Buckland Abbey Christmas

Published:: 10 November 2022

A Viking man stands beside a wooden throne with a torch in the foreground out of focus. Behind him the branches of a fir tree are visible. — Christmas at Buckland Abbey | © Steve Haywood

This Christmas, you are invited to get into the festive spirit at Buckland with seasonal shopping, treats, music and a beautiful historical display in the Great Barn and Abbey.

A Viking Yule display

30 November - 31 December, 10-4

This year, as you step into the Great Barn, you'll arrive into a Viking Mead Hall, set up to celebrate Yule, and surrounded by the sights and sounds of a Scandinavian forest. At the top of the Barn, you'll see the Sacred Grove where Odin and the Northern Lights look over the feast.

The Abbey is also decorated on the same theme, with each room reflecting a medieval winter tradition. Don't miss the beautiful handmade cascade, or the cheeky cats hiding around the house.

There's also a family spotter trail around the yellow estate walk, which tells the stories associated with the trees growing here that would have been familiar to the Vikings too.

Normal admission applies.

Father Christmas

Father Christmas is unable to join us at Buckland Abbey this year as he's very busy up at the North Pole. Why not join us for festive storytelling with his elves instead?

Mince pie and a cup of tea with a sprig of holly and background of fairy lights — Tasty festive treats are available in the cafe | © National Trust/John Parker

Christmas storytelling

8, 15, 17, 19, 22, 24 and 29 December, 1.30-2.30pm

Join Father Christmas' elves for some festive storytelling in the Abbey.

Normal admission applies. There is no need to book this event.

The storytelling is subject to volunteer availability - please call ahead to check before making a special trip.

Naturemake

22 December, 10 - 3

Christmas is approaching and it's time to join Naturemake in creating some Christmas magic!

These are drop in sessions with no need to book but please be aware that they could be very busy at peak times.

Wassail

Sunday 5 January

Join Dartmoor Border Morris to scare away evil spirits in the orchard and ensure a good harvest this year at our Wassail - remember your pots and pans to make lots of noise. The event starts with a Mummer's play in the Great Barn, and will then process to the orchard for the Wassail itself.

Normal admission applies

View of Buckland Abbey with a green lawn in front and trees, with one tree turning red and brown in autumn, Devon

Discover more at Buckland Abbey

Plan your visit

Three decorated and lit Christmas trees stand in the Great Hall with a volunteer decorating each one.

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Visiting Buckland Abbey and Great Barn

Explore the abbey which is part museum, part house, and filled with treasures. Step inside the medieval Great Barn: a tithe barn unchanged since it was built centuries ago.

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Buckland Abbey's estate

Discover Buckland's ancient woodland on one of three colour coded walking routes. With abundant wildlife and far reaching views, it's a peaceful and fascinating place to enjoy a stroll.

Two visitors sit at a table in the cafe with cups of tea and cakes

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Eating and shopping at Buckland Abbey

Take a break at the Ox Yard Café, which serves tea, coffee, light lunches and sweet treats, before finding a special gift or souvenir in the National Trust shop, art galleries and second-hand bookshop.

Two gardeners decorate a arbour around the entrance door of the Abbey with green foliage and holly berries

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Buckland Abbey's gardens

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