Why not enjoy sumptuously decorated rooms, traditional musical entertainment and delicious seasonal food at a stately home this Christmas?

Basildon Park, at Lower Basildon is staging A Country House Christmas which will appeal to all the family.

This magnificent Georgian mansion will be decorated in the style of a 1950s Christmas.

Visitors can appreciate the authentic retro feel, with paper-chains and other hand-made decorations, bubble lights, tinsel garlands and plenty of glitter, foliage, winter fruits and flowers gathered from park’s gardens.

The 1950s theme will be particularly evident in Basildon’s kitchen, where seasonal food is being prepared so visitors can indulge in some warming treats before they tour the house.

The decorations are the work of house steward and florist Neil Shaw, who will be leading a series of workshops, including Christmas Arrangements (November 18 and 25) which focuses on floral decorations for window sills and sideboards. Christmas Table Decorations (November 19 and 26) and wreath and garland-making (November 20).

The garden’s woodland trail gives children the opportunity to run off some steam and explore the grounds, and further afield there are several waymarked trails, which make for excellent winter walks.

For further information and to check opening times, call 0118 984 3040.

Waddesdon Manor, near Aylesbury, re-opens on Wednesday, November 11 with Christmas decorations with a continental flavour.

The manor has sought inspiration from a country and city where one of the five founding brothers of the Rothschild dynasty made his fortune.

A trail around the house will reveal clues as to which country this is and children can have fun of recognising a number of well known stories as they tour the East Wing where seasonal music will be playing.

On some evenings dancers and musicians from the West London School of Dance will make the decorations come alive!

Waddesdon is also staging a number of events including Chocolates, Sweets and Treats Food Fair (November 21 and 22), Christmas Food Markets (December 5 and 6, and from December 9 to 13) plus visits from Father Christmas, carol singing at the Stables and special evening openings in the house.

For the first time in its history, Waddesdon will also be open between Christmas and New Year. Visitors will be able to enjoy the house, shops and restaurant or to take a brisk walk in the grounds. For more details, call 01296 653226 or visit www.waddesdon.org.uk

Visitors can revive memories of Christmas past at Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, by viewing an exhibition called Christmas Nostalgia — Toys, Treats and Treasures.

It takes place from every Wednesday to Sunday from November 14 to December 13.

The palace will be bringing to life childhood memories of Christmas, including treasured yuletide gifts of antique toys, teddy bears, and train sets.

Inside the palace glowing fires in the State Rooms will provide a warm welcome. In the Saloon the Marlborough family’s Christmas table will be decorated for a teddy bears feast with all the fruits and spices associated with the festive season.

Carol singers, organists and brass bands will bring the music of Christmas to life on Sundays until December 13.

For more information visit www.blenheimpalace.com

A Living Crafts for Christmas showcase will also take place at Blenheim from November 20-22.

The courtyards will host 90 stalls showcasing the best of British crafts including jewellery, ceramics, clothing, works of art, plus festive food.

For more information, visit the website: www.livingcrafts.co.uk