🍂A vibrant season of autumn colour, creative workshops and festive magic is coming to North Devon, with a host of National Trust events now added to the Woolacombe Tourism online calendar.
Celebrating the Gardens at Arlington Court
From 14–20 September, Arlington Court invites visitors to explore its gardens in a special week‑long celebration. Guests can enjoy behind‑the‑scenes access to areas such as the polytunnels and compost bays, learn about sustainable gardening, and preview the brand‑new Slip Garden. Weekday talks and demonstrations from the gardening team will highlight traditional skills and the care behind Arlington’s historic grounds.
Nature Photography Walk – 26 September
Local photographer Mark Johnson leads a nature‑inspired photography walk through Arlington’s gardens, offering tips on capturing the estate’s scenery. The event complements the A Home for Nature exhibition, inspired by Rosalie Chichester’s deep connection to the landscape.
Autumnfest Arrives – 3 October to 1 November
Arlington Court’s popular Autumnfest returns with a month of seasonal fun. Visitors can follow an animal‑themed scarecrow trail created by local schools and community groups, admire harvest displays inside the house, and enjoy colourful gourd arrangements in the gardens.
A special Autumnfest Family Fun Day on 30 October brings hands‑on crafts, whittling, marshmallow toasting and more, alongside the Community Scarecrow Trail.
🎄 A Storybook Christmas at Arlington Court
From 21 November, Arlington Court transforms into a festive storybook world. The house and gardens will be decorated with scenes inspired by classic tales, with open evenings, musical performances and family trails throughout December.
Highlights include:
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Write Your Own Story Trail (21 Nov–2 Jan)
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Pop‑Up Mini Market with North Devon Handmade Collective (21–23 Nov)
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Bring a Friend for Free offer (12–18 Dec)
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Evening Openings on 1, 8 & 15 December, complete with festive treats and marshmallow toasting
Pop‑Up Mini Market – 21–23 November
Visitors can browse local arts, crafts and festive gifts as the North Devon Handmade Collective brings its Christmas market to Arlington Court.
Christmas Open Evenings – 1, 8 & 15 December
Arlington Court opens after dark for atmospheric evenings filled with twinkling lights, festive food and beautifully decorated rooms.
🌿 Family Volunteering at Morte Point – 29 October
Closer to Woolacombe, families can join National Trust rangers for a hands‑on conservation day at Morte Point. Volunteers will help clear gorse and vegetation to support wildflowers and rare maritime species. Tools and guidance are provided, and families can drop in anytime between 10am and 3pm.
All events are now listed on the Woolacombe Tourism online calendar, with full details, and booking links.
https://www.woolacombetourism.co.uk/events
