Christmas is coming, and the National Trust in Shropshire is busy preparing for it, making traditional decorations, stirring up the Christmas pudding and getting all nostalgic by sharing favourite festive traditions.
Harry Bowell, Regional Director for the Midlands, says “Christmas is surely a time for nostalgia and a bit of tradition – and no one does this better than the National Trust. From our Christmas markets and visits to Father Christmas to making festive decorations, we’ve got something to help everyone get into the spirit of a traditional Christmas across the Midlands. And we can offer a real alternative to the busy high street at this often hectic time of year!”
If you’re looking for somewhere to really get into the Christmas spirit and find an extra-special gift for friends and family, several of the National Trust’s places in Shropshire will be holding great Christmas fairs in the coming weeks.
At Attingham Park the popular Frost Fair takes place between 28 – 30 November, where stalls will be selling handmade crafts as well as food and drink. Why not come and wander around and find the perfect presents for friends and family, while enjoying a glass of mulled wine?
Christmas decorations are already going up at many of the Trust’s places in Shropshire. At Attingham Park visitors can explore the mansion decorated for a traditional Christmas from Saturday 6 December, along with the giant Christmas tree in the Stableyard.
If you’re feeling artistic you can even have a go at making your own traditional decorations at many of our places. At Carding Mill Valley a number of craft sessions are being held, including wreath making on 29 & 30 November, lantern making on 13 & 14 December and an opportunity to make some last minute Christmas decorations on 20 & 21 December. There are also wreath making workshops being held at Sunnycroft on 5 & 6 December and at Woolsthorpe Manor on 9 & 11 December.
You can start the preparations at home too. Don’t forget Stir-up Sunday on 23 November – the traditional day to mix up your Christmas pudding – and a tradition that is being resurrected at some of our places such as Moseley Old Hall. If you need some inspiration visit our Facebook or Twitter pages (NTmidlands) on 23 November for our secret Christmas pudding recipe.
To start planning your Christmas preparations and find a festive event near you, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/midlands