Everything you want from Christmas is all wrapped up at National Trust places in Hampshire, with our Top Five festive days out guide.
Step into beautifully decorated historic houses full of sparkle, inspired by favourite pantomimes and festive stories. Outdoors, you’ll find family games and lots of moments to capture festive family memories.
These picturesque countryside places are perfect for meeting up with friends and family, on a frosty walk or over a hot spiced apple juice and Scone of the Month – December’s is mince pie-flavoured with clotted cream and orange marmalade! And you can browse for thoughtful gifts too – everything from stocking fillers to presents for pooches, away from the bustle of the high street.
Find out more at nationaltrust.org.uk/Hampshire.
Here’s what’s on at National Trust places in Hampshire this Christmas:
A Jack and the Beanstalk Christmas at Mottisfont
21 November to 3 January, normal admission charge only
Meet Jack, Dame Trott and Pat the Cow as you follow our hero on his journey to Giantland. The house is transformed with pantomime flair, sparkle and a dash of magic, from a towering beanstalk to a castle in the clouds. But be careful; is that a fe-fi-fo-fum you can hear? The gardens are filled with fun challenges – race to return the Golden Goose’s stolen eggs to their giant nests, and repair the Giant’s torn underpants before he notices. There are plenty of opportunities to capture funny family memories too; pose as a Christmas pudding or Brussels sprout in our Giant’s festive feast selfie board, or perch beside the huge beanstalk as it twirls skywards.
21 & 22 November: larger-than-life Pantomime Dame, Mama G, is welcoming visitors during the launch weekend on 21 and 22 November. Come and say hello, and pose for a pic with this colourful character.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/hampshire/mottisfont/christmas-mottisfont
A Christmas Wish at Hinton Ampner
14 November to 3 January, pre-booking essential, normal admission charge only
Enter a world of wishes as you travel through the beautifully decorated house at Hinton Ampner, filled with twinkling lights and Christmas trees. In each room you’ll meet a much-loved character and discover their personal wish for the festive season. Pop into Father Christmas’ post room, explore King Arthur’s realm, and take in Jay Gatsby’s glamorous 1920s party, with a champagne tower and music.
In the gardens, families can enjoy an elf adventure filled with games and fun photo opportunities. Test your aim as you toss presents into sacks, try on our giant Santa boots and climb aboard the sleigh, drawn by delightful willow reindeer.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/hampshire/hinton-ampner/christmas-at-hinton-ampner
The Twelve Days of Christmas at The Vyne
21 November to 3 January (closed 24 & 25 December), normal admission charge only
Handcrafted scenes and glittering decorations bring this much-loved carol to life at The Vyne, with elegant swans, uniformed drummers, beautiful dancers’ dresses, even a life-sized cow. Pick up a free game of Christmas Bingo and spot familiar gifts and characters hidden among the decorations. Outside, a Christmas trail features ten playful challenges – leap like a lord over the hurdles, help the maids milk a cow and race your wheelbarrow of golden eggs back to Mother Goose.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/hampshire/the-vyne/christmas-at-the-vyne
Christmas at Uppark, 6 to 22 December, Sunday to Tuesday, normal admission charge only
Step into a glamorous Georgian Christmas at Uppark, where decorated trees and piles of presents take centre stage, lit by twinkling fairy lights and sparkling chandeliers. Swathes of festive garlands and baubles wind their way up the staircase, and the dining room is transformed with a Christmas feast scene.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/uppark-house-and-garden/christmas-at-uppark-house-and-garden
A Gingerbread Christmas at Winchester City Mill, Thursday to Sunday, 19 November to 3 January, plus Monday 21 to Thursday 24 December, free entry
This atmospheric historic mill in the centre of the city is brimming with the delights of Christmas. You’ll find richly decorated trees with gingham bows, baubles and strings of gingerbread characters, reflecting the Mill’s flour-producing heritage. Green garlands and stacks of presents fill this special space with festive cheer. Don’t miss the cosy café, full of warm seasonal treats.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/hampshire/winchester-city-mill/christmas-at-winchester-city-mill
