Christmas
Open: Fri 27 Dec – Sun 5 Jan
Grounds: 11am-6pm. House: 11.30am-6pm, last entry 5.30pm.
House & GroundsDisplays in the House this year explore Waddesdon’s connection to the world of music with a festive twist, from traditional Christmas carols to Christmas hits. Outside, witness the gardens illuminated with sparkling lights and colour.
Bring the family and share a festive day out gazing at the decorated house, indulging in celebratory foods and shopping for gifts.
From dusk, the grounds will come to life with a light trail around the Aviary that playfully combines colour, sound and movement. The Manor’s facade will also be bathed in light with two unique shows.
We are now open every day until Sunday 5 January and there are still some House tickets remaining to see the music-themed decorated rooms.
There’s lots to see in the Grounds too – the Light in Motion experience at the Stables, the light trail around the Pleasure Gardens and festive walks for the whole family. Grounds tickets can be bought on the day, or in advance. NOTE: the Christmas Fair closed on 22 December.
Christmas visiting tips
- wrap up warmly and wear strong, waterproof outdoor shoes
- car park opens at 10.50am – allow at least 40 minutes to park and reach the house, we suggest 2 hours to see everything either before or after your house time slot
- if possible bring a torch as some paths have limited lighting
- the lit woodchip pathway which takes you from the car park is not suitable for pushchairs due to the uneven surface
- beat the crowds and visit us on a weekday, Wed-Fri
- you can find warm covered seating in the Wigwam café
- find additional sheltered outdoor seating at the Stables
- discover take-away food at the Treaterie
- our Winter Light programme of illuminated trails and light shows are better the darker it gets
- make a note of where you park so you can find your car in the dark
- we advise car sharing if visiting with family and friends, to make the most out of our car parking spaces
- please note tickets are non-transferable, so if you are unable to visit contact our box office on 01296 820414
Decorated rooms, East Wing & Bachelors' Wing
Dazzling decorations and sparkling trees inspired by traditional carols and contemporary Christmas songs. From the Holly and the Ivy to Irving Berlin and a cascade of vinyl Christmas hits.
Advance booking of timed tickets is essential for all visitors including NT members.
Light in motion
Walk through the Coach House at the Stables and you’ll see an amazing kinetic light installation.
Every few minutes, dozens of orbs of light will fall and rise from the ceiling to the floor, set to a soundscape.
Winter Light trail
Follow our illuminated Winter Light trail where trees and bushes are lit up in a rainbow of colours.
Manor illuminations
Coloured light splays across the Manor’s architecture. Enjoy two unique light shows set to festive music.
Baubles at the Stables
See two giant sparkling LED baubles. Step inside and capture a special festive moment. The perfect photo opportunity.
Family Fun
Children's House Trail
Can you help Mimi conduct an orchestra? Find hidden instruments created by the Biscuiteers around the house.
Illuminated Woodland Trail & I Saw Three Ships by light artist Anna Whetstone
Walk through an archway inspired by Sévres porcelain ship vases and see our schools Christmas lantern display.
Christmas food & drink, and shopping
Christmas Food and Drink
We’ve plenty of options for eating and drinking this Christmas.
Christmas shopping
Find unique and unusual gifts exclusive to Waddesdon and a selection of wines.
Grounds
11am-6pm, Wed-Sun (pre-booking required at weekends)
From dusk: light trail, Manor illuminations, Coach House light installation
£11 Adult, £5.50 Child, £27.50 Family
National Trust members: Free
(Family: up to 2 adults + 3 children)
House
11.30am-6pm, last entry 5.30pm (pre-booking required)
Decorated rooms in the East Wing & Bachelors’ Wing
Wed-Fri: £26 Adult, £14 Child, £66 Family
National Trust: £5 Adult, £2.50 Child, £12.50 Family
Sat-Sun: £28.50 Adult, £15.25 Child, £72.25 Family
National Trust: £7.50 Adult, £3.75 Child, £18.75 Family
Accessibility at Christmas
Here are a few visiting tips to help you get around during our Christmas opening. Accompanying Carers receive free entry.
Aylesbury foodbank collection
We’ll be collecting for the local Aylesbury foodbank this Christmas. If you can bring any non-perishable food items to Waddesdon during weekdays and give something back this festive season.