Christmas at Waddesdon is back for 2020 with magical lights as well as a 30-day Christmas fair. The house is not open due to social distancing protocols, but instead an outdoor Winter Light experience will be created.

To make the most of the Winter Light programme, opening hours are shifting back to 12 noon to 7.30pm. This means that as twilight falls more visitors will be able to see the gardens ablaze with light, using a variety of state-of-the-art effects, combined with bespoke light installations, bringing the extraordinary landscape and woodland to life. Visitors will also be treated to the spectacle of the façade of the Manor illuminated with dancing lights set to music.

From dusk, the Winter Light trail will transform the gardens through the Pleasure Grounds near the aviary. Visitors will stroll under the stars beneath magically illuminated tree canopies and bushes draped in sparkle, with the planting transformed by moving light.

Wandering down Miss Alice’s Drive from the Woodland Café to the Stables, visitors will find the route illuminated with work created by children from around 35 local schools on a theme of hope, called ‘When you wish upon a star’. And at the Stables, they'll find Parallels in the Coach House, a light in motion creation of colourful pipes that twist and turn in an immersive installation set to a soundscape, while outside, two giant twinkling baubles, each over six metres tall will offer the perfect festive photo opportunity.

Unusual gifts will once again be a feature of the popular Christmas Fair (14 Nov – 23 Dec, 12-7pm), where visitors will be able to browse over 80 hand-selected artisan stalls selling handmade gifts, decorations and food. There will be afternoon teas (pre-bookable) in the Manor Restaurant, and festive food and drinks to enjoy while exploring the grounds.

 All visits must be pre-booked online in order to stagger arrivals and minimise crowding.

OPENING DATES, TIMES AND TICKETS

Christmas at Waddesdon, Sat 14 Nov 2020 – Sun 3 January 2021 (Closed 24-26 Dec)

Wednesday-Sunday, 12noon-7.30pm (additional openings Mondays/Tuesdays, 21/22 and 28/29 December)

Christmas Fair, Sat 14 Nov – Wed 23 Dec 2020, 12-7pm (also Monday 21 and Tuesday 22 December)

Prices from £40 for a family of up to 2 adults + 3 children

All visits must be pre-booked with day and time of arrival in order to stagger admissions and minimise crowding. Advance booking of timed admission, parking and shuttle bus tickets is essential for all visitors, including National Trust members.

Full details of prices and online booking details at https://www.waddesdon.org.uk/christmas

Online booking at https://waddesdon.seetickets.com/content/ticket-options