London is, in our humble opinion, the most wonderful place to be in the lead up to Christmas. However, even I (the ultimate London fangirl) will admit that if you’ve lived here for a long time, some of the capital city’s festive offerings can start to feel a little bit ‘been there, done that, got the (eye-wateringly expensive) mulled wine’.
If that is how you’re feeling this year – fear not. There are plenty of oh-so festive places to explore just outside of our beloved city. Take Waddesdon Manor, for example. This magical manor looks like it has jumped straight from the pages of your favourite fairytale – and is filled with so much Christmas cheer, it gives Whoville a run for its money. So, jump in the car, blast out some Bublé, and road trip your way to this wonderful wintery wonderland.
Credit: @waddesdonmanor_nt via Instagram
What’s on at Waddesdon Manor this Christmas?
Christmas at Waddesdon officially begins on November 15, when the charming château transforms into a dazzling display of twinkling lights and jingling bells. This year, the spellbinding transformation has been inspired by the beloved fairytale, Sleeping Beauty. Outside, the manor’s façade will be illuminated with breathtaking projections, bringing its extraordinary architecture to life. And the manor’s grounds will be filled to the brim with festive displays, enchanting decorations, and a magical light trail.
Inside the majestic building, you’ll find the halls well-and-truly decked. A set of paintings by Leon Bakst – usually displayed in the Tower Room – serve as the inspiration behind this year’s Sleeping Beauty theme, and the classic tale is brought to life in each and every room. A gorgeous installation by theatre designer, Tom Pipe MBE, will be displayed in the White Drawing Room alongside a mesmerising soundscape, composed by Guildhall students.
Credit: @waddesdonmanor_nt via Instagram
The Christmas market at Waddesdon Manor
Christmas markets don’t get much more magical than this, that’s for sure. In the grounds of what could be a castle straight out of a Disney movie, enjoy the sights and smells of Christmas at every turn. Wooden chalets cocoon festive market stalls, where you can browse and buy to your heart’s content. When you’ve finished shopping, you can then stuff your face with festive grub at the food village. Churros, anyone?
With festive cheer by the sledge-load, Waddesdon Manor is certainly one to add to the must-visit list!
Find out more and plan your magical festive visit here.
📍 You’ll find Waddesdon Manor at Waddesdon, Aylesbury, HP18 0JH.