Christmas at Lyme

Visitors admire the majestic animal decorations created by artist Sophie Tyrrell in the Saloon at Lyme, Cheshire — Visitors play with life size toy sheep created by artist Sophie Tyrrell in the Saloon at Lyme, Cheshire | © National Trust Images/Rebecca Hughes

Get in to the festive spirit with choirs singing, Christmas activities, and the house dressed for Christmas. Explore Lyme’s house which has been taken over by magnificent and unusual beasts exploring winter traditions.

We look forward to welcoming you for the Christmas season in 2025.

From animals taking over the house and festive afternoon tea to choirs and community Christmas tree walks it's been a pleasure to welcome you in 2024. The information below is for 2024, check back here soon to discover what Christmas 2025 will look like.

Consider public transport or travelling together

The weather is often wet in winter which reduces the number of car parking spaces. Please consider car sharing where possible or it's easy to get to Lyme on public transport as there is a bus stop and train station nearby. Lyme tends to be at its busiest between 10.30am - 2pm during weekends and school holidays. For a quieter visit explore Lyme in the week or outside of these times.

Christmas in the house

Lyme’s house was been taken over by magnificent and unusual beasts created by local artist Sophie Tyrrell. With interactive fun for all the family: visitors monkeyed around as they learned to wassail, sung carols with the birds, and joined the Lord of Misrule for a festive feast. Visitors enjoyed the house decked for the season with Christmas trees laden with decorations and Christmas stockings hanging over the fireplace - animal shaped of course!

Included in the general admissions price, from £22.50 for a family ticket, or free for National Trust Members, enjoy a low-cost full festive day out at Lyme this winter.

Sensory information

There are sensory bags and ear defenders that are available to borrow from the entrance hall in the house. The Chapel was transformed into a sensory space with soft lighting and comfortable seating for visitors to step away from the busy house and into a relaxing environment. The Chapel was open daily throughout December from 11am–4pm.

Find out more

A woman wrapped up warm, wearing hiking boots pushes her son along a path on a winter walk at Lyme, Cheshire. — Go on a family winter walk at Lyme | © National Trust Images/Rebecca Hughes

Winter walks

Wrap up warm and explore the garden or head out to the wider estate for walks through woodland and across the moorland for far-reaching views. With over 1,400 acres to enjoy there is something for all ages and abilities. Head into the garden for accessible paths perfect for wheelchairs and buggies. Pick up a walking leaflet from the ticket office or download one from the website.

Crow Wood community tree trail

Visitors explored Crow Wood for a trail of Christmas trees decorated by local charities, community groups, schools, and other organisations. Perfect on the way to Crow Wood play area.

Festive food and shopping

After stretching your legs and exploring the vast estate, refuel with a warming drink and slice of cake in one of our cafés – there’s something for everyone. Or enjoy a festive treat at Lyme this Christmas with our Festive Afternoon Tea in the Servants' Hall Monday - Friday throughout December.

Christmas shopping at Lyme

If you're looking for that special Christmas gift for your loved ones escape the high street and do your Christmas shopping at Lyme. Whether it’s environmentally-friendly swaps, last minute Christmas Cards, or stocking up the larder for Christmas dinner with locally sourced food and drink you're bound to find the perfect gift at Lyme cozy in the knowledge that every penny spent goes back to helping care for Lyme for everyone, for ever.