The sixth Christmas Kingdom at Bamburgh Castle will transport visitors into a world of music and seasonal tradition, with the 2026 theme revealed as A Christmas Carousel.
The festive trail will once again transform the Northumberland castle's state rooms, this time drawing on beloved Christmas songs and carols. Visitors will journey through enchanting worlds inspired by festive favourites including Walking in a Winter Wonderland, We Three Kings and the chimes of Carol of the Bells.
Music, memory and festive tradition
Along the route, the experience will feature a magical snow-covered woodland walk, lavish Victorian Christmas feasts, beautifully-decorated trees and elegant angelic installations, all designed to complement the castle's history and interiors.
Bamburgh Castle welcomed its first Christmas Kingdom in 2021, with the inaugural Saints & Angels theme created by Charlotte Lloyd-Webber's event design team for owners Francis and Claire Watson-Armstrong. Described as the "biggest indoor Christmas experience in the North East", it was followed by The Twelve Days of Christmas, The Enchanted Myths and Legends of Northumbria and A Christmas Through Time.
A growing tradition
Last year's Treasured Tales brought storybook worlds to life with scenes including Captain Cook's cabin and a shimmering Little Mermaid's bedchamber, and extended the trail with an Aladdin's cave finale in The Keep Hall. The installation featured on Channel 4's A Very British Christmas.
Francis Watson-Armstrong said: "What started as a festive display has grown into a Christmas tradition for so many people, with families and friends now returning year after year." He added: "Planning begins almost as soon as one Christmas ends. Charlotte Lloyd Webber and her brilliant team have been working with us since January to bring this year's vision to life, and we're delighted to finally unveil A Christmas Carousel."
Dates and tickets
A Christmas Carousel runs from November 14 until January 3. Entry is included in the castle's standard admission price, with tickets now on sale for the winter season. Further details of the festive programme, including personalised Meet Father Christmas experiences and wreath-making, are to be announced soon.
