Artistic rendering – Event may differ
Christmas at Cragside
Step into a festive wonderland at Cragside this Christmas. They're transforming the house into a playful 'Servants' Ball,' inspired by a real 1894 staff party, filled with colorful chaos and whimsical decorations. Outside, marvel at the UK's tallest living Christmas tree, a towering Giant Redwood Wellingtonia, now sparkling with over 1,200 multi-colored lights. Enjoy late evening openings to see the grounds and house illuminated, and take on a refreshing 5-mile festive walk.
What to Expect
UK's tallest living Christmas tree and a 'Servants' Ball' house transformation.
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$
- Parking: A free shuttle bus service operates during Christmas at Cragside, stopping at the visitor center, main car park, and near the House. A short walk to the Christmas tree is available from the stop near the House.
- Accessibility: The House is accessible for wheelchairs on the ground floor only. Assistance dogs are welcome inside the House. Buggies and pushchairs cannot be accommodated in the House due to narrow corridors. Rucksacks and large bags cannot be stored at the House. The UK's Tallest Living Christmas Tree is next to a tarmacked road and is accessible to wheelchairs, buggies and pushchairs.
- Pets: Assistance dogs welcome in the house; grounds generally dog-friendly.
Other Christmas Events Near Rothbury
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, couples, and anyone seeking a festive, visually stunning christmas experience.
Vibe
Magical, whimsical, festive, enchanting
Energy Level
Moderate - involves walking and exploring the grounds and house.
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate - outdoor activities are weather-dependent, but the house offers indoor enjoyment.
Special Events & Promotions
- Late evening openings to experience the illuminated grounds and house.
- Festive 5-miler walk.
- Pizza slices served during late openings at the visitor center tea room.
- Mulled wine and pasties available at The Still Room.
Location
Event Details
Duration
Varies by day, with late openings until 5pm
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Northumberland
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
National Trust
Food & Drink
The tea room serves hot chocolate, cakes, and turkey sandwiches, with pizza slices available during late openings. The Still Room offers mulled wine and pasties.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Visit on a weekday afternoon before local schools break up (around December 19th) for a quieter experience in the House.
- Bring a torch for late evening visits, especially if you plan to walk back to your car after dark.
- Consider using slings or carriers for young children as buggies and pushchairs are not permitted inside the House.
- Take advantage of the free shuttle bus service to easily navigate between the visitor center, car park, and the House.
- While the House is decorated for the 'Servants' Ball,' the collection will not be on display; plan to visit between February and October for full collection access.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the theme for Christmas at Cragside House this year?
This year, Cragside House is transformed into a playful 'Servants' Ball,' inspired by a real staff party from 1894. Expect colorful chaos, ribbons, and oversized decorations as the servants take over for a night of revelry.
Can I see the usual collection inside Cragside House during the Christmas event?
No, the House is used as a theatrical backdrop for the Christmas theme, so the collection will not be on display. The House will be restored for visitors to view the collection from February half term 2026.
What are the opening times for Christmas at Cragside?
The event runs from Saturday 29 November to Sunday 4 January. Usual opening hours are 11am-3pm, with last entry to the House at 2:30pm. On selected late evening dates, it's open 11am-5pm, with last entry to the House at 4pm. The property is closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
Is there parking available at Cragside?
While specific parking details are not extensively detailed, a free shuttle bus service operates during the Christmas event, connecting the visitor center, main car park, and the House, making access convenient.
What are the ticket prices for Christmas at Cragside?
National Trust members, visitors under 5, and carers are admitted free. Adult tickets are £15, children's tickets are £7.50, and family tickets are £37.50 (or £22.50 for one adult and family).
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.