A Tudor Christmas of ‘Feast and Festivity’

Step back in time and experience a Christmas Elizabethan style! With cooking in the kitchen, festive dancing in the great hall and the traditional Lord of Misrule causing mischief – it is a Christmas not to be missed.

Under a canopy of stars created by school children from St Andrew's Primary at Buckland Monachorum, nine beautiful arrangements using flowers and natural materials are being created to depict some popular tales often featured in Elizabethan masques, bringing the theme of ‘Elizabethan Feast and Festivity’ to life.

Once you have admired the Great Barn, you won't want to miss the decorated abbey where the decorations continue throughout the ground floor. From kissing boughs to marchpane galleons, the stage is set for a perfect Tudor Christmas. Whether you want to sample the seasonal sights and smells of a busy kitchen or take a moment's peace in the chapel, you'll certainly leave feeling full of festive cheer.

And after Christmas why not visit to walk off the overindulgence, join us for a wassail in the orchard or come along to enjoy the final month of the Art of Reflection in January.

AN AUDIENCE WITH OLDE FATHER CHRISTMAS

18-22 December – 16.15 to 19.45

The seasonal magic begins with an evening visit from Olde Father Christmas, dressed all in green telling tales of Christmas past. Ticket includes a very special keepsake for children and hot chocolate/mulled wine and mince pie/Christmas shortbread. Booking essential.

FESTIVE FUN AND FAMILY ACTIVITIES

2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17 and 23 December – times vary

Every weekend there’ll be craft activities including felting, mosaic making, rag-rugging or ‘nature making’, with dancing in the house or the Lord of Misrule holding court and being generally naughty.

For more details visit nationaltrust.org.uk/buckland-abbey