We've already been wowed by Windsor Castle's 2023 Christmas decorations, which this year celebrate the 675th anniversary of the Order of the Garter. But it's not the only royal residence to receive a festive makeover.
This December, visitors to Windsor Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse will get a chance to see the magnificent Christmas displays, while a series of exclusive evening tours will give behind-the-scenes access to both, as well as Buckingham Palace.
Keep reading to find out exactly what each of the royal residences has in store this festive season. And if you can't make it along in person, we've shared some beautiful photographs of the displays below.
Royal Collection Trust / © His Majesty King Charles III 2023
Christmas at Windsor Castle (30th November 2023 to 1st January 2024)
Among the total of eight Christmas trees at Windsor Castle this year, the show-stopping 20-foot-high Nordmann Fir tree in St George's Hall is a real highlight. Topped with a specially commissioned sparkling Garter Star, which was designed to commemorate the 675th anniversary of the Order of the Garter – the oldest order of chivalry in Britain – the tree also features Coronation-themed decorations to celebrate this momentous year.
Royal Collection Trust / © His Majesty King Charles III 2023
Another Garter Star topped tree can be seen in the Crimson Drawing Room, while the 160-foot-long dining table in the Waterloo Chamber has been set with porcelain from the Garter Service featuring a design inspired by the Garter star and the Order’s motto ‘Honi soit qui mal y pense (Shame on him who thinks evil of it)’.
Royal Collection Trust / © His Majesty King Charles III 2023
The Castle grounds are also adorned with everything from festive wreaths and foliage on the lampposts and gates outside, to the impressive garlands that will greet visitors as they enter the State Apartments on the Grand Staircase.
Royal Collection Trust / © His Majesty King Charles III 2023
There will also be workshops and craft activities that explore how the Victorians celebrated Christmas, as well as local school and community choirs performing carols beneath the Christmas tree in St George's Hall, on select dates.
Royal Collection Trust / © His Majesty King Charles III 2023
Christmas at the Palace of Holyroodhouse (23rd November 2023 to 1st January 2024)
At the Palace of Holyroodhouse in the Scottish capital of Edinburgh, there are more spectacular Christmas decorations. In the wood-panelled Throne Room, you'll find the centrepiece for this year’s display: a magnificent Nordmann Fir Christmas tree.
Royal Collection Trust / © His Majesty King Charles III 2023
While in the Great Gallery, another Nordmann Fir tree and two decorated mantelpieces add to the merry atmosphere. Velvet garlands, vibrant berries and seasonal foliage adorn the Great Stair leading to the historic State Apartments. Several wreaths have also been hung in the windows of the King's Rooms.
Royal Collection Trust / © His Majesty King Charles III 2023
The Royal Dining Room's grand table has been laid with a silver service, complete with plenty of festive foliage and sugared fruit. Visitors can enjoy a variety of sweet treats – such as homemade mince pies, Christmas cake and mulled wine – in the Café at the Palace in the Mews courtyard. A decadent Christmas-themed afternoon tea can also be booked in advance.
Royal Collection Trust / © His Majesty King Charles III 2023
There is also a programme of activities and music, with everything from carolling and crafts to Christmas concerts and talks on how monarchs have celebrated Christmas over the centuries – from exchanging Christmas cards and personal gifts to holding festive pantomimes.
Winter Exclusive Guided Tours (November 2023 to February 2024)
Visitors will also be able to tour both the State Apartments at Windsor Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, with Buckingham Palace's State Rooms also open to the public throughout winter.
Buckingham Palace Christmas Tree 2013
Jeremy Selwyn//Getty Images
Buckingham Palace Christmas Tree 2004
Tim Graham//Getty Images
Buckingham Palace Christmas Tree 1998
Anwar Hussein//Getty Images
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