When does the event run?

The event runs Thursday 28th – Sunday 1 December and Thursday 5 – Sunday 8 December. 

On 28th & 29th November and 5th & 6th December (Thursdays and Fridays during our event) we will be operating guided tours of the castle that will run every 15 minutes throughout the day, between 11am – 5pm. Tours last around 45 minutes and are led by one of our Castle guides who are in costume and in character as members of the Victorian household such as the Housekeeper, Governess, Butler and Footman.

On the 30th November and 1st, 7th & 8th December (Saturday and Sundays during our event) the Castle will be open for a freeflow visit. The Castle will be open from 11am – 5pm with entry time slots every 15 minutes, to allow a staggered entry of visitors. There will be guides in costume and character in each room to tell you their preparations for Christmas. There may even be a special guest to meet in the Castle!

Can I change my tour time?

You will need to contact the Estate Office to see if its possible for us to adjust your tour time. Please be aware that many time slots will be sold out close to the event so it may not be possible.

Can I arrive at a different time to my ticket?

Yes, you can arrive earlier than your entry time to enjoy something to eat or to explore the Gardens. We open from 11am.

Please make sure you check the time of your tour closely as we do ask that everyone is prompt. Tours will start on time and we cannot guarantee that we will be able to accommodate you at a later time if you are late for your tour or entry slot.

Can I purchase tickets on arrival?

Yes, you can purchase tickets on arrival but, as tickets are limited for the Castle tours we are advising everyone to pre-book in advance. We may not have space left if you arrive without pre-booking your tickets. Tickets can be purchased from the Heated Marquee in the Castle Courtyard.

Do I need to print my tickets?

No, you can either show them on your mobile device or printed. We do need to see the confirmation barcode on arrival to scan you in.

I am an Historic Houses member, can I use my membership for this event?

Historic House memberships are not accepted at this event.

Is there parking on site?

Yes, there is parking which is included in your ticket price. Parking is on grass but we have mesh underneath the top layer to stop anyone getting stuck.

There are also a small number of accessible parking spaces on site. Please ask our car parkers to be directed to the correct place.

Are dogs allowed?

With the exception of assistance dogs, dogs are not permitted into the Castle or tea rooms.

Will there be a Christmas Market?

Victorian Christmas is not a Christmas Market event. Our Castle Gift Shop will be open during Victorian Christmas and fully stocked with festive decorations and presents!

Are pushchairs allowed inside the Castle?

We are afraid that we do not allow pushchairs through the Castle itself. A small number of storage spaces are available for pushchairs whilst you are on the tour.

Is Walkers House tea room open?

Yes, the tea room is open where you can purchase a range of light lunches and festive treats.  A full menu will be available here once finalised.  We also have a heated marquee in the Castle courtyard offering the same range of festive treats and lunches to enjoy, provided by Roaming Giraffe.

Please note: No food or drinks are allowed to be taken on the Castle tour.

When is the Walkers House tea room open?

The Tea room and marquee opens at 11am and final orders are at 5pm.  The tea rooms and marquee close at 5.30pm.

I have booked a Castle tour ticket, does this include access to the grounds?

Yes, access to the grounds is included in your tickets. You will be able to pick up a map of the grounds from the courtyard marquee.

I have a question regarding accessibility, what should I do?

You can find our more information regarding accessibility arrangements on our website here

If you still have a question, please contact the Estate Office team who will be able to help.

I am a carer/I am bringing a career with me, do they get a free ticket?

Yes, carers get free entry to the event. We ask that all paid-for tickets are purchased first and the conformation/order number is sent through, by email, to the estate office with proof of the carers status. We will then add the additional carers ticket on. Please allow 2 working days for this to be completed.