Elf Trail – 22 November to 6 January
Explore our Elf Trail this winter, as something rather mischievous is happening at the Weald & Downland Living Museum…
Our playful peg doll elves have escaped from their workshop and hidden themselves all around the Museum! They’re inviting families, friends, and curious explorers of all ages to join them for a festive game of hide and seek.
Grab your Museum map from the shop and set off on a magical outdoor adventure to see if you can track down all eight elves tucked away among our historic homes and working buildings. Each little elf is holding a secret word, and together, those words form a special Christmas song set to the tune of ‘Jingle Bells’.
As you journey from building to building, make sure to jot down each elf’s word in the correctly numbered space on your trail sheet. You can find the elves in any order, but every word must be placed in the right spot to complete the song. Will you manage to reveal the elves’ festive verse?
Once your trail is complete, make your way to the Museum shop, where you can collect a gold star sticker as a reward for your detective work. And if you’re feeling especially jolly, you might even sing the finished song to us!
This festive outdoor trail is included with Museum admission and is the perfect way to add a sprinkle of Christmas magic to your visit. Wrap up warm, bring your sense of adventure, and join us for a joyful journey through history, led by our mischievous elves!
Happy elf seeking, and Merry Christmas from the Weald & Downland Living Museum!
Please note the Museum is closed from Wednesday 24 December until Thursday 1 January – we re-open on Friday 2 January 2026.
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Information for Visitors
Discover 40 acres of history, nature, and countryside charm at the Weald & Downland Living Museum near Chichester, West Sussex. Explore our collection of historic buildings, working farm animals, and heritage gardens, and experience what rural life was like in centuries past.
Come Rain or Shine You Can Explore and Enjoy
Stroll through our beautiful open-air museum, where you can see authentic period homes, workshops, and barns set within the stunning South Downs landscape. Enjoy peaceful woodland walks, spot wildlife, or visit the woodland play area — perfect for children to explore and learn through play.
Meet Our Working Animals
Look out for our Heavy Horses, Sheep, and Ducks, who help bring the Museum to life. Visitors can even feed the ducks on the mill pond — grain can be purchased in the Museum shop.
Relax and Refuel
Take a break at our waterside café, serving delicious breakfast, brunch, and lunch options. You’re also welcome to bring a picnic, with plenty of scenic spots around the site to enjoy. During the warmer months, Shepherd’s Hut kiosks offer takeaway drinks and snacks around the Museum.
Useful Visitor Information
- Dogs on short leads are very welcome across the site.
- Free parking is available for all visitors.
- Please note: the Museum is a no-smoking site.
- Visitors with accessibility needs can find detailed information on our Accessibility page.
Please note that all activities and demonstrations are subject to change and may vary depending on the weather or season.
