For the first time since 2012, Harewood House will open its doors for a very special five-week Christmas celebration. From 24 November to 31 December* – thanks to a unique collaboration with award-winning fashion and film creative director Michael Howells – ‘A Victorian Christmas at Harewood’ will take its motivation from the popular ITV drama ‘Victoria’ which was filmed at the Yorkshire treasure house.
Michael Howell will bring ‘A Victorian Christmas at Harewood’ to life as he transforms the iconic House to showcase the Victorians’ love of Christmas. Harewood’s magnificent State Floor, which is one of the principal locations for Victoria, will be beautifully dressed with stunning Victorian decorations, while ‘below stairs’, in the kitchens, visitors will get a sense of the hustle and bustle of a stately country house, with a cornucopia of traditional Christmas foods being prepared.
A unique highlight will include loans from Ilkley Toy Museum, including toy soldiers, rare dolls from the era, board games and dolls houses. Visitors will also have the rare opportunity of exploring the award-winning gardens – which are usually closed throughout the winter months – until 3:30pm daily.
There is also a range of exciting family activities taking place daily over this festive period, there is something on offer to keep the whole family entertained!
Fireside Father Christmas at Harewood
Saturday 25 November – Saturday 23 December 2017
On selected dates, Mr Claus and his elves will be welcoming groups of lucky children into the Servants’ Hall to hear a Christmas story read by Father Christmas and to receive a special gift. Pre Booking required, click here for more details and to book.
Christmas Eye-Spy, 10am – 6pm
Take a festive tour around the House & see how many hidden treasures you can spy! Collect worksheets from the State Floor.
Family Craft Activities, 11am – 3pm
Get crafty in the Courtyard with our Victorian inspired craft activities & colouring. In the Courtyard Education Suite.
Christmas Carol Family Trail, 11am – 3pm
Discover the stories behind our favorite Victorian Christmas carols with this family trail across the grounds. Collect trails from the Courtyard Visitor Information Centre.
Winter Bird Garden Walk, 11am
Join our Keepers for a daily winter walk around the Bird Garden. See some of our feathered friends & learn how we take care of them during the winter months. Meet at the Penguin Pool.
Festive Cooking Demonstrations, 11am – 4pm
Visit Below Stairs & see traditional Christmas recipes brought to life in the Old Kitchen. On selected dates only.
Meet the Donkeys, 12pm
Meet our expert keepers & learn about our donkey family & how we look after them. In the Farm.
Winter Gardens Walk & Talk, 1pm
Meet our gardeners for a daily talk on Harewood’s gardens in winter & see some of the seasonal highlights across the park. Meet outside the Courtyard.
Penguin Feeding & Talk, 2pm
Watch the penguins enjoy a spot of Christmas lunch & listen to a talk by our expert keepers. At the Penguin Pool.
Christmas Discovery Talk, 3pm
Enjoy daily talks with our House Guides. Learn about Victorian Christmas traditions at Harewood & see the House dressed for the festive period. On the State Floor.
Live Music Performances
On selected days, we will be hosting local choirs & bands performing festive classics, from Opera North choristers to local school choirs. Please click here for the performance schedule.
For further information about ‘A Victorian Christmas at Harewood’ or any of the other events visit www.Harewood.org or call 0113 218 1000.
Opening Times: 10am -6pm. *Harewood House will be closed on the 24, 25 and 26 December. The Adventure Playground will also be open, closing at sunset.
Ticket information: Adult: £16, Child (4 years to 17 years): £8, Family Ticket (2 adults and 2 children): £43, Harewood Members: Free
