As the holiday season approaches, one enchanting destination beckons to whisk you away on a magical adventure. Nestled in the heart of Buckinghamshire, Waddesdon Manor transforms into a fantastical wonderland during the Christmas festivities. If you’re planning to experience the joy and wonder, here’s everything you need to know about Christmas at Waddesdon.
Important Dates and Booking Information
Waddesdon Manor will be closed on December 25th and 26th, but fear not! The Christmas house and grounds will reopen their doors from December 27th until January 1st. To ensure you don’t miss out on the enchantment, it is highly recommended to pre-book your tickets in advance.
Running from November 22nd to January 1st, The grounds open from 12:00 pm to 7:00 pm, with the last entry at 6:00 pm, while the house welcomes visitors from 12:30 pm to 7:00 pm, with the last entry at 6:30 pm.
This year, Waddesdon Manor invites you to step into the pages of classic tales, beautifully reimagined with new decorations in the house and mesmerizing light displays outside. Imagine entering the wondrous world of Alice in Wonderland, discovering the Snow Queen’s kingdom, and flying with Peter Pan to Neverland. The Manor becomes a fantastical wonderland, with themed displays, immersive soundscapes, and dazzling light displays that bring these childhood tales to life.
For the first time since 2019, the Bachelor’s Wing is open for exploration, adorned with exquisite decorations. Visitors can marvel at the Mad Hatter’s tea party, the magic mirror from the Snow Queen, and Captain Hook’s treasure cave, all crafted with sparkling installations and intricate sculptures by artists Jane Le Bon Creative and Nathan Ward.
The Manor’s façade comes alive with spellbinding animated projections, courtesy of celebrated artist Jamie Shiels, known for his work at Buckingham Palace, The National Gallery, and the 2012 London Olympics. As dusk falls, a new light trail through the Aviary gardens awaits, featuring mesmerizing installations, interactive elements, and seasonal favorites. Luminism, the light art pioneers, have collaborated to create a truly magical experience.
The Coach House at the Stables hosts an exhibition of artwork created by thousands of local schoolchildren, inspired by “The Lights That Dance in the Night” by Yuval Zommer. Willow lanterns of wolves and puffins, created in collaboration with artist Michelle Dufaur, adorn the space, and overhead, the Aurora Borealis glitters.
Tickets
The Christmas Grounds offer a magical experience, open from 12:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Wednesdays and Thursdays (November 22nd to December 17th) and Wednesdays to Sundays (December 20th to January 1st). Prices vary based on peak and off-peak times:
- Off-Peak:
- Adult: £22 / National Trust adult: £11.50
- Child: £10 / National Trust child: £5
- Standard:
- Friday to Sunday (November 22nd to December 17th)
- Adult: £24 / National Trust adult: £13.50
- Child: £12 / National Trust child: £7
Christmas Grounds admission includes access to the Food Village, Light trail, Manor façade projections, The Lights that Dance in the Night at the Coach House Gallery, and standard parking in the visitor car park.
For those seeking the full experience, Christmas House & Grounds admission provides access to the decorated rooms in East Wing & Bachelors Wing, Food Village, Light trail, Manor façade projections, The Lights that Dance in the Night at the Coach House Gallery, and standard parking in the visitor car park. Prices are as follows:
- Off-Peak:
- Adult: £35.50 / National Trust adult: £16.50
- Child: £16.50 / National Trust child: £7
- Standard:
- Friday to Sunday (November 22nd to December 17th)
- Adult: £37.50 / National Trust adult: £18.50
- Child: £18.50 / National Trust child: £9
Ensure you secure your tickets in advance to embark on a magical journey through the pages of beloved tales at Waddesdon Manor this Christmas. Experience the joy, wonder, and enchantment that make this holiday destination truly special.