Artistic rendering – Event may differ
High Peak Christmas at Ilam Park
Experience a magical Christmas at Ilam Park with a variety of festive events and activities. Families can enjoy 'Breakfast with Father Christmas' and a special 'Santa Paws' event for dogs. Explore the grounds with themed trails like 'Operation Save the Sleigh Trail' and 'Mole Mission', or get creative with craft sessions. The stunning Peak District landscape provides a beautiful backdrop for holiday cheer.
What to Expect
Festive events in a historic Peak District landscape
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$
- Parking: Parking is free for National Trust members in both car parks, with a charge for non-members of £6 for up to 4hrs, £8 for over 4hrs. Please have the correct change for the Dovedale car park. The tickets are not transferable between the two car parks. Overnight parking is not permitted.
- Accessibility: Uneven surfaces and pathways with some steps and stiles. Blue badge parking in main Ilam Park and Dovedale car parks. Changing Place located just off the Stableyard at Ilam Park, which can be accessed with a radar key. The extensive network of bridleways and permissive tracks are shared by walkers, horse riders, climbers and cyclists.
- Pets: Dogs on lead are welcome in all our outdoor spaces and in the Grab & Go outlet. Special events like 'Santa Paws' are for dogs.
Other Christmas Events Near Ashbourne
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, dog owners, nature lovers
Vibe
Festive, outdoorsy, family-oriented
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Special Events & Promotions
- Mole Hole installation by Bruce Asbestos
- Mole Mission with Pepperpot the Mole
- Stranger Folk Halloween Trail App
- Craft your own clay ghost
- Canihike event
- Operation Save the Sleigh Trail
- Breakfast with Father Christmas
- Festive Fun Day
- Santa Paws event
Location
Event Details
Duration
Varies by event
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
White Peak
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
National Trust
Food & Drink
Hot and cold drinks, cakes and seasonal lunches are available from the Manifold Tea-room. Grab & Go outlet at Ilam park is open seasonally.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Book 'Breakfast with Father Christmas' and 'Santa Paws' in advance, as these popular events are likely to sell out quickly.
- Check the specific event times and dates for 'Operation Save the Sleigh Trail' and 'Stranger Folk Halloween Trail App' as they vary.
- Wear sturdy footwear suitable for walking, as many activities involve exploring the parkland and trails.
- Consider visiting on a weekday if possible to avoid larger crowds, especially for the popular Christmas events.
- Bring your dog along for the 'Canihike' and 'Santa Paws' events, but ensure they are well-behaved and kept on a lead in other areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the opening times for Ilam Park during the Christmas events?
Ilam Park is generally open from Dawn to Dusk, with the tea-room open from 10:00 to 16:00. Specific event times will vary, so please check the individual event details.
Are dogs allowed at the Christmas events?
Dogs on leads are welcome in outdoor spaces and at the 'Santa Paws' event. Please check individual event details for any specific restrictions.
What is the price for the Christmas events?
While some activities like the 'Mole Mission' are free, events like 'Breakfast with Father Christmas' and 'Canihike' have associated costs. General admission to the park is £8 for adults without Gift Aid. Please check specific event pages for pricing.
Can I book tickets in advance?
It is highly recommended to book popular events like 'Breakfast with Father Christmas' in advance, as they are likely to sell out. Check the individual event pages for booking information.
What should I wear for the outdoor events?
Given the outdoor nature of many events and the Peak District location, dress in warm layers and wear waterproof, sturdy footwear suitable for walking on uneven terrain.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.