EVOCATIVE festive days out are in season at Warwickshire’s National Trust sites.
The heritage conservation charity is inviting residents to visit historic houses decorated in the style of Christmases gone by, walk seasonal family trails, take part in classic Christmas crafts or wander through festive gardens.
Carl Greenman, National Programming and Production Manager at the National Trust, said: “Christmas at the National Trust is always magical, but this year we’ve got more events and activities than ever before.
“We can’t wait to see families and friends coming together, making memories, and experiencing the festive atmosphere at the places the National Trust cares for.”
The Christmas Tree in the Great Hall at Baddesley Clinton. Picture by National Trust/Abi Chandler.Baddesley Clinton
Baddesley Clinton is offering a step back in time to reflect on Christmas memories and traditions, and to see if you can spot any familiar festive family activities. Attractions include puppet shows in the Moat Room, or a three-course meal and a private tour of the house.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/warwickshire/baddesley-clinton
A ‘freezing curse’ has been cast over the landscaped deer park at Charlecote by the Frost Queen this winter. Picture by National Trust/Jana Eastwood.Charlecote Park
There’s a deep freeze being felt at Charlecote Park this festive season. Junior and master code breakers alike are invited to solve puzzles and crack codes around gardens to break the ‘freezing curse’ which has been cast over Charlecote by the Frost Queen.
Soak up the festive atmosphere with a visit inside the house to admire decorations made from recycled materials, enjoy a spot of Christmas shopping, and warm up with a hot drink from the Orangery.
Booking your visit is recommended to guarantee entry this Christmas.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/warwickshire/charlecote-park
Christmas traditions of times gone by are on display with hand-made decorations at Packwood House. Picture by National Trust/Abi Chandler.Packwood
At Packwood this year, the Christmas traditions of times gone by are on display with hand-made decorations, from Tudor roses in the Great Hall through to the sumptuous baubles of a Victorian Christmas in the Entrance Hall and a Regal Room, celebrating Packwood’s own historical link with royalty. Exclusive out of hours breakfast and evening tours are available.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/warwickshire/packwood-house
Winter strolls are on offer at Upton House and Gardens. Picture by National Trust Images/Chris Lacey.Upton House and Gardens
At Upton House and Gardens, decorations take inspiration from a set of 18th-century porcelain candlesticks in the collection showing scenes from the much-loved Aesop’s Fables. The house is decorated with enchanting displays based around these classic stories.
Visitors can find the hidden clues on the Aesop’s Fables Cheeky Creature Christmas Quest, go on a storytelling journey surrounded by the themed decorations with a professional storyteller who will bring Aesop’s traditional tales to life, or take a winter stroll along the Woodland and Winter Walks.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/warwickshire/upton-house-and-gardens
