Snowdogs Trail at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens

Step into a tail-wagging adventure as Historic Royal Palaces brings the magic of the Snowdogs to Hillsborough Castle and Gardens. From 29 November 2025 to 4 January 2026, the Castle grounds will be transformed with 10 playful Snowdogs and one Snowman™, with elements inspired by the much-loved animated film, THE SNOWMAN™ AND THE SNOWDOG, the sequel to Raymond Briggs’ classic picture book and film adaption THE SNOWMAN™ offering families an enchanting Christmas experience filled with discovery and festive fun.

At the Castle entrance, a life-sized Snowman™ and Snowdog will greet visitors, inviting them to explore winding woodland paths, hidden glens, and sparkling green spaces throughout the gardens. Along the trail, Snowdog displays will be brought to life, inviting families and visitors of all ages to pause, explore, and enjoy fresh surprises around every corner.

Inside the Clore Learning Centre – a dedicated creative and educational space located in the Castle's former stable block - families can warm up with screenings of The Snowman™ and The Snowdog on weekends (29–30 November, 6–7 and 13–14 December) and during the school holidays (20–23 December and 27–4 January). Screenings run at 11:00, 12:00, 13:00 and 14:00, and are included with a gardens ticket on a first-come, first-served basis.

Stuart Campbell, Public Engagement Manager at Historic Royal Palaces, says: “We’re thrilled to bring the Snowdogs to life in the grounds of Hillsborough Castle and Gardens. This magical trail is a wonderful way for families to explore the gardens together, spotting each Snowdog hidden in film-inspired scenes, and creating memories along the way. It’s a joyful celebration of a much-loved classic story that captures the spirit of Christmas and brings a little extra magic to the Castle this winter.”

On weekends and during the Christmas holidays, visitors can enjoy even more festive cheer with a magical meet-and-greet with Santa himself — part of the wider Hillsborough Castle and Gardens Christmas experience (additional ticket required). After following the Snowdog trail through the gardens and discovering glimmering wintery scenes, Christmassy treats and hot drinks are available from the café – and on snowy days there’s even space to build a snowman.

The festivities continue inside the Castle itself, open Wednesday to Sunday, and moving to seven days a week during the school holidays. Grand State Rooms will be dressed in sparkling Christmas trees, garlands, and traditional decorations, while Castle tours share stories of seasonal traditions from Hillsborough’s past.

The trail has been developed in collaboration with Wild in Art, a leading producer of creative events that transform public spaces, connect communities and showcase inspiring art.

Charlie Langhorne, Managing Director and Co-founder at Wild in Art, says: “The Snowman™ and The Snowdog is a story that continues to capture hearts at Christmas, and we’re delighted to be working with Historic Royal Palaces and Penguin Ventures to bring this magical trail to Hillsborough Castle and Gardens. We hope visitors of all ages will enjoy finding each of the beautifully designed sculptures along the trail.”

This Christmas, experience the joy, magic, and playful spirit of The Snowman™ and The Snowdog at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, a truly unforgettable adventure the entire family will treasure. Produced under license from Snowdog Enterprises Ltd (managed by Penguin Ventures, a Penguin Random House Company).

© Snowman Enterprises Limited 2025. THE SNOWMAN™ Snowman Enterprises Limited