Chirk Castle, Wrexham
Fire young imaginations as this medieval fortress is filled with enchanting decorations and ornate Christmas trees that are hung with unique adornments. This year’s enchanted castle theme is inspired by a fantastical painting in the collection; ‘Orpheus Charming The Animals’, dating to the early 1600s.
Look out for a range of animals including birds in flight and monkeys causing havoc as you wander through the castle. Finish your visit with an immersive experience in the East Wing, which will be especially open for the holiday season.
Outside, wrap up warm, grab a festive hot drink or treat from our tearoom and enjoy a wintery walk through the 480-acre parkland – it’s spectacular with a fine dusting of winter frost. Enjoy the gift of giving by donating to the Oswestry and Borders foodbanks this Christmas.
Chirk Castle will be taking food donations daily throughout December, but Father Christmas will be there to thank you at weekends between 2 –17 December.
You can also enjoy supper with Santa on 15 December for an additional charge. Listen as he reads a story and enjoy a festive feast with all the trimmings. Children will receive a small gift (booking is essential).
Open daily from 2 December to 7 January. Property closed 25 and 26 December and 1 January; https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/chirk-castle
Erddig, Wrexham
Erddig are pulling out all the stops this Christmas to celebrate 50 years since the property was acquired by National Trust Cymru. Much of the house will be dressed for the occasion with some of the silver in the collection on display in the dining room and a staggering 2,268 wrapped presents in the Tribes Room. Staff and volunteers have been busy wrapping up the presents, with each one representing 10 items in the collection.
On selected days there will be marshmallow toasting, craft activities including making a tree decoration, storytelling, live music from a string trio band and Breakfast (or supper) with Santa will also be returning (additional charges apply).
Don’t forget to leave a donation for the Wrexham foodbank at the Reverse Grotto where Father Christmas will be present on weekends to help say thank you.
Open daily from 2 December to 7 January. Property closed 24 and 25 December; https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/erddig