Experience a Viking Yule at Buckland Abbey

Buckland Abbey, near Plymouth, has opened its doors for Christmas 2024 with an immersive Viking Yule experience, running from 30 November until 31 December.

Visitors to the Great Barn were transported through a Scandinavian Forest and into a Viking Long Hall, surrounded by Viking traditions and illuminated by lights inspired by the Northern Lights. 

The Abbey itself featured decorations reflecting Viking culture, with Christmas trees and handmade decorations, including a beautifully crafted Christmas cascade in the Georgian staircase, made by volunteers.

Eleanor Hopkinson, Visitor Experience Manager at Buckland Abbey, said: “The Viking Yule celebrations at the National Trust’s Buckland Abbey are inspired by the Scandinavian raiders who raided Tavistock and Lydford in 997. Although before the Abbey was founded in 1278, Vikings left their mark on the area, and visitors can learn about their Yuletide rituals, some of which continue today.”

Eleanor also added: “Most of the decorations have been handmade by volunteers who have worked incredibly hard this year. We can’t wait for visitors to see the true community effort that runs through Buckland Abbey, from the Barn display to the tree decorations.”

In keeping with Buckland Abbey's sustainable approach, all trees on display were felled from the Abbey's Great North Wood as part of its woodland management plan.

Ed Furdson, Lead Ranger for the National Trust at Buckland, said: “It’s wonderful that we can use trees from Buckland’s Great North Wood in this year’s display. Afterward, they will be chipped and used across the estate.”

The festivities continue into the New Year with a traditional Wassail taking place at 1pm on Sunday, 5 January. 

Ed Furdson shared: “Every year at Buckland, we wake the trees to bring in a good harvest. The celebrations begin with a mummers play and dancing by the Dartmoor Border Moors. We then head to the orchards to make as much noise as possible with pots, pans, and anything noisy to chase away bad luck for a good harvest.”

Buckland Abbey’s Christmas celebrations are open daily from 10am to 4pm (closed 25 & 26 December). 

Normal admission applies. 

For more information, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/buckland-abbey.