3 min readAs the festive season approaches, two of the National Trust’s most loved places near Bristol are preparing to unwrap unique Christmas experiences. Whether you love fairytales or history, twinkling lights or woodland trails, there’s something truly special waiting at Tyntesfield and Dyrham Park this festive season.
Once Upon a Christmas Time at Tyntesfield
From 1 December to 4 January, Tyntesfield transforms into a storybook come to life. This year’s theme, Once Upon a Christmas Time, invites visitors to wander through a world of fairytales.
Inside the house, imagination takes centre stage: a towering beanstalk greets you in the hall, the Mad Hatter’s tea party spills across the library, and Goldilocks stirs up mischief in the kitchen. In the drawing room, a magical wardrobe leads to a winter wonderland.
Image - Festive Dining Room in Tyntesfield House
Outside, the enchantment continues with sparkling decorations inspired by classic tales like Cinderella and Rumpelstiltskin. The chapel courtyard becomes a Villain’s Village, and festive concerts fill the chapel with seasonal music. Children can follow themed trails, get creative in craft workshops, and even make their own keepsakes to take home.
This immersive experience has been created in partnership with SuperCulture and local community groups, blending inventive art installations with displays designed by Tyntesfield’s own teams and volunteers. It’s a celebration of creativity, community, and Christmas magic. Arrive ready to be swept away into a world of festive fairytales.
Normal admission applies - no booking needed. Tyntesfield is closed on 24 & 25 December. Find out more here
Image - Festive courtyard at Tyntesfield
A Journey Through Christmases Past at Dyrham Park
Just a short from Bristol and to the north of Bath, Dyrham Park invites you to travel through time with a festive journey across five different eras. From 21 November to 4 January, the house will be dressed in seasonal style, starting with Tudor traditions and ending in the new millennium.
Each room tells a different story: the Victorian space dazzles with a grand tree, toys, and ribbons, while the 1940s room offers a quieter kind of Christmas, with wartime decorations and a touching message from a young Princess Elizabeth. It’s a nostalgic experience that brings generations together, sparking memories and conversations.
Image - Christmas at Dyrham Park
Outdoors, families can follow a deer discovery trail through the 270-acre parkland, while adults can enjoy a gentler festive trail in the garden. Don’t miss the giant wreath — perfect for a family selfie — and the large outdoor tree adorned with bright red bows and twinkling lights.
On weekends, local choirs and music groups will fill the air with carols in the village church of St Peter, next to the estate. There are also bookable wreath-making workshops in early December for those who want to add a handmade touch to their decorations at home.
The shop is stocked with decorations, cards, gifts and festive food, and both the main tea-room and parkland café offer seasonal treats to warm you up after your adventures.
Normal admission applies – no booking needed. Dyrham Park will be closed on 24 and 25 December. Find out more here.
Image - Dyrham Park in the snow
Whether you're stepping into a world of festive fairytales at Tyntesfield or travelling through time at Dyrham Park, make magical memories with the National Trust this Christmas.
This content was kindly sponsored by the National Trust.
