A Magical Christmas on Dartmoor – Festive Days Out Near Lydgate House 2026 🎄

There's something truly special about Dartmoor as Christmas approaches. The landscape takes on a peaceful winter beauty, the villages begin to sparkle with festive decorations, and historic houses, gardens and castles come alive with Christmas traditions.

Whether you're joining us at Lydgate House for our Christmas celebrations or planning a relaxing break before the festivities begin, there are some wonderful seasonal experiences to enjoy across Devon and Cornwall.

From magnificent handmade Christmas garlands and beautifully decorated National Trust properties to enchanting illuminated gardens and independent Christmas markets, there's plenty to discover.

We've put together some of our favourite festive places to visit, perfect for making your stay at Lydgate House even more memorable.

✨ Cotehele – 70 Years of the Famous Christmas Garland

One of our absolute favourites, Cotehele is celebrating 70 years of its magnificent Christmas garland in 2026!

Since 1956, the gardeners have created a spectacular 60-foot garland using thousands of flowers grown and dried on the estate. Hanging in the Tudor Great Hall, it's a wonderful sight and a lovely Christmas tradition.

This year, visitors can even watch the gardeners creating the garland before it goes on display.

2026 dates and times

• Garland making: 9–19 November, 10.30am–4pm

• Completed garland: 21 November 2026 – 5 January 2027, 10.30am–4pm

• Closed 25 and 26 December

• Normal National Trust admission applies; no advance booking needed for individual visitors

🎄 Killerton House – A Traditional Christmas in 1923

Step back in time at Killerton House, where Christmas 2026 celebrates the festive traditions of the Acland family in 1923.

Wander through beautifully decorated rooms, admire traditional Christmas trees and discover how the family celebrated the season over a century ago.

The chapel will also feature community-decorated Christmas trees, while the grounds offer lovely winter walks.

2026 dates and times

• 28 November 2026 – 3 January 2027

• Grounds and Christmas event: 10am–4.30pm

• House: 11am–4pm, last entry 3.30pm

• 24 December closes at 2pm; closed 25 and 26 December

• Normal National Trust admission applies; no booking required for general visits

✨ Buckland Abbey – A Nostalgic 1950s Christmas

This Christmas, Buckland Abbey is turning back the clock to the 1950s, with a wonderfully nostalgic 'White Christmas' celebration.

The magnificent Great Barn will be filled with Christmas trees and vintage decorations, while inside the Abbey you'll discover traditional toys, festive music and a beautifully decorated Georgian staircase.

There will also be seasonal performances from local musicians and choirs, making it an especially lovely place to visit in December.

2026 dates and times

• 28 November 2026 – 4 January 2027

• Great Barn: 10am–4pm

• Abbey: 11am–3.30pm, last entry 3pm

• Closed 25 and 26 December

• Christmas music: 5, 6, 19 and 20 December, with performances between 11am and 2.30pm depending on the date

• Historic Christmas cookery: 12 and 13 December, 11am–2.30pm

🎁 Green Hill Arts – Winter Fair 2026

If you love discovering beautiful handmade gifts, Green Hill Arts in nearby Moretonhampstead is well worth a visit.

Its much-loved Winter Fair brings together talented local artists and makers, with a wonderful selection of ceramics, jewellery, textiles, paintings, candles and handcrafted gifts.

It's the perfect opportunity to find something a little different for Christmas while supporting local creativity.

2026 dates and times

• 13 November – 24 December 2026

• Wednesday–Saturday, 10am–4pm

• Free admission

🏰 Powderham Castle – Christmas at the Castle

For a truly magical festive evening, Powderham Castle is a wonderful choice.

The castle and grounds will be transformed with thousands of twinkling lights, creating an enchanting setting for an evening stroll.

Follow the illuminated trail through the grounds and beside the lake, admire the beautifully lit castle and enjoy festive music and seasonal refreshments along the way.

For couples looking for a memorable evening out, this is certainly one to add to the Christmas calendar.

2026 dates and times

• 29 November – 30 December 2026

• Evening illuminations: 4.15pm–8.30pm, last entry 7.30pm

• Daytime festive experiences: 10am–4pm on selected dates

• Evening light walk from £11 per adult

• Castle entry and parking are additional charges

• Advance booking recommended

🌟 RHS Garden Rosemoor – RHS Glow 2026

If you enjoy beautiful gardens, RHS Rosemoor is a wonderful place to experience the magic of Christmas after dark.

Its annual Glow event transforms the gardens with colourful illuminations, glowing trees and enchanting light displays.

Wander along the illuminated paths, admire the gardens in a completely different light and enjoy a warming seasonal treat.

2026 dates and times

• Selected dates from 27 November – 30 December 2026

• 4.30pm–8.30pm

• Last entry to the Glow route: 7.15pm

• Advance booking essential

❤️ Make Lydgate House Your Festive Retreat

After a day exploring Christmas markets, historic houses or sparkling winter gardens, there's nothing quite like returning to the peace and warmth of Lydgate House.

Set within our beautiful 36-acre Dartmoor valley, our adults-only country house hotel is the perfect place to unwind before the Christmas rush.

Enjoy a relaxing drink beside the roaring fire, delicious seasonal cooking from Sarah's kitchen and a peaceful night's sleep surrounded by the beauty of Dartmoor.

There's still time to enjoy a little break before Christmas, and we'd love to welcome you!

To enquire about availability, call Kelly or Sarah on 01822 880209.

Please remember that Lydgate House will be closed throughout January, February and March 2027 for our exciting improvements, reopening in April.

We look forward to sharing a little Dartmoor Christmas magic with you!