You’ll Find Christmas Fun For All Ages With the National Trust – From Toymaking Workshops to Storybook Adventures

Whether you’re looking to get closer to nature or step back in time, you’ll find Christmas adventures for all ages with the National Trust.

The National Trust is more than sprawling forests and pretty florals. They care for more than 500 historic houses, castles, parks and gardens, making nature, beauty and history accessible for everyone. During the festive season, these destinations come to life with twinkling lights, frosted landscapes and unique events designed to capture the magic of Christmas in the National Trust’s own special way.

Here are six highlights from the National Trust’s Christmas events in Yorkshire, with something for the whole family to enjoy.

Experience Christmas at Nostell

Credit: Freya Raby

Something special is about to descend on Nostell. The house and grounds are set to be transformed into a storybook adventure. From the 1940s railway station to snowy forests, the story comes to life as you wander the site. It’s wonderful, whimsical and perfect for explorers of all ages.

You’ll follow the story room by room before finishing the experience at the enchanting gingerbread village. Visit on weekends and you might even get the chance to meet Santa!

When? 11am to 3:30pm from Monday 1st December 2025 to Sunday 4th January 2026. The house will be closed from Wednesday 24th to Friday 26th December 2025.
Where? Nostell, Doncaster Road, Nostell, near Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF4 1QE.
How much? The event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.
Perfect for: Anyone who wants to live out the magic of C.S Lewis’ classic novel.

See Fountains Abbey floodlit with coloured light

© Copyright National Trust Images, Annapurna Mellor

There are plenty of reasons to visit Fountains Abbey this festive season. Every Saturday and Sunday, the abbey will be floodlit with coloured lights. Walk beneath the abbey cellarium’s vaulted ceilings, then stop under the grand columns of the nave to watch live bands and choirs fill the space with music.

Visit on the weekend of Saturday 29th November and you can also browse the Little Bird artisan Christmas market, shopping gifts and crafts from a selection of the region’s finest indie producers. When you’re done shopping, grab a hot chocolate and head over to the abbey.

When? 2pm to 5pm every Saturday and Sunday from Saturday 29th November to Sunday 28th December 2025. The Little Bird market takes place from 10am to 3pm on Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th November 2025. Last entry to the site is 4pm.
Where? Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal, Fountains, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 3DY.
How much? Normal admission fees apply. Free entry for National Trust members and under fives.
Perfect for: Visitors of all ages who want to catch a glimpse of the abbey all lit up.

Find out how to have a greener Christmas at Nunnington Hall

© Copyright National Trust Images/Rebecca Hughes

Visit Nunnington Hall this festive season to experience Nature’s Noel – a stunning celebration of creativity, community and care for the planet. Around 20 Christmas trees will be on display in the hall, each one lovingly decorated by local charities, schools, social groups and community members.

You’ll discover trees adorned with eco-friendly decorations, alongside natural displays and foraged wreaths. It’s set to be a heartwarming experience, with an important message at its core.

When? 10:30am to 4pm on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from Friday 21st November to Sunday 14th December 2025. Last entry 3pm.
Where? Nunnington Hall, Nunnington, York, North Yorkshire, YO62 5UY.
How much? Normal admission fees apply. Free entry for National Trust members and under fives.
Perfect for: Those looking to be more sustainable this Christmas.

Discover stories of the past at Treasurer’s House

© Copyright National Trust Images/Rebecca Hughes

A visit to Treasurer’s House is extra special at Christmas-time. Every year this remarkable house is transformed for the season, adorned with decorations that bring its storied past to life. Each room offers a glimpse into a different era, with many of the decorations handmade by the talented team of volunteers who decorate the house.

Wander through elegant period rooms, learning all about the stories of the different people who have lived in the house over the centuries. Looking for a quieter experience? Visit on Wednesdays for SEN-friendly sessions.

When? 11am to 4pm from Saturday 15th November to Sunday 21st December 2025. Last entry 3:15pm.
Where? Treasurer’s House, Minster Yard, York, North Yorkshire, YO1 7JL.
How much? Normal admission fees apply. Free entry for National Trust members and under fives.
Perfect for: Visitors looking for a history fix.

Made traditional-style toys at Fountains Abbey

Credit: Jenni Shepherd

Step into a world of creativity at Fountains Abbey with their Toymaker’s Workshop – perfect for little crafty hands. They’ll join the Toymaker in Swanley Workshop, choosing from four traditional toys to make and take home. Will they go for the noisy Clapper Bird, or the Tudor-style Marbles Bridge? Whichever they choose, you can treasure it for years to come.

Sessions last 30-40 minutes, with the friendly Toymaker guiding children every step of the way. While the kids are crafting, grownups can relax with a hot drink at Swanley Grange, soaking up the festive atmosphere.

When? Four sessions daily from 11am to 3:45pm from Saturday 20th to Tuesday 23rd December 2025.
Where? Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal, Fountains, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 3DY.
How much? Workshops are £10 per child which includes the experience and wooden toy kit. Site admission not included in the ticket cost.
Perfect for: Crafty kids who love to get hands-on.