Experience the magic of Christmas in Wells as The Bishop’s Palace and its historic gardens are transformed for the festive season.
Come and 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.
Father Christmas at the Palace
Sat 12th, Sun 13th, Sat 19th, Sun 20th, Mon 21st, Tues 22nd December
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.
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 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.
Have you heard about our Christmas Secret Supper Clubs?
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 A fabulous evening of delicious food in a beautiful setting. Perfect for couples, groups or friends, work or clubs and society Christmas do’s.
Festive Afternoon Teas
Fancy something a little bit special? Our delicious afternoon teas are getting a little sprinkle of festive magic too. Watch this space for more details coming soon.
Your Christmas Visit
Christmas at The Bishop’s Palace is one of the highlights of what’s on in Wells at Christmas, offering a festive experience for visitors of all ages.
We look forward to welcoming you to the Palace over the festive period.
The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens
Wells
Somerset
BA5 2PD
01749 988111
[email protected]
what3words: ///class.guides.disbelief
The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens
Wells
Somerset
BA5 2PD
01749 988111
[email protected]
what3words: ///class.guides.disbelief