Quick Summary
Staff prepare for their busiest time of year
About This Program
A Warwick Castle Christmas is a heartwarming behind-the-scenes documentary narrated by Mel Giedroyc that follows the dedicated staff at one of Britain's most historic landmarks as they transform the 1,000-year-old fortress into a sparkling winter wonderland.
About the Programme
This ITV documentary offers an exclusive glimpse into the mammoth task of preparing Warwick Castle for its busiest and most magical time of year. As the festive season approaches, cameras follow the castle's passionate team as they work tirelessly to create an unforgettable Christmas experience for thousands of visitors.
The Staff
The programme introduces viewers to the real stars of Warwick Castle's Christmas transformation:
Jen and the Wardrobe Department – Working overtime to create elaborate costumes for the castle's first-ever traditional family pantomime, a brand new addition for 2024. The pressure is on to deliver show-stopping outfits that will bring festive magic to life in the enchanting Woodland Theatre.
Val and Charlie – Overseeing the decorative transformation of the castle's stunning interiors for the opening night banquet. Their work includes dressing the magnificent Great Hall with its famous 20-foot Christmas tree and ensuring the historic State Rooms are beautifully adorned for the festive season.
Michael– In charge of creating the perfect open-air ice rink, one of the most scenic festive skating spots in the UK. When unexpected snow blankets the castle grounds, everyone is overjoyed—except Michael, who faces the additional challenge of maintaining pristine ice beneath the majestic towers and turrets of Guy's Tower.
The Festive Transformation
The documentary captures the incredible scale of Warwick Castle's Christmas offerings. The moment Halloween ends, the transformation begins—a race against time to install over half a million twinkling lights for the spectacular Light Trail that winds through the historic grounds and gardens. Interactive displays and projections light up the castle walls, creating a magical evening experience that has earned rave reviews as the best Christmas event in the Midlands.
The Charity Event
The programme culminates with the castle opening its doors for their annual charity event, featuring a festive service in the courtyard. The Royal Spa Brass Band and St Mary's Choir team up for a moving performance, bringing the local community together in a celebration of Christmas spirit within the ancient castle walls.
About Warwick Castle
Dating back to 1068, Warwick Castle was built on the orders of William the Conqueror as part of his strategy to maintain control of the Midlands following his victory at Hastings. The original wooden motte-and-bailey fortress was rebuilt in stone during the 12th century and has witnessed nearly a millennium of English history, from the Wars of the Roses to the English Civil War.
Five great families—the Beaumonts, Beauchamps, Nevilles, Dudleys, and Grevilles—have owned the castle as Earls of Warwick, making it one of the country's most impressive baronial strongholds. The castle's gardens were designed by the legendary landscape architect Capability Brown, and the Italian painter Canaletto created five paintings of the castle in 1747, making it his most often represented building in Britain.
Since opening to the public in 1978, Warwick Castle has become one of the UK's top heritage attractions. Its Christmas celebrations have grown into a beloved annual tradition, featuring the open-air ice rink beneath the towers, the illuminated Light Trail, Stories with Santa in the stunning staterooms, and festive overnight stays in the Woodland Lodges and Castle Hotel.
Programme Details
Narrator: Mel Giedroyc
Duration: 60 minutes
Channel: ITV1
Genre: Documentary / Factual Entertainment
A Warwick Castle Christmas broadcasts on ITV1 London HD at 7:00pm, Sunday, 7 December 2025. (Subtitles, repeat)