Christmas on the Continent
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- 22nd December 11:00am - 30th November 3:00pm
- Following 14 Events
23/12/24 11:00
-23/12/24 15:00
24/12/24 11:00
-24/12/24 15:00
25/12/24 11:00
-25/12/24 15:00
26/12/24 11:00
-26/12/24 15:00
27/12/24 11:00
-27/12/24 15:00
28/12/24 11:00
-28/12/24 15:00
29/12/24 11:00
-29/12/24 15:00
30/12/24 11:00
-30/12/24 15:00
31/12/24 11:00
-31/12/24 15:00
01/01/25 11:00
-01/01/25 15:00
02/01/25 11:00
-02/01/25 15:00
03/01/25 11:00
-03/01/25 15:00
04/01/25 11:00
-04/01/25 15:00
05/01/25 11:00
-05/01/25 15:00
About this event
This year there is a whole host of events and activities taking place at Ickworth for the Christmas season. The house is decked out to follow the journey of the Earl-Bishop and his family as they toured the continent. Experience different modes of transport and immersive room decorations as you make your way through the magnificent Ickworth house to explore the atmospheric Ruins of Rome, climb the snow-capped Swiss Alps, take a trip through a Bavarian cabin or wander the colourful Venetian Carnival.
Out in the gardens there will be a fun, family-friendly trail that winds its way through the Albana woodland, bringing the themes of the house out into the grounds.
Christmas at Ickworth is a magical occasion for the whole family to enjoy. As well as the beautifully adorned house, interesting history and fantastic trails, there are children's shows, countryside walks, a craft fair and seasonal shopping and dining opportunities.
Ickworth House, open daily from 11am - 3pm last entry.
Outdoor Trail, open daily from 9am - 4pm.
About the Venue
A Georgian Italianate palace in an idyllic English landscape.
Ickworth's impressive Rotunda - a magnificent showcase commissioned by the 4th Earl of Bristol to house his priceless treasures collected on tours around Europe in the 18th-century - is an architectural marvel.
For 200 years, the eccentric, and sometimes infamous, Hervey family added to the treasures inside and out, also creating the earliest Italianate garden in England. The exquisite craftmanship of the finest Huguenot silversmiths is breathtaking, and you can follow the family's history through outstanding portraits by Gainsborough, Hogarth and Reynolds.
After walking in the tranquil parkland, experience 1930s domestic service in the restored servants' basement, sharing the real stories and memories of former staff who kept this country estate running.
Ickworth offers a delicious selection of food throughout the year. Whether you're coming just for a meal, or to make a whole day out our West Wing, Squash Court Cafe and Porter Lodge Cafe offer a mouth-watering choice of hot food, snacks and a great cup of coffee.
After a busy day enjoying our special place, make sure you find that special gift or memento of your visit. Browse our West Wing Gift Shop and Plant & Garden Shop, for seasonal and inspirational gifts.
Cycle Hub
Explore Ickworth Estate on two wheels! Our Cycle Hub is open daily throughout the school holidays for cycle hire, 10am to 4pm with last hire at 2pm. Hire starts from just £3 and you can hire for two hours or all day. Visit https://bit.ly/IckworthBikes for more details. Normal admission charges apply, free for National Trust members.
Dog Friendly
Dogs are welcome in the parkland, on woodland walks, the walled garden and at Porter’s Lodge café, which is the perfect place to start or finish your dog walk. There are tasty treats, plenty of hot and cold drinks, and of course water bowls with lots of shade for your furry friend. Please keep your dog on a lead at all times on the estate.
Only assistance dogs are allowed in the West Wing, house and Italianate garden.