1657: Rebel Christmas

From 27 November to 4 January, join us at The National Archives for a unique festive offering this season. Exploring the centuries-old traditions forced to go underground when Christmas was outlawed, 1657: Rebel Christmas includes an immersive gallery experience and exciting events programme suitable for all ages.

Our Keeper’s Gallery will play host to a recreated apothecary shop from 1657. Step inside to experience the sights and smells of an underground workshop keeping the festivities alive, where visitors can smell the ingredients for traditional mince pies and graffiti their own rebellious Christmas slogans.

We will be open on the first Sunday of December, from 11:00-16:00, for a whole day of Rebel Christmas activities. Pop in for free tours of the gallery experience, enjoy carol singing from a live Christmas choir and take part in a chocolate tasting. For younger visitors, there will be face painting and a drop-in Time Travel Craft Club.

December’s First Sunday coincides with Museum Shop Sunday, which celebrates the role museum and gallery shops play in supporting arts, cultural and heritage attractions.

Our shop will also be open for two late night shopping evenings in December. Enjoy a mince pie and festive carolling from a live choir while browsing our Christmas range, stocked with a wide selection of gifts for history lovers.

Visit our Keeper’s Gallery page for details of the full programme, including prices for individual events and opening times.