Burghley Christmas Fair

The beautiful courtyards and grounds of Burghley House will be filled with festive chalets, pagodas and marquees bedecked in sparkling Christmas decorations for the annual Burghley Christmas Fair.

The region’s largest and most magical Christmas Fair, featuring stalls offering a wide range of artisan and unique gifts. Spend the day finding the perfect presents for loved ones, including stocking fillers, handmade decorations, clothes and beautiful homewares.

Be sure to take a break from the shopping to enjoy the delicious festive treats from the very best food and drink producers. From traditional mulled wine and indulgent hot chocolate to warming raclette and tempting sweet and savoury crepês, there’s something to tantalise every taste bud.

Enjoy the most wonderful festive day out with twinkling lights, music filling the air, and if you're lucky, a few snowflakes too! A large Victorian carousel, lit up for the season, adds even more seasonal cheer.

New for 2025

Enjoy a brand-new enclosed tented space – a welcoming retreat to pause and soak up the festive atmosphere. Inside, you’ll find plenty of seating, a tempting selection of food and drink, and a programme of live musical entertainment every day.

Festive Drone Show

For an extra touch of seasonal magic, a festive drone show will take place each day.

The Burghley Christmas Fair is run in association with the Angel Committee to raise funds for the Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice in Peterborough.

Why do I need to book an arrival timeslot?

To minimise queues and crowds, we ask you to book an arrival timeslot for your visit to the Burghley Christmas Fair. Once here, you are welcome to stay as long as you wish. 

Can I buy a ticket on the gate? 

No, tickets will not be available to purchase on the gate, pre-booking is required.

What is a Flexi Ticket?

A limited number of Flexi Tickets are available allowing visitors to buy a ticket in advance and decide which date to visit later. Flexi Tickets are valid for admission to the Christmas Fair on any one day of the event. Flexi Tickets are valid for any day and any arrival time. Flexi Tickets can only be redeemed once and are non-transferrable and non-refundable. 

Do I have to pay for parking?

Parking, including dedicated Accessible Parking (located close to Fair entrances), is free for all Burghley Christmas Fair ticket holders - no pre-booking required.

Most parking will be on grass, so please wear suitable footwear as it may be muddy, wet, or uneven underfoot. The event site is large, and parking may be up to 500m from the entrance.

Priority Parking zones, located closer to the entrances for a shorter walk, are available to pre-book online for £8 per car.

Can I exchange my ticket or get a refund? 

We are sorry but once purchased, we are not able to refund or exchange tickets. Tickets are valid on the date and time specified only. For those looking for flexible tickets, a limited number of Flexi Tickets are available which are valid for admission on any one day of the event.

Are Carer tickets available?

Carers can visit the Christmas Fair at no charge when accompanying a visitor you care for. You will be required to provide proof of carer status at the ticket desk. Click here for details on accepted documentation. 

Is the event accessible?

There is step free access to all shopping areas of the event, but please be aware due to the location within the courtyards there are cobbled areas and uneven surfaces. There will be an Accessible Car Parking area available close to the Fair entrance points - no pre-booking required please follow directional signage on the day. Disabled toilets are available in the Chestnut Courtyard, The Brewhouse and Garden Café. The Orangery Restaurant and Great Hall are accessed via a ramp and stairlift. All of our car parks are floodlit, but please be mindful of lower lighting levels if you are returning to your car after dark.

Is the event suitable for prams and buggies?

Prams and buggies are permitted however the Christmas Fair does get very busy so we strongly recommend that they be left at home where possible.

Can I bring my dog? 

The Christmas Fair is a busy event, so we don't advise bringing dogs. If you do choose to bring your dog, please note that dogs must be kept on a lead at all times. Dogs (except assistance dogs) are not permitted in the indoor areas at the event - the Pavilion, The Marquee, The Brewhouse, Orangery Restaurant and Great Hall. 

Is it possible to arrive separately if we purchased tickets together?

Yes, that's fine. Just be sure to share your e-ticket QR code with the rest of your group, as they will need it to gain entry to the Fair.

Will cash be accepted by stallholders?

A number of stallholders accept cash, however please note the Burghley Christmas Shop, Burghley Gift Shop, Orangery Restaurant and the Carousel can only accept payment by card or contactless device. 

Do you accept group bookings?

Yes, we are happy to welcome groups to the Christmas Fair, however coach and minibus parking is limited and must be pre-booked by emailing burghley@burghley.co.uk

Will Burghley House, Gardens and Adventure Play be open during the fair?

No, the House, Gardens and Play will be closed for the duration of the Christmas Fair.

Where do I find information about exhibiting?

Please visit our Exhibitor Information page for further information and contact details.