Christmas Illuminations in the Palace and Gardens

Tuesday 1 December – Sunday 3 January (excluding 24, 25, 26, 31 December)

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.

Festive food, drink and music

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.

Booking is advised especially on Friday, Saturday and Sundays. Please note we are running slightly different facilities on week nights (off peak tickets) and weekends (peak tickets) and opening times vary slightly across different days. Please check on our booking page for details.

Please note that Annual Passes, RHS and Historic Houses cards are not valid for Christmas Illuminations.

The details…

Off-Peak Illuminations Tickets

Off-peak dates are typically quieter, allowing you to enjoy the Illuminations at your own pace.

Off-peak dates: Monday to Thursday, 1–17 December, and 1–3 January.

Entry slots: 5pm and 6pm, with last entry at 6.30pm. The site closes at 7pm.

The Horsebox and Apple Store, located in the East Garden, will be open during off-peak dates, serving festive treats and seasonal drinks.

Off-peak pricing:

• £10 – Adult
• £6 – Child
• £30 – Family
• Free – Friends of the Palace

Peak Illuminations Tickets

Our peak dates offer an enhanced festive experience, with additional catering and live music from local choirs and bands on selected dates.

Peak dates: Friday to Sunday, 4–20 December, then daily from 21–30 December, excluding 24, 25, 26 and 31 December.

Entry slots: 5pm, 6pm and 7pm, with last entry at 7.30pm. The site closes at 8pm.

The Horsebox and Apple Store, located in the East Garden, will be open during peak dates, serving festive treats and seasonal drinks.

The Undercroft will also be open, serving mulled wine, mince pies and warming festive treats.

Between 4pm and 6pm, festive afternoon teas will be available from The Bishop’s Table café.

Peak pricing:

• £12 – Adult
• £8 – Child
• £38 – Family
• Free – Friends of the Palace