Fonmon Castle’s Christmas season launches with elves, magic, owls and more

From elves and owls to chances to meet Santa and Mrs Claus, Fonmon Castle delivers a feast of festive fun from November 26 until December 23.

The castle, which is located near Barry in the Vale of Glamorgan, has a host of special Christmas attractions and has given its regular attractions – including its story trail, dinosaur park and medieval village – a magical festive twist.

Families can explore 10 acres of Illuminated gardens and dinosaurs and enjoy the atmosphere of Christmas, stopping off to meet a host of festive characters. Magician Patrick will be performing his own special magic tricks, and Mrs Claus will be telling children what happened when she invited a T-Rex to dinner.

There will be live music from the Singing Elf within the castle, and meetings with Saint Nic can be arranged upon arrival for a small additional charge on a first come, first served basis. Saint Nic is the precursor of Santa Claus; he will be traditionally dressed and will tell visitors about the history of Christmas.

Children can have their photo taken with the Xmas Owls and be entertained by the Circus Elf and her juggling madness. They can also follow the Fon & Mon Christmas story along the castle’s story trail and interact with costumed staff throughout the park.

Santa shows will run throughout the evening and can be found just in front of the castle entrance on the main balcony.

Ross O’Hennessy, who runs the events at Fonmon Castle, said:

“We’re delighted that the festive season is upon us. We’ve put together our best ever selection of attractions and entertainments, which are guaranteed to deliver family festive fun for all. There’s nothing more magical than a castle and its grounds lit up for Christmas and there’s something to discover around every corner between November 26 and December 23.”

More information:

• Prices listed here: https://fonmoncastle.com/whats-on

• Fonmon Castle, which dates from Norman times, is a beautiful country home set in 100 acres of grounds in the Vale of Glamorgan, close to Cardiff Airport. It was opened in 2020 as a visitor attraction after centuries as the ancestral home of the Boothby family. It is now owned by businessman Nigel Ford.

• Fonmon Castle’s website is: https://fonmoncastle.com/