Holkham Hall in North Norfolk is setting the stage for one of the UK’s most enchanting Christmas experiences this winter – and it promises to be bigger, bolder and even more magical than ever before.
From 28th November to 30th December, Holkham Hall by Candlelight transforms this magnificent Palladian house into a glowing festive wonderland. It will immerse visitors in a magical world where every room tells its own story, inspired by fairytales, family traditions and artistic creativity.
Guests can expect to see lavish installations from award-winning florists, creators and makers – from a chocolate banquet worthy of Willy Wonka to a starlit Night Before Christmas suite, Hansel and Gretel gingerbread house in a sugar-dusted forest, and a serene Partridge in a Pear Tree installation. Every detail promises a unique festive moment.
This year, the Hall will welcome guests with an unmissable red bow over the vestibule. Every visitor up until Christmas will enjoy a glass of fizz and a mince pie included in their ticket. Guests can immerse themselves at their own pace on a self-led visit (Adult: £36, Children: £18), from 28th November to 19th December. Or alternatively they can experience a guided tour (Adult: £39, Children: £19.50), available on the 4th, 11th, and 15th December.
ROOM-BY-ROOM MAGIC
- Hall Exterior – A bold fresh look for 2025, with the grand Palladian façade decorated with a striking new red bow.
- Marble Hall – A classical red, gold and pearl theme with live music under the iconic Roman-inspired dome.
- North Dining Room – Fresh florals and winter greenery by florist Hannah Hunnam, elevated with luxurious Summerill & Bishop table linens for refined Christmas dining inspiration.
- Statue Gallery – Enter Hansel & Gretel’s World, a pink-tinged snowy forest complete with a gingerbread house and sweet-inspired wonderland by stylist Alice King.
- South Sitting Room – A whimsical Night Before Christmas installation, complete with a starlit ceiling and bespoke swags by Boomting Bunting.
- Saloon – Holkham’s 14ft tree from Salle Estate dressed in warm gold, creating a classic Christmas centrepiece.
- South Dining Room – A mischievous Naughty Elves Breakfast scene. Expect a playful table brimming with vibrant, hyper-real food, perfectly capturing the chaos and fun of Christmas morning when elves have taken over the breakfast table Expertly crafted by The Fake Food Workshop.
- Landscape Room – A poetic take on A Partridge in a Pear Tree, incorporating Holkham’s tweed, Bowler hat and grey partridge conservation story.
- Chapel – A reflective space with light and sound installation by Audio Resolution, candles and nativity touches for serene moments.
- Old Kitchen – A chocolate feast by edible artist Sarah Hardy of The Edible Museum, featuring a roast turkey, pigs in blankets and all the trimmings – all made entirely from chocolate.
NEW FOR 2025 – FAMILY DAY
Brand new for 2025 is a magical Family Day (20th December) – a special version of the candlelight tour designed for children, featuring interactive experiences and joyful encounters with Father and Mother Christmas, plus the jingle elves. AND IT DOESN’T END ON CHRISTMAS DAY…
Holkham extends the magic into Twixmas (27th–30th December), inviting guests to savour peaceful winter walks in Holkham Park and on Holkham beach, seasonal treats in the Courtyard Café, and post-Christmas shopping in the Gift Shop. Festive state-room tours continue during this period, perfect for family gatherings or seasonal getaways.
MORE FESTIVE HIGHLIGHTS
- Christmas Market (12th–14th December): Over 60 independent local producers showcasing artisan food, drink and hand-crafted gifts at the leading Christmas Market in the region.
- An Audience with Father Christmas (21st–23rd December): An incredibly special and immersive musical journey set within Holkham Hall, with entertainment from the jingle elves culminating in a meeting with Father and Mother Christmas in the Saloon.
- Canine Carol Service (22nd December): A pawsome outdoor service for dogs and owners alike, in aid of Break Charity.
- Craft Workshops: From candle-making, calligraphy, and silversmithing to block printing and wreath making, Holkham’s creative workshops offer hands-on seasonal inspiration.
- Carols in the Courtyard (11th December): A free-to-attend festive singalong with Your Choir, raising funds for charity.
- Winter Scenes: Calligrapher Clare Warren will dress the Stables Courtyard windows with elegant, hand-lettered winter scenes.
ARTISANSHIP AT THE HEART
Holkham’s Christmas installations champion local suppliers and artisan skill. Decorations feature locally grown greenery, re-usable decorations, and Norfolk-based creatives.
The Countess of Leicester, explains, “From the very beginning, my ambition was to create a Christmas at Holkham that felt different – imaginative, elegant and rooted in craftsmanship rather than commercialism. Every detail is carefully considered to celebrate beauty, creativity and the distinctive spirit of Holkham at this special time of year.”
Catherine Zoll, Creator of Christmas at Holkham, adds, “The creative journey for this year’s Christmas began before the decorations of 2024 had even been packed away. Each February, we travel to Christmas fairs in Frankfurt and across the UK, where inspiration truly begins to take shape. What I cherish most is collaborating with such talented makers, artists, stylists, and volunteers to bring our ideas to life – and then seeing the joy and wonder on our visitors’ faces as they explore the state rooms. For me, it’s an absolute privilege – what could be more magical than creating Christmas?”
Tickets sell fast – early booking is strongly recommended. For full details and to book, visit holkham.co.uk.
