2 weeks Ago By [email protected] (David Powell)
Christmas is getting closer so now is the perfect time to make plans for magical days out with friends and family. Whether you’re looking to head inside to explore historic houses and iconic Welsh castles decorated in the style of Christmases gone by, or wrap up warm to enjoy the crunch of frost underfoot on a walk in a world-class winter garden, escape into the heart of Christmas with National Trust Cymru. Here’s your guide to hundreds of special moments just waiting to be enjoyed this Christmas at places across North Wales.
From breath-taking light projections and magnificent rooms twinkling with decorations, to festive markets and special visits from Father Christmas, there's plenty on offer. Normal admission charges apply (National Trust members enter free). Some events including Father Christmas are bookable and may have an additional charge.
Please check the website to plan your visit. Explore the medieval fortress to find the guardians who protect the castle’s treasures. Step inside Cromwell Hall to discover the legendary dragon guarding its hoard of gold coins.
Encounter majestic wolves as they prowl up the Long Gallery, inspired by the Myddelton family crest, and take a moment to reflect on what you treasure most during the festive season. Wander through the beautifully decorated State Rooms, Servant’s Hall and climb the historic Adams Tower to capture special moments at festive selfie stations. On weekends in December, meet Father Christmas between 10.
30am-3.30pm at the unique Reverse Grotto and help those in need by donating essential items, supporting local charity Oswestry and Borders Foodbank. More details here .
Step into the magic of a traditional celebration where the sparkle of baubles and gentle glow of fairy lights twinkle throughout the beautifully dressed rooms of this 17th Century mansion house. Inspired by "'Twas the Night Before Christmas", the decorations bring the famous poem to life. A family spotter trail reveals extra-special details like handcrafted mice, tables set with deliciously sweet treats, stockings hung by the fire and sugarplums dancing in the bedroom.
Outside in the garden, the festive decorations evoke a rustic, vintage feel with Christmas trees and greenery created by Erddig’s dedicated volunteers. Don’t miss the life-sized willow reindeer and Christmas carriage, the perfect spot to capture a family photo. On selected days, tuck into a Welsh breakfast or supper with Father Christmas, and join in the festive cheer with songs and a magical story.
After breakfast, Jake the Christmas Elf leads the storytelling, and each child will receive a small gift (booking essential). Warm up at the marshmallow toasting station and make your own Christmas ornament to take home. More details here .
Lose yourself in the true magic of Christmas as you explore the magnificent rooms throughout this 19th Century castle. The castle sparkles with ornate decorations and a towering Christmas tree in the Grand Hall. Get into the festive spirit and join a special Christmas performance on December 7 by the Bangor Community Choir who will be singing traditional carols and modern classics showing off the beautiful acoustics in the Grand Hall.
Local groups have joined together to create a magical display in the castle gardens. Hundreds of hand painted wooden stars have been decorated and hang from the trees. Don’t miss the giant Christmas wreath in the Walled Garden for a festive family photo.
And on selected dates there are family-friendly Christmas crafts, storytelling in the shop for the under 5s, a winter walk led by the Head Gardener and fascinating behind the scenes tours that reveal rooms of the castle not usually open to the public. More details here . Put on your dancing shoes this Christmas, everyone’s invited to a silent disco in the Music Room.
Follow in the footsteps of Henry Cyril Paget, fondly known as the "Dancing Marquess" who once held his own Christmas party in this very Music Room over 100 years ago. Dancing styles may have changed since the early 20th Century when the 5th Marquess of Anglesey enjoyed a song and dance, but through the ages the Music Room remains an inviting space for everyone to enjoy music. Whether you’re known for your dad-dancing or just love to groove, this is sure to be a fun-filled celebration for the whole family.
From 90s pop to Christmas hits, put on your headphones and choose your music channel to dance the afternoon away under a rainbow of disco lights. All ages welcome and Christmas party outfits are encouraged. (Booking essential).
More details here . Escape the hustle and bustle of Christmas shopping and blow away the winter cobwebs at Bodnant Garden. Head out on a festive stroll through the accessible winter garden with its sensational display of foliage, flower, and scent, or follow the longer route around Furnace Hill.
Spot the first snowdrops peeping through, offering a glimpse of the warmer days ahead. With intimate corners, sweeping lawns and grand terraces surrounded by hardy winter plants and evergreens, the garden offers a refreshing and uplifting way to embrace the season. A peaceful stroll here is just what’s needed to shake off any winter blues and dogs on a lead are welcome every day until March 31.
The garden and tearoom are open daily in November and December. Closed December 24-26 Plan a visit by logging on to nationaltrust.org.
uk/visit/wales/bodnant-garden More details here . The magical multimedia Christmas experience returns to Powis Castle for another year, with even bigger and more mesmerising light projections than before. From 13-23 December at 4.
30-7pm, step into the courtyard at dusk to see the castle lit up with a colourful lighting display which illuminates the grand high walls of the 13th century castle. Go through the castle doors to be transported back in time into a charming Victorian wonderland inspired by a Dickensian Christmas. Flickering candles, evergreen garlands and classic holiday scenes bring the spirit of Christmas to life as you explore the twinkling castle rooms.
On selected dates join Father Christmas for breakfast and a fun festive morning in the café and library. Enjoy magical stories, delicious treats, and create unforgettable memories. (Booking essential).
A Dickensian Christmas is open daily from 30 November-5 January,10am-4pm. Christmas Illuminations is open from 4.30-7pm, 13–23 December Tickets for Breakfast with Father Christmas are available on 30 November, 1 December, 7 December, 8 December and 15 December, 8.
45-10.45am. (Booking essential).
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