- Light Trails
- All Ages
Christmas at Dunham Massey
Dunham Massey Hall · Altrincham, Greater Manchester · 20th November 2026 to 2nd January 2027
About this event
Christmas at Dunham Massey returns for its 10th year, running from 20 November 2026 to 2 January 2027. It is a mile-long, all-outdoor trail of light and sound installations through the gardens and park, with timed, staggered entry and limited capacity.
New for 2026 are fresh lights in the gardens and new projections on the historic house. Expect lasers cutting through the woodland, a tunnel of blue fairy lights, a cathedral-like archway of bright lights and a sweeping sea of light across the grounds. The National Trust suggests allowing 1 to 2 hours.
Father Christmas makes an appearance, and vendors sell seasonal treats along the way. Food, drink and the fairground rides are all paid for on the night, and are not included in the ticket.
Well-behaved dogs are welcome on most nights on a short lead, which makes it an easy outing for dog owners. On the four quieter sessions, at 16:00 and 16:15 on 27 November and 1, 7 and 30 December, audio is lower, visitor numbers are reduced and only assistance dogs are allowed. Paths are mostly flat and checked daily, and wheelchairs and mobility scooters can be borrowed free.
10th year with new projections
For its 10th anniversary the trail adds new lights in the gardens and new projections on Dunham Massey's historic house, alongside woodland lasers, a tunnel of blue fairy lights and a sweeping sea of light.
Dogs welcome on most nights
Well-behaved dogs can come on a short lead on most nights. The exceptions are the quieter sessions on 27 November and 1, 7 and 30 December, when only assistance dogs are allowed, so check the date before you book.
Free wheelchair and scooter loan
Paths are mostly flat and checked daily, and wheelchairs and mobility scooters can be borrowed free of charge by calling 0161 941 1025. Limited seating is placed along the mile-long route for anyone who needs a break.
Plan your visit
Dates and times
20th November 2026 to 2nd January 2027
20 November 2026 to 2 January 2027
Entry slots 16:30 - 20:30, staggered start times allocated at booking
The event closes 1.5 hours after the last allocated entry
Quieter sessions 16:00 and 16:15 on 27 November and 1, 7 and 30 DecemberAges
All Ages
Getting there
Travelling by Bus
There are regular buses from Altrincham in Greater Manchester, stopping just outside Dunham Massey.
Regular buses from Warrington, stop about 20 minutes away.
Travelling by Train
Altrincham is 25 minutes from central Manchester by train or tram. There are also direct trains to Altrincham from Stockport, Northwich and Chester.
VIP Pass
Members save at selected Christmas days out
Frequently Asked Questions
Most asked questions relating to Christmas.
From Santa's grottos and magical light trails to winter farm parks, theme park celebrations and immersive festive experiences, the UK has plenty of Christmas days out for all ages. Our Christmas Events hub highlights the most popular and top-rated options to help you choose the perfect adventure.
