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.
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