Wandering the wintry house and grounds at one of Norfolk’s stunning country estates is one of the best ways to spend a festive day out
The Sandringham Estate evokes festive feelings as the Christmas retreat for the Royal Family. Although the Queen and Prince Phillip have decided not to spend Christmas at Sandringham this year due to the pandemic, the monarch can be seen taking the train to the royal house each year.
Pay a visit to the estate this year for Luminate Sandringham, the estate’s winter light trail which promises lots of enchanting illuminations set to atmospheric music.
Tickets should be booked in advance. The trail runs nighty from December 17 to January 17 2021, excluding Christmas Day. There will be timed entry. See full details on the website.
Book a festive visit to Felbrigg Hall, the National Trust owned house, garden and estate and bask in the grandeur of the 17th century house and ornate gardens.
Kids will love the Peter Rabbit trail that is taking place across many National Trust sites this year. Follow the clues to solve puzzles with the help of Peter Rabbit and other Beatrix Potter favourites.
There is no need to book your visit during the week but there will be timed entry on weekends, which needs to be booked online. See the website for full details and times.
The fabulous Blickling Estate, childhood home and possible birthplace of Anne Boleyn, will be open during December for visitors to see the house dressed up in all its Christmas glory.
Explore some seasonally adorned rooms of the 17th century house including The Great Hall, The Dining Room, a small sitting room The Lower Ante Room and more. The grounds and gardens will be open too with the Peter Rabbit trail to try.
Visit the festive house until Sunday December 20. For full details, see the website.
The Palladian style Holkham Hall was built in the 18th century and there are lots of festive events and things to do during the Christmas period. For a fascinating and intimate visit, book a tour of the hall which will be run with timed tickets.
There will be a Christmas food, drink and gift market, you can pick up your Christmas tree or explore the secret gardens or rolling countryside estate.
For full information and to book tickets for a Christmas experience at Holkham, visit the website.
The fairytale moated country house Oxburgh Hall is a treat to visit to take a peek at the lush interiors or go for a pretty winter walk in the grounds that are bursting with winter flora and fauna.
Although normal Christmas festivities won’t be going ahead at Oxburgh this year, there will be decorations in the library and seasonal food available in the Servants Hall Tea Room. A post-walk mince pie and gingerbread latte sound like just the ticket.
Book your timed entry visit to Oxburgh on the website.
__________
