It’s the most wonderful time of the year and here in Rutland there’s a nostalgic, traditi0nal Christmas vibe, with events in the festively decorated castles, wreath making workshops, delicious meals and local shopping.

Create joyful memories, connect with loved ones and celebrate traditions both old and new. From picking your perfect Christmas tree from Digby Farm, or one of our welcoming garden centres, to meeting Father Christmas after a steam train ride, we’re sure you’ll find some festive cheer in Rutland.

Top Christmas Events

Here’s a top pick of festive events in and around Rutland this Christmas;

  • Belvoir Castle’s Deck The Halls enjoy opulent decorations and festive magic from 14th November – 30th December. Don’t miss the special candlelight evenings every Thursday in December.
  • Burghley Christmas Fair from 26-29 November, a quality shopping experience in the beautiful grounds, courtyards and in Burghley House.
  • Christmas at the Railway from 28th November – 24th December, see Santa at Nene Valley Railway’s, with festive surroundings and characters to make a magical experience, Thomas specials are on 21 & 22nd December.

Wreath Making in Rutland

Christmas decorations are integral to achieving that warm festive feeling – local interior designer Elizabeth Stanhope is delivering a ‘Seasonal Styling & Entertaining‘ masterclass at Rutland Nursery on 20th November that’s not to be missed.

Looking at wreath making workshops in Rutland, look no further…

You can even join a Christmas decorations willow weaving workshop at Barnsdale Gardens on 12th December.

Where to see Santa in Rutland

Children can enjoy a festive breakfast or dinner with Father Christmas and his elves at Gates Garden Centre, climb aboard the enchanting Christmas at the Railway: Santa Specials at Nene Valley Railway, or share a special visit with Santa at Rutland Garden Village. From cosy storytime sessions to traditional grotto experiences, there are festive encounters to delight children of all ages throughout the season.

Festive Food

As one would expect from The County of Good Taste, the food offering around Christmas time is wonderful.

Be it a festive afternoon tea at Rutland Hall, a festive cookery demonstration at The Olive Branch [19th November], or enjoying a meal at one of Rutland’s pubs, restaurants or cafes.

You can enjoy an organised Christmas Party night at:

Best Places for Christmas Shopping

Our wonderful market towns, Oakham, Uppingham & Stamford all offer a lovely relaxed shopping experience.

Rutland’s garden centres are thronging with festive goodies: Gates Garden Centre, Rutland Nursery, Rutland Garden Village and Welland Vale Garden Centre.

If you’re looking for a Christmas Market in Rutland, pop these in your calendar;

There’s also lovely rural retail centres at Belvoir Castle Retail Village, Wymondham Windmill and Rutland Garden Village.