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Victorian Christmas returns to Elizabeth Gaskell’s House this festive season

Our popular Victorian Christmas experience is back for the 2026 festive season – and promises to be more magical than ever!

The former residence of the famous novelist Elizabeth Gaskell is getting into the holiday spirit this November, offering visitors the chance to explore the unique traditions of a historical era that transformed Christmas into the rich celebration we know today. 

The Grade-II listed building’s atmospheric rooms will be decked out with sparkling trees and unusual seasonal bookish décor, while its impressive dining table will be set for Christmas dinner, with a traditional recipe book highlighting the dishes of the day. The Venti Choir will perform traditional carols and new compositions throughout the festive period on Wednesdays at 2pm.

This year sees the launch of a new festive family trail and plenty of opportunities for dressing-up and free-play, as well as an interactive craft station in the Servants’ Hall, where visitors are invited to make book ornaments to hang on their own Christmas trees at home. And naturally, the tea room will be serving up plenty of seasonal hot chocolate and speciality teas and coffees in vintage china, as well as a range of festive treats.

‘We cannot wait to welcome visitors into our atmospheric, beautifully decorated Victorian house to share Christmas stories, listen to live carols, and discover the literary connections that shaped the festive traditions we still love today,’ says Sally Jastrzebski-Lloyd, Director, Elizabeth Gaskell’s House. ‘This is a unique opportunity for Mancunians to experience a magical Victorian Christmas experience just a short distance from the city centre!‘”‘ 

Christmas At Elizabeth Gaskell’s House will run from November 15 to December 20, 2026. Tickets can be booked here.