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Family-friendly things to do at Upton House and Gardens

Children playing in the garden at Sizergh, Cumbria
Enjoy winter fun outside | © National Trust Images/John Millar

Bring the family for a fun-filled day out at Upton House and Gardens. Join in with outdoor activities, and see what's on over Christmas.

Aesop's Fables - Christmas at Upton House and Gardens

15 November - 24 December, 27 December - 4 January, 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

15 November - 24 December, 27 December - 4 January, 11.30am-3.30pm. Normal admission applies and £3.50 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 has a range of seasonal stocking fillers including some Christmas books and decorations.

Boy playing in the woods at Sheffield Park and Garden, East Sussex
Discover the woodland walk | © National Trust Images / Chris Lacey

Upton's Woodland Walk 

Come and explore the Woodland Walk. Discover exciting wildlife while climbing over logs, through tunnels and around tree stumps. Warm up with a hot treat or light lunch at the Pavilion Cafe after the exploring

The north front of Upton House and Gardens, Warwickshire in summer

Discover more at Upton House and Gardens

Find out when Upton House and Gardens is open, how to get here, things to see and do and more.

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Upcoming events at Upton House and Gardens 

See all the events we have coming up to help you plan your visit

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Christmas at Upton House and Gardens 

Enjoy enchanting displays based around Aesop’s fables with plenty to keep the little ones entertained with a family quest.

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.

Discover the house and collection at Upton 

Immerse yourself in one of the finest art collections in 20th-century England, which was the country house and weekend retreat of 2nd Viscount Bearsted, Walter Samuel.

Inside the Long Gallery at Upton House, Warwickshire, with its floor-to-ceiling windows and 18th-century English furniture.

Visiting the garden at Upton 

Visit Upton's historic garden and marvel at the view that unfolds in front of you. Discover the Mirror Pool and views from the south lawn.

Two women in winter clothes chatting as they climb the stone steps in the gardens at Upton House, Warwickshire

Eating and shopping at Upton 

Stop by the Pavilion Café on your visit to Upton House and grab a bite to eat, a hot or cold drink and a slice of cake. Buy a souvenir of your visit in the shop, or pop into the second-hand bookshop for a new read.

Blue spruce scented candles and reed diffuser from the 2025 autumn/winter collection

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Looking for a family day out that'll keep everyone entertained? Find things to do with the kids at the places we care for near you.

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Family activities in Warwickshire 

With wide open areas for playing and kid-friendly trails and activities, we've got your family days out sorted.

Children taking part in natural winter crafts

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Plan fresh-air activities, discover facts about nature and wildlife or learn a new skill with our suggestions for ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’.

A boy playing in a tree at Nunnington Hall, North Yorkshire