Christmas comes early with Castle first

Powis Castle will open its doors for the first time ever in the run-up to Christmas when it launches its Festive celebrations this weekend.

Normally closed on October 31 for the winter, the Castle will welcome visitors to take a tour of the lower floor state rooms which will be dressed with traditional Edwardian Christmas decorations.

Emily Harrison, Assistant Visitor Services Manager, said: “We often get visitors asking if the Castle opens for the festive season – and this year we can say yes! Visitors will be able to see the Entrance Hall, Smoking Room and State Dining Room dressed with traditional decorations and then visit our Servant’s exhibition in the cellars, which is only normally open to visitors on rare occasions.”

The winter events programme starts with the ‘Country Christmas at Powis’ weekend on Saturday and Sunday, from 11am – 3.30pm.

The event will also see the return of its popular annual winter fair taking place in the stables, restaurant and Ballroom. There will be a range of gift and craft stalls selling jewellery, cards, stocking fillers, ceramics and skin care as well as food stalls selling local produce with a festive flavour. The National Trust Christmas shop will be located in the stable shop – another first this year.

Emily added: “With Christmas just around the corner what better way to get into the festive spirit than by starting (or completing!) your Christmas shopping in the spectacular setting of Powis Castle.”

Santa is even set to make his first appearance of the year in his magical grotto next to the shop.

Entry into the winter fair, shop and restaurant is FREE; admission charges apply for the castle and garden, except for children under five and National Trust members who have free entry. There will also be a small charge for visiting Santa’s grotto.

The castle is open every weekend through to December 19.

Bookings are also being taken for a special festive lunch on Friday, December 17 and can be made by calling 01938 551927.

For further information or to book tickets, call the visitor services department on 01938 551929.