Visiting this stately National Trust property in County Down during the festive season is like stepping back into a Georgian Christmas wonderland. The halls of Castle Ward here are not just decked in holly, but garlanded with traditional decorations and festive foods as well. Looking for a truly unique Christmas gift? Over the weekend of 29 November to 1 December the mansion’s stable yard is transformed into a Christmas Artisan Market, bursting with local craftspeople and food vendors selling their festive wares.

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