Christmas at Devon National Trust properties in 2026

Christmas is a wonderful time to visit a National Trust property. The staff and volunteers pull out all the stops to decorate houses and grounds in the style of Christmas’ gone by or with family-friendly winter activities. And if you have National Trust membership this can be a really low cost festive day out.

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Here’s what’s on at National Trust places in Devon this November and December:

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A Christie inspired Christmas at Greenway near Galmpton – selected dates from TBC

Visitor looking at map beside decorated tree at Greenway — ©National Trust Images – James Dobson

The team at Agatha Christie’s former holiday home is taking inspiration from her short story collection, and its enigmatic character the Mysterious Mr Quinn for this year’s the decorations and family friendly festive trail.

The house and gardens are open weekends in the run up to Christmas and then from the 27 December until New Year.

Outside, join in the festive fun on a family friendly trail for all ages as the Mysterious Mr Pie searches for his lost star. Visitors are invited to follow the crumb trail around the garden to solve the clues and stop by the photo opportunity for a seasonal selfie.

Admission to Greenway is free for National Trust members. Parking is limited and must be booked online in advance.

Find out more about visiting Greenway this Christmas.

Nutcracker Christmas at Arlington Court near Barnstaple – selected dates from TBC

A Nutcracker Christmas brings festive magic to Arlington Court.

* A festive display of dried flowers from the garden and handcrafted decorations. 

* A mince pie mystery trail around the Old Lake walk, a playful Twelve Days of Christmas critters display, and a quirky gourd nativity scene

* Bring a Friend for Free’ offer running from 1-14 December
Arlington Court has been transformed into a festive wonderland inspired by the classic tale of The Nutcracker.
Visitors can wander through rooms dressed in shimmering snow, blooming flowers, twinkling lights and sweet delights - all created using dried flowers from the garden and handcrafted decorations. 
Outdoors, the magic continues with a mince pie mystery trail around the Old Lake walk, a playful Twelve Days of Christmas critters display, and a quirky gourd nativity scene. Enjoy festive treats in the tea-room, browse for gifts in the shop, and make the most of evening openings for a truly atmospheric experience.  (House Staff Pictured) — Picture credict: ©National Trust/SGHAYWOOD PHOTOGRAPHY

Head to Arlington Court National Trust house and gardens to experience a magical Nutcracker world this Christmas as the house transforms into the lands of sweets, flowers and snow, with twinkling lights and dried blooms from the garden.

Enjoy festive photo spots, a Nutcracker trail, family activities, and open evenings with fire pits, marshmallows and pop up shops by local makers. Normal entry fees apply and members can visit for free. No pre-booking required.

Find out more on the Arlington Court website.

A Roaring 20s Christmas at Coleton Fishacre near Brixham – selected dates from 22 November 2025 to 4 January 2026

Baubles on a traditional christmas tree — Picture credit: National Trust / Lauren Hutchinson

Coleton Fishacre is marking its centenary in 2025 so what better way to celebrate Christmas than with a festive party reminiscent of the Roaring Twenties. There’ll be glitz, glamour and a hint of gin as we all end the year with a bang.

Outside take a bracing walk around the coastal garden with its wonderful sea views and warm up with a treat at the cafe.

Admission is free for National Trust members.

Find out more about Twixmas at Coleton Fishacre.

Knightshayes near Tiverton – TBC

Knightshayes Court Great Hall decorated for Christmas — ©National Trust Images, Tony Cobley

Experience a Victorian Christmas at Knightshayes. Explore the ground floor of the decorated house, discover different Victorian traditions and create wonderful festive memories. There’s also late night opening on selected dates.

Find out more about visiting Knightshayes.

Arthurian Christmas at Buckland Abbey near Plymouth – TBC

Buckland Abbey brings the legends of King Arthur to life this Christmas
Buckland Abbey near Plymouth will open its doors on Saturday 29 November for a Christmas season inspired by the legendary tales of King Arthur. Running until 4 January, this year’s display transforms the medieval Great Barn and the Abbey into a world of myth, magic and winter storytelling.
Visitors stepping into the Great Barn will find themselves in a shimmering forest of Christmas trees, accompanied by the atmospheric sounds of animals and an icy winter breeze. Here, the story of Gawain and the Green Knight begins, before guests move into King Arthur’s court where a dramatic willow sculpture of Gawain’s battle -lit in green and gold - creates a striking centrepiece. Clashing swords and a crackling fire soundtrack the scene as Arthur looks on. (Volunteers & House Staff pictured) — Picture credit: © National Trust Images /Steve Haywood

Step into the Great Barn and into a forest of trees which will transport you into the story of King Arthur.

You’ll be surrounded by beautiful twinkling trees where you can listen to the story of Gawain and the Green Knight before you step forward to see a wicker sculpture of the battle itself,

Be sure not to miss the tallest tree at the end of the Barn where you will see the mythical Excalibur surrounded by stars.

The Abbey has been filled with more legendary Christmas delights from Merlin’s Apothecary to Guinevere’s chamber, each room will be filled with festive sparkle and an opportunity to acquaint yourself with characters from the mythical stories of King Arthur.

Find out more about the Christmas at Buckland A b bey near Yelverton.

Killerton near Exeter –

National Trust KIllerton House, Devon - A record-breaking embroidered dress, stitched by 380 people from 51 countries, will be the centrepiece of Killerton’s winter celebrations this year, as the National Trust property honours the spirit of community and creativity.

From 29 November, Killerton will host the internationally recognised Red Dress Project, a powerful artwork created by Somerset artist Kirstie Macleod — Picture credit: ©National Trust/SGHAYWOOD PHOTOGRAPHY

Visit Killerton this winter to see the house decorated for a traditional Christmas with handmade ornaments, festive music, games and trees dressed by local groups.

You can also see the Res Dress Project, which is collaborative embroidery project begun by British artist Kirstie Macleod in 2009. The stunning Red Dress has travelled to 51 countries and features work by 380 embroiderers many of whom are vulnerable and living in poverty.

Outdoors there’s a festive activity trail including games from around the world.

Don’t miss the Chapel where there are 12 Christmas trees decorated by local community groups.

Find out more about winter visits to Killerton.

The Gruffalo’s Child at Saltram in Plymouth – TBC

Saltram House in Plymouth — Saltram House

The Gruffalo’s Child will be taking over Saltram this winter. The magic of this beloved story will be brought to life within Saltram’s garden. Follow along on the journey through the deep dark wood with games, challenges and plenty of festive photo moments along the way.

Please note: the house will be closed this Christmas season while work happens to make Saltram more accessible for the future.

The parkland is open daily.

Find out more about winter opening at Saltram.

Find out more about National Trust properties in Devon.