This might be the first sign of Christmas you've seen all year, but don't roll your eyes just yet! The elves have been working their magic all across Kent and we're getting ready to start celebrating the winter wonderland that the county is becoming. Wherever you may find yourself this festive season, whether that be at one of our iconic heritage sites or stunning natural landscapes, you're sure to find a Christmas trail to enjoy with family and friends.
Hever Castle and Gardens
Hever Castle
18th November - 1st January
Delve into the magic this Christmas at Hever Castle and immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit from the 18th of November and enjoy a seasonal experience for you and your family and friends to remember. Experience the magical lights and stroll through the enchantment of the castle, gardens and lake really capturing that Christmas spirit.
Walmer Castle
1st December - 1st January
Bring your friends and family and explore this year’s spectacular light show this December. Discover a magical world of illuminations with sound and bright colours by wandering around the grounds and gardens. Grab yourself a warm glass of mulled wine, toast a marshmallow and stroll around the shop filled with Christmas gifts, award-winning food and drinks.
Canterbury Cathedral
1st December - Early January
Throughout December and into the New Year, you and the family can explore the Cathedral like never before (with little ones going free!). Gregory Gargoyle's Angel Trail will take you on a magical, festive adventure - look for clues in stained-glass windows, statues, stone, and wall paintings to find as many angels as you can. Learn about their significance throughout history, and be sure to return your completed trail to the Cathedral Shop to claim a prize!
Bedgebury National Pinetum Forest
17th November - 31st December
Make this year memorable with your friends and family by venturing out to Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest and explore their after-dark trail this winter, boasting over a million twinkling tunnels of lights and sounds filling the air with a festive spirit. Walk under giant baubles and glistening trees and feel mesmerised by the flames in the fire garden. Don’t forget to grab a seasonal snack and drink from the café to complete your festive walk.
Guildhall Museum
9th - 23rd December
Take the little ones along to the Guildhall Museum in Medway this December, where Christmas fun awaits! Can you spot all of the naughty elves dotted throughout the museum? Scope them out, and then discover what they've been up to while they've been there. Once you've solved the mystery, write a letter to the man himself to give the elves for when they head back to the North Pole.
Leeds Castle
24th November - 31st December
Mark your diaries with this Christmas trail event! With Christmas music and enchanting illuminations, the historic Leeds Castle will be lit up, transforming its unique landscape into a winter wonderland. Bring your friends and families to make that everlasting memory and wander between installations and lights showing off mother nature in the dark.
The Billiard Room at Christmas at Ightham Mote, Kent ©National Trust Images Arnhel de Serra
Ightham Mote
18th November - 7th January
Dive into a Tudor Christmas at Ightham Mote along with festive music, twinkling lights and the seasonal scents putting everyone in that festive spirit and showcasing the rich and colourful history of the property. Take a look at the Great Hall set out for a lavish feast and visit the stunning Tudor Chapel adorned for the season. There is plenty to do with the family with crafting workshops and carols and choirs keeping the children busy whilst you relax next to the roaring fire.
The grand Staircase decorated with Christmas garlands at Scotney Castle, Kent ©National Trust Images John Millar
Scotney Castle
25th November - 1st January
Join the last residents of Scotney, Christopher and Betty as they host a special festive get-together for their guests, stepping back 60 years into the glitz and glamour of the Swinging Sixties. Look out for traditional trees alongside avant-garde decorations inspired by the decade known for flamboyance and excess. Explore the illuminated mansion and admire the decorations, with the option to meet Santa himself at the end of your journey!
Christmas tree in the library at Chartwell, Kent ©National Trust Images Megan Taylor
Chartwell
25th November - 23rd December
An exciting adventure awaits at Chartwell allowing you to experience how the Churchills celebrated the festive season, seen through the eyes of Sir Winston Churchill’s beloved daughter, Mary Soames. Wander through the gardens with bright lanterns guiding you through the twinkling trees, and carol singers performing every weekend outside. Perfect when paired with a cup of hot chocolate.
©National Trust Images David Sellman
Knole
15th November - 7th January
Throughout the Christmas period this year, Knole park is rolling out a beautifully charming, unforgettably magical display. Inspired by the timeless tale, The Snowman™, you’ll find 12 giant snowman sculptures across the parkland and courtyards. Delve into the wonder of the season and take in the sights, being sure to stop off at the Great Hall to witness the breathtaking decorations and displays.
Peter Pan's Festive Trail
16th November 2023 - 4th January 2024
Are you feeling the festive spirit yet? Well, it's arrived in Maidstone with the help of a special fairy who's sprinkling the town with a little festive magic. Your mission is to follow the trail posters located in shop windows around the town centre to be in with the chance of winning a special prize! What's more, it's free! Are you up to the task?
