Fancy one last festive trip? Take a magical journey through the Twelve Days of Christmas at Belvoir Castle this December. The historic castle and stately home in Leicestershire – which is about an hour and a half from Birmingham – has been transformed into a festive fairytale. Complete with stunning decorations and whimsical displays everywhere you turn.
Designed by Charlotte Lloyd-Webber, each room embraces the iconic Christmas carol – from Twelve Lords a Leaping to everyone’s favourite Five Gold Rings. Belvoir Castle is truly amping up the grandeur and festive charm, ideal for family outings or romantic getaways. On December 21, you’re even invited to accompany Her Grace the Duchess of Rutland to explore the Christmas installation – with a Q&A session, (with champagne and canapés) afterwards.
There are plenty of activities to get stuck into at this immersive Christmas experience, however. Up until December 24, get busy at the Elf Workshop as children use their imagination to craft decorations, before letting out their energy at the Adventure Playground. Or how about meeting the Big Man himself? A trip to Santa’s Grotto ensures memories no one will forget, with each child receiving a special gift from Santa Claus too.
New for this year, you can also be part of an Audience with Santa! Starting at 9:30 am, this heartwarming, private tour provides a unique glimpse at the castle before doors open to the public. On top of the company of elves and Father Christmas, the festivities include singing, dancing, and storytelling – plus gifts for the children, and mince pies for the parents. Tickets for this experience are £30 each.
Fancy something a little more grown-up? Enjoy the heights of luxury with a festive afternoon tea special – featuring Bloody Mary Prawn Cocktail Shots, Rare Hereford Roast Beef & Cropwell Bishop Stilton sandwiches, Spiced Carrot Cake with Mascarpone and Orange Cream cakes, Cinnamon and Candy Cane Topped Eggnog and more. Don’t forget that you can also stay at Belvoir Castle, in one of the cottages, lodges or camping/glamping spots.
The Twelve Days of Christmas experience has to be seen to be believed. But you can take a little bit of the magic home with you at least. The gift shop features a wide array of handcrafted and one-of-a-kind gifts used in the installation. If you want to learn more about Christmas at Belvoir Castle head here.