ILLUMINATED BATTLE ABBEY
Step into history this festive season with an immersive trail of stunning lights, unique installations and awe-inspiring effects, all themed around 1066 and the epic Battle of Hastings.
Warm up with a hot chocolate or, for the grown-ups, grab a glass of mulled cider or wine. Afterwards, treat yourself to something to eat in our café or out by the lights.
Book now and saveEXCLUSIVE CHRISTMAS EVENTS FOR MEMBERS
Freedom and Photography at Portchester Castle
Join artists Eva Louisa Jonas and Maya Brasington for a unique photography workshop at historic Portchester Castle.
Explore the castle grounds while learning about the fascinating history of Black prisoners of war once held within its walls.
Find out moreImmersive Christmas experiences
Enter a world of storytelling and make-believe, as our sites brim with Christmas spirit this season.
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Narnia at Wrest Park
Step through the wardrobe and explore the snowy magic of Narnia at Wrest Park this Christmas.
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Illuminated Battle Abbey
Follow this dazzling light trail through the ruins and across the grounds as lights and sounds carry you back to winter 1066.
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Spirit of Christmas at Eltham Palace
Enjoy an hour-long immersive and theatrical journey through the stunning art-deco mansion, perfect for the whole family.
Meet Father Christmas
Father Christmas has planned a series of special stops at sites around the country, as he prepares for the big day. This December, gather around the Christmas tree as he shares a festive story, receive a special gift to take home and make merry memories to treasure.
Find an event near meFestive Fun Weekends
Wrap up warm and fill your weekends with Christmas cheer at our Festive Fun events. There’ll be a host of jolly entertainment for the whole family, from storytelling to toymaking, carols to Christmas crafts and more.
Weekends at selected sites from 30 November until 22 December
Find an event near meTraditional wreath-making workshops
Get creative this Christmas and make your very own wreath to take home. Our gardening team will guide you through classic designs, using festive foliage and sprigs from English Heritage's gardens. Everything you need to create a wreath is provided for you – including tasty winter warmers!
Christmas Carols
As the winter evening draws in, celebrate the season at our traditional carols evenings in stunning surroundings.
CHRISTMAS AFTERNOON TEAS
Indulge in a festive feast this Christmas with a delicious afternoon tea at:
Enjoy classic Christmas treats like smoked salmon blinis, sandwiches and an assortment of sweet treats, all paired with your choice of tea, coffee or prosecco. Little ones can also enjoy fun finger sandwiches, fresh fruit and cakes with a choice of milkshakes or juice. Make this a part of your family's Christmas - simply add an afternoon tea at the checkout.
Million and More Appeal
More than 85% of our collections are protected within stores across the country, that's more than a million historic objects. Every piece in our collections tells a story about England's past and helps us to understand our present. We care for these objects to safeguard the stories that define who we are and to ensure they last for future generations.
We urgently need your help to protect these stories and stop them being lost forever.
Donate todayMORE TO EXPLORE
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Top 5 things to do in November
This November, we’ve got plenty of ideas to help inspire your visits. Discover the fascinating true story behind Bonfire Night, enjoy memorable days out and get ahead with the Christmas shopping!
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Things to do on a rainy day
If you're looking for rainy-day ideas, we have plenty of historic places in which the family can hide, play and enjoy a great day out, whatever the weather may have in store.
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Become a member
As an English Heritage member you can delve far deeper into our history. Join today to get unlimited access to the spectacular places where history really happened.