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A Christmas Quest

Experience a magical Christmas visit at Canons Ashby with festive decorations inspired by Arthurian wizards, knights, dragons and the wonderful myths that surround them. Running from 28 November - 24 December.

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

Experience a magical Christmas visit at Canons Ashby with festive decorations inspired by Arthurian wizards, knights, dragons and the wonderful myths that surround them.

This year our Christmas displays will be inspired by the legends that sparked the imagination of John Dryden, member the Canons Ashby family and the first poet laureate. King Arthur, the semi-opera written by John Dryden and Henry Purcell, has been delighting audiences since 1691.

For little adventurers, pick up the Christmas Quest children’s trail, find all the ingredients on the list, and help Merlin complete his spell to make a magical Christmas.

Normal admission prices apply.

This is the third year of "A Christmas Quest", which won "Best Exhibition" at the Northamptonshire Heritage Forum Awards 2023.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Check admission prices

The basics

Suitability

This event is for all the family.

Meeting point

Please park in the main visitor car park and start your day at Visitor Reception.

What to bring and wear

Please dress for the weather. Part of the event is outside on uneven outdoor surfaces. The ground will be wet if the weather has been poor.

Accessibility

Our decorations are in the house, which has steps, stairs and uneven surfaces. More information can be provided on request: if you have questions about accessing this event, please email us at canonsashby@nationaltrust.org.uk

Other

This event takes place in the house, so it is not suitable for dogs (except assistance dogs).

Upcoming events

Event

Merlin's Magical Trail 

Join together this festive season to help Merlin find everything he needs for his winter spells!

Event summary

on
22 Dec to 24 Dec 2024
at
10:00 to 15:00
+ 2 other dates or times
Event

Snowdrop Stories trail 

Wander through Canons Ashby and discover what people have believed about these delicate and beautiful blooms through the years.

Event summary

on
3 Feb to 21 Mar 2025
at
10:00 to 16:00
+ 46 other dates or times
Event

Early Spring Foraging Walk 

Get back in touch with nature as the spring bulbs appear! Find out what and where to forage on our guided foraging walk.

Event summary

on
8 Mar 2025
at
10:00 to 13:00
Event

Exclusive Behind-the-scenes House Tour with Afternoon Tea 

Ever wondered what's behind the closed doors of Canons Ashby? Seize the opportunity to be exclusively shown some of our best kept secrets and to learn more about how we conserve our place and collection.

Event summary

on
11 Apr 2025
at
15:15 to 17:30