Christmas at Petworth House

Brilliant gold and festooned Christmas trees in the Carved Room at Petworth, West Sussex | © Megan Taylor

Step into a festive wonderland in the grand state rooms of Petworth House. Marvel at beautifully decorated trees and garlands, and be sure to look closely as there are some mischievous mice who have come to play. There will be choirs singing, late openings, wreathmaking, a Christmas makers market, and much more.

Christmas and other events

A Christmas Spectacular at Petworth House

Sat 30th November 2024 to Sun 5th January 2025. Closed 24th and 25th December.

Petworth House is open 10.30am–4pm. The garden and main car park close at 5pm

At peak busy times you may need to queue to enter the house. This is to reduce congestion so the visit is more enjoyable for all.

Explore Petworth House to see showstopping trees, twinkling lights, beautifully adorned garlands and atmospheric village scenes this Christmas. Discover eight of our historic showrooms dressed for Christmas with playful mice hiding amongst the display.

Many of the decorations are inspired by the collection and colours in the rooms. There will be perfect places for photo opportunities, from the sleigh in the courtyard to the majestic lantern illuminating the Square Dining Room and the mice who have taken over the Marble Hall. You'll find a life sized paper-crafted nativity scene in the Chapel alongside trees waiting for your Christmas wish.

There will be choirs singing festive songs in the courtyard on weekends from Saturday 30th November until Sunday 15th December at 11.30am and 2.30pm.

On Saturday 30th November, Saturday 7th December and Friday 20th December you can experience a magical evening atmosphere with our festive late openings, when the House will be open until 6pm, with a choir performing at 5pm.

On Saturday 30th November and Sunday 1st December there will be a Christmas makers market in the Battery House and Exhibition Room selling festive gifts, run in partnership with Petworth Pop-up.

Wreath making workshops

Tues 3rd, Sat 7th and Sun 8th December, 10.30am & 2pm

Get into the festive spirit and add some Christmas cheer to your home with our traditional wreath making workshops.

Start by making your own wreath base from willow, which can be used year after year. Then learn how to finish your wreath using foliage collected from the grounds of Petworth. You are welcome to bring any other unique Christmas decoration pieces you would like to add to your wreath.

Includes a hot drink and mince pie.

Our workshops are suitable for all skill levels. All materials will be provided.

£50 per adult, per session. Booking is essential through our Events page or by calling 0344 249 1895

Photo opportunity under the colourful archway in the enchanted winter garden in the Marble Hall at Petworth, West Sussex — Photo opportunity under the colourful archway in the enchanted winter garden in the Marble Hall at Petworth | © Megan Taylor

The Servants' Quarters

Food, drink and Christmas sale shopping

Visit the Historic Kitchens to see a fabulous display of festive treats.

Visit the shop for some perfect Christmas gifts and the Audit Room Café for warming food and drink.

Planning your visit

The Christmas and New Year period can be a busy time at Petworth. Most of our visitors tend to arrive between 11am and 2pm, which can cause congestion in the car park. If you arrive at 10am you might find it a little quieter, or if you arrive after 2pm there’s still time to enjoy all that Petworth has to offer.

If you have the flexibility, a weekday visit is generally quieter than a weekend, even during school holidays. If you can only visit over the weekend, Saturdays are usually less busy than Sundays.

The Battery House will be open for indoor dog-friendly seating and picnic space from 10 December.

Please be aware the North Gallery, Beauty Room and Grand Stairs will be closed over the Christmas period.