National Trust set for busy Christmas at Wiltshire sites

Visitors can look forward to Christmas markets, story time sessions, wreath-making workshops, and winter walks with an archaeologist at Avebury.

The Avebury Christmas Market will take place on November 30 and December 1, December 7 and 8, and December 14 and 15, from 10am to 4pm.

Christmas wreath on the front gate at Avebury Manor (Image: National Trust Images/James Dobson) The market will feature a range of handmade goods from local makers, including textiles, recycled wood, jewellery, and dog treats.

The site is also set to hold story time with St Nicholas on the same days, with various times available to book on the trust's website.

The sessions are aimed at children aged three to 10 and cost £8 per child.

A wreath-making workshop will be held at Avebury Manor Garden on December 6 and 7, from 10.30am to 2.30pm.

Participants will be guided by local florist Sue Scott to create their own wreaths using natural foliage and decorations.

A Christmas wreath making workshop at Knole, Kent (Image: National Trust Images/James Dobson) The cost is £65, which includes a welcome drink, lunch, and entry to Avebury Manor Garden.

For those interested in history, a winter walk with an archaeologist is scheduled for December 9 and 13.

From 10.30am to 12.30pm, Dr Nick Snashall will lead the walk around the stone circles, sharing insights into the site’s prehistory and recent research.

The walk will conclude with a warm drink and mince pies in the barn. Pre-booking is essential, and the event costs £15.

Lacock Abbey, Fox Talbot Museum and Village is also offering a range of Christmas activities.

A family walking in the grounds at Christmas, Lacock Abbey (Image: National Trust Images/James Dobson) From November 15 to December 8, the Manger Barn will host a Christmas pop-up shop from Thursdays to Sundays.

Visitors can also enjoy Christmas at Lacock daily from November 23 to December 31, excluding December 25 and 26.

The festive setup includes willow reindeers in the garden, a letter-writing station and North Pole post box in the Bakehouse, and Christmas trees decorated by local groups in the Cloister.

Story time with Mother Christmas will be available on December 14, 15, 21, and 22, with relaxed sessions on December 20 for those with additional sensory, educational, and emotional needs.

Mompesson House will transform into a fairy tale Christmas setting from November 22 to December 23.

Visitors can enjoy storytelling experiences, free activity sheets, and Christmas presents in the bookshop.

The after-dark Christmas trail at Stourhead (Image: National Trust Images/James Dobson) Stourhead will host a festive lino printing workshop on November 18 and 20, and its after-dark illuminated trail will return from November 29 to January 1, excluding December 24 and 25.