Christmas at The Vyne

A giant chess board is laid out in a gallery surrounded by black and white Christmas presents in front of three Christmas trees lit up with cold white fairy lights and decorated with black and white decorations. — Step into another world this Christmas where nothing is as it seems. | © National Trust / Virginia Langer

From 20 November to 5 January, in The Vyne's house and gardens, lose yourself in Lewis Carroll's Wonderland. On the ground floor of the house glittering trees illuminate whimsical scenes from Alice Through the Looking-Glass. Inspired by Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, quirky displays such as the Queen of Hearts’ army dot the gardens. Families can enjoy a fun, festive trail and activities.

All ages can hunt for 12 much-loved Wonderland characters depicted in playful, life-size cut-outs designed by Rachel Hudson Illustration. When you need to refuel, pop into the cosy Brewhouse tea-room. And you’ll find a range of festive gifts in the shop. House open 11am-3pm, gardens 10am-4pm. Closed 24 & 25 December.

Festive family fun

Wonderland Christmas family activities

Daily 20 Nov - 5 Jan inclusive | House 11am-3pm | Gardens 10am-4pm (closed 24 & 25 Dec)

All ages can explore The Vyne's gardens and the ground floor of the house lavishly decorated to depict Lewis Carroll's much-loved Wonderland. Collect your trail sheet from Visitor Reception and join Alice on a quest through the gardens dotted with light-hearted displays before entering the house. Enjoy nonsensical fun challenges and activities. £2 per trail sheet.

Christmas decorations

Daily 20 Nov - 5 Jan inclusive | House 11am-3pm | Gardens 10am-4pm (closed 24 & 25 Dec)

On the ground floor of the house, sparkling trees laden with baubles illuminate whimsical and nonsensical displays inspired by ‘Looking-Glass’ such as a quirky ‘illogical’ room where glittering upside-down Christmas trees point disconcertingly to the floor. In the Stone Gallery, you’ll see a giant chess board where, in the story, Alice must play boldly to become a queen.

At key focal points in the gardens, you’ll encounter depictions of much-loved characters and famous scenes from ‘Alice’s Adventures’ including the Queen of Heart’s army of cards on the north lawn.

Alice illustrated

On your visit to The Vyne this Christmas, keep your eyes peeled for 12 much-loved Wonderland characters.

The Red Queen wields a flamingo stood next to Alice and the King in a game of croquet. — Artwork | © Rachel Hudson Illustration

A playful reimagining of Lewis Carroll’s work

All ages can look out for 12 whimsically wonderful life-size cut-outs of their favourite Wonderland characters. The Mad Hatter, the March Hare, the White Rabbit and the infamously ill-tempered Queen of Hearts are just some of the characters you can find hidden in The Vyne’s house and gardens. Artwork by Rachel Hudson Illustration. Rachel Hudson is a Hampshire based illustrator working with many of the UK’s leading nature conservation organisations.

Festive food and drink

Warm your cockles with hearty one-pots and soups in the Brewhouse tea-room. Or why not pick up an indulgent hot drink such as hot chocolate or spice-infused mulled wine with a mince pie to help take the chill off a winter’s day?

Christmas shopping at The Vyne

Discover a selection of festive bites and beverages, nature-inspired Christmas decorations and Christmas cards and calendars in The Vyne's gift shop, as well as quality books and kitchen and homeware.

Eating and shopping at The Vyne