Family Events
Savour the last of the autumn weather, or get into the festive spirit this November. There’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained at English Heritage sites across the country.
See history in a new light and see the spectacular fireworks display at Kenilworth Castle.
Get ahead and start planning your days out this Christmas.
Book a special visit to meet Father Christmas, follow our magical Walking with The Snowman™ trail at Belsay Hall and Wrest Park or find a Christmas market to visit near you.
Be sure to book in advance to save 15% if you're not a member already!
Enjoy the Fireworks Display at Kenilworth Castle
Join Kenilworth Round Table for their biggest charity event of the year - the annual Fireworks Spectacular at Kenilworth Castle on Saturday 7 November.
There will be a variety of tasty food and drink stalls to enjoy too.
All profits from the event are donated towards local charities and community projects.
Book tickets for the fireworks spectacularWalking with The Snowman™ Christmas Trail
This winter, something special is happening at Wrest Park and Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens. The Snowman™ has tip‑toed into the gardens – and he’s brought a host of cheerful friends with him.
From Saturday 7 November follow a festive family trail to discover twelve giant Snowman sculptures hidden throughout the grounds, inspired by Raymond Briggs' beloved classic.
Keep your eyes peeled – each sculpture hides a secret letter. Collect all twelve and you’ll reveal a magical Christmas word.
So pull on your hats and scarves and head out for a charming winter adventure, sprinkled with nostalgia from Raymond Briggs’ much‑loved classic.
Book in advance online and save 15%. Members go free.
Book your visit to meet Father Christmas
Join Father Christmas at one of our historical sites this December for a magical way to start the festive season. After a group storytelling session, you and your children will meet the man himself, with the chance to take photographs and make memories to treasure and recieve a traditional present to unwrap.
- Meet Father Christmas at Audley And House and Gardens, Saffron Walden
- Meet Father Christmas at Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens, Northumberland
- Meet Father Christmas at Brodsworth Hall and Gardens, Doncaster
- Meet Father Christmas at Dover Castle, Dover
- Meet Father Christmas at Eltham Palace and Gardens, London
- Meet Father Christmas at Kenilworth Castle and Elizabethan Garden, Warwickshire
- Meet Father Christmas at Kenwood, London
- Meet Father Christmas at Marble Hill, London
- Meet Father Christmas at Wrest Park, Bedfordshire
Have some Festive Fun
Join us for festive days out across the country that the whole family will love. Make magical memories as you explore our castles, palaces, historic houses and gardens and enjoy seasonal activities.
Book your visit for:
- Festive Fun at Audley And House and Gardens, Saffron Walden
- Festive Fun at Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens, Northumberland
- Festive Fun at Brodsworth Hall and Gardens, Doncaster
- Festive Fun at Dover Castle, Dover
- Festive Fun at Eltham Palace and Gardens, London
- Festive Fun at Kenilworth Castle and Elizabethan Garden, Warwickshire
- Festive Fun at Osborne, Isle of Wight
- Festive Fun at Walmer Castle and Gardens, Kent
- Festive Fun at Wrest Park, Bedfordshire
Book in advance online and save 15%. Members go free.
Christmas Markets to visit
Get ahead and start your Christmas shopping at our:
- Pop-up Winter Market at Wrest Park, Sat 14 and Sun 15 November
- Festive Fair at Fort Brockhurst, Sat 14 and Sun 15 November
- Christmas Craft Fair at Belsay Hall, Sat 21 and Sun 22 November
- Christmas Market and Lantern Parade at Bolsover Castle, Sat 28 November
- Festive Shoppig Days at Walmer Castle, Thu 19, 26 Nov and Thu 3, 10 and 16 December
- Christmas Market at Gainsborough Old Hall, Sat 5 and Sun 6 December
- Christmas Market at Audley End House and Gardens, Fri 11, Sat 12 and Sun 13 December (local residents get free entry on Friday 11th)
It’s the perfect opportunity to pick up something special for Christmas, support small businesses and enjoy a lovely festive day out.
