Visiting Castle Hill at Christmas is a cherished tradition for families across the North Shore — and this year’s celebration promises to be more enchanting than ever. Step inside the historic Great House as it transforms into a sparkling tribute to the beauty of the natural world, with each room inspired by birds, flowers, snowflakes, winter woodland scenes, and more. With 18 beautifully decorated spaces to explore, guests of all ages will be captivated by the artistry and imagination around every corner.
Wander at your own pace while knowledgeable interpreters share stories, history, and holiday charm in each room. Along the way, families can enjoy:
🍪 Freshly baked cookies & hot chocolate
🔍 The Crane Holiday Eye Spy — a festive seek-and-find perfect for kids
🛍️ A visit to the Castle Hill Gift Shop — full of seasonal gifts, local treasures, and keepsakes
🎟️ Tickets & Entry Details
To ensure a comfortable experience for all, timed entry limits the number of guests during each session. Advance reservations are strongly recommended, especially for weekend dates.
- Ipswich residents: Use code IPSWICH at checkout and show a resident beach sticker or ID at the gate for a special rate.
- Children ages 4 and under: Free admission
- Ages 5–14: Discounted child rate
📅 Event Dates & Hours
Fridays:
December 5, 12, 19, 26 — 4:00–7:00 PM
Saturdays:
December 6, 13, 20, 27 — 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
⭐ Sensory-Friendly Hours: 10:00–11:30 AM (reduced capacity, no flickering lights)
Sundays:
December 7, 14, 21, 28 — 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
🧘 Sensory-Friendly Hours
Families seeking a calmer experience are invited to attend Sensory-Friendly Hours from 10:00–11:30 AM on all four Saturdays. These sessions feature:
- Reduced capacity
- No flickering lights
- A relaxed, welcoming atmosphere
Perfect for guests who benefit from a quieter and more predictable environment.
♿ Accessibility Information
Please note:
- The Grand Staircase has 30 steps, and there is no elevator inside the Great House.
- A digital display featuring photographs of second-floor rooms will be available for guests unable to access upper levels.
🔁 Refund Policy
Refund and exchange requests must be made at least 7 days prior to your event date.
