Holkham Hall by Candlelight
6th December 2025
Enchanting, magical and oh-so-Christmassy. Amanda Loose enjoys a festive feast for the senses
As the sun set, we followed the festoons of pretty lights, serenaded by a honking chorus of pink-footed geese overhead. Enter via the big red bow and the scene is set – welcome to the magical, candlelit world of Christmas at Holkham Hall.
Take your time and take in all the details, we were advised by the lady who greeted us – and we did. So, look up, look down, look again; at the trees decorated with twinkling lights in the Marble Hall, with the sound of ‘O Holy Night’ beautifully played on the harp; at the wonderful floral-inspired festive tablescape and decorated dining room by local florist Hannah Hunnam. Think poinsettias suspended from the ceiling, a tree adorned with dried flower baubles, hydrangea heads and more.
Enchanted, we continued through the State Rooms and will share just a few highlights here and in the gallery, below.
Sights… The Statue Gallery’s gingerbread house by stylist Alice King, complete with a ‘hundreds and thousands’ chair; the dreamlike ‘Night Before Christmas Suite’ in the South Sitting Room; Santa’s desk and ledger (with lists of names!) in the South Dining Room, with a spectacular breakfast spread by the Fake Food Workshop, and an ‘elf-ed’ portrait.
Sounds… mischievous elves, the ‘Twelve Days of Christmas’ and robin song; a moving sound and light installation in the Chapel by Audio Resolution. Do pause here to take it all in.
Scents… flickering candles and Christmas trees galore, the 14-foot tree in the Saloon dressed in all gold, echoing the room’s gilding.
Tastes… alas you can’t, of course, but there’s a chocolate banquet by The Edible Museum in the Old Kitchen. The artistry is incredible with a Christmas feast made entirely from chocolate, including the pigs in blankets. Look for the gravy boat!
The Countess of Leicester, Catherine Zoll and their talented team of creatives, makers and volunteers have truly outdone themselves this year. Holkham Hall by Candlelight? It’s a magical Christmas masterpiece – just don’t let those naughty elves loose on it!
Holkham Hall by Candlelight continues until 30 December, select dates. There’s a special Family Day on 20 December.
