Christmas at the Treasure Houses of England

Expect a fabulous feast of festive entertainment and events this Christmas at the magnificent Treasure Houses of England.  Shop in style with magical Christmas markets and discover beautifully and stylishly decorated Treasure Houses for a unique and inspired day out, not to mention the opportunity to pick up some beautifully bespoke presents for your nearest and dearest.

Beaulieu’s Christmas Fair (16 November) in support of the Estate’s Countryside Educational Trust includes an array of quality items from food and drink to jewellery, antiques and plants.  In addition, their Christmas Celebrations (15 December-6 January) will feature carol singing in festively decorated Palace House and Victorian characters who will be on show-stopping hand to divulge fascinating details on life in a Victorian country house

Blenheim Palace’s renowned Living Crafts for Christmas (16-18 November) showcases a series of splendid creations from over 100 British designer-makers as well as hosting outdoor demonstrations of stone carving, blacksmithing, street theatre and handbell ringing. Meanwhile, the Palace will be telling the story of The Three Kings (10 November-14 December) through spectacular themed decorations, with the State Rooms decorated in glittering gold and festooned in exotic silk.

Celebrate and sample local produce at Burghley House’s free fine food market (1 December) where cheeses, meats and cupcakes are just some of the drool-worthy delights on offer.

The NSPCC Christmas Shopping Fair will be hosted by Castle Howard, which also presents its captivating Christmas Craft & Produce Market (2-4 December & 9-10 December). Relish some seasonal finery throughout the castle and grounds with family decorations, festive music, seasonal menus and weekend audiences with Father Christmas (24 November-16 December).

The Christmas celebrations officially start at Chatsworth in early November and this year’s ‘Pantomime’ theme is sure to provide plenty of fun for children and adults alike. Well known Panto characters will be found throughout the House with a tall tale to be told in every room. For something decidedly different, visit Chatsworth for their Christmas themed evenings at the farm shop (20, 22 November & 5, 12 December). Browse their various gifts, treats and Christmas produce while enjoying live demonstrations and a top seasonal tipple of mulled wine.  Chatsworth also presents a host of workshops and making events, from their floral workshop (29 & 30 November) to wreath making (5 & 6 December) sessions.   And don’t forget to bring the entire family to Chatsworth’s nativity performances, featuring adorable real animals from their farmyard (evening nativities 1, 8, 15 and 22 December at 6pm and daytime nativities 1-2, 8-9, 15-16 and 22-23 December).

Festive food, a crackling fire in the grate and a house dressed for a family Christmas; Harewood celebrates all that is good about the festive season with their much-anticipated Christmas Weekends
(1 December-23 December).   Immerse yourself in the magic of the house and take a tour of glorious grounds, feel the true spirit of a Harewood Christmas.

Get in the festive spirit with Music for Christmas at Hatfield (9 December).  Staged in the Old Palace, Hertfordshire Chorus - one of the UK's leading symphonic choirs - present an evening of seasonal favourites as mulled wine, coffee and mince pies will be doing the delicious rounds prior to the performance.  And don’t miss Hatfield’s Frost Fair (23 – 25 November) where you will find wonderful original and unusual crafts and gifts for the family and home.

Catch awe-inspiring splendour at Holkham Hall for their resplendent Christmas Celebrations (1, 2, 8 & 9 December). With the staterooms decorated in stunning Victorian style and cast in oh-so romantic candlelight, it promises to be a magnificent sight to behold.   Watch the cooks in the Old Kitchen as they prepare the Christmas feast and meet the traditionally clothed Victorian characters who will be filling the hall with storytelling, dancing, carol singing and tales from Christmas past; while Father Christmas welcomes children each with their own special gift.  Visit the Victorian traders selling Christmas gifts and crafts in the Bygones Museum and courtyard and indulge in tasty refreshments at The Stables Café, with mulled wine and tempting festive treats.

The lovely fellows at Leeds Castle are proud to present Christmas Past (12 -23 Dec) - a glorious celebration of the Victorian Christmas.  Come and see the incredible illuminated Woodland Walk and prepare to be amazed!  Glorious food, shops, stalls, fabulous gifts, Christmas carols, a Victorian train, Santa Claus and more.

Treasure Houses of England

• The Treasure Houses of England are 10 of the most magnificent palaces, houses and castles in England today. Together they attract in excess of 2.8 million visitors annually.

• Members are Beaulieu, Blenheim Palace, Burghley House, Castle Howard, Chatsworth, Harewood, Hatfield House, Holkham Hall, Leeds Castle and Woburn Abbey.

• One of the most compelling features of the Treasure Houses of England is that they all offer the visitor a living history. Most are still homes to the great families who have owned them for generations. Others keep their heritage alive by re-creating scenes and events that have dominated and shaped England from the 9th century to the present day.

• Between them they house some of the most important art collections in the world with famous works from artists such as Van Dyck and Gainsborough. The connoisseur of fine furniture, porcelain and china will find priceless examples of Chippendale, Wedgwood and Meissen. 

• Each house is an architectural masterpiece surrounded by beautiful parklands and gardens.

For more information visit www.treasurehouses.co.uk