk around the Upton estate, spending a refreshing and stimulating couple of hours with an expert tour guide. This walk is well known for its fantastic views. Afterwards, warm up in the Pavilion café with a hot drink with a scone and butter.