See what Christmas events and celebrations are coming up at National Trust venue near you and experience traditions old and new you won't forget this festive season...

Christmas at Corfe Castle

All the magic of Christmas comes to Corfe Castle this December, with magical lighting, revels inspired by history, festive crafts and a special seasonal quest for all the family.

Complete the Twelve days of Christmas family quest by searching for shields, completing the activities and claiming your prize — daily throughout December - or make your own decorations using natural materials in Get Crafty at Christmas — weekends until Christmas.

Winter Lights bring a touch of magic to the castle after dark and on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings from December 14 the venue will be open until 7pm.

Sample mulled wine in the ticket office, leave a message on one of the Christmas wish trees and let the Lord of Misrule lead you in stories and games from the 17th century through a castle transformed.

There’s also the chance to watch the Winter Solstice sunrise on Friday, December 21, the shortest day, and for the first time Christmas Carols in the Castle on Sunday, December 9.

Winter solstice is £12 per person including a hot drink and a breakfast roll and there is a £1.50 charge of for craft activities. Everything else is free, though normal admission prices apply - no charge for National Trust members.

W: nationaltrust.org.uk/corfe-castle

A creative Christmas at Kingston Lacy, Wimborne

Embark on a journey of creativity this Christmas at Kingston Lacy. From now until January 1 (closed Christmas Day) discover a house adorned with decorations inspired by the women of the Bankes family. (entry to the house is by timed ticket, advanced booking required).

Brighten up dark winter nights with a stroll around the enchanting illuminated gardens on from 4pm – 7pm every Wednesday to Sunday in December. See the house and garden bathed in light with a new illuminated experience transforming the Formal Garden as darkness falls. This year the light display will take inspiration from the stories of several members of the Bankes family. For the first time the stunning display along the iconic Lime Avenue will feature a new and interactive experience. Have fun pushing the buttons to light each tree with a bold colour to create your own light display. Full details on website. Pre-booking not required.

W: nationaltrust.org.uk/kingston-lacy

Hinton Ampner, near Alresford

Christmas Murder Mystery and Christmas Pudding mystery family trail House offer: December 1-24, house open 11am – 3.30pm, booking essential online or call 0344 249 1895, normal admission charge.

Family trail: December 1 – January 1, 10am – 4pm, normal admission charge plus £2 per child

Owner Ralph Dutton’s glamorous Christmas house party is in full swing. But, foul play is afoot! Wander through rooms dressed in sparkling vintage decorations and stunning floral arrangements to find out ‘who done it’, with the help of Inspector Grey. Outside you’ll find a traditional sweet shop and festive activities for kids. You can also help Inspector Grey’s dog Albert find the Christmas pudding thief, on Hinton’s festive family mystery trail through the gardens.

Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

W: nationaltrust.org.uk/hinton-ampner

Uppark House and Garden, Petersfield The Twelve Days of Christmas and The Twelve Days of Christmas trail House offer: December 1 – January 1 , 11am – 3.30pm, normal admission charge.

Family trail: December 1 – January 1, 10am – 3.30pm, normal admission charge plus £2 per child This winter, ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’ come alive at Uppark. You’ll find beautifully dressed rooms inspired by this classic song, from ‘Nine ladies dancing’ to ‘Seven swans a-swimming’. Paper artist Delicarta returns with more amazing creations made entirely from paper, alongside gorgeous decorations handmade by Uppark’s talented staff and volunteers.

Outside, families can get stuck in to an interactive trail based on the ’Twelve Days’ theme. Join Alder Valley Brass Band on Sunday, December 16 for some festive carolling as you make your way through the property.

Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

W: nationaltrust.org.uk/uppark-house-and-garden

Lacock Abbey, Wiltshire

An Audience with Father Christmas

Weekends between December 1 – 16, 30 minute slots between 11am-3.30pm

It’s a busy time of year for Father and Mother Christmas, but they’ll be taking a bit of time out at the weekends to visit Lacock Abbey. Come and meet them in the festive surroundings of the Abbey kitchen, where Mother Christmas will be telling stories and Father Christmas will be handing out a gift to each child.

Price: Child £8. Normal admission applies. Booking essential via 0344 249 1895.

W: nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock-abbey-fox-talbot-museum-and-village