Rhug Estate is gearing up for a vibrant and welcoming December, unveiling a packed calendar of seasonal events and foodie experiences designed to draw families and festive-makers from across the Welsh–English border.
Set on 12,500 acres near Corwen in Denbighshire, the estate steps into the Christmas season after a bustling autumn that saw wreath-making workshops with floral designer Kate Jordan and tasting evenings hosted by chef Jordan Richardson sell out in advance.
A key attraction for visitors travelling in from Shropshire, Cheshire and beyond will be this year’s Christmas Craft Fair on December 6 and 7. Each day dozens of local makers and producers will offer handcrafted gifts, regional delicacies and festive treats perfect for early Christmas shopping.
Inside Rhug Farm Shop, shelves will be brimming with seasonal essentials, ready-made hampers, gift bags and last-chance orders for the renowned Rhug Organic Christmas Turkey. Staff at the meat counter will be on hand to advise on remaining sizes for those making the trip to secure their festive centrepiece.
Running alongside the fair is Santa’s Grotto, open on the same dates. No booking is required, with visits operating on a first-come, first-served basis. Entry is £10 per child, including a gift.
Rhug Estate owner Lord Newborough said: “December at Rhug is always a highlight. Our Christmas events bring people together, and there’s a real sense of energy across the estate.
“Whether you’re here for the craft fair, a carol in the chapel or simply good food, we want visitors to feel welcome and part of the occasion.”
He added: “We’ve also seen our organic turkeys sell out at record speed this year. More people than ever are choosing sustainably raised produce for their Christmas table. If you haven’t secured yours yet, you’ll need to be quick – time is running out!”
Visitors crossing the border for a festive day out can also enjoy the annual Christmas Carol Service at Rhug Chapel on December 11. The atmospheric setting has limited capacity, but those attending can continue the evening back at the Farm Shop and Bistro with late-night shopping, mince pies, hot drinks, food and more carol singing.
A Festive Dining Evening on December 13 will offer a seasonal set menu with Prosecco on arrival, crackers, music and a small gift. Booking opens from 6pm, and with only a few places left, early reservations are advised for those travelling in.
Rhug’s award-winning Organic Free-Range Turkeys—raised for nearly seven months on the estate and partner farms—remain in high demand for their rich flavour, natural self-basting qualities and excellent welfare standards. They are featured on the festive menus of top UK restaurants, including the Michelin-starred Goring in London.
Lord Newborough added: “We look forward to welcoming everyone to Rhug this Christmas, it’s a season we cherish, and sharing it with our community makes it truly special.”
For more on Rhug Estate’s award-winning meat selection, visit the Rhug Estate Organic Turkey page. For updates and the full festive programme, visit www.rhug.co.uk or follow @rhugestate.