The National Trust unveils its best Christmas days out across Northern Ireland
- Love Ballymena
- 6 hours ago
- 3 min read
Christmas at Castke Ward
As winter settles in and festive lights begin to glow across Northern Ireland, the National Trust has announced a packed programme of Christmas events for 2024, inviting families, couples and day-trippers to step into a season of heritage, atmosphere and celebration.
From twinkling gardens and historic mansions dressed for Christmases gone by, to festive markets and crisp winter walks, the charity says there is “hundreds of special moments” waiting across its sites this December.
Janet Vance, Experiences and Partnerships Curator at the National Trust, said:
“Whether it’s the mist rising on a morning walk, the sparkle of baubles and the glow fairy lights, there are hundreds of special moments just waiting to be enjoyed this Christmas with the National Trust across Northern Ireland.
“Enjoy a taste of Christmas past with historic houses dressed in all the trimmings, like Castle Ward’s Georgian Christmas. Experience the brand-new Twilight Market at The Argory and pick up some local crafts with the return of the Yuletide Market at Rowallane Garden.
“Or wrap up and get outside for the winter trail at Mount Stewart and enjoy festive family classics with the Christmas Choir Series at Mussenden Temple.”
Below is a roundup of this year’s highlights.
Rowallane Garden – Yuletide Market returns
Always a special occasion - Christmas markets with the National Trust in Northern Ireland
Rowallane Garden becomes a winter wonderland throughout December, with glittering lights, festive greenery and the return of its much-loved Yuletide Market on 13 and 14 December.
Visitors can browse artisan crafts, enjoy hot food and drinks, and soak up the sound of live Christmas music.
Santa and Mrs Claus will be wandering through the grounds, greeting families as they explore. Children can also take part in the Christmas Letter Trail, a magical festive walk leading to a hidden Christmas Postbox somewhere in the garden!
Mount Stewart – late-night unveilings and festive creativity
Mount Stewart is set to sparkle with a full calendar of seasonal events. The late-night Christmas Unveiling on 20 December invite visitors to explore the house after dark, glowing with elegant trees and seasonal decorations as part of the “Christmas in the Big House” experience.
Through December and early January, families can follow a festive nature trail, while adults can take part in wreath-making workshops and sensory music sessions.
For a more restorative experience, the Winter Solstice Sound Spa will be held at the Temple of the Winds on 20 December, overlooking Strangford Lough.
Castle Ward – a Georgian Christmas
Visitors to Castle Ward can experience the indulgence and extravagance of an 18th-century Georgian Christmastide.
On 7, 13 and 14 December, the mansion will be decorated with lavish period displays, offering guests a glimpse of the luxury and feasting that characterised Georgian celebrations.
The Argory – festive markets and winter cheer
The Argory hosts its traditional Christmas Fair on 7 December, bringing the courtyard to life with artisan stalls, live music and festive food – from BBQ and seasonal fries to rich hot chocolate.
Santa may also make an appearance to add an extra touch of Christmas magic.
North Coast – festive walks and choir performances
For those seeking bracing sea air and breathtaking views, the National Trust’s North Coast sites offer a different way to celebrate Christmas.
Downhill’s dramatic clifftop landscape and the iconic Mussenden Temple will host a series of Christmas Choir Series performances.
Visitors can also enjoy a winter walk along Portstewart Strand or the peaceful White Park Bay, before exploring the conservation village of Cushendun, where traditional stone walls lead to cosy cafés and pubs perfect for warming up after a day outdoors.
Events are correct at the time of publication. Visitors are advised to check individual webpages for full details, opening times and booking information at the National Trust’s Christmas hub: