There is something especially atmospheric about Canons Ashby after dark, and this December visitors can experience the historic house in a very different way.
The Knight Before Christmas Evening Tour takes place on Friday 11th December 2026, giving visitors the chance to explore Canons Ashby after normal opening hours while the house is dressed for Christmas.
Inspired by Arthurian legend, the festive decorations are filled with knights, wizards and dragons, bringing a little magic to one of Northamptonshire’s best known historic houses.
There are two evening tours available, with tickets priced at £16 per person.
Event Details
Date: Friday 11th December 2026
First tour: 6pm to 7.10pm
Second tour: 7.30pm to 8.40pm
Venue: Canons Ashby
Location: Near Daventry, Northamptonshire, NN11 3SD
Tickets: £16 per person
Booking: Essential
Families are welcome, making this a good option for anyone looking for a Christmas experience that feels a little different from the usual festive events.
Christmas after dark at Canons Ashby
The evening begins with a special guided tour through the house after the normal daytime visitors have gone home.
Canons Ashby will be decorated for Christmas, with this year’s displays inspired by Arthurian legend.
Expect knights, wizards, dragons and plenty of festive details as you move through the historic rooms.
The National Trust describes the decorations as being even more atmospheric in the evening, when the lower lighting and quieter surroundings give the house a completely different feel.
A little festive treat afterwards
Once the tour is finished, visitors can warm up with a seasonal drink and something sweet.
Included in the ticket price is your choice of:
Mulled cider or hot chocolate
plus
A mince pie
It sounds like a rather fitting way to end an evening exploring a cold historic house in December.
Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes.
The National Trust confirms that families are welcome on the evening tours.
It is worth bearing in mind that Canons Ashby is a historic property, so the route includes stairs, steps and uneven surfaces.
The house will also be dimly lit for the event, which adds to the atmosphere but may be worth considering if anyone in your group has specific access requirements.
A hearing loop is available on request.
How to get tickets
Tickets cost £16 per person and must be booked in advance.
The National Trust says this event usually sells out, so it is worth booking early if you know you would like to go.
You can also book or enquire through the National Trust Central Box Office:
Telephone: 0344 249 1895
Email: events@nationaltrust.org.uk
Carers accompanying a ticket holder can attend free of charge.
Where do you meet?
Visitors should start at Visitor Reception and follow the directions provided when they arrive.
The event takes place outside normal opening hours, so the shop and tea-room will be closed when evening visitors arrive.
The evening tour does not cover every decorated area of the house, so anyone wanting to see the full Christmas display may also want to consider a separate daytime visit.
Discover more local events
There is always something happening across Daventry and the surrounding villages during the festive season.
From Christmas markets and village celebrations to concerts, workshops and seasonal experiences, we enjoy sharing some of the local events that make this time of year feel special.
Keep an eye on the Campbells community events pages for more local dates throughout Christmas.
