Create unforgettable Christmas memories at Erddig and Chirk Castle

• This Christmas, National Trust Cymru invites you to create lasting memories with friends and family at Chirk Castle and Garden and Erddig Hall and Garden in Wrexham.

• At Chirk Castle, explore the beautifully decorated state rooms and encounter the legendary dragon along with its new companions.

• At Erddig, experience the house transformed with decorations inspired by Clement C Moore’s poem The Night Before Christmas.

• Enjoy longer opening hours on select dates at Erddig with marshmallow toasting and Christmas crafts.

• Both properties will feature a Reverse Grotto - meet Father Christmas and support local food banks.

This Christmas, National Trust Cymru invites you to experience the magic of the festive season at Chirk Castle and Garden and Erddig Hall and Garden in Wrexham. From 30 November, bring your friends and family to discover these beautifully decorated properties and enjoy a variety of festive activities and unforgettable experiences.

At Chirk Castle, encounter the guardians of this medieval fortress, who have arrived to protect its treasures. In collaboration with Manchester-based artist Lazerian, the legendary dragon makes its grand return, now accompanied by magnificent new companions including prowling wolves and a giant unicorn. Each ornate state room reveals these mythical creatures guarding the castle’s treasures, bringing its rich history to life in an enchanting way.

As you explore, admire uniquely themed Christmas trees, each adorned with colourful decorations, including robins and charming mice wearing outfits individually handmade by volunteers.

Don’t miss the chance to join the rangers on December 14 for a special craft workshop, where you can create your very own wooden reindeer using natural materials.

Open daily from 30 November to 5 January. Property closed 25 and 26 December and 1 January;

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/chirk-castle.

Both Chirk Castle and Erddig feature a reverse grotto where visitors can meet Father Christmas on weekends and, in the spirit of giving, donate to local food banks in Wrexham and Oswestry. At Chirk Castle the reverse grotto tree has a fiery twist. Decorated with crocheted dragons, each one has been lovingly created by our incredible volunteers and staff.

Erddig has been beautifully transformed with traditional decorations inspired by Clement C. Moore’s beloved poem The Night Before Christmas. Each room in the late 17th-century house will bring a different stanza to life, from stockings hung by the fire to sugar plums dancing in the bedrooms. Young visitors can enjoy a special spotter trail, discovering charming details including tables overflowing with festive treats. Capture the magic of your visit at the selfie stations and print your memories at the selfie photo printer.

One highlight in the house is a series of captivating paper installations by Bethan Maddocks. The delicate designs capture paper renditions of iconic scenes from the poem such as sleeping mice and stockings. The designs also incorporate imagery from Erddig’s collection, including a penny farthing and toys such as Noah’s Ark, adding a unique touch to the display.

Make your visit even more special with fun activities for the whole family. Enjoy storytelling sessions with Jake Evans, known for his exciting tales and energetic performances. Get creative with the Christmas craft sessions and paint a log slice ornament to take home as a memory of your day at Erddig.

The yards are adorned with charming vintage-style Christmas decorations. Life-sized willow reindeer provide the perfect photo opportunity, while handcrafted greenery, lovingly created by dedicated volunteers, enhances the magical seasonal atmosphere.

This year, Erddig is also extending its opening hours from 16 to 19 December, allowing you to experience the festive magic under twinkling lights until 7pm (Garden closes at 4pm). Enjoy a variety of festive activities, including marshmallow toasting and Christmas crafts - perfect for making lasting memories with loved ones.

Open daily from 30 November to 5 January. Evening sessions will take place on 16, 17, 18, and 19 December. Property closed on 24 and 25 December;

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/erddig.

Jon Hignett, General Manager at Chirk Castle and Garden and Erddig Hall and Garden said: “I’m so excited to welcome visitors to two unique Christmas experiences this year at Chirk Castle and Erddig Hall. Thanks to the incredible efforts of our staff and volunteers, these historic sites have been beautifully transformed, offering endless opportunities to soak up the festive atmosphere and create lasting holiday memories.”