Harewood House Unveils 'Magic at the Mansion' Christmas Experience for 2026

Harewood House in Leeds is set to unveil a magical Christmas experience in 2026, bringing festive cheer and wonder to families across Yorkshire. This year’s theme, titled "Magic at the Mansion," promises an immersive journey through the historic house, featuring captivating displays and a brand-new addition: an Elf Village on the North Lawn.

Terrace in the snow, image credit Anthony Hicks C4998 fs ns

Magic at the Mansion - Original Image_ Oliver Perrott

Christmas 2026 - Magic at the Mansion - coming soon

The Terrace in snow credit Harewood House Trust

New Elf Village

One of the most exciting elements of this year’s Christmas festivities is Harewood’s first-ever Elf Village. This enchanting area will allow families to explore a whimsical world filled with festive delights. Visitors can start their adventure at the Elf Cocoa Café, where they can enjoy warm drinks before setting off to discover the magical Elf Village. Highlights of the Elf Village include:

• The Wishery, where all wishes begin

• The Elf Village Post Office, where letters to Santa can be sent

• The Tinker Tent, where children can create their own special crafts

The experience culminates in a joyful Santa School celebration, featuring sing-along storytelling and festive fun. A special meeting with Father Christmas will allow families to share their Christmas wishes and receive a beautiful gift to take home, making it a truly memorable occasion.

Immersive Experience Inside the House

While the Elf Village offers outdoor enchantment, the inside of Harewood House will also be transformed into a festive wonderland. The award-winning digital artists Studio McGuire return for a third year, crafting a unique experience that draws on the house's rich history. Each room will tell its own story, with special surprises inspired by Harewood’s past. Some of the highlights include:

• The Music Room: A choir of singing candles will be brought to life through stunning projections.

• The State Dining Room: This room will be transformed with mythical characters, adding a touch of magic to the dining experience.

• The Library: An enchanted woodland filled with fairies and natural textures will celebrate the beauty of the season.

• The State Bedroom: Visitors will hear conversations between talking pillowcases that connect to Harewood’s royal history.

The journey will conclude in the Servants’ Hall, where guests will witness a festive gathering that embodies the warmth and togetherness of the season. This enchanting experience is not just about seeing beautiful decorations; it’s about engaging with Harewood’s history in a fun and interactive way.

Dates and Tickets

"Magic at the Mansion" will run from Friday 6 November 2026 to Sunday 3 January 2027. Tickets are priced at £24.50 for adults and £10 for children when booked online, with free entry for Harewood members and children under four years old. Special tickets are also available for those receiving certain benefits, making it accessible for all families. This year’s events promise to be an unforgettable experience, perfect for making lasting memories during the festive season.

Festive Activities Beyond the Mansion

In addition to the immersive experiences inside Harewood House, the Courtyard will feature seasonal food and drink, family activities, and delightful Christmas treats. These offerings aim to create a full day of festive fun for visitors. Additionally, on selected dates throughout the festive period, the Elf Village will host après-ski Christmas parties to celebrate YurtBar’s 10th anniversary, featuring live entertainment and dining experiences for adults.