Find a festive backdrop in Glasgow and the West
From frosty gardens to cosy tearooms, National Trust for Scotland places in Glasgow and the West are offering a host of winter experiences and special events this festive season.
Article Source: National Trust For Scotland
Last Updated: 18 November 2025 14:19
A selection of the conservation charity’s places in the region, including Greenbank Garden, The Hill House, Mackintosh at the Willow, and The Tenement House will remain open through the winter. Special places cared for by the Trust offer settings packed with character for seasonal escapes.
Christmas events are taking place across the region to get visitors of all ages in the festive spirit, including opportunities to meet Mr and Mrs Claus themselves in the cosy rooms of The Tenement House and The Hill House. Budding bakers can decorate gingerbread cookies at family-friendly sessions in the tearooms of Mackintosh at the Willow. Children can help the elves with festive crafts before meeting Santa himself at Greenbank House. Advance booking is encouraged to avoid disappointment.
Visitors can make the most of the season both indoors and outdoors at Trust places. From exploring the charity’s historic houses to browsing for locally made gifts, there are many ways to get cosy inside Trust places throughout the winter season. The conservation charity also cares for breath-taking landscapes and havens for nature, which are free to access all year round. Outdoors adventures in Glasgow and the West can take a wander among the tall oak and beech trees at Greenbank Garden before warming up in the snug café.
The National Trust for Scotland cares for, and gives access to, many of the most magnificent buildings, collections and landscapes in Scotland, with the help of its members and supporters. It welcomed over 1 million visitors to its places in the South & West region this year.
Ian McLelland, National Trust for Scotland’s Regional Director for the South & West region, said: “We look forward to welcoming visitors to our special places in Glasgow and the West, to enjoy what the Trust has to offer all through the winter season. Our places provide the perfect settings to create treasured memories with loved ones to last a lifetime and there is something for everyone to enjoy.
“It’s thanks to our members and supporters for their ongoing generosity that we’re able to continue our work to protect and enhance the natural and cultural heritage of Scotland, for current and future generations.”
These winter events provide opportunities for everyone to access and enjoy National Trust for Scotland places throughout the season, with a range of activities for all ages and interests. This helps the Trust to deliver on the engagement objectives outlined in its 10-year strategy, launched in 2022, which set forth a vision to care for, share and protect Scotland’s nature, beauty and heritage for the enjoyment of all. Visitors to Trust places in Glasgow and the West can expect an assortment of festive activities, including:
Greenbank Garden – café, courtyard and woodland walks (garden closed)
Visit Greenbank for a festive adventure and meet the elves, help them with Christmas crafts and visit Santa in his grotto. A festive market and reindeer trail are also among the activities on the Greenbank Christmas calendar. Those seeking adventure outside of the festivities can enjoy a relaxing walk through the diverse woodland of beech and oak trees before enjoying a hot drink in the café, housed in the old cow byre and cobbled courtyard.
The Hill House – house, café, shop and garden
Children and families are warmly invited to meet Mrs Claus herself, in the nostalgic space of the Hill House Library; accessible experiences are available on Monday 22 December. Located in Helensburgh, The Hill House was designed by architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh and is considered his domestic masterpiece. Visitors can admire the furniture, textiles and the structure where they will find the distinct details of the renowned Mackintosh ‘Glasgow Style’ all around. The property also includes a café and shop, along with stunning views from its roof terrace of Helensburgh and the surrounding area.
Mackintosh at the Willow – tea rooms, shop and exhibition
Relax and unwind in one of the most beautiful interiors in Glasgow. First opened in 1903, the original Willow Tea Rooms building was designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh in collaboration with his wife, Margaret Macdonald. Now known as Mackintosh at the Willow, visitors can treat themselves to a delicious hot drink and cake, explore the vibrant exhibition, enjoy a spectacular afternoon tea and browse the gift shop to pick up unique Mackintosh-related souvenirs. Families can get creative with festive gingerbread decorating workshops on selected dates.
The Tenement House – house and Wally Dug Café
Santa Claus is returning to the Tenement House for three magical days packed with festive fun. Children can write their letter to Santa before meeting the big man in Agnes’ Parlour, a cosy room in the heart of the house for a gift and selfie moment. They can also get crafty making festive treasures to take home.
Take the opportunity to explore this unique time capsule and early 20th-century life in Glasgow under the dim glow of gaslight and amongst original fixtures and fittings. Enjoy a selection of treats in the Wally Dug Café before browsing the shop for some perfect Christmas gifts.
Further information about place opening times and events can be found on the National Trust for Scotland website.
Please note that opening times are subject to change depending on the winter weather. It is advised to check the Trust’s website pages or social media for the latest updates before travelling.
Sponsored Links
Latest Glasgow News
Mowgli Street Food Introduces the new 600 calorie Lite Tiffin
Healthy, hearty and great value at just £15 per person - Mowgli's new Lite Tiffin launches this January.
READ MORE
Return to Middle Earth as The Lord of The Rings Trilogy celebrates its 25th anniversary at Vue
One of the most iconic and beloved fantasy trilogies of all time, The Lord of The Rings, is returning to the big screen at Vue venues across Scotland, as it celebrates its 25th anniversary.
READ MORE
Scottish actor Joe McFadden to lead acclaimed stage adaptation of The Shawshank Redemption at the Theatre Royal Glasgow
The Theatre Royal Glasgow is delighted to announce that The Shawshank Redemption, the acclaimed stage adaptation of Stephen King's 1982 novella, will come to the venue in March!
READ MORE
16.5 million visits make 2025 best year yet for Silverburn
Silverburn has welcomed a record 16.5 million visits over the past year, marking 2025 as its busiest year to date and underlining its status as Scotland's leading shopping and leisure destination.
READ MORE
Scottish Ensemble spotlights future string stars with Musical Encounters
Scottish Ensemble begins an exciting 2026 with the return of their Young Artist programme, helping to develop the next generation of Scotland's young string players.
READ MORE
Celebrate love with your PAWfect Valentine at Dobbies Garden Centres
Dobbies Garden Centres is inviting pet parents to celebrate Valentine's Day with their beloved furry friends in selected stores across the country!
READ MORE
Primary schools in Scotland given chance to win specifically curated Burns Supper from Aldi
Aldi Scotland is giving primary school pupils across Scotland the chance to enjoy a truly traditional Burns Supper, complete with all the trimmings, including a bagpiper.
READ MORE
Glasgow International Comedy Festival launches 2026 programme with over 100,000 tickets on sale
Glasgow International Comedy Festival has announced the full programme for 2026's event with 560 shows in 40 venues across the city from 11th - 29th March, and over 100,000 tickets now on sale!
READ MORE
Glasgow Film Festival 2026 to open with UK Premiere of Everybody To Kenmure Street
A documentary about one of Scotland's most spontaneous and successful acts of civil resistance in recent memory will open Glasgow Film Festival's 22nd edition on 25th February!
READ MORE
Celebrate Burns Night 2026 at Flight Club
If you're looking for a fun way to celebrate Burns Night this year, head to Flight Club!
READ MORE
Calling all Gingers!
The IRN-BRU Carnival is showing appreciation to any fellow fiery headed pals by offering a bonus ride voucher to anyone visiting with ginger hair on Sunday 11th January!
READ MORE
Everything you need to know about Celtic Connections 2026
The renowned festival which every year transforms Glasgow in January into a must-visit destination for music lovers is now just over a week away.
READ MORE
Zizzi launches their January Birthday Jackpot
Zizzi's January Birthday Jackpot guarantees a special gift for adults born in January, with some lucky birthday guests receiving the jackpot prize - £100 towards their bill!
READ MORE
Litter picking dog charity aims to remove 44 million pieces of rubbish in 2026
Dog owners making an environmental New Year Resolution are hoped to boost the ranks of the Paws On Plastic charity to over 30,000 in 2026!
READ MORE
Full casting announced for Legally Blonde: The Musical
Full casting has been announced for Legally Blonde: The Musical which will have its Scottish premiere at The King's Theatre Glasgow in April!
READ MORE
Brand new craft event encourages mindfulness, creativity and relaxation
Dobbies Garden Centres is inviting customers along to an afternoon of creativity, connection, and cake this January, with a brand-new Crafternoon Tea Club.
READ MORE
Famous faces share their DofE Award memories in celebration of their 70th anniversary
Anyone with a connection to The Duke of Edinburgh's Award is being invited to celebrate the charity's 70th anniversary by sharing their fondest DofE memories.
READ MORE
Silverburn expands leisure offering with new Pilates studio
Silverburn guests can kick-start their 2026 wellness journey with the arrival of the first Haus of Pilates studio.
READ MORE
Dry or Try January: Flight Club is your go to January social spot
Whether you're ditching the booze and going dry for a month or embracing Try January with the goal of experiencing new things, Flight Club, ticks all the boxes!
READ MORE
Christmas has come early! Glasgow youngster wins the entire DreamToys list in national competition
One very lucky youngster from Glasgow has been crowned the winner of an incredible festive giveaway – taking home all 15 toys featured on this year's coveted DreamToys list.
READ MORE
Christmas has arrived in Glasgow, The IRN BRU Carnival returns for its 106th year
Europe's largest indoor fun fair, The IRN-BRU Carnival, has opened to the public at Glasgow's SEC with its greatest show to date!
READ MORE
The River Inn launches dream wedding reception giveaway worth thousands
One lucky couple to win a luxury wedding reception for up to 100 guests... completely free!
READ MORE
Christmas Carol Goes Wrong crashes into the Kings Theatre Glasgow
Multi-award winning company Mischief return to the King's Theatre Glasgow with their new stage show – Christmas Carol Goes Wrong!
READ MORE
Christmas drawing by 11 year old Glasgow schoolgirl lights up the city
An 11-year-old Glasgow schoolgirl has seen her Christmas drawing light up the city after it was transformed into a glowing display as part of this year’s festive light trail.
READ MORE
Scottish Doctor Who actor to lead The Woman in Black at the Theatre Royal Glasgow
PW Productions is delighted to announce casting for Susan Hill's The Woman in Black, as it returns to the Theatre Royal Glasgow.
READ MORE
Scottish dancer to appear in The Red Shoes in first tour stop in Glasgow
The King's Theatre, Glasgow is delighted to reveal the full cast and tour dates for Matthew Bourne's double Olivier award-winning, smash hit production of The Red Shoes.
READ MORE
Braehead Shopping Centre is your place for festive fashion, food and fun this Christmas
Christmas is in full swing at Braehead Shopping Centre, and Scotland's leading retail and leisure destination is once again the place to celebrate the magic of the festive season!
READ MORE
Solasta Residence supports Beatson Cancer Charity through festive giving tree initiative
Solasta Residence in Glasgow has launched its first Giving Tree in support of Beatson Cancer Charity.
READ MORE
The Pavilion Theatre, Glasgow unveils exciting new programme for 2026
The Pavilion Theatre Glasgow is set to light up 2026 with a thrilling year of music, theatre and comedy.
READ MORE
Wingstop UKI opens its doors at Silverburn
Leading retail and leisure destination, Silverburn, has turned up the heat on its dining line-up with the official opening of Wingstop UKI, bringing even more flavour and choice to guests.
READ MORESponsored Links
Sponsored Links