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Victorian Christmas at Croft Castle

A large Christmas tree in front of a fire place, with portraits on the wooden walls and dim lighting.
Make your Christmas magical at Croft Castle | © Kie Cummings

Celebrate Christmas at Croft Castle with a magical twist on Victorian tradition. Discover immersive rooms, supersized decorations and festive experiences filled with the sights, sounds and scents of the season.

Victorian Christmas in the castle 

22 November - 4 January - Opening hours vary, see homepage for details.

Wander through Croft Castle’s richly decorated rooms and experience Christmas past with a fresh, imaginative twist. From a twinkling forest of trees filling the Entrance Hall with a magical welcome, to the cosy Nursery capturing the excitement of Christmas Eve, each space invites you into a festive story.

With opportunities to get creative, explore nostalgic traditions and step into a world of magical imagination, it’s a Christmas experience designed to immerse the whole family in the wonder of the season.

Room-by-room Highlights

  • Entrance Hall - The festive season begins as the castle doors swing open, welcoming its guests with a dazzling display of twinkling trees and a heartwarming sense of celebration.

  • Library - Uncover the origins of Christmas cards and festive letter writing in a whimsical “Poetree” display, celebrating the art of paper and poetry.

  • Saloon - Immerse yourself in the glamour of a Victorian evening party, complete with lavish décor, fresh festive greenery and traditional games that once lit up the season.

  • Dining Room - A feast for the senses awaits—edible ornaments, rich festive aromas, and a table set for celebration, bringing the spirit of Christmas dinner to life.

  • Nursery - Delight in the magic of Christmas Eve with a toy-themed tree, interactive puppet theatre, and stockings hung with care—perfect for little ones and the young at heart.

  • Blue Room - Explore The Twelve Days of Christmas with a playful and nostalgic twist - it's sure to make you sing this well known Christmas carol.

Children sitting on cushions listening to Father Christmas
Book in for Storytelling with Santa | © National Trust Images/Rob Stotherd

Storytelling with Father Christmas

Book now to enjoy festive stories read by Father Christmas in the beautifully decorated Green Room of the castle and receive a small present at the end. These will be group storytelling sessions and each session will last for approximately 30 minutes. Booking is essential as spaces are limited.

£8 per child. Normal admission applies.

Family taking part in Christmas crafts at Cotehele Mill, Cornwall
Family taking part in Christmas crafts at Cotehele Mill, Cornwall | © Steve Haywood

Family trail: A Victorian Christmas adventure

22 November - 4 January - Opening hours vary, see event listing for details.

Join our festive family trail where children become little helpers, uncovering clues inspired by beloved Christmas carols and helping prepare Croft Castle for a Victorian Christmas.

Trails cost £3 including a prize. Normal admission applies.

Wreath making workshops

Join a festive wreath-making workshop at Croft Castle and create your own seasonal masterpiece using natural greenery gathered from the castle’s gardens and parkland. Guided by expert hands, you’ll craft a beautiful decoration to take home—rooted in tradition and inspired by the winter landscape.

Christmas and winter walks  

Escape the hustle and bustle on the lead up to Christmas and immerse yourself in winter nature. Take in the majesty of ancient trees and breath-taking views across the Herefordshire countryside, discover an Iron Age hillfort, woodland, orchard and a SSSI river and much more. 

Warm up in the Carpenter’s tearoom 

After taking the time to enjoy Croft's acres of outdoor space, head to the Carpenter’s tearoom for a warming winter drink and a festive snack! 

The whole of Croft Castle and Parkland will be closed on 24, 25, and 26 December  

Family holding hands approach the gatehouse at Croft Castle, Herefordshire.

Discover more at Croft Castle and Parkland

Find out when Croft Castle is open, how to get here, things to see and do and more.

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Exploring the parkland at Croft Castle 

Explore 1,500 acres of wood, farm and parkland including the 'Picturesque' Fishpool Valley and an Iron Age hillfort at Croft Castle.

An old church framed by trees, St Michael and All Angels, Croft Castle, Herefordshire

Eating and shopping at Croft Castle 

Tuck into some lunch and light bites in the Carpenter’s tea-room at Croft Castle, or visit the second-hand bookshop to find yourself a pre-loved classic.

Close-up of a girl holding a sandwich close to her mouth