Winter Wonderland at American Museum & Gardens

About

In December, visit the Winter Wonderland at the American Museum & Gardens during the day for a festive, hand-crafted, Christmas experience.

The Georgian Manor House will be festooned with hundreds of beautiful, artisan decorations, with a stunning 18-foot Nordmann fir tree from Langford Lakes taking pride of place in Central Hall. Dressed with 9000 twinkling lights and unique ornaments, a visit to the classic tree is lovely way to get in touch with real Christmas spirit and take some family photos.

Frosty gardens with spectacular views are a haven for wildlife and peaceful spaces for fresh winter walks and wellbeing. They have extended their winter opening hours to 5pm, so visitors can benefit from special winter twilight views across the valley.

Throughout the month, there will be Christmas workshops and festive food and drinks at the American Garden Deli.

The popular LEGO bricks exhibition, Brick America, is a must-visit, and families are also sure to enjoy a fun spotting trail around the historical Museum. At weekends and during the school holidays, there will be Christmas crafts, colouring and other indoor activities at the Stables.

Don't miss the Gallery Shop for Christmas gift ideas!

Normal admission applies, plus an additional fee if you would like to book a workshop.

Event highlights

Wreath Making Workshop (3 December)

Christmas Felt Art Workshop (15 December)

Christmas Concert (16 December)
Steeple Rocks is a fabulous rock choir, performing pop, rock and a little gospel, including Christmas classics. Join us for an afternoon performance with sing-along songs and the special magic that comes from a big group of live singers. 

Festive Storytelling (18 & 22 December)
Enhance your visit to the Museum, Gardens and Exhibition with some fun Christmas-themed storytelling in the Stables at 11am, 12pm, 2pm and 3pm. Each session is 15 minutes of stories for little ones, with no need to book your place – simply come along on the day.

Santa's Cinema with Elf the Movie (20 December)
Come and see Santa at his cinema in the Stables, and watch Elf, the feel-good, family Christmas movie! Arrive between 12–2pm to meet Santa and take some festive photos together, before Santa gives every child their own American candy cane. Then settle down to watch the film at 2pm with some popcorn. With the LEGO bricks exhibition, the family trail in the Museum, winter gardens to explore, and festive treats in the Deli, you can look forward to a fantastic day out. 

Christmas Felt Art for Families (21 December)

Opening times

In December, the American Museum & Gardens' site is open from 10am–5pm, however please note that areas open and close at different times within this:

Exhibition, Gardens, Gift Shop, and Car Park: 10am–5pm (last entry 4.30pm)
American Garden Deli: 10am–4.30pm (last entry 4pm, last orders at 4.20pm)
Museum: 11am–4pm (last entry 3pm)