As spooky season ends, festive season creeps up fast!
A paw-some Christmas adventure awaits at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens this festive season.
Step into a tail-wagging adventure as the magic of The Snowman and The Snowdog head to Hillsborough Castle and Gardens from 29 November 2025 to 4 January 2026.
The Castle grounds will be transformed with 10 playful Snowdogs and one Snowman with elements inspired by the much-loved animated films, The Snowman and sequel The Snowdog – Raymond Briggs’ classic picture book and film adaptations.
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A spokesperson said: “At the Castle entrance, a life-sized Snowman and Snowdog will greet visitors, inviting them to explore winding woodland paths, hidden glens, and sparkling green spaces throughout the gardens.
“Along the trail, Snowdog displays will be brought to life, inviting families and visitors of all ages to pause, explore, and enjoy fresh surprises around every corner.
“Inside the Clore Learning Centre – a dedicated creative and educational space located in the Castle’s former stable block – families can warm up with screenings of The Snowman and The Snowdog on weekends (29–30 November, 6–7 and 13–14 December) and during the school holidays (20–23 December and 27–4 January).”
On weekends and during the Christmas holidays, visitors can enjoy even more festive cheer with a magical meet-and-greet with Santa himself – part of the wider Hillsborough Castle and Gardens Christmas experience.
After following the Snowdog trail through the gardens and discovering glimmering wintery scenes, Christmassy treats and hot drinks are available from the café, and on snowy days there’s even space to build a snowman.
Stuart Campbell, Public Engagement Manager at Historic Royal Palaces, said: “We’re thrilled to bring the Snowdogs to life in the grounds of Hillsborough Castle and Gardens.
“This magical trail is a wonderful way for families to explore the gardens together, spotting each Snowdog hidden in film-inspired scenes, and creating memories along the way. It’s a joyful celebration of a much-loved classic story that captures the spirit of Christmas and brings a little extra magic to the Castle this winter.”
The festivities continue inside the Castle itself, open Wednesday to Sunday, and moving to seven days a week during the school holidays. Grand State Rooms will be dressed in sparkling Christmas trees, garlands, and traditional decorations, while Castle tours share stories of seasonal traditions from Hillsborough’s past.
The trail has been developed in collaboration with Wild in Art, a leading producer of creative events that transform public spaces, connect communities and showcase inspiring art.
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