Newbury’s historic Shaw House is getting ready to welcome visitors for a magical Christmas season, with a wonderful programme of festive events and activities planned throughout December.
From traditional Christmas markets and carol concerts to creative workshops, family entertainment and beautifully decorated historic rooms, the much-loved venue promises plenty of opportunities for residents and visitors to celebrate the festive season together.
In a new event for 2026, visitors are able to enjoy an exclusive opportunity to see the House beautifully decorated for the festive season before the Christmas programme gets underway. On Thursday 26 November, guests can explore four centuries of Christmas traditions, from Tudor celebrations to Edwardian festivities, while enjoying the warm glow of seasonal decorations throughout the historic venue.
The festive celebrations continue through December with Shaw House's popular Christmas Fair on Sunday 6 December, featuring more than 50 stalls selling locally made gifts, food, drink, decorations and crafts. Visitors can enjoy seasonal refreshments, browse unique Christmas presents and soak up the atmosphere of one of West Berkshire's most popular festive events.
Throughout December, the historic mansion will be transformed for the Winter Public Opening, with rooms decorated to reflect Christmas celebrations through different periods of the House's 400-year history. Visitors will be able to explore the newly dressed historic rooms, discover festive traditions from Tudor times to the present day and enjoy seasonal treats in the café.
Families will find plenty to keep younger visitors entertained, including the return of the much-loved Christmas Magic Show with Mr Muddle on 19 December, the enchanting Snow Sisters royal visit on 20 December and a special screening of Frozen 2 as part of the venue's popular Movie in the Hall series on 22 December.
Visitors looking for festive inspiration can also enjoy Christmas Wreath Making workshops from 8 to 10 December, while music lovers can celebrate the season at the annual Carol Concerts featuring Newbury chamber choir Cantemus on 17 and 18 December.
As well as its festive events, Shaw House offers visitors even more reasons to visit this year. Recent improvements include newly dressed rooms that bring 400 years of history to life, beautifully restored Tudor and Edwardian gardens, an expanded café and refreshment offer, and a new wooden play area for younger visitors. Together, they make Shaw House a unique destination for a winter day out.
"Christmas is always a special time at Shaw House, and this year's programme is one of our most exciting yet. Whether you're browsing for gifts at the Christmas Fair, enjoying festive family entertainment, singing along at the Carol Concerts or simply taking time to explore the beautifully decorated House, with its emphasis on Christmas through the ages, there is something for everyone.
"Our recent improvements to the site, including the newly dressed rooms, enhanced gardens, expanded café offer and new play area, mean that Shaw House has never offered so much for residents and visitors. We look forward to welcoming everyone throughout the festive season."
Shaw House is one of the best-preserved Elizabethan mansions in England and continues to grow as one of West Berkshire's leading heritage and visitor attractions. This Christmas, visitors are encouraged to book early for ticketed events, as many festive favourites are expected to be popular and may sell out.
The full Christmas programme and booking information are available via the West Berkshire Heritage website.
