Inspire Me

As the days shorten and the festive season approaches, we have a great selection of events and activities for all the family to enjoy.

Here we have gathered some of our favourite features, events and things to do to inspire your next visit.

Image: Christmas wreath on a door

Things to do in December

This December, we’ve got plenty of ideas to help you step into history.

Discover Christmas through the ages, try a traditional Victorian craft, and join us for a month full of festive events. Read on to uncover must-see properties, fascinating people and captivating activities for all the family this month.

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Christmas Events

Gather your friends and family this winter and experience the past in a spectacular new light. Celebrate Christmas with brand new, interactive light trails at some of our most popular properties. 

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10 FLOWERS TO SEE AT OUR SITES THIS AUTUMN

As the days grow shorter, our gardens still have spectacular displays to offer. Autumn brings new colour and layers to the garden, from the jewel-like glimpses of cyclamen to the unexpected boldness of nerines. Why not get outdoors this season and enjoy our historic gardens in all their Autumnal glory? 

Here we have picked 10 of the most interesting and eye-catching flowers you'll be able to spot at our historic sites over the coming weeks.

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Culture

The History of the Christmas Pudding

What would Christmas dinner be without a 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.

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The Rise of Miniature Portraits

Discover the fascinating history of miniature portraits, which became a popular asset in Georgian Britain. Written by Louise Cooling.

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Satire and Scandal: Media in 18th-Century England

In this article author and historian Tim Clayton explores the evolution of 18th-century media in England and how it paved the way for the international media empire we know today.

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Charles III and the English kings who share his name

As England welcomes a new Carolean era, all eyes are on the monarchy as we get to know our new king in his new role. This isn't the first time a Charles has ruled England, so who were Charles I and II and what mark did they leave on our nation?

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Walmer Castle - An Autumn Gardens Tour

Take an autumnal tour of the stunning gardens of Walmer Castle in Kent with head gardener Philip Oostenbrink.

Discover the gardens that were home to some of the most memorable figures from English history — including the Duke of Wellington.

Relax your mind with videos from our sites

Put on your headphones and relax to the ambient sights and sounds from a selection of our historic sites across the country.

  • BRODSWORTH HALL AND GARDENS

  • PENDENNIS CASTLE

  • WITLEY COURT AND GARDENS

History for Kids

Image: Illustration of character with dragon and horse

Are you ready to go back - way back - in time to learn all about England’s history? Read our magazines and discover our online pages where you can explore each of the key periods, from the Stone Age right through to the Second World War.
Find out what life was like at the time through fun facts, illustrated stories, games and more. 

Explore our history for Kids

More to Explore

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