Christmas events, crafts, traditions and Santa
Some red berries on a Christmas wreath

Christmas events and activities

Asking yourself 'what Christmas events are on near me'? We've got plenty of fun-filled events and Christmas activities across the country to help you get in the festive spirit!

Take the kids to meet Father Christmas, enjoy festive fun at our historic sites and follow Tinkerbell through Christmas lights on an unforgettable journey through Neverland at Kenwood.

You can also find out everything you need to know about the history and traditions surrounding the festive period, get Christmas craft ideas and tick off your Christmas shopping list with our gift guide.

Father Christmas handing a wrapped gift to a smiling young child

Meet Father Christmas

Father Christmas is taking time out of his busy festive schedule to tell some of his favourite seasonal stories around the Christmas tree at our sites across the country this winter.

Enjoy a group storytelling session and then meet the man himself! Every child will receive a traditional present to unwrap as well as memories that will last a lifetime.

Close-up photo of a decorated Christmas tree with people walking in the snow at Osborne in the background

Festive Fun

Join us as our historic sites become the backdrop for Christmas lights and festive activities that the whole family will love. Make magical memories as you explore the grounds and soak up the sights, sounds and scents of Christmas past and present.

Photo of a large statue of Shaun The Sheep on the grass in front of Belsay Hall in Northumberland

Find the Flock Christmas Trail

Herd your family together for a baaa-rilliant Christmas trail at Wrest Park and Belsay Hall this festive season.

Grab a trail map and track down twelve super-sized sculptures of Shaun the Sheep designed by different artists.

Once ewe’ve found the flock, toast marshmallows around the fire and get hands-on with Christmas crafts.

Book early and save 15%.

Photo of an afternoon-tea stand including cakes, scones, sandwiches and crudités

Festive Afternoon Tea

This Christmas, start your celebrations with a premium Festive Afternoon Tea and share festive fayre with a selection of sandwiches, cakes and canapés.

Add on a Festive Afternoon Tea experience with your admission:

To book, follow the link, click the red booking button, select your preferred date and select how many tickets you need. You will then have the option to add Festive Afternoon Tea to your visit experience.

If you are a member, please click ‘Member login’ to claim your free site admission. You can then add on the Afternoon Tea experience.

Bird's-eye-view photo of two hands making a Christmas wreath

Wreath-making workshop at Audley End

Join us in the magnificent surroundings of the Great Hall at Audley End House and Gardens for a fabulously festive day of wreath-making.

You'll be guided through the step-by-step process by our Head Gardener Louise Ellis to create a beautiful wreath adorned with festive fruits and spices to take home.

Book tickets for wreath-making at Audley End House and Gardens

Christmas carols

  • Carol Concerts at Rievaulx Abbey

    Sun 7 and Sun 14 Dec 2025 1pm - 3pm

    Join us for our annual outdoor Christmas Carol Concerts in the atmospheric ruins at Rievaulx Abbey on Sunday 7 December and Sunday 14 December, from 1pm – 3pm.

  • Carols at Bolsover Castle

    Thu 18 Dec 2025 7 - 9pm

    Join in the Christmas celebrations at Bolsover Castle with traditional carols sung in the stunning surroundings of the Riding School.

Illustration of a silhouetted Peter Pan, Wendy, Tinkerbell and pirate ship in front of Kenwood and the London skyline

Neverland at Kenwood

This Christmas, step into a story filled with imagination and spectacle.

Follow Tinkerbell on an unforgettable journey through Christmas lights at historic Kenwood to a place of magic, imagination and adventure. Leave the ordinary behind and follow the stars through an enchanting new outdoor light trail like no other.

Perfect for those seeking an immersive Christmas experience in London for the whole family. Second to the right, and straight on till morning!

Book for Neverland at Kenwood
Image: wrapped presents

Christmas gift guide

Tick off your Christmas list with our guide to buying the perfect present for your loved ones. With options for food lovers, history lovers, crafters and even the kids, there's a perfect present for everyone in the English Heritage shop. 

Browse the Christmas gift guide
Photo of an ornate room at Osborne on the Isle of Wight featuring two people looking up at a painting of Victoria, Albert and their children

Christmas history, traditions and crafts

Find everything you need to know about the history and traditions surrounding the festive period and get Christmas craft ideas. 

Learn about Christmas history, traditions and crafts
Two women smile and look at a display of Christmas trees at Wrest Park.

Places to visit between Christmas and New Year

Wrap up the year with a memorable winter day out at our properties. We’re open between Christmas and New Year for you to explore England’s history, whether you're looking for a peaceful wander by yourself or planning a big family day out.

Find a place to visit between Christmas and New Year