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Find out when Nostell is open, how to get here, things to see and do and more.
Christmas at Nostell
Experience the magic of a Narnian Christmas at Nostell with sparkling decorations, festive markets, family walks, and a chance to meet Father Christmas. There’s something for everyone to enjoy this winter.
A Narnia-inspired adventure awaits
1 December 2025 – 5 January 2026
(Open daily, except 24–26 December in the house)
Step Into a Narnian Christmas at Nostell
This Christmas, Nostell is transformed into The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. From the 1940s railway station to snowy forests and Father Christmas’s woodland camp, the story comes to life as you wander through the house and grounds.
- Explore Professor Digory's grand mansion and step through the wardrobe into the magical wintery world of Narnia
- Step inside Mr. and Mrs. Beaver’s cosy home
- Look out for Mr.Tumnus' scarf and umbrella by the lamppost
- Sit beneath Aslan’s banners and pose with crowns before celebrating in the Great Hall
- Peek inside the Dolls’ house and see if you can spot the Narnia-inspired decorations
Follow the story room by room before finishing the house experience with the enchanting gingerbread village, reimagined with a Narnian twist. From here, at weekends – your journey will then take you through the garden to the glass house, where Father Christmas will make his appearance.
Father Christmas in the Glasshouse
Weekends before 24 December
(This is not pre-bookable and is included in Christmas weekend house entry)
Add a little extra magic to your house visit this Christmas. On weekends in the run-up to the big day, step into the Glasshouse and meet Father Christmas himself. Share a festive chat, take a photo to remember the moment, and enjoy the cosy atmosphere.
You’ll find him at the final stop before you head out, making it the perfect festive finale to your day at Nostell.
(Please note - to keep things moving, he may greet children in small groups during busy times).
Quiet sessions
We’re offering quieter Father Christmas sessions between 10am and 11am on 7, 14 and 21 December for children who would benefit from a calmer, less busy experience. If this would suit your family, please get in touch with us at 01924 863892 to reserve a place.
Tickets
Tickets can be purchased on the day from the ticket office only. Father Christmas is included on a weekend combined ticket and there are no pre-bookable options. Free admission for members.
Please note: some of the rooms in the house remain closed for winter conservation during December.
Christmas craft market
29 and 30 November
Join Forever After Collective in the Riding School where you can browse a wide range of one-of-a-kind handmade artisan arts and crafts crafted by talented local artists, designers, and makers.
Seasonal Food and Drink
Warm yourself up in the Courtyard cafe this winter. With homemade onepots and soups on the menu, alongside delicious bakes and festive treats. The Grab and Go takeaway outlet will also be open at weekends and school holidays.
Fancy something a bit different? Hot, bubbling cheese and golden crusts await at the pizza trailer under the trees. Try our festive specials (yes, pigs in blankets on a pizza!) and tasty veggie creations. Warm up with decadent hot chocolate or seriously good coffee. Don't forget to bring your own reusable cup to take advantage of the discounted price on hot drinks.
The pizza trailer is currently open at weekends between 10am and 4pm (coffee and snacks) with pizza served from 12:00. It will be open every day between 20 December and 4 January (excl. 25 Dec).
Shopping
Find shelves full of festive joy in the shop, with beautiful gifts inspired by the places we care for. With decorations, cards, stocking fillers, thoughtful gifts and a small range of Jellycat collectable soft toys, the shop has everything you need for the festive season.
If you enjoy the beautiful tradition of gifting pre-loved books, head to the second hand bookshop in the courtyard where you can find a book to suit all of the people in your life, from gardening to thrillers and everything in between.
Why not buy a whole year of adventures? Speak to our Welcome Team in the shop and find out more about gifting a National Trust membership this Christmas.
Winter picnics
You are always welcome to bring your own picnic and find a bench with a view to settle down to enjoy your lunch.
Winter walks at Nostell
No visit to Nostell at Christmas is complete without a winter walk. Wrap up warm and set out through frosty parkland on the Obelisk Lodge walk, where sweeping views and open skies make the season feel magical. Or step inside the gardens for the Menagerie Garden walk, where historic walls, towering trees and quiet corners offer a peaceful escape. Whether you’re spotting wildlife, crunching through leaves or simply soaking up the winter light, these walks are the perfect way to pause between festive activities - before heading back for a hot chocolate, seasonal treats, and the sparkle of Christmas at Nostell.
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