News Beat
10 Yorkshire stately homes with the top Christmas decorations
Wentworth Woodhouse
Be transported to a world of festive fairy tales at Wentworth Woodhouse – Rotherham’s Grade I-listed stately home.
This Christmas, it’s transformed into the world of Hans Christian Andersen’s story The Snow Queen, with soundscapes, lighting effects, and immersive sets.
It’s a Christmas experience that features (among other frosted delights) ‘polar bears in the Pillared Hall, reindeer in the Marble Saloon, and a glittering throne in the State Dining Room’.
Victoria Ryves, Wentworth Woodhouse’s head of culture and engagement, says: ‘The Snow Queen is set to be incredibly atmospheric, with family selfie opportunities at every turn.’
December 2 to January 4
wentworthwoodhouse.org.uk
Harewood House
Bridgerton fans will be delighted by the theme of this year’s festive fun. A Glittering Invitation: Harewood’s Grand Christmas Ball features opulent decor and a ramped-up Regency aesthetic evocative of the smash-hit Netflix series.
The stately home has worked with TV interior designer Siobhan Murphy for this year’s spectacular, which promises to be a ‘feast for the senses’. The decor includes an ombre 18ft Christmas tree in the Entrance Hall, made of 700 second-hand ballerina tutus.
Stunning digital projections will add to the experience. From whispered gossip and showstopping fireworks to the private reflections of the glittering host, visitors will get a glimpse into the imagined lives of Harewood’s Grand Ball guests.
Open now until January 4. Father Christmas visits run from November 29 to Christmas Eve
harewood.org/christmas
Lotherton
A world of whimsy awaits at Lotherton, where its Christmas offering includes an Elf Village, a Fairy Dell, a woodland walk trail, decorated hall, lit walled gardens, and Yuletide yurts.
Little ones will be mesmerised by twinkling surprises, and there’s a chance to make your visit even more magical with crafts, toasted marshmallows, and weekend magic shows in the Elf Village.
There is also an option to visit Santa’s North Pole, a journey through a snowy wonderland where you’ll see Santa’s busy elves, hear warming tales from Mrs Claus in her kitchen, and meet Father Christmas himself. Each child will receive a special gift as part of this experience.
November 22 to January 4
thechristmasexperience.co.uk
Treasurer’s House
History and festivities come together as this charming spot is transformed for the Christmas season.
The stories of Frank Green, a wealthy industrialist who renovated the house to showcase his collection, and the people who surrounded him come to life through beautifully crafted festive decor.
Go on a journey through time as you walk through rooms inspired by past residents of the house.
The decorations, many hand-made by a talented team of volunteers, reflect the history of Treasurer’s House in a bespoke festive makeover.
For those who would prefer a lighter and quieter experience, but still want to explore the decorated house, consider visiting during the last two hours (2 to 4pm) on Wednesdays.
It’s the same Inspired Christmas but with the lights on, the shutters open, and the music turned off.
Runs until December 21, Wednesday to Saturday
nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/yorkshire/treasurers-house-york/christmas-at-treasurers-house
Fairfax House
There’s an adorable twist at Fairfax House, where you will find A Christmas Mousequerade.
This Christmas, the Fairfax family is preparing for a spectacular ball, and you are on the guest list.
Be taken back in time to the glittering world of Georgian York, where Ann Fairfax and the Viscount are preparing to host the ultimate Christmas party.
Fairfax House is opulently dressed for the season and brought to life with festive Georgian entertainments.
But keep your eyes peeled. The mischievous town mice are back and causing mayhem as they’re determined not to miss out on the celebrations.
Runs until January 4
fairfaxhouse.co.uk/event/christmas-at-fairfax-house/
Burton Agnes Hall and Gardens
Step into the classy world of Burton Agnes Hall, where the house is adorned with handmade decorations, many crafted from flowers and foliage cropped and dried from the walled garden.
Young visitors will love searching for handmade felt snowman dolls hidden in each room, and, as dusk falls, festive cheer flourishes.
Be enchanted by glowing fireplaces and twinkling lights in each room.
In the woodland behind the house, you’ll find a trail of 24 giant, hand-carved and painted candy canes hidden in the branches. Will you be able to find them all?
There’ll be wood-fired food, spiced hot drinks, home-baked cakes, and more, while the gift shop will have beautiful Christmas decorations and gifts for sale.
Runs until December 23
burtonagnes.com
Nostell Priory
It doesn’t get more Christmassy than the snow-covered magical world of Narnia, and Nostell Priory is turning the clock back as The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe lands at the Palladian house.
From the 1940s railway station to snowy forests and Father Christmas’ woodland camp, C. S Lewis’ novel is brought to life as you wander through the house and grounds.
Explore Professor Digory’s grand mansion, step inside Mr and Mrs Beaver’s cosy home, look out for Mr Tumnus’ scarf and umbrella by the lamppost, join the White Witch for Turkish Delight, and stand beneath Aslan’s banners before celebrating in the Great Hall.
You’ll follow the much-loved story room by room, before finishing at the enchanting gingerbread village, which has been reimagined with a Narnian twist.
December 1 to January 5
nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/yorkshire/nostell/christmas-at-nostell
East Riddlesden Hall
It’s a journey through time with Christmas Through the Ages at East Riddlesden Hall.
Make your way through the beautifully decorated rooms, each capturing the spirit of Christmas from a different era – from the Tudors and Jacobeans to the elegance of the Georgians, the charm of the 1960s, and the warmth of the present day.
You’ll discover how traditions have evolved and celebrate the magic of Christmas across the centuries.
On November 30 and December 21, you will also be able to experience the magic of live music in the atmospheric Great Chamber with performances from Dulciana, specialists in 16th-century melodies.
November 22 to December 22, Wednesday to Saturday
nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/yorkshire/east-riddlesden-hall/christmas-at-east-riddlesden-hall
Sewerby Hall and Gardens
There’ll be plenty of opportunities to capture those perfect festive photographs at Sewerby Hall and Gardens.
Candy Cane Lane, a giant bauble and light tunnel, has returned for 2025, while the Pleasure Gardens have a continuous and interactive light show, as well as a snow globe, which is new for 2025.
The theme for this year is The Snowman’s Ball, and a festive exhibition in the house traces the history of the iconic symbol of the winter season, from the snowman’s appearance in medieval manuscripts to greeting cards and advertisements in more recent times.
There are also festive activities and trail in the house to enjoy.
Relaxed performances will be held on December 11 and December 18, featuring reduced volume, no lasers, haze, or smoke. The characters in the woodland will also be aware of sensory needs.
Runs from December 5 until December 23
sewerbyhall.co.uk/whats-on/winterwoodland
Temple Newsam
Pick up a Christmas Tree Trail to find more than 25 uniquely decorated trees, including one of the largest indoor Christmas trees in Leeds.
Look out for unique decorations, community-made ornaments, and miniature versions of objects in the house.
Enjoy festive crafts, dressing up, plus seasonal treats to delight the whole family, including Father Christmas visits and Storytime with Mrs Claus.
The Christmas Tree Trail runs on December 6 and 7; December 13 and 14, and December 20 to 23.
Santa visits are on the same dates (relaxed experiences held on December 13 and 14) while Storytime with Mrs Claus runs December 20 and 21.
museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk/christmas-at-temple-newsam-rg17
Visit the websites above for prices and booking details
