Christmas at Castle Ward

Published:: 26 October 2024

Father and Daughter at Castle Ward's Georgian Christmastide — There's loads to do for the whole family this Christmastide! | © James Beck

This festive season the mansion was dressed in tableau for an evocative 18th-century Christmas, and we held a wonderful Christmas Market to kick off the season!

Christmas at Castle Ward 2024

This festive season, Castle Ward welcomed visitors to experience the magic of Christmas with a touch of history.

From 29 November, the entire estate was transformed for the holidays, offering a mix of festive décor, local shopping, and historic storytelling. The Mansion was adorned in Georgian splendour, with garlands, festive foods, and rich wines setting the scene. In the Stable Yard, costumed storytellers (during the first weekend only) brought the 18th century to life, sharing tales of those who lived at Castle Ward centuries ago. Late-night openings allowed visitors to enjoy the estate illuminated by Christmas lights.

A woman carrying a little boy as they look at a market stall — Christmas Artisan Market at Castle Ward | © National Trust Images/Chris Lacey

Christmas artisan market

The perfect chance to buy Christmas gifts for loved ones (or yourself!).

From 29 November to 1 December, Castle Ward hosted its Christmas Artisan Market, where local craftspeople and food vendors showcased their finest handmade goods. Held in the theatre space and Stable Yard, the market offered a wonderful opportunity to find unique, locally crafted Christmas gifts and enjoy delicious seasonal treats.

The atmosphere was festive, with a vibrant mix of products on offer—from home décor to artisan foods. On 29 November, the late-night opening allowed visitors to shop under the glow of twinkling lights, with the Mansion beautifully adorned for the holiday season.

Christmas food and drink

Step inside the warm and cosy tea-room, which has been dressed head-to-toe in traditional Christmas décor. Why not try a delicious mince pie, or chocolate orange shortbread washed down with a flat white or gingerbread latte?

Christmas shopping

Post-Christmas sales, you say? Step into our gift-shop to peruse around an enchanting range of gifts, perfect for the winter season.

Visitors exploring the festive interiors in the Entrance Hall at Castle Ward — Experience Christmas at Castle Ward with your family this festive season | © National Trust Images/Annapurna Mellor

Georgian Christmastide at Castle Ward

We experienced Christmas just as the Georgians would!

From 29 November to 8 December, visitors to Castle Ward’s Mansion experienced a traditional Georgian Christmas. Stepping into the house, their senses were awakened as they viewed the cosy rooms just as the Georgians would have on dark winter evenings. Atmospheric lighting accentuated the period plasterwork and panelling, casting moving shadows that added intrigue to the old rooms. The halls were wreathed in colourful historical garlands, the dining table set with festive foods and rich wines, and the air filled with the scents of Christmas. Those who listened closely might even have heard the echoes of mirth and jollity from centuries past.

After exploring the grand and elegant rooms upstairs, visitors descended the Servants’ Stairs to the basements of Castle Ward, where preparations for Christmas were in full swing. The Housekeeper’s room bustled with activity, the kitchen was alive with the delicious aromas of festive foods being prepared, and the cellar was stocked with fine wines for the celebrations. Whether visiting by day or during the late-night openings, guests were transported back to the warmth and charm of Christmastide, as it was enjoyed in the 18th century.

29 Nov: 12:00 - 19:00

30 Nov & 1 Dec: 11:00 - 16:00

7 & 8 Dec: 11:00 - 16:00

For full listings of events at Castle Ward visit our What’s On page