Christmas Tree festival at A la Ronde

On Sunday 24 November, staff and volunteers invite visitors to come along and enjoy what has become an annual event in the A la Ronde calendar. The third annual community Christmas Tree Festival will remain in place for visitors to enjoy each weekend until 15 December.

Local organisations have been hard at work perfecting their trees which will be displayed in the grounds of the 16-sided National Trust property. The different decorating themes have been kept a closely guarded secret – one that will be revealed when the grounds open at 11.30am.

As well as the great display of decorated trees there is also a Christmas Wish Tree for special messages, a festive family trail in the grounds and live seasonal music provided by Lympstone’s La La Choir and local hand bell ringers. A cup of warming mulled apple juice is on the house too. All in all, it’s a feast for the senses – and it’s all for free.

Visitors will also have the opportunity to take a guided tour through the house to hear about the Parminter cousins, who built A la Ronde, and subsequent owners of the property. The gift shop will be open for Christmas shopping and the tearoom will be serving up a menu featuring delicious local produce.

Finally, before leaving, visitors might like to claim a peck on the cheek under the traditional kissing bough in a dining room dressed to delight.