Get into the spirit of the season at Hardy's Cottage and Max Gate, in Dorchester, the beloved homes of Dorset author Thomas Hardy, now cared for by the National Trust. 

These historic houses will be decked with natural greenery and warmed with a glowing fire.

There will be a number of events to enjoy throughout the month, including a literary walk in Thorncombe Wood and Christmas pudding demonstrations at Max Gate.  

A free guided Hardy Literary Landscape Walk will take place in Thorncombe Wood, near Hardy's Cottage in Higher Bockhampton, Dorchester, on Saturday, December 17 at 10.30am, connecting Hardy's landscape writing in his novels and poetry to Hardy's Cottage and the surrounding environment.

Walk in the footsteps of his characters from novels including 'Tess of the D'Urbervilles' and 'The Return of the Native'. 

At Max Gate in Dorchester there will be free cooking demonstrations of Florence Hardy's Christmas pudding in the Victorian Kitchen on Sunday, December 11 and Sunday, December 18 at 12noon.

Florence created this recipe herself and had it published in 'A Book Of Scents And Dishes' by Dorothy Allhusen in 1926, a copy of which is on display in the Victorian Kitchen. Visitors will be able to smell the ingredients as they are mixed together by a costumed volunteer, and take home a recipe card so they can have a go at making Florence's pudding themselves.

Rachael Raine, visitor experience officer for Hardy's Cottage and Max Gate, said: "We look forward to welcoming visitors to Hardy's homes to celebrate the festive season. Staff and volunteers have decorated with handmade, traditional decorations so you can step back in time and enjoy a traditional Hardy Christmas."

Hardy's Cottage and Max Gate are open Saturdays and Sundays for pre-booked tours.