There’s something downright special about the Lake District in December. Picture cosy little villages sprinkled with snow, rolling hills covered in white that stretch on forever, and the crisp air buzzing with that festive, end-of-year magic. Once December hits, Rose Castle transforms into its very own winter wonderland, teeming with festive cheer and nonstop holiday vibes. It’s our busiest time of the year—and for good reason!
The castle becomes the go-to spot for Christmas parties, family get-togethers, and end-of-year work celebrations. Every corner glows with a warm, welcoming light that invites guests to dive headfirst into the Christmas spirit. To truly soak in the beauty of the Lake District this December, why not extend your visit to an overnight holiday stay at Rose Castle? It’s the perfect base to enjoy the wintery charm of the region, offering a serene and festive retreat after any fun-filled day of adventure.
Host your festive celebration with us
Every Christmas event hosted at Rose Castle has its own special kind of magic, but they all have that same festive sparkle—full of cheer, laughter, and plenty of seasonal joy. Imagine crackling fires in grand stone fireplaces, setting the perfect scene for catching up, sharing stories, and making new memories.
To complete the festive mood, we’ve got five magnificent Christmas trees, each decorated perfectly. They light up the space with their glistening ornaments, twinkling fairy lights, and lush garlands while familiar carols and Christmas tunes float gently through the air, inviting one and all to enjoy the season of giving and celebration.
Even though it’s our busiest time, Rose Castle never loses its calm, welcoming charm. Guests sip on warm, spiced mulled wine under wreaths of mistletoe and shimmering tinsel as the piney scent of Christmas trees mingles with the mouth-watering aroma of freshly baked goodies. It’s the kind of warmth that makes everyone feel right at home.
Whether you’re planning a fun family day out or a work party to wrap up the year, we’d love to host your Christmas celebration here at Rose Castle. Join us at one of our festive events or throw your own unforgettable Christmas party this season!
What’s on this December at Rose Castle
The feeling of being surrounded by old-world charm, combined with the festive spirit, makes each event at Rose Castle truly unforgettable. This December, we're hosting a series of festive soirees sure to delight the whole family!
A Night of 1000 Candles
Prepare for a night of elegance, fine dining, and the soothing sounds of live cocktail jazz at our Night of 1000 Candles Dinner & Live Performance. Upon arrival, indulge in a glass of your favourite drink while soaking in the soft glow of flickering candlelight and the warmth of open fires. You'll then make your way to the stunning State Dining Room, adorned with a thousand shimmering candles, where the feasting will begin!
Our Head Chef has meticulously crafted a three-course meal featuring traditional favourites and delightful canapés, ensuring a dining experience that will leave your taste buds dancing. As you savour every bite, let the soulful jazz melodies by the renowned Ed Harris Trio elevate your evening into a night of pure enchantment.
Overnight stay packages, including breakfast the next morning, are available with this event.
Cocktail Jazz & Canapés
Treat yourself and your loved ones to an extraordinary evening of music, food, and festive cheer with our Cocktail Jazz & Canapés event, where the sounds of the Ed Harris Trio will transport you to a world of smooth, soulful jazz. Picture yourself by a roaring fire, a drink in hand, as you unwind in the enchanting atmosphere of Rose Castle. With festive nibbles and delicious canapés served throughout the evening, this is the perfect way to relax, enjoy delightful bites, and let the music take you away.
It’s not just any Friday night—it's a luxurious escape. The ambience will leave you feeling like you’ve stepped into an iconic jazz lounge, only this time, it's in your castle in Cumbria.
Overnight stay packages, including breakfast the next morning, are available with this event.
Christmas Party Nights
This year, we’ll be hosting not one, not two, but three Christmas Party Nights—the ultimate way to start your holiday season in style! It's time to slip into your most glamorous outfit and join us for a dazzling Christmas celebration. Sip on your favourite cocktails as you mingle and capture the moment with the perfect Christmas selfie. Then enjoy a delicious three-course festive dinner, carefully crafted by our talented chef, before the party starts with live entertainment and a disco that will have you dancing the night away!
Gather your friends, reserve a table, and treat yourself to an evening of delicious food, great music, and festive joy!
Overnight stay packages, including breakfast the next morning, are available with this event.
Tickets for Saturday 30th November
Tickets for Friday 20th December
Tickets for Saturday 21st December
Carols by Candlelight in the Chapel
Get into the true spirit of Christmas with magical carols by candlelight in our breathtaking 16th-century chapel. With the soft glow of flickering candles and vibrant colours streaming through the stained glass windows, the chapel transforms into a stunning backdrop for the timeless sounds of your favourite carols.
As the harmonies echo through the vaulted ceilings, you’ll be swept away to a place of peace and reflection, surrounded by the rich history and beauty of this incredible setting. Set to be an evening of music and celebration you won’t want to miss!
Tickets for Monday 16th December (now sold out due to high demand)
Tickets for Thursday 19th December
Wreath Making
Join us for some festive fun with our wreath-making workshops! It’s where the magic of Christmas meets the creative touch of our talented gardeners. With their expert guidance, you’ll get to craft your own gorgeous, one-of-a-kind wreath.
Surrounded by frost-kissed trees and snow-dusted hedgerows, you’ll work with freshly foraged greenery straight from our gardens and sprinkle in some twinkling accents to make your creation truly sparkle. It’s not just about making something beautiful—it’s about getting into the spirit of the season and having a blast with festive creativity!
Tickets for Monday 25th November
Tickets for Tuesday 26th November
Festive Afternoon Tea
Ditch the diet and treat yourself to one of our fabulously festive afternoon teas! The moment you step inside, you’ll be greeted by the heavenly scent of mulled wine, spicy cinnamon, and freshly baked mince pies.
Tuck into a delightful spread of festive cakes and treats, perfectly paired with your choice of warm beverage, as you sit by the cosy warmth of a crackling fire. It’s the ultimate way to unwind and soak up the magic of the holiday season!
Tickets for Wednesday 11th December
Tickets for Wednesday 17th December
Elf Hunt
You’ve heard of Elf on the Shelf, but have you tried Rose Castle's Elf Hunt? Gather the kids, bundle up in your scarves and gloves, and get ready for an epic scavenger hunt through the castle’s magical grounds—because Santa needs your help to save Christmas!
With a special scroll of letters from Santa himself, your mission is to track down the hidden elves who hold all the clues to keep Christmas on track. As you search high and low for these little helpers, warm up with some yummy hot chocolate and snack on festive cookies and sweets. It’s a fun-filled adventure bursting with holiday cheer, and together, we’ll make sure Santa spreads the magic of Christmas far and wide!
Tickets for Sunday 8th December
Tickets for Saturday 14th December
Rose Castle Christmas Market
We’re so excited to host our first-ever Christmas market this year! With free entry over two days, you’re invited to step into a festive wonderland of stalls packed with the best seasonal food, heart-warming drinks, and unique gifts from local suppliers.
Whether you’re after artisanal treats, beautiful decorations, or one-of-a-kind stocking fillers, you’re sure to find something for everyone on your list—and maybe a little something for yourself, too! So, come wander through our market, explore the treasure trove of Christmas goodies, and soak up the festive cheer with us!
‘Tis the season at Rose Castle
This Christmas season at Rose Castle is set to be truly magical. Whether you're hosting a private party with friends and family or soaking up the festive atmosphere at one of our events, the Castle’s historic charm and holiday spirit will whisk you away into a world of wonder and warmth—perfect for celebrating togetherness and joy.
Rose Castle is a cherished setting for bringing people together, used throughout the year for private gatherings, weddings, and corporate getaways. This December is the perfect time to come together with loved ones and experience the magic of Christmas within the 800-year-old castle grounds for yourself, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
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