Step Back in Time This Christmas to Share a Festive Wish with the Deer Queen and Holly King!
Children £10.50 | Adults £18.50 | Family £48.50
Embark on “Midwinter’s Magical Quest” for an hour and a half in the heart of Hampshire and immerse yourself in ancient winter traditions brought to life! Join us on a heart-warming adventure through time as we celebrate the rich heritage of winter customs, long before the rise of modern holidays.
Meet captivating characters from history and folklore—the Saxon Lady of Yule, the Roman god of feasting, Saturn, the majestic Holly King, and the brave Deer Queen. They will guide you on a magical journey through our ancient buildings, each brimming with festive crafts and activities. As you travel back through the Yules of Yesteryear, gather around the fire in a cosy roundhouse to hear enchanting winter tales from traditional storyteller and author, Dawn Nelson.
Whether you celebrate Yule, Christmas, Winter Solstice, or something else, our magical quest offers an alternative family day out full of festive joy. Escape the hustle and bustle to step into the Evergreen Hall of the Lady of Yule, join a vibrant Roman Saturnalia celebration, hear stories in the enchanting Realm of Winter Wishes, and visit the Deer Queen’s Grotto to uncover timeless Christmas traditions and folklore.
“Midwinter’s Magical Quest” is an inclusive celebration of the winter season—perfect for families seeking a unique and unforgettable experience. Don't miss out on one of the most extraordinary Christmas events near you in 2024!
About this festive family event
An alternative, non-denominational festive family event
Choose your timed slot: 10am - 11.30am / 12pm - 1:30pm / 2pm - 3.30pm
Watch a live storytelling performance of festive tales in a roundhouse
Meet characters including the Holly King and Deer Queen, and make a special winter wish!
Follow a magical trail around Butser Ancient Farm to complete the quest
Enjoy creative make-and-take activities and crafts, including candles and festive decorations
Suitable for all ages (storytelling aimed at ages 5-11)
This event takes inspiration from traditional British folklore surrounding winter, as well as ancient and Early Medieval celebrations.
Included in your ticket
Enjoy exclusive winter entry to Butser Ancient Farm for a magical family trail and festive fireside storytelling. Meet the Saxon Lady of Yule, Roman Gods of Saturnalia, the Holly King and Deer Queen and discover winter folklore with a storytelling performance and festive children’s make and-take activities.
Your entrance to the site will last 1hr 30 until the end of your chosen timeslot.
USEFUL INFORMATION: Please wrap up warm with sensible footwear as it can be chilly at the farm in Winter.
ENTRY SLOTS: Please arrive at the beginning of your timeslot to make the most of the adventure and storytelling, and leave by the end time to allow the next group to arrive.
SPECIAL EVENT: This festive event is not included as general admission for our annual pass holders.
FIRES: Please note there will be open fires in the houses during this event.
REFUNDS: We cannot offer any refunds on tickets unless we at Butser Ancient Farm need to cancel the event due to unforeseen circumstances.
COVID-19: We will be complying with any relevant Covid-19 government guidance in place at the time of the event including the latest guidance on mask wearing. If you have any Covid-19 symptoms or have been asked to self-isolate, please do not attend.
Deer Queen image courtesy of Russell Sach. Holly King image courtesy of Dave Fletcher.