This Christmas, Castle Coole invites visitors of all ages to step into a holiday wonderland filled with festive activities, historical charm, and hands-on fun.
With events designed to captivate both children and adults alike, Castle Coole offers an enchanting seasonal experience.
Children and families can enjoy the Children’s Cosy Christmas - a festive journey through Castle Coole that brings the holiday season to life.
Begin with a photo beside the grand Christmas tree in the beautiful hall, then gather around the fireside in the Breakfast Room for captivating Christmas tales.
Next, descend to the basement, where young ones can write letters to Santa Claus and get creative with holiday crafts.
After posting their letters in a special "express delivery" mailbox, children head to the kitchen to bake and decorate festive treats to take home.
Before leaving, each child receives a Castle Coole Christmas token, which can be exchanged for a warming hot chocolate in the tearoom.
This event runs as two-hour sessions on selected dates: November 30, December 1, 7, 8, 14 and 15.
Families can choose morning or early afternoon slots, and the final day offers extended afternoon sessions.
For adults looking to embrace the festive spirit, the Make a Gift Workshop Series at Castle Coole offers a unique opportunity to create personalised Christmas gifts.
Led by skilled local artists including Michelle Duffy, these workshops let participants explore crafting techniques in the Grand Yard’s elegant setting.
From fused glass decorating and ceramic painting to fabric art and willow weaving, these sessions allow guests to create one-of-a-kind gifts, perfect for spreading Christmas cheer to loved ones.
Alongside crafting, participants can enjoy seasonal treats, making these workshops a festive evening well spent.
Castle Coole’s Festive Twilight Tour on December 14 immerses visitors in a historic Christmas atmosphere.
Join the family and servants of Castle Coole as they prepare the mansion for the holidays, recreating the arrival of the 4th Earl of Belmore as he brings Christmas celebrations to the grand estate.
With award-winning volunteers guiding the tour, guests can explore the mansion’s festive décor and hear stories from an era gone by.
Prosecco or soft drinks are served on arrival, and the tour concludes with wine and cheese in the cosy basement kitchen.
A special film night on December 7 offers visitors a chance to enjoy a classic Christmas movie by the fireside in Castle Coole’s intimate Breakfast Room.
Hosted by Jonathan Beatty in partnership with Fermanagh Film Club, this event promises a cosy night of cinematic holiday spirit.
Guests can relax by the fireplace with popcorn, prosecco, and seasonal treats while watching the heart-warming movie, 'The Holiday', an ideal choice to get everyone into the Christmas mood.
Castle Coole’s festive offerings provide an array of activities to enjoy the season’s magic in a beautiful historic setting.
Whether creating crafts, baking treats, exploring holiday traditions, or simply enjoying a classic film by the fire, Castle Coole makes this Christmas one to remember.
For further information and for tickets, see the National Trust's website.
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