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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

Flutterby butterfly trail 

As the weather warms up, delight in Canons Ashby’s ‘Flutterby Butterfly’ summer trail, running from late May until early September.

Event summary

on
3 Jul to 8 Sep 2024
at
10:00 to 16:00
+ 67 other dates or times
Event

Guided visits to Priory Church and medieval Stew Ponds 

Find out more about the medieval history of Canons Ashby with a guided visit to the church, and then to the restored medieval stew ponds: an area not accessible to the public without a guide. There are 20 spaces on this walk to sign up on the day.

Event summary

on
4 Jul to 26 Sep 2024
at
14:00 to 14:45
+ 7 other dates or times
Event

Purcell and a Picnic, with Eboracum Baroque 

Eboracum Baroque are delighted to return to the beautiful gardens of Canons Ashby for a programme of music featuring works by Henry Purcell, using historic musical instruments.

Event summary

on
20 Jul 2024
at
18:00 to 19:45
Event

Guided countryside walks 

On the fourth Thursday of the month from May to October, come and explore our surrounding countryside on a 6-mile walk, enjoy the fantastic views and get out in the fresh air with our guides.

Event summary

on
25 Jul to 24 Oct 2024
at
09:55 to 13:00
+ 2 other dates or times