The excitement of Halloween has passed, which can only mean one thing - the magic of the festive season can well and truly begin.
With families everywhere giddy with anticipation for the big day, there's never been a better time to visit your local National Trust sites to make unforgettable festive memories to be cherished forever.
Across Devon lies a range of beautiful National Trust destinations, each brimming with plenty of enchanting activities to enjoy with loved ones. Expect historic houses glistening with decorations in the style of Christmases gone by, as well as family trails and visits from Santa himself.
Gather your nearest and dearest, put on your cosiest winter clothes, and enjoy endless holiday cheer at some outstanding places, listed below:
Arlington Court, near Barnstaple
Experience the splendour of a Victorian Christmas and marvel at the 16-foot Christmas tree, decorated balustrades and 200 beautifully decorated trees. Arlington Court is also expecting a visit from Father Christmas in his festive grotto, where he will be handing out gifts to visitors.
Saltram, Plympton
Explore the beauty of an 18th-century pleasure garden, and join woodland friends on an adventure as you're transported to a magical landscape in each room. What's more, Father Christmas is visiting, so get comfy as he shares stories and songs to spread the seasonal magic.
Buckland Abbey, Yelverton
Immerse yourself in a Tudor Christmas at Buckland Abbey as it glimmers with twinkling trees. See how Christmas was celebrated the Tudor way as the Great Barn is transformed into a historical ‘Frost Fair’. Additionally, you can soak up the festive cheer with carol concerts on select dates throughout December.
Killerton, Broadclyst
Experience a traditional Christmas at Killerton. Step into a festive oasis with the ground floor illuminated with fairy lights, glistening trees and decorated with garlands. Make sure you visit the Chapel to see a beautiful collection of Christmas trees, each lovingly decorated by local community groups.
Castle Drogo, near Drewsteignton
Explore Castle Drogo near Drewsteignton, which will be decorated to celebrate different parts of the castle’s history, and those who lived there. Enjoy carols in the Drawing Room, where you can also enjoy playing some traditional festive games. On special weekends Father Christmas will be visiting, so settle down by the fireside and listen to him share stories of the holiday season.
Knightshayes, Tiverton
Step into a traditional Victorian Christmas at Knighthayes, where the ground floor will be decorated with glorious sweeping garlands, showstopper trees and plenty of twinkling lights. Join Father Christmas for tales of the North Pole, and be enchanted by the after-dark illuminated trail in the Formal and Woodland Garden, which will be open to explore on selected dates in December.
Coleton Fishacre, Kingswear
You’re invited to celebrate Christmas by the coast at Coleton Fishacre, which will be transformed into a frosty wonderland. Inspired by sleepy harbours and wild coastal walks, there will be plenty of immersive experiences for the whole family to enjoy - expect magic everywhere you look.
Greenway, Galmpton
Soak in the seasonal cheer as the ground floor of Greenway twinkles with traditional decorations, and enjoy vintage carols playing softly in the background. When you're done, wrap up warm in your favourite festive jumpers and explore the winter garden by following ‘The Twelve Wreaths of Christmas’ family trail.
Please check the website for further information, opening times and event details before visiting, booking is essential for some events.
Read more about festive days out with National Trust across Devon at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/devon/christmas.
