Christmas at Coleton Fishacre

Christmas wreath on a door at Scotney Castle, Kent — Celebrate a traditional 1920s Christmas at Coleton Fishacre | © National Trust Images/Chris Lacey

Gather loved ones for a festive day out this Christmas at Coleton Fishacre.

A traditional Coleton Christmas

Step inside the house and imagine Christmas as it would have been in the 1920’s. Elegant rooms are lit by the twinkle of lights and sumptuously decorated trees, swags of greenery plucked from the garden adorn mantlepieces and windowsills, and timeless classics are played on the piano in the Saloon.

You can also peek in the Servants' Hall and discover how the serving class celebrated with handmade gifts and paper decorations. See if you can spot traditions we still hold dear today.

Festive garden trail

Whether you're looking to burn off some of the pre-Christmas excitement or stretch your legs after the holidays, it’s the perfect time to wrap up warm and get outdoors. A wander through the garden will bring sensory delights from winter blooms to heady scents and breath-taking sea views.

Visitors can also take part in a festive outdoor trail this year, featuring new characters Dottie and Doyle the Dalmatian pups as they explore their first Christmas at Coleton Fishacre and search for Father Christmas.

Christmas opening dates

To help plan your day out, Christmas at Coleton Fishacre will be open from 11am to 4pm on:

Saturday 30 and Sunday 1 December
Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 December
Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 December
Daily 18 - 24 December 2024
Daily from 27 December - 1 January 2025
Saturday 4 and Sunday 4 January 2025

Christmas gifts wrapped in brown paper underneath the tree at Polesden Lacey, Surrey — Take a peek at the Servants' Hall decorated for Christmas | © National Trust Images/John Millar

Winter on the coast

The coastal garden at Coleton Fishacre is perfect for winter walks and breath taking sea views. A stroll along the accessible path to Scout Point, the farthest part of the garden, is rewarded as the garden falls away and the wide ocean vista unravels before you. Nearby the South West Coast path hugs the coastline with secluded beaches and viewpoints to explore. Ideal for taking in that fresh air on a winter's day.

Festive food and drink

We've got decadent hot chocolates, spiced lattes and warming cups of tea - why not take one with you on a stroll round the garden to keep those mittens toasty? If you're stopping for a break, warm up with seasonal bites or treat yourself to a festive mince pie.

Christmas shopping at Coleton Fishacre

Why not leave the busy high street behind and let us help with the Christmas shopping this year? Whether you're looking for stocking-fillers or something special to put under the tree, you'll find the perfect gift at the National Trust shop.

There's plenty for food lovers too, from tasty biscuits to handmade jams, indulgent chocolates and tipples a plenty. Pick up a treat or two, or choose a combination of things to go in a festive hamper.

You can also transform your home into a winter wonderland with a range of decorations available, from festive garlands to handmade ornaments.