Join Christmas countdown with magical Snowman Trail at Wrest Park
From a magical Snowman sculpture trail and festive markets to visits with Father Christmas and wreath-making workshops, Wrest Park is bursting with seasonal fun.
Set against the magnificent backdrop of the English Heritage site’s 19th century French-chateau style mansion and historic gardens, the festive programme promises seasonal cheer for visitors of all ages.
Walking with The Snowman - open now and until January 10: 10am to 4pm
New for 2026 is the enchanting Walking with The Snowman trail. Inspired by Raymond Briggs’ much-loved classic, the trail features 12 giant Snowman sculptures, each designed by a different artist around the theme of The Twelve Days of Christmas, dotted throughout the grounds.
Pop-up Winter Market – November 14 and 15: 10am to 3pm
Get some early Christmas shopping in with the Pop-up Winter Market set inside the beautiful State Rooms of Wrest Park’s mansion; the market brings together local community traders selling seasonal gifts and festive treats.
Community Music at Christmas – November 21 to December 23
From Saturday, November 21 to Wednesday, December 23, Wrest Park will be filled with festive melodies as part of its Community Music at Christmas programme. A fantastic line-up of local performers will bring the sounds of the season to the historic Library and Orangery – with performances spanning local choirs, harpists, jazz bands and much more. The full line-up can be found here.
Wreath-making workshops – December 2 and 3: 10am to 3pm
Those looking to add a handmade touch to their Christmas decorations should look no further than Wrest Park’s wreath-making workshops .
Led by Wrest Park’s head gardener in the festive setting of the Mansion Dining Room, the workshop will enable participants to create their own beautiful Christmas wreath using seasonal foliage and natural materials. The experience costs £75 per person and also includes a festive afternoon tea. Spaces are limited and must be booked in advance.
Festive Fun for all the family – weekends from December 5 to December 20: 10am to 4pm
Weekends in December sees the return of Festive Fun – a seasonal day out for the whole family which includes arts and crafts and a Christmas quest. Wrap up warm and enjoy hot chocolate in the café afterwards.
Meet Father Christmas – from December 5 to 20 December, 21 and December 22: various times
No Christmas would be complete without a visit to Father Christmas, and children can come face to face with the big man himself at Wrest Park on weekends December 5 to December 22.
Following a group storytelling session, children will have the chance to meet Santa, take photographs and receive a traditional present to unwrap. Visits must be booked in advance, and cost £12 per child for non-members and £9.50 for members.