Knit yourself a merry little Christmas at Arlington Court

A colourful giant knitted Christmas tree has graced the main staircase hall of Arlington Court in Devon.

Complete with Knitted baubles & presents it was originally knitted in 2005 to raise money for charity, the tree contains the work of over 1000 volunteers from across the world who helped to knit it. The tree has been on display in various other locations, but this is the first time it has been displayed in a historic house. The creator, Alison Murray was delighted to be asked to exhibit the tree at Arlington and encouraged her local knitting group to create a special garland to go round the banisters of the stairs!.

Rooms in the house and carriage museum at Arlington have been transformed into festive delights by volunteers and staff this winter. Visitors can come and get in the Christmas spirit every weekend until 21 December.

Another first for this year is decorations at the carriage museum. Visitors can follow a line of jingle bells up to the carriages and explore the varied collection. Visitor Services Manager for the National Trust at Arlington, Natalie Savage said, “With the huge knitted tree in the hall of the house, we were concerned about fitting in our usual Father Christmas events in the remaining space. However, a group of our volunteers came up with the idea of hosting Father Christmas at the carriage museum, which seemed like a great plan.”

Therefore for the first time ever visitors on 13, 14, 20 & 21 will be able to meet Father Christmas in the harness room. As dogs on leads are welcome at the carriage museum, this will be the first year that visitor’s pets will be able to meet Father Christmas as well. In addition there will be crafts in the carriage museum gallery with hot drinks (including mulled wine) and mince pies on sale in the gallery as well.

Alongside the decorations are a variety of seasonal events including outdoor carol singing with the South Molton Town Band on Sunday 7 December from 3:15pm and  preparing for Christmas with the Victorian servants on Saturday 13 December from 11am-3pm.

Arlington Court will be fully decorated for Christmas weekends from 29 November to 21 December, open from 11am-4pm. Normal admission charges apply and .National Trust members receive free entry. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/arlington-court or call 01271 850296.