SNEAKPEEK
Leeds Castle
Walmer Castle
Mary spent an idyllic childhood in the grounds of Chartwell . She loved reading , later recalling the evening story read aloud as a ‘ treasured highlight ’ of her childhood . Chartwell house will be beautifully decorated for a family Christmas in the 1930s with nods to the world of children ’ s literature of Mary ’ s imagination . A room full of clocks , a shadow on the stairs and perhaps a crocodile tail … See if you can spot the book references on your way round .
Then make your way down to the Walled Garden to meet characters from classic children ’ s books . Play games , solve riddles , and plan the ultimate Christmas dinner party . Trail is £ 3 with a prize . At weekends , local choirs and music groups will be performing carols outside from 2pm to 3pm to get you in the festive mood . Enjoy a warming drink while you listen .
Christmas at Knole Walking with The Snowman™ trail , 15 November to 7 January Christmas in the Showrooms , 18 November to 23 December
Inspired by Raymond Briggs ’ timeless festive tale , The Snowman™ , this winter at Knole you can discover 12 giant The Snowman™ sculptures in the parkland and courtyards . Each snowman will be painted with a unique design by a contemporary artist , inspired by a 12 Days of Christmas theme . Walking with The Snowman™ at Knole is presented by the National Trust and Wild in Art in collaboration with Penguin Ventures ( part of Penguin Random House UK ).
Meanwhile , Knole ’ s historic Great Hall and selected showrooms will be sumptuously decorated for Christmas . Warm yourself by the roaring fire in the Great Hall as many a visitor to Knole would have done on a winter ’ s day , taking in the sparkling tree and impressive display on the grand table . Carry on into the showrooms , where we invite you to explore the Ballroom , Reynolds Room and Cartoon Gallery with festive displays .
Continue your journey around Knole , climbing the spiral stairs in the Gatehouse Tower for panoramic views of the parkland . On the climb up , discover the life and loves of a former resident and immerse yourself in a 1930 ’ s inspired festive atmosphere . Pre-book tickets to guarantee entry ( including members ).
Christmas at Walmer Castle 1 December – 1 January
Produced by the award-winning team at Kilimanjaro Live and in partnership with English Heritage , Christmas at Walmer Castle will see a stunning light trail brought to the Tudor fortress turned country house on the gorgeous Kent coast just outside of Deal for the first time this year . Surprises are around every corner , with festive food , warming cocktails and pictureperfect moments adding to the exciting and unique spectacle that will have you captivated as you enjoy an enchanted Christmas with family , friends and loved ones at this seasonal classic event with a contemporary twist .
Internationally renowned and award-winning creative director Katherine Jewkes will work alongside light art pioneers , Illumaphonium , to bring together a trail of spectacular illuminations and installations . Illumaphonium will bring their self-titled installation , Illumaphonium , to Christmas at Walmer Castle for 2023 . Illumaphonium is a dynamic and interactive , multi-sensory , music making installation - the first of its kind .
For tickets and more information visit : myticket . co . uk / christmastickets and christmasatwalmercastle . com
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