Step into Christmas at Auckland Palace
Visitors are invited to experience the magic of Christmas at Auckland Palace as the historic home of the Prince Bishops is transformed with spectacular decorations.
From 21 November to 31 December, twelve of the Palace’s State Rooms, St Peter’s Chapel and Private Apartments will be dressed for the festive season.
The Gentlemen’s Hall will be transformed into a winter wonderland, while the Ante Room will be packed with an array of gift boxes scattered around Christmas trees. The Throne Room will be filled with Christmas trees echoing the room’s blush pinks and midnight blues, and the Long Dining Room will dazzle with golden platters, velvet garlands and sparkling crystal set against the famous Zurbarán portraits. In the Breakfast Room, a striking peacock will take centre stage, while the Bishop’s Study will evoke a warm festive charm with gilded books, appliqué birds and autumnal decorations.
At the heart of the Palace, the meticulously restored medieval Bishop’s Kitchen – which will also be decorated for the season - will offer visitors a new festive menu launching on 21 November. It will comprise hearty soups, artisan pies, sandwiches, and cakes, alongside Festive Afternoon Tea, served daily from 12–3 pm and featuring firm favourites, including turkey and stuffing, cheese and pickle, and mini prawn cocktail sandwiches, alongside warm festive scones and indulgent sweet treats. Guests can also upgrade to a High Tea with Prosecco.
Another highlight will be the Festive Cheese Board, featuring a selection of local cheeses served with grapes, Christmas cake, crackers, and The Auckland Project’s own spiced apple and pear chutney.
Adding to the experience, visitors will have the opportunity to see Auckland Palace’s 18th-century Neapolitan Nativity scene on display in the Faith Museum, which is one of the most important examples outside Italy. Measuring 11ft tall and 15ft wide, this remarkable Baroque presepe stages the Nativity within a bustling Neapolitan setting, blending Christian and classical mythology with the traditions of everyday Naples. The display features more than 421 individually crafted figures. Entry to the Nativity is included in the Christmas at Auckland Palace ticket, with free entry for Bishop’s Key members.
Cheryl Durkin, Head of Events and Programming at The Auckland Project, said: “Christmas at Auckland Palace is a chance to enjoy one of the region’s most historic landmarks in a whole new light. The decorations bring together tradition, creativity and the rich history of the Palace offering a truly memorable festive day out for all.”
Christmas at Auckland Palace accompanies AGLOW, a 1.5-mile festive light trail through Auckland Palace’s historic parkland. Comprising over 24 illuminations, Santa’s Village serving a vast array of festive street food and live performances from Santa’s helpers, AGLOW will open on Saturday 22 November. Moreover, new for this year, there will be a cosy tipi bar on the Arrivals Court serving refreshments.
Tickets for AGLOW start at £13.50, while entry to Christmas at Auckland Palace is included with a Bishop’s Key or Christmas at Auckland Palace ticket.
Christmas at Auckland Palace will run during standard opening hours, 10.30am – 4pm. Timed tickets are required. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays (Open 22 & 23 December).