Christmas at Beningbrough

Head and shoulder of Father Christmas telling a story surrounded by lights and festive decorations — Book your place for a special story with the man in red | © National Trust / Sue Jordan

Find out what Father Christmas is planning and how you can book to see him. Plan your day including where to go for refreshments, a spot of shopping and what else to expect on a winter visit.

Father Christmas 2024

This was the season just past, to give a flavour of what to expect. If you missed your chance to book, sales generally open mid-September. Come back soon for what to expect in 2024.

Storytime with Father Christmas - sold out

Elf Antics

2 - 17 December 2023, Saturdays and Sundays

Join Father Christmas for Elf Antics with a brand new tale in the Victorian laundry. Book your place on a group experience - for stories, list checking and gifts.

The man in red is visiting Beningbrough once more to rest and recharge ahead of his busy night on Christmas Eve. He loves welcoming visitors and sharing stories of his adventures during the busy build-up to Christmas.

Take a seat in the Victorian laundry for thirty-minutes, hear first-hand about the antics of the cheeky elves and help Father Christmas solve a riddle. He’s such a generous man and has told us he’ll bring a few sacks of gifts for the children.

There will be time for each child to have a chat and if you’d like to, bring a letter to Father Christmas on the day. He loves to read what you’ve been up to and all the kind things you’ve done through the year.

£12.50 per child, £5 per adult plus normal admission charges apply/free to National Trust members and under fives.

The event is sold out for 2023.

For future reference, tickets generally go on sale around mid-September and can be limited availability by the end of October... if you wish to plan ahead for 2024 to avoid disappointment.

Good to know...

During winter, Beningbrough is open 10am – 3.30pm.
Non-members will need to pay normal admission prices on arrival at Beningbrough.
Head to the laundry courtyard five minutes before the start of your timed session and show your booking confirmation. Please note the laundry courtyard is several minutes' walk from admissions.
Although indoors, the Victorian laundry is an unheated, historic stone building and can be very cold – we recommend wrapping up warmly for the experience.
The route and entrance to the room are accessible. Visit the Accessibilty section on the website for the full access statement or contact the elves on 01904 472014 to discuss your requirements.
Each session will be limited to 21 visitors, plus babies.
Each group must include at least one supervising adult.
Tickets are not refundable or exchangeable. Please select your tickets, date, and time with care.
Babies (under 18 months) not requiring a gift can enter with the family for free. However, if you would like a gift for your baby, please book a child ticket.

Seasonal food and drink

Two young children sitting at a table outside the café at Attingham Park, Shropshire. — Cheers! | © National Trust Images/Megan Taylor

Take a break and head to the restaurant for winter favourites to suit every appetite. With homemade one pots on the menu, alongside favourite bakes with a seasonal twist. Break up your day with a hearty lunch together - we'll even do the washing up.

Try one of the flavoured coffees for a change from your staple pot of tea, or 'tis the season for hot chocolates with marshmallows, perfect to warm you through. Don't forget your refillable cup to take advantage of the reduced price.

Shopping in the stables

Visit the stables shop for gifts and treats inspired by National Trust places. From cards and calendars to tipples and tins. Pick up the perfect scarf or throw and find lots of choice to help your garden grow and nature thrive.

Thank you for your purchases in the shop and restaurant - all support the conservation work of the National Trust, including the ongoing developments at Beningbrough.

If you're looking for house decorations

Head to nearby Treasurer's House in the centre of York. You'll find it close to York Minster and the city Christmas markets for a full festive day. The house is decorated with a seasonal theme, open mid-November until mid-December each year.

Visit Treasurer's House

Overhead shot showing countryside, gardens, hall, walled garden and tree lined avenue

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