Christmas At The Palace
1 December - 3 January
The Bishop's Palace, Wells, Somerset, BA5 2PD
Experience the magic of Christmas in Wells at The Bishop’s Palace and its historic gardens.
Discover beautifully decorated medieval rooms, sparkling garden illuminations, seasonal music, festive food and drink and a beautiful atmosphere.
Whether you're looking for family Christmas events, a festive evening with friends or something special to do as part of what’s on in Somerset at
Christmas, Christmas at The Bishop’s Palace offers something for everyone.
The Illuminated Palace
- Tuesday 1 December – Sunday 3 January (excluding 24th, 25th, 26th, 31st December)
Adult from £10 | Child from £6
At Christmas we love to throw open our doors and share the beauty of this unique Somerset place. We always aim to do something a little bit special that brings the magic of Christmas - and this year we’re really excited to present...The 12 Days of Christmas!
With illuminated installations and beautiful classical music throughout the Palace and gardens there’s lots to see and enjoy, from milk maids to golden rings to our favourite (obviously) plenty of swans-a-swimming.
New for this year - our illuminated Christmas decorations extend into the Palace where lovingly dried flowers from the garden adorn every nook and cranny, celebrating the special place we enjoy throughout the seasons. Each room will feature installations continuing the 12 Days of Christmas trail for you to enjoy. And, on weekend evenings live music, from our talented local choirs and musicians, will accompany you on your walk to really get you in that Christmas spirit.
Food, drink and music during the illuminations
No festive evening is complete without mince pies, mulled wine – or our signature Bishop’s Palace festive hot chocolate! Our very special little café, embedded into the ancient walls themselves will be open to provide delicious festive treats in the gardens each evening, and on weekend evenings we will also open the bar in the Undercroft in the Palace – a lovely place to rest and refuel during your illuminated walk.
Father Christmas at the Palace
- 12th, 13th, 19th, 20th, 21st & 22nd December Adult from £12 | Child from £7
The hand tightly gripped in yours, the shining eyes, the sharp intake of breath as the door opens... a visit to Father Christmas is the most magical of childhood moments.
Here at the Palace we are proud to have been a part of so many family Christmases over the years, hosting the most special of seasonal visitors, Father Christmas, and being part of treasured Christmas traditions.
In 2026 we are delighted to be able to welcome families to come and spend time with the very special, jolly old St. Nick again. He will be ensconced in one of the most beautiful, atmospheric rooms in the Palace, meeting families amongst a backdrop of frosty trees, elegantly wrapped presents and magical twinkling lights; keen to meet children and their families and sprinkle his unique Christmas magic.
There is lots going on for families at The Bishop's Palace throughout December. This year your Father Christmas visit can be combined either with a daytime ticket – meaning you can explore the Palace and gardens, follow a family trail, enjoy some festive arts and crafts and be home before dark or, if it suits you better, combine with an after dark visit to our Christmas Illuminations instead.
Your Father Christmas visit
Daytime visits (before 4pm) include:
- A visit to Father Christmas in his magical grotto
- A gift from Father Christmas
- Festive Art Adventurers in the Undercroft
- A family trail in the Gardens and Palace
Evening (after 5pm) visits include:
- A visit to Father Christmas in his magical grotto
- A gift from Father Christmas
- Christmas illuminations in the Gardens and Palace
Important information
Each visit to Father Christmas will be around 5 minutes long. We recommend a maximum of four children per visit, to give everyone time to have a little chat and enjoy the moment. You may wish to book consecutive slots if your party is bigger than that.
Father Christmas will be visiting on: Sat 12th, Sun 13th, Sat 19th, Sun 20th, Mon 21st, Tues 22nd December
Tickets are £15 per child.
When you book your tickets, please also book tickets for adults who will be coming along. Everyone who books will then have access to the gardens, Palace and into the grotto with Father Christmas if you wish.
Festive Afternoon Teas
- 4-6pm on Fri / Sat / Sun in December (Exc 24th,25th December) From £29.99
Fancy something a little bit special? Our delicious afternoon teas are getting a sprinkle of festive magic too. These special teas are served on tiered stands and include delicate but delicious sandwiches with a range of seasonal fillings, pigs in blankets, christmas cake and mince pies. Choose either tea, coffee or prosecco to enjoy alongside.
Festive Secret Supper Club
- 3rd & 17th December From 7.15pm £45 per person (£10 Deposit)
If you're looking for a fun Christmassy location for work or social Christmas party, take a look at our Festive Secret Supper clubs on 3rd and 17th December. A fabulous evening of delicious food in a beautiful setting. Perfect for couples, groups of friends, work Christmas dinners or clubs and society Christmas do's. Plus you can also book tickets to take a walk around the Illuminations before your supper, the perfect way to build up an appetite!
Ready to experience Christmas at the Illuminated Palace?
Ready to experience Christmas at the Illuminated Palace?