Put your faith in the National Trust for a feast of festive frivolity at some of its manor houses and castles

With snow being predicted before Christmas, some of Kent’s most beautiful landmarks and grounds could soon be transformed into a white winter wonderland.

Among the places most worth visiting are the National Trust’s properties across the county.

The gardens at Chartwell, Sir Winston Churchill’s beloved home, are open all year round but take on a timeless sheen when covered in a carpet of snow. On a tranquil winter stroll using the free leaflets with routes around the wider estate, visitors can absorb the views over the Weald.

There will be two guided wanders around the grounds, before returning for warming mulled wine and mince pies. The Holly Hikes will take place on Wednesday and Saturday, December 14 and 17.

Children will be able to explore a reindeer track which leads them through the woodland estate and teaches them about animal identification. A visit to Mary Churchill’s pretty garden playhouse is essential to write that all-important letter to Father Christmas, who will pay a two-day visit to Chartwell, near Westerham, on Saturday and Sunday, December 17 and 18. Admission £4.50, children £2, families £11. There are additional charges for some activities. Call 01732 868381.

A Victorian Christmas will come to the Great Hall of Ightham Mote, near Sevenoaks. The romantic moated manor house is also home to a 1950s American-style Christmas, which will take over its library.

House steward Lynn Antwis said: “This house has been here since medieval times but we have always presented a 19th century festive-style because we have the archival records describing this period. However, having recently talked to the family of previous owner Henry Robinson, their recollections of Christmas with Uncle Henry have inspired us to recreate a 1950s American season, too.”

Be sure to try the 1950s-themed retro Christmas menu, with New Hampshire venison pie, New England corn and bacon chowder, a classic American meatloaf and a walnut and maple syrup cheesecake.

The Christmas lunches will begin on Thursday, December 1, and run on selected dates. They cost from £19.50. Booking is essential on 01732 811314. Admission £11.50, children £5.75, families £29.

All the fun of the fair comes to Scotney Castle, near Lamberhurst, with a Victorian carousel and children’s crafts keeping the family entertained.

There will also be a wreath and garland workshop for anyone looking to add the personal touch to their festive decorations this year.

Children’s twinkle twinkle crafts and Christmas lunches will run from Thursday, December 1, until Sunday, December 18.

Carols and the fairground rides will be at the castle on Saturday and Sunday, December 3 and 4. Admission £14, children £7, families £35. Call 01892 893860.