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The best Christmas days out with the National Trust
The nights are drawing in, it's getting colder, and Christmas isn't far away. Which means it's time to get into the festive spirit – and there's no better way than visiting the National Trust.
See historic houses decorated in the style of Christmases gone by, enjoy festive family trails, take part in classic Christmas crafts, or have a good old sing-along with open-air carols concerts. Experience the magic of Christmas after-dark with illuminated trails, wander through festive gardens and enjoy twinkling lights, dazzling installations and seasonal sounds. Plus, if you're lucky, you might even spot Father Christmas on one of his annual visits.
Carl Greenman, National Programming & Production Manager at the National Trust said:
"Christmas at the National Trust is always magical but this year we've got more events and activities than ever before. We can't wait to see families and friends coming together, making memories, and experiencing the festive atmosphere at the places the National Trust cares for."
Here's a roundup of some of the National Trust's best Christmas events in your area.
Lincolnshire
Gunby Estate, Hall and Gardens
At Gunby Estate, Hall and Gardens from Saturday 3 – Friday 23 December (10am – 2pm), the house will be turned into a world of merriment in 'A Winter's Night'. Each room will feature creatively designed themes and take visitors on a magical journey. Walk through a sparkling starry night in the basement, discover a Swan Lake ballet atmosphere in the music room and relax in a room decked out with cosy 'Hygge' decoration. Visitors can also enjoy seasonal treats in the tea-room while the event is happening (10am – 3pm). It will be a beautiful way to make special Christmas memories.
This event is free, but normal site admission charges apply. Pre-booking is recommended. Pre-booking is available 2 weeks before your intended arrival date. You can find out more information and pre-book by going to https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/gunby-estate-hall-and-gardens
Belton House
Step into a winter wonderland at Belton, and explore an estate brought to life with twinkling lights and sparkling Christmas trees, from 26 November. The mansion will be dressed in festive finery, with selected rooms transformed to help you make magical memories this winter. Don't forget to keep an eye out for the decorations that have been hidden in the mansion on the Christmas Spotter Trail – running 26 November – 2 January, 11am – 3pm.
Get creative with some festive crafts, whether you're looking to write a letter to Santa, enjoy some colouring in, or take home a handmade Christmas decoration. The crafts can be found in the indoor play area, and in the Activity Room during Christmas week. Why not take part in Belton's traditions and add to the garland of greenery in the stable yard or pick up a Christmas creative card from the Stables Café and illustrate your feelings about this season.
Discover the magic of Christmas on the after-dark illuminated trail at Belton. Wander beneath glistening trees drenched in colour and explore even more spectacular illuminations and sparkling tunnels of light. Tickets are now on sale for this unmissable outdoor experience, dates from 24 November – 1 January 2023: Christmas at Belton | National Trust
Find out more: Belton House | National Trust
Just over the border in Northamptonshire...
Lyveden
Join in the festive workshops at Lyveden this Christmas. Create your own handmade Christmas cards or door hangers under the expert eye of Liddy Parry from Something Less Boring. Using a range of fun creative techniques including Indian Woodblock Printing, painting and collage you'll create a beautiful collection of Christmas cards to send to family and friends. Or create your own beautiful festive floral door hanger, taking inspiration from the Tudor Christmas, using a selection of different evergreen foliage to construct your own festive door display. You can also create a your own festive centrepiece, which will bring a little extra magic to your Christmas table. An expert florist will be there to show you the ropes and offer help tips. Refreshments in the form of tea, coffee and a mince pie will help keep you merry and bright as you work.
Please visit the Lyveden website to book your places at https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lyveden
