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.
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!
Walking 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. Follow Christmas-themed trails around our historic grounds and make magical memories along the way.
Plus, try your hand at some Christmas-themed crafts.
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
Discover some of the best Christmas markets and festive fairs to visit at English Heritage sites this winter.
Browse stalls filled with unique gifts, handmade crafts and seasonal treats, all set against the backdrop of our stunning historic castles, houses and grounds.
Whether you're looking for the perfect present or want to get into the festive spirit, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Find a Christmas market to visit
