This festive season, Chawton House invites you to step into a world of holiday wonder. From 6 December to 5 January, immerse yourself in the warmth and magic of Christmas with enchanting displays inside and outside, workshops, and events that bring the season to life.

Opening Hours

  • December 6th-17th: Open Wednesday-Sunday, 11am–6pm (last entry 5:30pm).
  • December 18th-January 5th: Open every day except 24, 25, and 26 December, 11am–6pm (last entry 5:30pm).

The Glimmering Gardens will illuminate at 3pm daily, offering a twinkling wonderland after dark.

Key Christmas Highlights

A Storybook Christmas

From December 6th, Chawton House transforms into a festive wonderland inspired by classic children’s books and holiday tales. Each room showcases handcrafted decorations by our talented Christmas Committee, bringing beloved stories to life:

  • The Great Hall: Post your letter to Santa amidst The Night Before Christmas.
  • The Dining Room: Spot the scenes from The 12 Days of Christmas.
  • The Tapestry Gallery: Dance with the Nutcracker and meet the Mouse King.
  • The Oak Room: Step into the icy realm of The Snow Queen.
  • The Library: Meet the Library Mouse as your journey concludes.

The Glimmering Gardens

Explore our magical Gardens from 3pm-6pm on opening days. Wander through the illuminated Walled Garden, Wilderness, and South Lawn to see Chawton House in a new light.

 

Festive Displays

  • Beautiful Bindings (Long Gallery): Discover the history of personalized bookbindings from the 17th to 19th centuries.
  • Literary Gifts (Library): Celebrate the tradition of gifting books, with examples from parents, aunts, and siblings.

Food & Shopping

Enjoy seasonal treats in the Old Kitchen Tearoom with a special Christmas menu from Wednesday 11 December, and shop for unique gifts in our Christmas Shop.

 

Special Events

Winter Wreath Workshop

  • When: Friday, December 13th, 6-8pm.
  • Details: Create a festive wreath with materials from our gardens, guided by florist Helen Knight. Includes mulled wine and mince pies.
  • Tickets: £60pp (materials provided).

Create Your Own Christmas Decorations Workshop

  • When: Saturday, December 14th, 11am-3pm.
  • Details: Make handmade decorations with local artist Julia Morgan. Includes a hot drink and mince pie.
  • Tickets: £48pp.

Jane Austen Birthday Tour

  • When: Monday, December 16th, 2-3:30pm.
  • Details: Celebrate Austen’s 249th birthday with a guided tour exploring her connection to Chawton House and its influence on her writing.
  • Tickets: £15 (includes tea/coffee).

Festive Private View: Jane Austen’s Birthday

  • When: Monday, December 16th, 5:30-7:30pm.
  • Details: Enjoy mulled wine, mince pies, and an exclusive view of rare items from our collection, including Austen’s handwritten manuscript of Sir Charles Grandison.
  • Tickets: £30.

House History Tour

  • When: Monday, December 23rd, 11:30am-12:45pm.
  • Details: Discover Chawton House’s history, quirky features, and links to Jane Austen.
  • Tickets: £12.50.

Mary Robinson: Actress. Mistress. Writer. Radical

Our popular exhibition continues with:

  • Curator’s Tour: December 14th, 1-2:15pm.
  • Online Talk: Mary Robinson: Celebrity with Paula Byrne & Hilary Davidson, December 18th, 8-9pm.

 

For more details and tickets, visit our What’s On page.

Celebrate the season with stories, history, and the magic of Christmas at Chawton House!