One of the East Midlands most spectacular hidden gems is set to welcome visitors this Christmas for four very special festive events.
Normally closed to the public, Harlaxton Manor will open its doors on Saturday 3rd, Sunday 4th, Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th December for a magical series of Christmas Open House events, giving guests exclusive access to the 19th Century manor in rural Lincolnshire.
Father Christmas will be making a series of special appearances, while live music from their resident pianist and singer will entertain the whole family.
Meanwhile, there’ll be goodies galore, with every magnificent stateroom festively decorated and each room fittingly decked out for the occasion. Learn the intriguing history of the manor and see if you can spot the naughty elves hidden throughout.
Events manager for Harlaxton Manor, Bethan Price, said:
“After a rapturous reception to last year’s Christmas Open House, which is the first time the manor has ever been open to the public over the festive period in its history, we’ve upped the ante for 2022.
“Come along and explore our cherished Grade I listed building at the most beautiful time of year, adorned in garlands, twinkling lights and with a 30ft Christmas tree welcoming guests into our winter wonderland.
“With its unusual fusion of Jacobean, Elizabethan, and Baroque architecture, it really is a uniquely impressive piece of history. The manor has a history as rich and storied as its magnificent edifice.
“Come along for a simply spellbinding Christmas that the whole family will enjoy, complete with festive food, music, gifts and, of course, the perfect backdrop for awesome seasonal snaps to share with friends and loved ones.”
To mark the occasion, the manor will be adorned in festive finery, with each of its state rooms decorated with Christmas trees and seasonal regalia. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn about the intriguing history of Harlaxton Manor with a selection of guides on hand, while enjoying the ethereal acoustics of a local choir, complementing a singer in the Great Hall, and the manor’s resident pianist, Bill Kibby, who will also be on hand to provide a soothing seasonal soundtrack.
There will be three whole rooms dedicated to dishing up delicious seasonal food: the state dining room, the morning room and the refectory.
Everything from mince pies and pulled pork sausage rolls to mulled cider and wine will be on offer – including vegan and gluten-free options and delectable desserts. We will be selling American candy to give guests a sample of stateside cuisine and staff and students will dress as festive elves to usher little ones to meet Father Christmas in his grotto – and may even receive a personal gift. Finally, the manor’s Christmas Boutique will be open for businesses, selling a variety of festive wares for everything you need for an extraordinary Christmas.
Located close to the Lincolnshire, Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire borders, Harlaxton Manor is a dramatic and unforgettable country house set in 300 acres of parkland and gardens. For 50 years, Harlaxton Manor has been home to Harlaxton College, the overseas study centre of the University of Evansville, welcoming thousands of students to live, learn and study in the inspiring setting. Prior to this, the manor was a private home, constructed in 1831.
The festive Open House events will operate on Saturday 3rd, Sunday 4th, Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th December. Tickets are available for £18 per adult, £10 for children and £12 for concessions. Family tickets are available for £45. While the manor is open from 10am – 5pm, the last entry is at 4pm. Morning and afternoon tickets are available. Advance booking is recommended, although a limited number of tickets will be available on the day. Tickets can be purchased from events.harlaxton.co.uk.
News of this year’s Christmas events comes shortly after the manor revealed plans to restore an “extraordinary” 19th century walled garden within its grounds. Subject to planning permissions, it’s hoped that construction for this project can begin in June 2023, before opening to the public in 2025.
For more information on Harlaxton Manor, upcoming events and the Walled Garden project can be found at www.harlaxton.co.uk.
