I took a slight detour today as I had a meeting in Tunbridge Wells, and I was travelling from Sussex. Standen House Christmas display had been brought to our attention last week and I am so glad I had time to make a visit.

The house and gardens created in the 1890’s by the Beale family has one of the most beautiful displays of Morris and Co work I have seen. Still today it has a cosy family feel to it and with the Christmas trees and decorations even more homely.

Each Christmas tree has a theme including the wishing tree, cup tree and a display of beautiful paper baubles inspired by William Morris.

As a part of the Christmas events there is a family pantomime trail through the garden, on those crisp autumn days this would be a great way to get outside and explore with the family. And you can enjoy the twilight openings to see the lights twinkle in the dark on the 10, 11,17, 18, 22 & 23 December, 3.30pm–6pm (last entry to the house is at 5pm).

Standen House and Gardens is a National Trust Property, memberships are great value and there are so many beautiful places across England, Wales and Northern Island that you can visit.

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November 28, 2022 0

Blenheim Palace at Christmas

Christmas at Blenheim Palace is something not to be missed. This was my first visit to Blenheim Palace and it out did all my expectations.

It was extremely well organised and they had good covid19 measures in place.

On arrival we took a look around the Christmas market; a selection of businesses set in the classic wooden huts selling their wares. We brought some delicious cheese which even though its November will keep, making them ideal Christmas presents. We also picked up some chutneys, preserves and loose tea. We then grabbed a beef pitta and rosemary fries to eat which was delicious.

Before we started our Christmas experience we went off to take a look around the grounds of Blenheim in the daylight. The grounds are extensive and have many hidden gems not only the collection of ancient trees dotted around 2000 acres but the, formal gardens and the walled garden containing the maze, play area, butterfly house and more.

We then set out to explore each room of Blenheim Palace where the rooms had been beautifully set out as scenes from the Nutcracker. It was so very magical walking through the rooms, it felt like we were in a real life fairy tale.

As we left the palace, we picked up a drink and started our walk through the ‘After Dark Illuminated Trail’. With over a million glittering lights and lasers lighting the trail it’s truly spectacular, the colour changing roses, the atmospheric fire lanterns and festive sound tracks. Festive bars dotted are around to enjoy a drink and a stunning fire pit to toast marshmallows, they have thought of so many beautiful touches creating ever lasting memories for you and your family, I know we have created wonderful memories from their Christmas experience.

Get your tickets here.

We now have an annual pass we will be back again to explore more of Blenheim Palace and grounds in the near future.