If you’re looking for a festive day out that’s a bit different, why not visit Waddesdon Manor near Aylesbury? Waddesdon Manor’s Christmas features beautiful illuminations as well as plenty of activities for the entire family.
Waddesdon Manor offers the perfect setting for the holidays. You can stroll along the illuminated path, do some Christmas shopping or look at the beautiful displays in the manor. And of course, there’s always time for a cup of hot chocolate and a mince pie in the Manor Restaurant!
What is Christmas at Waddesdon Manor?
This year, Waddesdon Manor is open from Wednesday to Sunday, plus Monday 1 January 2024. The manor is open Wednesday through Sunday plus 1 January..
The grounds will open between 12-7pm, with the last entrance at 6pm. Waddesdon Manor is open between 12.30 and 7 pm, with the last entry at 6:30. Waddesdon’s facade will be illuminated by specially-made projections created by renowned artists Jamie Shiels.
Waddesdon Manor
Waddesdon Manor is a French Renaissance-style château located in the village of Waddesdon, in Buckinghamshire, England. The manor house, built by Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild In the 1870s, he built a house to house his art collection.
Baron Ferdinand’s sister, AliceAlice, who lived in the manor between 1883 and 1922, was an enthusiastic gardener, as well as a collector of art. Alice established a set of guidelines for the preservation of the manor’s art and decorative furnishings: Miss Alice’s Rules. The National Trust The company then based its conservation efforts on these recommendations.
The National Trust was left Waddesdon in 1957. The Rothschild Foundation is headed by Lord Rothschild and runs Waddesdon as a representative of the National Trust.
Waddesdon Manor has been a National Trust property for many years. In 2019, the house and garden attracted more than 463,000 people.

Christmas in the House
The manor’s Christmas decorations are stunning and sure to please any visitor. See the Bachelor’s Wing For the first time in 2019.
Discover elaborate paper artworks by Nathan Ward, together with Captain Hook’s treasure trove, the Mad Hatter’s tea party and a magic mirror from the Snow Queen. Jane Le Bon Creative has created beautiful light shows and immersive soundscapes.
The Christmas tree is just one of many decorations that are available to visitors. The famous portraits of Thomas Gainsborough, Joshua Reynolds and others are also a must-see. Porca Miseria This contemporary chandelier is made of broken ceramics by Ingo Mauer.
Christmas in the House runs until 1 January.

Waddesdon Manor Winter Light Trail
You can also explore the grounds and take in the new illuminated trail. Aviary gardens. These outdoor displays are specially arranged in order to reflect both the beauty of manor house gardens and the manor itself.
Luminism lights up the night with glowing orbs, shooting stars and 3D bird designs. This magical light show is sure to put you in the holiday spirit! Winter Light Trail Runs from 22 November to 1 January, 2023

Immersed in Light Exhibition The Coach House Gallery
Walk Along Miss Alice’s Drive Immersed in light exhibition. During the festival period, the path between The Coach House Gallery (the main gallery) and The Stables are lit by lanterns created by local schoolchildren.
It is important to note that this path descends and can be difficult for those with mobility problems.
Visit The Stables to enjoy the fish and ships. Christmas Shop A family-friendly light show that is an impressive display of light and sound. The 22-foot high Christmas tree contains more than 10,000 pixels that change colour.

Waddesdon Manor’s Christmas Fair
Currently, there are over 70 wooden chalets on the grounds of the Manor. These carefully selected stalls feature over 1,000 meters worth of fairy lights.
The Christmas Fair offers a variety of festive treats, from hot drinks to snacks and stylish gifts like faux fur hats or gloves. If you happen to visit when the chateau itself is closed, you can still browse Waddesdon Rothschild Collection wines and other foodie gifts at their own stall – it’s the closest one to the castle on the left-hand side.
You can listen to festive music while you enjoy the view of the castle with its colour-changing display.
Waddesdon manor’s Christmas fair runs from 12 noon – 7 pm, until 17 December.

Waddesdon Manor Gift Shops
Are you in the mood to make some last minute Christmas shopping? Or perhaps you’re looking for unique gifts for a birthday or other special occasion? A visit to the Manor’s gift and wine store is sure to make for a memorable experience.
Hand-selected products include everything from jewelry to food. And if you’re looking for something truly special, you can’t go wrong with a bottle of Rothschild wine.
Limited editions of gins, honeys, beers, chocolates, chutneys and jams are made for Waddesdon. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or someone else, the gift shop is sure to have something to suit your needs.

Christmas at Waddesdon Manor – Food Options
It is important to note that the word “you” means “you”. Food Village This is a new and exciting place where you can enjoy traditional festive food from 22 November through 1 January. Takeaway hot chocolate, mince pie, Christmas pudding, and more are available.
It is important to note that the word “you” means “you”. Manor Restaurant is also open for pre-booked festive afternoon teas, or mince pies and coffee made in house by Waddesdon’s chefs.
The Stables Café Fish and chips, seasonal pies, and other treats are available. Children’s versions of the menu are available.
There are The food to go stands at the Manor Terrace, the Chalet on the right-hand side of the Manor, the Stables Takeaway and the Coffee Bar near the entrance to the Gift & Wine Shop.

Waddesdon Manor: How to get there
Aylesbury Vale Parkway, just 2 miles from Waddesdon Manor is the nearest train station. The Aylesbury Line takes 50 minutes to reach Waddesdon Manor from London Marylebone.
Alternatively, it’s a short 10-15 minute taxi ride to Waddesdon Manor. Waddesdon Manor’s postcode is HP18 0JH.
If you’re driving, there are 1,000 free parking spaces available on site. Premium parking at the top of the hill costs £30 per car. If you want to ride your bike to the manor, there is a shelter for bikes.
Arrive at Waddesdon Manor Welcome PavilionShuttle buses run from the parking lot to the North Fountain and then to the Stables, before returning to the parking lot. It runs roughly every fifteen minutes and it’s best to pre-book your shuttle bus service.
Tickets for Christmas at Waddesdon manor
Waddesdon Manor, a Rothschild House & Gardens will receive all proceeds from ticket sales for Waddesdon Manor. To avoid disappointment, it is important to book in advance.
From Wednesday to Sunday, Christmas at Waddesdon is held from 12 noon until 7 pm. Select your dates carefully, as tickets are not refundable or exchangeable. Early in the morning, if snow or ice conditions make it unsafe to walk on the paths, the decision is made whether the manor will close for the day.
Christmas at Waddesdon Manor ticket prices
Wednesday to Friday, 22 November – 1 January
Waddesdon Manor House & Grounds
- £35.50 – Adult
- £16.50 – Child
- £16.50 – National Trust (you must bring proof of membership)
- Free – children aged 0-4 years old
Waddesdon Manor Grounds Only
- £22 – Adult
- £10 – Child
- Free – children aged 0-4 years old

What to do Near Waddesdon Manor
The Five Arrows Hotel This boutique hotel is listed as Grade II and located at the entrance to Waddesdon Manor. The hotel has 16 beautifully appointed bedrooms, a 2-AA-rosette restaurant and bar.
The Dairy Cottage This self-catering apartment has two double bedrooms, two bathrooms and can accommodate up to four guests.
Last Thoughts: A Christmas at Waddesdon Manor
There’s no better way to get into the Christmas spirit than with a visit to Waddesdon Manor. Visit this stunning French castle Enjoy the English countryside and its unique atmosphere during this season.
With its beautiful exterior, magical lights and range of events and activities, there’s something for everyone at the Waddesdon Christmas displays. Be sure to try one of the delicious seasonal drinks or treats on offer while you explore everything the manor has to offer – and don’t forget to pick up a unique gift from the shop before you leave!
It is the perfect time to enjoy all of Waddesdon’s fun.
Further information and online booking can be found here: www.waddesdon.org.uk/christmas
Winchester Christmas Market
