Get into the Christmas spirit with a workshop at the National Trust
This Christmas, impress family and friends with unique hand-made decorations while learning a new skill when you join a workshop with the National Trust. From candle making to Christmas garlands, you can display your creations, or wrap them as a special, hand-made gift for loved ones.
© Andrew Butler
Christmas garland making workshop with Sian Johnson at Knole
Design a festive centrepiece to decorate your fireplace, dining table or staircase to give guests the wow factor. Using a variety of foliage and materials, and under the guidance and expertise of Sian Johnson, you will create your garland before adding some personal touches with decorations. There will be plenty to inspire you, whatever your design and colour scheme.
All materials and refreshments included. £60 per person. Monday 5 December, 2:00pm‑4:30pm
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/knole/whats-on
Garland workshop – © Sian Johnson
Christmas candle making workshop with The Aromatic Candle Company at Knole
Nothing sums up Christmas better than the smell of oranges, cinnamon and cloves wafting through the house. In this cosy candle making workshop, you can celebrate Christmas with your favourite scents when you create your own luxury fragrance in a container candle, plus wax melts and aromatic wax tablets.
Over the four hours, enjoy some calm from the chaos of Christmas as you’re guided through the workshop by The Aromatic Candle Company accompanied by a delicious cream tea.
No experience necessary. All materials included. £85 per person. Friday 9 December, 10:30am‑2:30pm. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/knole/whats-on
Christmas woven willow stars with Emily Chilvers at Knole
Adorn your tree and door with two stunning stars made from Somerset grown willow. You will be guided through the process by Emily Chilvers to create a large and small star, complete with twinkly lights and ready to display.
Materials, including a small set of fairy lights, are included. Refreshments included. £50 per person. Wednesday 14 December, 10:30am‑1:00pm.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/knole/whats-on
Christmas woven willow stars – ©Emily Chilvers
Christmas watercolour workshop with Emmy Gabrielle at Knole
Enjoy a morning of mindfulness and creativity as you explore watercolour painting with a festive twist. All abilities are welcome from complete beginners to experienced painters as your tutor, Emmy, will guide you with practical advice and encourage you to unleash your creativity.
All materials and refreshments provided. £45 per person. Thursday 15 December, 10:30am‑1:00pm.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/knole/whats-on
Christmas watercolour workshop – © Emmy Gabrielle
When you’ve finished your workshop, don’t miss a trip to the BFG in Pictures exhibition in the Orangery at Knole where you can enjoy Quentin Blake’s illustrations, including some of the original designs for the Big Friendly Giant which show the evolution of the character. There’s also plenty to entertain younger visitors, from family trails to Christmas activities.
Knole Fawns: Christmas special at Knole
Our monthly family group, Knole Fawns, will be hosting a Christmas special with themed activities including finger painting a Christmas tree, or making your own reindeer, perfect for precious keepsakes or gifts for family.
£5 per child. Friday 16 December, 10:30am-12:00pm
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/knole/whats-on
Childrens woodcraft workshop – © Mollie Barden
Children’s woodcraft decoration workshop at Knole
This special workshop will guide children to make their own keyring and a set of Christmas decorations using a piece of wood from our very own woodland.
£12.50 per child. All materials included. Tuesday 20 Dec, 10:30am-12:30pm.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/knole/whats-on
Christmas storytelling at Chartwell
Grab a Christmas jumper and join us at Winston Churchill’s former home for an hour of storytelling. Taking place in the cottage, which will be beautifully decorated, families can enjoy festive tales followed by a delicious treat.
£5 per child. Adults must accompany children but do not need to purchase their own ticket. 13th and 15th December, 11:00am-12:00pm (pre-school)/ 19th and 21st December, 11:00am-12:00pm or 1:00pm‑2:00pm (age 4 plus).
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/chartwell/whats-on
