The Winter Tree, Standen House and Garden, West Sussex

Raising eyebrows at Standen House this Christmas is a unique festive tree designed by Dame Zandra Rhodes and Andrew Logan. Decorating the tree has brought together their shared passion for vibrant, fun and innovative designs. Smothered in pink ribbons and adorned with colourful gifts - including mirrors and toys - The Winter Tree stands proudly in the courtyard by the entrance to the house. Logan, a prominent yet unconventional sculptural artist, "immediately thought pink" when he was asked to help create the tree. Rhodes, one of Britain's most celebrated fashion designers, who often dies her hair pink, was unlikely to disagree with his choice of colour!

The Winter Tree is not just a celebration of Christmas, but also a "celebration of life." Standen House was a family home whose owners often extended their generosity to the local community at Christmas. The Winter Tree has maintained this tradition by inviting local families to choose gifts to fill the baubles. Rhodes wanted the tree to act as a tribute to Standen House. The National Trust property is renowned as a treasure trove of Morris & Co. designs, including its furniture, wallpapers and fabrics. In a similar vein, The Winter Tree features UK-designed homemade decorations, embodying the same ethos that was behind the arts and crafts movement.

Visitors can also enjoy a display of Christmas through the ages inside the house. Each of the rooms downstairs has been decorated to showcase Christmas trends from a different decade, stretching from Victorian times to the present day. It's guaranteed to make even the most cynical feel more festive!

Address: Standen House and Garden, West Hoathly Road, East Grinstead, West Sussex RH19 4NE. For details of admission prices and opening times go to www.nationaltrust.org.uk/standen.