Winter Wonderland at Westport House is a magical family experience brimming with Christmas cheer that will leave the kids starry-eyed and the whole family believing in fairy-tales!

Escape the wintery weather outside for the warmth of our open fires in this stunning historic house.

Soak up the twinkling lights, lush green garlands and tinsel trimmings spilling festively from every corner of Westport House as the little ones enjoy a fun-filled Christmas experience that they are sure to remember forever.

The guided Winter Wonderland experience will begin with a visit to the amazing LIVE crib situated on the front lawn of Westport House. The Live Crib is in aid of St. Mary’s Church – who are urgently fundraising for restorative works and any donation will be appreciated.

After visiting the crib, you will make your way inside, into the front hall of Westport House and be greeted by Santa’s Little Helper who will lead your family – along with a small group of other families – through the guided experience.

You will start the journey with story-time by the fireplace of the gorgeous Drawing Room with a very warm welcome from Mrs Claus who will tell magical Christmas Stories. Your next stop will include festive face-painting to really get you in the Christmas spirit, followed by a Bricks workshop with Lego and Duplo.  Onwards to learning all about the Ginger Bread Man – while decorating your own – in the Large Dining Room. To truly emphasise the real spirit of Christmas, be sure to make a wish at the Christmas Wishing Tree, where children can write down their wishes and hang them on a branch of their choosing.

Next, it’s time for the main event!

Kids will be wowed with a very special visit to Santa in his magical grotto where he’ll have a chat with all the children, receive the *token* gift of their very own  and take photos to remember this very special occasion (you may take your own photos or avail of our professional photography service**). Please note that the group size will include no more than 12-15 children.

After meeting Santa, you’ll be captivated by the elves hard at work in the Elves Workshop where you will have the opportunity to make your own Christmas decoration to take home!

Following all that excitement, you will be in need of a refreshment! Pop into the Old Kitchen Cafe for a free juice for the kids and a delicious festive drink for the adults where you can also enjoy homemade sweet and savoury delights!

Our Train Driver will pick you up from the back door and you’ll hop on board the Westport Train to enjoy magnificent winter time views around the House before you depart.  Be sure to take a ride on the new vintage carousel (this is charged additionally at €3 per person riding).  

With so much to do at our Winter Wonderland, you’ll cherish the special memories your family will share of this fun-filled and blissful Christmas-time experience.

“Mrs Claus was outstanding – this whole experiencing was enchanting. The real fire, the story is told so well, the engagement with the children, the delivery of the spirit of Christmas was wonderful to hear.”

Sensory Santa

On December 6th from 3-8pm, Westport House will host our annual Sensory Santa session at Winter Wonderland. For those children with autism and sensory disorders, we set aside some time where families can relax and enjoy a magical Christmas experience.

We turn up the lights and tone down the Christmas tunes. Santa will meet with families individually rather than arranging group visits with multiple families. Siblings are also welcome to join in the festive fun too!

Aside from meeting the big man, there’s lots to do!

Visit our live crib on the front lawn, Enjoy story-time with Mrs Claus, Take part in the “Make your own yuletide log” workshop, ginger break decorating, face painting, and complimentary drinks!  And don’t forget the Westport Train which is a big hit too.

Prices

• Babies under 1 year old go FREE for their first Christmas with gift included!
• €15 for infants (children under 2 years – a gift is included***)
• €28.50 for children (aged 2 years and up – a gift is included ***)
• €14 for adults (aged 16 years and up)

** A professional photo service will be available in Santa’s Grotto to capture your little ones’ special Santa experience – this is not included in your admission price. Professionally printed shots can be purchased from €10 each. You’re welcome to take your own family photos too at no cost.