hiya bucks in Bourne End, Flackwell Heath, Marlow, Wycombe, Wooburn December 2018 | Page 63

10th November – 2nd January
No one does Christmas quite like Waddesdon. In recognition of its huge popularity at this time of
year, Waddesdon is starting Christmas early in order to fit everyone in who wants to visit.
The huge Christmas market houses more than 80 exhibitors in charming wooden chalets either
side of the lawns in front of the house. It’s a great place to pick up unique gifts, decorations and
delicious street food in a truly awe-inspiring setting (until 16th December only).
Decorations in the house have been inspired by the splendour of the Venetian carnival and 18th
century fancy dress. Booking is absolutely essential and the earlier the better as tickets for the
house get booked up very quickly.
In the grounds there are interactive light displays,
sound and 3D light projections and children’s
craft activities. The winter wigwam is also back
this year with hearty hotpots and snacks and
snuggly sheepskins to keep you warm.
Price: £5 Child £2.50 for National Trust
members visiting the decorated
house. Normal admission applies for
non-members.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/waddesdon
Hughenden
A Very Royal Christmas: a visit from the Faery
23rd November – 2nd January
This Christmas, Hughenden steps back in time to 1877 when Queen Victoria visited Hughenden.
Hughenden’s resident, the then Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli, enjoyed a unique relationship
with Queen Victoria and called her his Faery.
The manor will be decorated in traditional Victorian splendour, with the dining table set as if Queen
Victoria were joining the family for Christmas dinner. On the North lawn there are plans to recreate
the huge ‘chair arch’ which welcomed the Queen in 1877, recognising High Wycombe’s heritage
as the chair-making capital of the country.
For younger visitors who might otherwise be disappointed at the absence of a ‘real’ faery, there’ll
be a trail of filled bell jars to follow from the
car park hinting at an ethereal presence in the
garden. Father Christmas returns to Hughenden
in his decorated grotto on weekends from 8th
December.
Price: Normal admission applies, plus
£8 to visit Father Christmas in his grotto
and receive a Christmas gift. The grotto
is always popular so please book early
on 0344 249 1895.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hughenden
hiyabucks.com
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