Christmas Magic at the Black & White House museum

This December, the Black & White House Museum becomes a festive wonderland, blending the 17th-century charm of its Jacobean roots with holiday magic. Visitors can enjoy Elf on the Shelf Advent Calendar and meet Santa Claus in a beautifully decorated grotto, promising a joyful experience for all.

Elf on the Shelf Advent Calendar

From 1 to 25 December, three mischievous elves will make the Black & White House Museum their home. Each day, they’ll appear in new and surprising spots throughout the museum, delighting visitors with festive, creative, and often humorous antics.

Can’t visit in person? No problem! Follow the elves’ daily adventures online as part of our digital advent calendar, where high-quality photos and videos will capture their magical moments.

How to join the fun:

• Explore the museum: Discover the elves’ hiding spots in person as you enjoy the festive atmosphere.
• Follow online: Catch the daily elf antics on [insert Instagram/Facebook/Twitter handles].
• Guess & and share: Predict where the elves might turn up next and share your guesses online using #HerefordElves

Damian Etheraads, Museum and Art Gallery Lead said, "This year, the elves are bringing extra Christmas cheer to the Black & White House. Whether you join us in person or follow along online, we invite everyone to experience the joy and magic of the season with us.

Meet Santa at the Black and White House Museum

Santa Claus will be making a special stop at the Black & White House Museum this December! Children can meet Santa in his cosy grotto, in a small-group setting to share their holiday wishes and take home a special gift, creating memories to cherish for years to come. Every child’s ticket includes free entry for one adult, making it a perfect family outing.

To ensure everyone can enjoy this festive occasion, there will be a special accessible Santa Visit on the ground floor on Sunday, 8 December at 11am It’s a warm and inviting way to celebrate the season for visitors with mobility challenges.

Kids can let their creativity shine with ornament-making and festive card designing! These Christmas-themed crafts will give little ones a keepsake from this magical day.

Santa’s Grotto Details:

Dates: 7, 8, 14 & 15 December

Cost: £8.30 per child (includes one adult entry)

Book your tickets: https://HerefordChristmas.eventbrite.co.uk

Book accessible event tickets: https://AccessibleHerefordChristmas.eventbrite.co.uk

Bring the whole family to enjoy creating a new festive tradition while soaking in the historic charm of the Black and White House, beautifully adorned for the holiday season.

Christmas Opening Hours

The Black & White House will be open:

• Closed: Monday, 23 December to Thursday, 27 December
• Open: Friday, 28 December, 10 am
• Open: Monday, 30 December
• Closed: Wednesday, 1 January

About the Black & White House Museum

Nestled in the heart of Hereford, the Black and White House Museum is a stunningly preserved 17th-century timber-framed building that offers visitors an authentic glimpse into Jacobean life. This December, the museum transforms into a hub of Christmas magic, blending its rich history with seasonal decor, interactive displays, and family-friendly activities.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a festive explorer, or simply seeking a dose of holiday cheer, the Black and White House Museum is the perfect destination this season.