Christmas 2019
Celebrate the festive season with family and friends at our historic places. Find an event near you and learn about the history of some of your favourite Christmas traditions.
Plan a refreshing winter walk in England's historic landscapes with our walking guides, or take a short break in the places where history happened.
Christmas treats for everyone
-
Make a Victorian Christmas cracker
Can you remember a Christmas lunch without popping a cracker, wearing a silly hat and sharing an even sillier joke? We have the Victorians to thank.
-
Christmas crafts and recipes
Join our Victorian cook Mrs Crocombe to try some of her recipes from the 1880s, or learn how to make a Tudor 'kissing bough' wreath.
-
Gift of membership
Give the gift of unlimited access to over 400 historic places this Christmas, with English Heritage membership.
From our blog: Christmas traditions
-
HOW DID QUEEN VICTORIA AND PRINCE ALBERT POPULARISE CHRISTMAS?
One of the main reasons the Victorians fell in love with Christmas was because of the way the Royal family celebrated it. Sam Bilton investigates the festive feasts and other Christmas traditions.
-
History of the Christmas pudding
Sam Bilton looks at the origins of the Christmas pudding. She’s also found some historical recipes to try at home, including medieval figgy pudding and a classic Victorian Christmas pudding recipe – straight from Queen Victoria’s chef.
-
WHAT’S ON THE TABLE? CHRISTMAS TURKEY IN VICTORIAN ENGLAND
Turkey has been associated with winter feasting since the late Tudor era, but it wasn’t until the 20th century that it became quite so obligatory on December 25th.
Take a festive break
Immerse yourself in England's colourful past by staying in one of our unique and historical properties. From cosy cottages to gatehouse towers to beachside retreats, book your stay today and make this festive season a memorable one.
As other visitors leave, you can explore the historic site all by yourself. Soak up the unique atmosphere of the sun setting on hundreds of years of history and, come morning, see it light up some of the most iconic sights in the country.
See our Holiday CottagesMore to explore
