Wonder more: See the Christmas lights at these magical museums
From a Georgian town house transformed for a festive ball to one of the most iconic ice skating rinks in London, visit these museums to get into the Christmas spirit.
Festive lights, Christmas trees, mulled wine. It really is the most wonderful time of the year.
And did you know? The high street isn't the only place to find that festive magic. Museums are perfect for soaking up the joy of the season – with many putting up beautiful decorations, twinkly lights and Christmas trees.
Whether your festive traditions involve regressing into a teenager or stuffing yourself with mince pies, a museum trip offers a great way to unwind while soaking up that cosy Christmas atmosphere.
So, if you're looking for great places to see the Christmas lights in London or across the UK, below are some of our favourites. Just don't forget to pack your National Art Pass to make savings at all 11 venues.
Discover some of the best Christmas lights in London
Kensington Palace
Spend Christmas with a young Queen Victoria, who celebrated the yuletide season in the seaside town of Ramsgate. Traditional decorations and displays adorn Kensington Palace, bringing her childhood trips to life. Meet the sailors she met, encounter a miniature pier scene amidst a Christmas feast, and step into shell grotto-inspired experience.
V&A South Kensington
The V&A in South Kensington almost always has a stunning Christmas tree display, and this year is no different. Inspired by the museum's two blockbuster exhibitions Marie Antoinette Style and Cartier (now closed), the tree is fittingly opulent – decorated with luminous glass baubles, crystal chandelier ornaments and hand-embroidered silks. Designed by florist Shane Connolly, don't miss the opportunity to marvel at this festive installation of twinkling lights. And make sure to pop by their iconic gift shop for some of the best Christmas cards going.
Somerset House
Arguably one of London's most famous Christmas trees and ice skating rinks, a trip to Somerset House will not disappoint anyone who wants to soak up the festive spirit and see a 40ft fir. If you're feeling brave, book ice skating tickets and glide (or hobble) around that rink before settling into their cosy Apline-style chalet, where you can treat yourself to a warm drink and an oozing raclette.
Please note: Skate tickets are not subject to National Art Pass discounts.
Museum of the Home
Want to see how people of the past, present and future decorate their homes during the winter season? From a Hanukkah in 1913 to a Midwinter in 1630, a 'friendsmas' in 2005 to a New Year's Eve in 2049 – the Museum of the Home's cosy Rooms Through Time displays get the festive treament to reveal how different communities celebrate and dress up their abodes at this time of year.
Discover some of the best Christmas lights across the UK
Fairfax House
Party like it's 1799 in Fairfax House's Christmas celebrations. The Georgian townhouse has been decorated for a glamorous ball, hosted by Ann Fairfax and her father, the Viscount. But be warned – a family of tiny felt mice dressed in extremely cute Georgian costumes will be causing chaos throughout the house. What's not to love?
The Royal Pavilion
Celebrate 250 years since the birth of Jane Austen and accompany some of her beloved characters on a Regency-style festive trip to the Royal Pavilion in Brighton. Marvel at themed Christmas trees and meet costumed characters. Plus, there's a fun, family-friendly trail to keep kids entertained too.
Beamish, The Living Museum of the North
From an 1820s Christmas at Pockerley Old Hall with traditional decorations and a feast, to a wartime Christmas at the 1940s farm with ration recipes and homemade gifts – the magic of Christmas through history is brought to life at Beamish. Here, you can interact with costumed characters, hop on a vintage tram, or get some treats from a traditional sweet shop. And to get even more in the Christmas spirit, don't miss a visit to the big man in his grotto.
Please note: grotto tickets are not subject to National Art Pass discounts.
Ulster Folk Museum
Wander the fairy light-lined cobbled streets of Ulster Folk Museum and marvel at the chocolate box cottages and historic buildings all dressed up for the yuletide season. Catch a silent Christmas movie at the 1850s cinema, hear the dulcet tones of a brass band, sing alongside carol singers, or take part in some traditional festive crafts. And to keep warm, the Parochial Hall are serving mulled wine and hot toddies.
Blists Hill Victorian Town
Did you know? The Victorians adored Christmas and even popularised two of our most beloved festive traditions: the humble Christmas tree and the sending of Christmas cards. So, why not have a Victorian Christmas? At Blists Hill Victorian Town, go on one of their Christmas trails and receive a gift at the end. Visiting on the weekend? Make sure to say hello to the characters from Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol who will be greeting you on the cobbled streets.
Chawton House
Experience a Regency Christmas at Chawton House, who will also be celebrating the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen's birth. Bespoke decorations inspired by 19th-century traditions will adorn each room, bringing the Christmas spirit of coming together, sharing and making to life. And while you're there, wander through the illuminated gardens for that extra slice of twinkly festive magic.
St Fagans National Museum of History
Explore over 40 historic buildings at St Fagans National Museum of History and see how they would have been decorated to celebrate the season over the years. Wholesome festive activities include a family-friendly reindeer trail, Christmas carols in an 18th-century chapel, cookie decorating, and performances of an ancient Welsh Christmas custom: The Mari Lwyd and Hunting of the Wren. But don't be alarmed – we have it on good authority that no wrens will be harmed during this traditional singing and dancing experience.