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A Celtic land with an industrial past steeped in myth, legend, poetry and song. Croeso i Gymru.
Christmas in Wales
From sparkling decorations and scenic winter walks to fun family activities and vibrant Christmas markets, there’s plenty to enjoy in Wales this winter. Plan your festive day out and discover exciting events and experiences for the whole family.
Top Christmas days out in North Wales
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Chirk Castle, Wrexham
Immerse yourself in the enchanting magic of Christmas at Chirk Castle! Wander through beautifully adorned State Rooms, where a fierce dragon guards hidden treasures, and capture joyful moments at picturesque selfie stations. Experience the unique Reverse Grotto, meet Father Christmas, and enjoy a delicious Welsh breakfast or festive supper. Embark on a starry spotter trail to discover hidden stars in the frosted gardens or join our Rangers for a workshop to craft your own wooden reindeer. Wrap up warm for scenic winter walks through the stunning parkland and savour festive delights in our cosy tearoom.
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Erddig, Wrexham
This holiday season, Erddig House is pulling out all the stops! Adorned with stunning traditional ornaments inspired by "'Twas the Night Before Christmas," the house will bring this beloved poem to life in every room. Kids can follow a magical spotter trail, searching for handcrafted mice, stockings by the fire, sweet treats, and sugarplums dancing in the bedroom. Get ready for an unforgettable festive experience—enjoy breakfast or supper with Santa, visit our one-of-a-kind reverse grotto supporting Wrexham Foodbank, and dive into exciting storytelling and craft activities. With marshmallow toasting in the Timber Yard, seasonal treats at our restaurant, and extended hours from December 16 to 19, Christmas at Erddig promises to be nothing short of spectacular!
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Penrhyn Castle, Bangor
Step into a winter wonderland at Penrhyn Castle, where twinkling lights and beautifully decorated halls create a cosy festive atmosphere. Explore our lavish interiors adorned with both traditional and modern Christmas decorations. Immerse yourself in the enchanting ambiance of the dining room and the Grand Hall, filled with music and joy. Join us for family-friendly Christmas crafts and savour a festive hot drink from the stables café while revisiting your favourite board games. Don’t forget to stroll through the frosty grounds to capture your festive family photo in our giant wreath at the Walled Garden. Celebrate the spirit of the season with your loved ones at Penrhyn Castle this Christmas!
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Plas Newydd House and Garden, Anglesey
‘Tis the season to create lasting memories with family and friends at Plas Newydd! Put on your dancing shoes this Christmas as we host a festive silent disco in the Music Room. Choose your music channel—from 90s pop to Christmas classics—and dance the day away! Everyone is welcome, and party outfits are encouraged, making it a perfect event for all ages. Whether you’re known for your dad-dancing or just love to groove, this is sure to be a fun-filled celebration for the whole family. After the disco, grab a festive drink and a mince pie from the Old Dairy Café before taking a lovely winter stroll through the garden.
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Bodnant Garden, Conwy
Winter walks at Bodnant Garden are the perfect way to dust off the cobwebs and enjoy the crisp, fresh air. A highlight is the accessible Winter Garden, where you can spot the first snowdrops peeping through, offering a glimpse of the warmer days ahead. Surrounded by hardy winter plants and evergreens, it’s a refreshing and uplifting way to embrace the season. A peaceful stroll here is just what’s needed to shake off the winter blues.
Top Christmas days out in Mid Wales
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Powis Castle and Garden, Welshpool
Step into a world of enchantment this holiday season at Powis Castle and Garden! Immerse yourself in a Dickensian Christmas, where the spirit of A Christmas Carol comes alive. Wander through beautifully adorned halls, aglow with flickering candlelight and fragrant evergreen garlands, transporting you to a heartwarming Victorian celebration. Delight your little ones with a magical Breakfast with Father Christmas, where they can share their wishes with Santa while enjoying delicious treats in a cosy setting. As twilight falls, prepare to be mesmerised by the Courtyard Christmas Illuminations. Witness the castle's grand exterior light up in a breath-taking display of twinkling lights, creating a dazzling winter wonderland against the night sky.
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Llanerchaeron, Ceredigion
The Georgian villa at Llanerchaeron will open its doors for three magical days, beautifully adorned for the festive season during the Christmas Fair on December 6th, 7th, and 8th. Discover a whimsical theme inspired by our beloved Llanerchaeron cats, while enjoying a delightful selection of local crafts and food from talented producers. Sip on mulled wine and savour festive treats as you explore the estate's stunning grounds. and Children will have the opportunity to visit Santa, adding to the festive spirit of the event. For those looking to get creative, wreath-making workshops will be available on selected days, using natural materials gathered from the estate.
Top Christmas days out in South Wales
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Dinefwr, Carmarthenshire
Dinefwr weaves the magic of the festive season with its enchanting Christmas Fair from November 22 to 24, where artisan stallholders and festive entertainment await! Discover the captivating 'Creatures of Dinefwr' Christmas tree with exciting new decorations at Newton House, sip on luxury hot chocolate or mulled wine, and let the sounds of Christmas fill the crisp winter air. But the magic doesn’t end there! This year, Santa's Grotto will be situated in the drawing room, where children can meet Father Christmas on 'Santa Sundays' (1/8/15 December). Additionally, join us for the joy of Community Carols on December 19 and the Welsh wassailing tradition of Mari Lwyd on December 31 and January 3! Newton House will be open every day between December 16 and January 5 (excluding Christmas Eve and Christmas Day), providing a wonderful opportunity to spend time with family and friends. With ample walks to enjoy on the estate, grab a hot drink from the café and savour a winter stroll in this picturesque setting!
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Dyffryn Gardens, Cardiff
This holiday season, step into a world of wonder at Dyffryn Gardens, where magic fills the air and festive delights await around every corner! Begin your journey through our twinkling gardens, where the Snowman Zone beckons—build your own snowman family and enjoy playful games like giant kerplunk. Wander further to discover the Nutcracker Zone, a captivating realm of puppet theatre and joyful skittles, where fun and laughter abound. Indoors, the magic continues as you cosy up amidst twinkling lights and festive decor. Spot charming knitting stockings hanging from the ceiling and a whimsical “fireplace” made entirely of books. Little ones can gather for Father Christmas Story Time, where enchanting tales come to life and imaginations soar.
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Tredegar House, Newport
Unwrap 500 years of Christmas magic as Tredegar House springs to life, inviting you to explore how toys and feasting were celebrated through the ages. Wander through rooms adorned with ornate decorations and twinkling lights, creating a warm and cosy atmosphere. From 6 December, Tredegar House will be transformed for the season, with celebrations throughout the month. On festive-family weekends, 14-15 and 21-22 December, you'll find the ever-grumpy Scrooge lurking inside the house, while Father Christmas roams the grounds - delighting visitors of all ages. For those looking to experience the magic after dark, join us for our late-night openings from 13 to 23 December, when Tredegar House will be open from 12pm to 8pm. Take a stroll through the beautifully decorated gardens and mansion, then warm up with a cup of hot chocolate or indulge in a delicious Christmas treat as you soak in the seasonal charm. Christmas songs and cheer will fill the air, ensuring that the Christmas spirit is felt in every corner. Whether you're seeking festive cheer or a peaceful stroll, Tredegar House offers a magical experience for everyone this Christmas season.
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Tudor Merchant's House, Tenby
Discover how the Tudors have influenced our Christmas celebrations today at Tudor Merchant’s House. Step back in time and explore the house and its traditions, admiring the Tudor wall hangings from a bygone era as the delicate scent of oranges and cloves fills the air. Little ones can meet the Lord of Misrule, traditionally in charge of the Feast of Fools, a celebration originally held during this time of year in Tudor times. They will also receive a free Tudor toy to take home while stocks last. This event will run on November 29 & 30 and December 6, 7, 13 & 14, 2024.
Visit a Christmas market
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Dinefwr, Carmarthenshire
Dinefwr welcomes the Christmas season with its annual Christmas Fair, taking place on November 22, 23, and 24. The front of Newton House will be transformed into a festive marketplace featuring an array of delightful stalls offering everything from exquisite handmade jewellery to delicious preserves. This is a highlight of the season you won’t want to miss!
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Llanerchaeron, Ceredigion
Join us for the enchanting annual Christmas Fair at Llanerchaeron on the 6- 8th December, where over 70 talented stallholders will showcase their finest offerings! Explore a delightful selection of artisan treats, local foods, and handcrafted goods. Sip on mulled wine and savour a mince pie as you soak up the festive spirit and joyful atmosphere.
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Aberdulais, Neath Port Talbot
Immerse yourself in the festive spirit at Aberdulais' enchanting Community Christmas Fair, set against the stunning backdrop of historic tinworks and cascading waterfalls. On Saturday, 14th December, bring the whole family for a magical day filled with holiday cheer. Explore a variety of local artisan stalls, where you'll discover beautifully handcrafted gifts, seasonal treats, and one-of-a-kind decorations. As you stroll through the fair, the comforting aroma of mulled wine and delicious festive delicacies will fill the air, while the sound of carols drifts through the charming grounds, adding to the joy of the season.
Meet Father Christmas
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Erddig, Wrexham
Create magical memories as you join Father Christmas for breakfast or supper at Erddig on weekends from 30 Nov-23 December (booking essential). With delightful activities, heart-warming songs, and festive surprises, this memorable experience is sure to fill the whole family with holiday cheer!
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Chirk Castle, Wrexham
Tuck into a delicious Welsh breakfast at Chirk Castle on 31 November and 1 December, where a very special guest- Father Christmas himself will join you. Enjoy a heartwarming story and receive a special gift for each child as part of this memorable morning. For an evening alternative, join Father Christmas for a festive supper on 7 and 8 December. Indulge in a traditional Christmas dinner followed by a festive pudding, and watch the magic unfold as each child receives a special gift. Places are limited, and booking is essential.
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Dinefwr, Carmarthenshire
Visiting Father Christmas is a cherished family tradition that adds a touch of magic to the festive season. Come and meet him in his grotto at Dinefwr on Sunday 1st, 8th and 15th December, as he takes a moment from his bustling schedule to hear your Christmas wishes.
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Tredegar House, Newport
Celebrate the festive weekends on December 14-15 and 21-22 at Tredegar House, where a wandering Father Christmas will be bringing joy to everyone. You’ll also encounter the famously grumpy Scrooge, who will be observing the holiday cheer with his usual disapproval. But don’t worry—there will be plenty of choir performances and singalongs to keep the festive spirit alive!
Reverse grotto
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Erddig, Wrexham
Enjoy the gift of giving by donating to the Wrexham foodbank in Erddig’s reverse grotto; Father Christmas will be waiting to thank you every weekend from 30 November to 22 December. Food donations are welcome on weekdays too, but Father Christmas won’t be there to thank you.
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Chirk Castle, Wrexham
‘Tis the season for giving so give back to the community this Christmas by making a donation to the Oswestry and Borders Foodbank. Food donations are welcome on weekdays, but Father Christmas will be there to thank you at weekends from 30 November to 22 December.