Plenty of festive fun in store at local National Trust property The Vyne (From Basingstoke Gazette)

Plenty of festive fun in store at local National Trust property The Vyne

2:02pm Tuesday 20th November 2012 in Leisure

DECEMBER may be dark and chilly, but historic local National Trust property The Vyne at Sherborne St John is alight with colourful and unusual events.

The Vyne hosts one of the most popular events of the year, the Naomi House Bauble Hunt, on December 8 from 11am until 3pm. This magical occasion raises vital funds for the Naomi House and jacksplace hospices, which provide care and support to life-limited children, young adults and their families. Children are invited to chat with Father Christmas, then hunt the grounds for Christmas baubles and there will be delicious prizes for all participants. Booking is advisable on 01962 843513.

The property’s Tudor Oak Gallery hosts live theatre for the first time when Quantum Theatre present a unique performance of Hans Christian Andersen’s The Snow Queen on December 9.

This is the gripping tale of Kay and his friend Gerda, the latter setting out on a perilous journey to rescue the former from the frozen-hearted Snow Queen. Enjoy a dramatic and magical show, with live music, in this very special and intimate venue. Performances take place at 2.30pm and 7pm and last for one hour and 45 minutes. Tickets and further information are available from 01256 883858.

Father Christmas is also in weekend residence to younger visitors (selected dates – see below), each of whom will receive a festive treat. The Vyne’s gardens, meadows, and woodland are full of delightful winter walks. After a stroll across this pretty landscape, visitors can warm themselves against a roaring log fire in the Brewhouse tea room, and tuck into seasonal treats such as turkey and cranberry pies, chestnut and sausage stuffed rolls, festive puddings and hot spiced drinks.

The house will be dressed for Christmas from December 1 to 22 between 11am – 3pm and Father Christmas will be there on December 1, 2, 15, 16 and 22. Visit nationaltrust.org.uk or call 01256 883858 for times.

Finally, there are two festive craft opportunities. First up is a nightlight workshop on December 5 from 6pm-9pm during which you can create beautiful Nordic Christmas nightlights with Winchester based designers Sue Kenneally and Sue Fox. During the workshop Sue & Sue will show you how to make these fabulous covers for your glass nightlights using, print, pattern, papercutting, type and laminate. Participation costs £30 and booking is essential 01256 883858.  

Sue and Sue will also hold a wreath workshop on December 7 and 14. Join them in this step by step session to create a stunning Scandinavian wreath adorned with greenery from The Vyne Estate, as well as personal, hand-made decorations. The ticket price of £30 includes tea/ coffee and homemade cake and again, booking is essential on 01256 883858.