Discover more at Beningbrough
Find out when Beningbrough is open, how to get here, things to see and do and more.
Christmas at Beningbrough
Join Father Christmas for storytime on the top floor of the hall as part of your winter visit to Beningbrough.
Storytime with Father Christmas
6 - 21 December, Saturdays and Sundays
Father Christmas is back - and he needs your help! Join a magical group experience filled with festive storytelling, a fun riddle to solve, and a special gift for each child. There’ll be time for a cosy chat, bring along a letter if you wish, and it's the perfect opportunity to snap some seasonal photos together.
£14 per child, £7 per adult for the thirty minute session. Plus normal admission charges apply / free to National Trust members and under fives.
Good to know...
- During winter, Beningbrough is open 10am – 3.30pm. Plan your day out around these times and your session.
- Non-members will need to pay normal admission prices on arrival at Beningbrough.
- Head to the top floor of the hall five minutes before the start of your timed session and show your booking confirmation. Please note the hall is several minutes' walk from admissions.
- The route and room are accessible and the hall has a lift. Visit the AccessAble website for the full access statement or contact the elves on 01904 472014 to discuss your requirements.
- Each session will be limited to 26 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.
Get crafty at Christmas
Weekends 6 - 21 December, 11am - 3pm
Take some time out of your day together to have a go at the seasonal crafts and letter writing on the top floor of the hall. Make a something special to take home or as a gift. And there's a post box with a direct service to the North Pole - if you need it.
The crafting rooms are available for everyone - tickets for Father Christmas are not needed - however if you're booked to see the man in red, you might want to put pen to paper and write your letter before you see him.
Seasonal food and drink
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. Make the most of your day out with a warming lunch together.
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. h
Head to the Brew House either side of your time in the hall for a pause and refuel - find it in the laundry courtyard for light bites and more.
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. You might even be able to tick off some gifts on the Christmas present list while you're here.
Thank you for your purchases in the shop and restaurant - they all support the conservation work of the National Trust, including the ongoing developments at Beningbrough.
If you're looking for house decorations...
With the exhibition in full swing, Beningbrough's Christmas is all about visiting Father Christmas. There are plenty of places to visit nearby if you want a more traditional visit to a house decorated for the season.
Treasurer's House
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 theme is An Inspired Christmas, where past residents are featured, and the house is decorated for the festivities from 15 November until 21 December 2025.
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Family-friendly things to do at Beningbrough
Discover the family activities and events at Beningbrough, from den building in the wilderness play area to nature spotting on a walk. Look out for new trails and activities during the school holidays.
Art at Beningbrough
Discover more about the Reddihough Galleries on the first floor of Beningbrough Hall and highlights of previous art displays. Currently on show, Whispers of the Wilderness: Exploring Wilderness Gardens is a full sensory exhibition linking history and fashion, with contemporary sculptures and sketching.
Things to see in Beningbrough Hall
Explore what to expect visiting the historic rooms on the ground floor, from feats of engineering, striking architecture and symbolic pieces of the collection marking moments in time. Find out about the next exhibition in the first floor Reddihough Galleries.
Eating at Beningbrough
Choose from a range of tasty snacks and drinks at Beningbrough's restaurant and two other eateries, open on selected days. Find out where to refuel with your dog, indoor and out.
Shopping at Beningbrough
Stop off at the stables shop to find a range of gifts inspired by the places we care for and many local artisan product. Peruse the outdoor area with plants in the growing season and any surplus produce from the garden on offer.
Things to see in the garden at Beningbrough
Discover the formal gardens, walled kitchen garden, herbaceous borders and wildlife areas, each with its own style and beauty. Experience the tranquillity of the Mediterranean Garden, the latest new space designed by Andy Sturgeon. Find out more about this RHS partner garden in Yorkshire.
Visiting Beningbrough with your dog
Bring your dog to Beningbrough and you'll both have a great day out on one of Yorkshire's finest estates. Here are some ideas to help you get the most out of your visit. Beningbrough is a three pawprint rated place.
Christmas in Yorkshire
Plan a festive day out with family in search of twinkling lights and seasonal decorations. Or pre-book one of the special events, get your friends together to make a wreath, bring the grandchildren to see Father Christmas and much more. These are examples of last festive season, come back soon to see what Christmas 2025 has to offer across Yorkshire.
