Christmas on the Continent

Saturday 30 November - Sunday 5 January

This year there is a whole host of events and activities taking place at Ickworth for the Christmas season. The house is decked out to follow the journey of the Earl-Bishop and his family as they toured the continent. Experience different modes of transport and immersive room decorations as the house is decorated to represent different wintry scenes from throughout Europe.

Christmas at Ickworth is a magical occasion for the whole family to enjoy. As well as the beautifully adorned house, interesting history and fantastic trails, there are children's shows, countryside walks, a craft fair and seasonal shopping and dining opportunities.

In the House

Saturday 30 November- Sunday 5 January (timed, ticketed entry)

Ickworth House will be decorated for Christmas, creating a wonderful experience for the whole family. Our theme this year takes you on a journey across the continent. Explore the atmospheric Ruins of Rome, climb the snow-capped Swiss Alps, take a trip through a Bavarian cabin or wander the colourful Venetian Carnival, all while discovering Ickworth's inspirational art collection.

During the Christmas period the house is open daily from 11am - 3.30pm (last entry at 3pm) in the ground floor wings and the first floor landing. There is a slope entry to the house, through the Rotunda, which is accessible for wheelchairs, and a lift up to the first floor. To ensure the protection of our historic collection, floors and spaces, we apologise that pushchairs and large mobility scooters are not permitted in the house. There are some wheelchairs available to borrow, as well as baby hipseats.

Please be aware, to ensure everyone has the best experience possible, we will be operating a timed ticket system for entry to the house over Christmas. Spaces are every 15 minutes. Please book your tickets online in advance at the link below or from our events page.

We are aware that some of our visitors may appreciate sessions in the house that are quieter, with fewer people or lower light levels. On December 7, 15, 20 and January 2 we have set aside some designated relaxed hours. These time slots can also be booked online below.

Family-friendly winter trail

Saturday 30 November - Sunday 5 January

Out in the gardens there will be a fun, family-friendly trail that winds its way through the Albana woodland, bringing the themes of the house out into the grounds. The whole family can get involved with a special trail sheet, activities to complete and wonderful things to spot. UK-based artists, Pickle Illustration, have created a series of colourful designs that you will see on your way round.

Outdoor tail, open daily from 9am - 4pm.

Price per trail is £3 and can be collected from the Welcome Point

Children’s Santa Show

6 - 8 December and 13 - 15 December

In association with KD Theatre Productions, we are pleased to be hosting a fabulous show for families this year up in our West Wing Gallery.

Santa is trying to navigate the world with all of his presents in time for Christmas morning, but his sleigh has broken down! Will his helpers get things back on track in time for Christmas?

K.D Theatre Productions have put together this delightful, interactive sing-along show which is perfect for children aged 2 to 6 years old. It's a festive treat filled with music, laughter and holiday cheer that will captivate young hearts and imaginations. Youngsters will even receive a gift from Santa at the end!

Shows are taking place on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Running time is approximately 45 minutes.

Children cost £12, adults cost £8 and under 2s go free.

Book a Friday performance at either 2.30pm or 5pm.

Book a Saturday or Sunday performance at either 10.15am, 1.30pm or 3.30pm.