Knightshayes sparkles with Victorian Christmas magic

Tiverton’s National Trust property is gearing up for a season of warming winter festivities.

Until January 5, Knighthayes will be decked out for a Victorian Christmas, with the gardens and house exterior illuminated on select evenings for Winter Lights.

In the house, the ground floor will be decorated to reflect Victorian traditions, including a 40ft Christmas tree in the Great Hall, lavishly decorated with lights and presents.

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Each room reflects a different tradition and the character of the space. Visitors can see toys, trainsets and flower displays, as well as hear Victorian Christmas ghost stories.

In the gardens, there will be a light trail from the stables around the formal and woodland garden on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays between November 29 and December 22, until 7pm.

Features of the house and gardens will be illuminated, showing Knightshayes in a different light and adding a festive feel to the trees and architecture.

Willow sculptures and decorations will give a new look to the garden, and visitors can keep warm with drinks and snacks from the café.

“It’s so wonderful seeing Knightshayes decorated and glowing for Christmas,” said Claire Forkes, visitor operations and experience manager. “Being able to welcome visitors and be part of their festivities is really special and we’re so pleased to be able to offer more evenings for Winter Lights this year. It’s a winter tradition that we want everyone to feel part of.”

The gardens, café and shop are open daily 10am to 4pm, the house is open 11am to 4pm. Late nights for the Winter Lights, house and stables run fron10am to 7pm.

Further details are available on the Knightshayes website.