Christmas at Muncaster Castle promises a festive family day out in the western Lake District this December. With twinkling gardens, a Christmas craft fair, activities inside the historic castle and the chance to meet Father Christmas, it is a lovely way to get into the seasonal spirit near Ravenglass.
When is Muncaster Christmas Festival 2026?
The festival takes place on 5–6, 12–13 and 19–22 December 2026. These are selected dates, not a continuous festival from 5 to 22 December. Check the official website for the opening hours and availability on your chosen day.
What’s included in the Christmas Festival?
A standard Christmas Festival admission ticket includes plenty to fill a festive visit:
- Entry to Muncaster Castle State Rooms, gardens and Hawk & Owl Centre.
- A festive craft fair with artisan gifts and seasonal treats.
- Decorated gardens, an enchanted family trail and play areas.
- The 1.30pm World of Owls flying display.
- Have-a-go activities in the Weapons Hall.
- Christmas activities and live music on selected dates.
- Access to the Stables Café and gift shop.
There are also festive gardens to explore, with illuminated trees and a family trail, plus the chance for children to write letters to Santa. Some activities are outdoors, so wrap up warmly and bring suitable footwear.
Meet Father Christmas at Muncaster
Children can visit Father Christmas in his grotto and receive a gift, but Santa visits require a separate timed ticket for each child, in addition to a valid festival entry ticket. Accompanying adults do not need a separate Santa ticket, but they do need admission. Book in advance if meeting Santa is an essential part of your day.
Muncaster Christmas Festival 2026 ticket prices
- Adults: from £19.95
- Children aged 3–15: from £14.50
- Under 3s: free festival admission
- Santa grotto: additional timed tickets, priced from £3 per child
Prices are starting rates and may change by ticket type or availability. Check current prices and book directly with Muncaster Castle.
Where is Muncaster Castle?
The castle is near Ravenglass, Cumbria, CA18 1RQ, on the western edge of the Lake District. On-site parking is available, but check the organiser’s arrival instructions for the Christmas event before travelling.
Turn your visit into a Christmas break
Why not make a weekend of it? The Ravenglass and Eskdale area is a beautiful base for exploring the western Lakes, with coastal scenery, villages and winter walks nearby. A stay around Ravenglass, Eskdale or the wider western Lake District also means you can enjoy Muncaster without a long drive home after a full day.
For more ideas, explore our Lake District Christmas lights guide and our Muncaster Castle Halloween guide.
Before you go
Book Santa tickets separately if needed, check the exact session times, and allow enough time for both the indoor activities and the gardens. Some festive activities and music are offered only on selected dates.
Event details are based on the official Muncaster Christmas programme. Confirm arrangements before travelling.
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“One more fell from a great mood…” Chris writes for numerous online publications, having studied at The University College of North Wales, Bangor. He is regularly in The Lake District and enjoys wild camping, hiking and watersports. His favourite location? Muncaster Castle…
