If you are looking for some festive fun and inspiration, you might want to visit Arlington Court, Castle Drogo and Knightshayes, three National Trust properties in Devon that are celebrating Christmas in style. Each property has something unique and special to offer, from 200 Christmas trees to winter lights, from Victorian splendour to musical performances, from Father Christmas to snowmen trails. Here are some of the highlights of each property:
• Arlington Court: This year marks the 200-year anniversary of the construction of the house, and to celebrate, the property has 200 Christmas trees in various sizes, styles and materials. The trees are decorated by local groups, schools, volunteers and partners, and can be discovered on a free family trail around the grounds.
The house itself is adorned with Victorian splendour, featuring a 16ft real Christmas tree, tree decorations made by the Devon Guild of Embroiderers, a 4ft 3D star made from dried flowers and a nativity display made from vegetables.
You can also enjoy a 12 days of Christmas Carol trail along the lake walk, where you can find giant baubles and sing along to festive favourites. Open evenings take place on 7 and 14 December, where you can explore the house after hours, take part in family crafting activities and treat yourself to a festive snack in the tearoom.
• Castle Drogo: The castle is getting ready for Christmas, with volunteers unpacking the decorations and turning the castle into a traditional festive scene.
Local musicians from nine different groups will perform in the castle, creating a merry atmosphere for visitors. You can join in with the music by playing hand bells, or dancing with the former Butler and Housekeeper in the Service Corridor, which is brought to life by creative designers Mdesign.
Father Christmas will make an appearance in the library of the castle, handing out presents and leading a story-telling session with the help of his elves. You can book your session in advance on select dates between 9 and 21 December.
The volunteer team will also be busy making jellies and Christmas desserts in the kitchens, using some of the 374 jelly moulds that belonged to the Drewe family.
A winter family snowman trail will be designed in the gardens, with 10 snowmen hidden for you to find. The trail is created by the team at Drogo, with the assistance of a small group of students from Exeter College.
• Knightshayes: Winter Lights return to illuminate Knightshayes on Friday and Saturday evenings, starting on Saturday 2 December. Visitors can wander at their leisure and take in the dazzling displays. The route explores some of the most magical places in the formal and woodland garden via an illuminated route.
The ground floor of the house is open every day in December from 2 December, and decorated as a traditional Victorian Christmas.
Claire Forkes, Visitor Operations & Experience Manager, said: “There’s something so special about seeing the house and gardens lit up at night. It’s an event that has been enjoyed by so many visitors over the years and it’s great to bring it back. We’re looking forward to welcoming everyone and being part of their celebrations this Christmas.”
These are just some of the reasons to visit these three National Trust properties in Devon this Christmas. For more information, please visit their websites.
