Skip to content
Skip to content

Aesop's Fables - Christmas at Upton House and Gardens

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.

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

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.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

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

Check admission prices

The basics

Suitability

Children are welcome, supervised by parent/guardian

Meeting point

Enter the property via Visitor Reception

What to bring and wear

Dress for the weather

Accessibility

The decorated rooms are principally on the ground floor, which is level access. The display in the lower-ground floor Picture Room can be viewed from the Library, which is fully accessible on the ground floor.

Contact info

Upton House and Gardens

Upcoming events

A Journey Through Autumn - Upton's Autumn Trail 

Travel through autumn with three of our Greek Muses, Clio the goddess of history, Calliope the goddess of epic poetry and Urania the goddess of stars.

Event summary

on
29 Oct to 2 Nov 2025
at 10:00 to 16:00+ 4 other dates or times

Make an Autumn Nature Wand and Leaf Rubbing 

Experience the wonders of autumn with our nature based activities this half term.

Event summary

on
29 Oct to 31 Oct 2025
at 11:00 to 14:00+ 2 other dates or times

Aesop's Fables Cheeky Creature Christmas Quest 

We invite children and their families to share the fun of Aesop's ancient and well-known fables, which we've re-imagined with a cheeky hint to Upton. Bring smiles to little faces when you join in with our special family quest.

Event summary

on
15 Nov 2025 to 4 Jan 2026
at 11:30 to 15:30+ 48 other dates or times

Christmas wreath-making workshop 

Make your own Christmas wreath under expert guidance with materials sourced from the gardens.

Event summary

on
1 Dec to 2 Dec 2025
at 10:00 to 12:00+ 3 other dates or times