The tiny must-visit Christmas market in 1 of National Trust's best hidden gems

With the Winter period soon approaching, Christmas enthusiasts, history lovers, and travellers alike will be excited to note that one of England's surviving medieval manors, known for its " Arts and Crafts-style garden," offers the perfect market affair, a magically intimate experience to welcome the festive season.

Located in Somerset, within the beautiful barns and courtyard of the manor, the Christmas market will transport visitors back in time with its traditional-style market and locally crafted products on offer. A collection of artists within the region, Lytes Cary Market is completely free to enter; however, entry to visit the additional garden, tea room, and house will require a small fee.

Completely friendly with all ages welcome, the National Trust website advises attendees to dress in warm clothing suitable for the dropping temperatures and outdoors and to note that, whilst the ground is walkably flat, the courtyards (where the market takes place) are laid with gravel, and therefore a potential obstacle for wheelchair users.

The estate was owned by Henry Lyte, the translator of Niewe Herball's book on herbal remedies. The Lyte family maintained ownership of the estate for several centuries. The history dates back to 1286, when the home was granted to William le Lyte under a feudal tenancy. This was a practice done by wealthy Lords, offering low rent rates for loyal service.

The manor was later restored by Sir Walter Jenner in the 20th century. In 1948, Sir Jenner donated his home to the National Trust following the death of his last living relative, daughter Esme, who died aged 37 of pneumonia. New tenants, Jeremy and Biddy Chittenden, adopted the gardens, nurturing the grounds for the next 45 years until today.

Now home to stunning garden rooms, Lyte Cary Manor boasts both herbaceous and topiary and herbaceous borders, producing a serene walk through nature along the River Cary.

The current dates for the wholesome event is November 22 and 23, 2025, with opening times between 10 am to 3 pm on each day. But for those who would prefer to visit before the frost sets in, Lyte's Scary Halloween Trail will run between October 25 to November 2, between 10 am and 3.30 pm.