37 Christmas Events and Attractions in the UK 2022

Christmas Events and Attractions in the UK 2022 –  There are so many fabulous Christmas events and attractions in the UK.  

Here is a list of the best of the Christmas attractions, Santa’s Grottos, Illuminated Trails, Christmas Fayres and Festive Events!

 

Also see my Christmas Events in Yorkshire post for more Yorkshire based festivities!

 

 

 

Santa Sleepover at Alton Towers Resort

Farley Ln, Alton, Stoke-on-Trent ST10 4DB

This Christmas, get ready to enjoy a magical festive short break at Alton Towers Resort, with specially selected rides ideal for families.  Lightopia Seasonal Wonderland a magical, immersive journey through the 4 seasons that will transport you to a whim-tastical land where you can control time. Wrap up warm and meet Santa and his elves during the Santa’s Grotto experience. These breaks are selling out fast, LIMITED DATES AVAILABLE!

Santa Sleepover packages include:

●      One day entry into Alton Towers

●      One day entry into the Caribbean themed Waterpark

●      A unique visit to Santa in his Grotto

●      An overnight stay in an onsite hotel

●      A festive evening meal and scrumptious breakfast

●      9 holes of Extraordinary Crazy Golf

●      Festive themed evening entertainment

●      Entry to the NEW Towers Christmas Market

●      Entry into the Gardens Lights Walk: Twinkling Stars

 

See prices and availability for Santa Sleepovers at Alton Towers Resorts.

 

 

Lapland UK

Whitmoor Forest, Swinley Rd, Winkfield Row, Ascot SL5 8BD

We visited Lapland UK a couple of years ago and it was amazing – expensive, but amazing!  There is a lovely festive play to start the proceeding and then you go through a series of workshops – all beautifully themed, before arriving in the Christmas village where you can eat, drink and be merry and take the children ice skating. 

The most marvellous thing about Lapland UK though is Father Christmas himself, he knows so much about the children they can’t fail to believe!

Have a look at our review of Lapland UK here.

 

 

The Polar Express

Kingsley & Froghall Station, Froghall, Stoke-on-Trent ST10 2HA

Churnet Valley Railway is celebrating the arrival of THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride.

Staffordshire’s much-loved heritage railway is tipped to be one of the best places for believers to experience a magical Christmas this year.

The immersive family-oriented experience hosted over 1.4 million riders at 54 locations in the UK, US, and Canada in 2019.

Popular dates and times for the event in Staffordshire are expected to fill quickly. Early registrations are advised, giving access to the best ticket prices 48 hours prior to general release.

 

 

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

Hyde Park, London W2 2UH

Dates to be announced

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is London’s spectacular Christmas destination! Located in the heart of London, get ready to fully immerse yourself in all things festive. Winter Wonderland is open every day from 10am to 10pm.

This year we’ve got loads in store with exciting new attractions including the world’s tallest transportable Observation Wheel, a new theme ‘A Christmas Carol’ at the Magical Ice Kingdom, a Season Ride Pass, Paddington™ on Ice, Mr. Men & Little Miss and a fantastic new programme of comics at the Winter Wonderland Comedy Club.

Let’s not forget our returning favourites including the UK’s largest open-air ice rink, funky new après ski vibes at Bar Ice and jaw dropping acts in the Circus MegaDome!

See our review of Hyde Park Winter Wonderland here.

 

 

Hever Castle at Christmas

Hever Rd, Hever, Edenbridge TN8 7NG

19 November 2022 – 1 January 2023

“Walk through the rooms of Hever Castle adorned with beautiful decorations and welcoming log fires. As dusk falls, the gardens are magically illuminated with up-lighting and colour washes.  For an extra special day visit Father Christmas in his Grotto (available on select dates, pre-booking is essential).  

Enjoy superb seasonal dining options in the festively decorated cafés and restaurants serving a feast of winter warmers, and be inspired by a wonderful array of seasonal gifts, luxurious decorations, toys and stocking fillers that can be found in the Hever Shop.”

From Erica at The Incidental Parent.

 

 

Magical Woodland At Christmas – Blakemere Village

Blakemere Village, Chester Road, Sandiway, Northwich, Cheshire CW8 2EB

25th November 2022 – 1st January 2023

Find Father Christmas in a unique outdoor theatrical experience set in the heart of our magical Cheshire Woodlands featuring wonderful festive characters Entertainment by woodland characters Meet Father Christmas in his Sorting Office and receive a gift.

Build you own cuddly toy with Mrs Claus in her Toy Workshop A small gift for each adult Meet Snowy the owl and friends Unlimited outdoor family skating Magical wand whittling.

See the review of the Magical Woodland here.

 

 

Paulton’s Park

Ower, Romsey SO51 6AL

Selected dates from the 3rd December to the 23rd December 2022.

Christmas is a special time of the year at Paultons, meet Santa in his magical Grotto, experience Peppa Pig World in a festive setting and enjoy selected rides and attractions, including Lost Kingdom and Critter Creek, across the Park.

• See Peppa Pig World decorated for Christmas
• Santa’s Christmas Wish Show! Singing, Dancing and fun! Guest starring the man himself, Father Christmas
• Frosty’s Snowtime and Santa’s Storytime
• Magical Illuminations around the Park
• See and hear the Marvellous Musical Christmas Tree – with its own light show every 15 minutes
• Meet Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph the Reindeer and Billy and Belinda Elves. 
• Tornado Springs – will be open for Christmas along with rides in Lost Kingdom and Critter Creek! 
• A selection of rides and attractions will be open for Christmas.

 

 

Kielder Winter Wonderland, Northumberland

Kielder Forest Park, Kielder Waterside (Leaplish Waterside Park NE48 1BT

Kielder Winter Wonderland runs from Mid November to 23rd December 2022

Kielder Winter Wonderland is a full day experience packed full of festive activities to keep you and your little ones entranced all day. Your full day will include everything from helping Mrs Christmas get ready for Christmas to helping in the elves workshop to walking through the forest to find Father Christmas plus lots more! With the forest home to Father Christmas and his festive friends you never know who you could bump into!

Embark on your very own fairytale adventure this Christmas as you make unforgettable memories on a full day festive adventure through the heart of Kielder Forest.

Begin your journey as you arrive and let the excitement build as you look forward to roaming around and venturing deep into the enchanted forest – with charming lodges set amidst tall trees, reindeer and other woodland neighbours; the scene is set for a magical festive day.

Discover Father Christmas, Mrs Christmas, the Beavers and a whole host of their festive friends who are ready to share an array of activities and exciting adventures with you.

Designed to captivate visitors of all ages, Kielder Winter Wonderland is a delightful authentic experience for the whole family and all you need to bring Christmas to life this festive season.

Leaplish Waterside Park at Kielder turns into an AMAZING winter Wonderland every weekend from November. It’s a day long event but when we’ve been we’ve rented a log cabin too as it’s the Hoseasons park. Anna from Me, Annie B

 

 

Drayton Manor – Magical Christmas events in the UK

Drayton Manor Dr, Fazeley, Mile Oak, Tamworth B78 3TW

Dates to be confirmed for 2022

At Drayton Manor – “Join us for a magical Christmas like no other, and meet Father Christmas himself – as well as all the fun and excitement of Thomas Land.

Whether you fancy a trip down Sodor Railway with Thomas, Rosie or Percy, or you’d like to fly high with James, Harold and Jeremy, there are plenty of Thomas & Friends themed attractions to explore. There’s over 25 rides and attractions in Thomas Land to enjoy, along with other family rides* the park has to offer such as Carousel and Jolly Buccaneer.

There’ll be lots of entertainment in Thomas Land throughout the day. Join Sir Topham Hatt and his hilarious station sweepers Rusty & Dusty as they host interactive singalong shows throughout the day from the Knapford Station Balcony. Then, it’s your chance to meet and greet the fab trio and take a snap together.

And why not extend the fun with an overnight stay in our 4 star on-site hotel? Book our Stay & Play package for a truly magical Christmas!

Don’t forget to also explore our amazing 15-acre zoo, home to over 500 animals, and our 4D cinema, featuring Thomas & Friends Bubbling Boilers – perfect for all the family to enjoy!”

 

 

Christmas at Kew Gardens, London

Selected dates, 16 November 2022 to 8 January 2023

Join us for the most wonderful time of the year at Kew Gardens as our magical winter trail lights up the evening skies for 2022.

Enjoy our annual after-dark festivities with family and friends, as you discover sparkling tunnels of light, dancing lakeside reflections, and trees drenched in jewel-like colour.

Journey through the mesmerising flickering flames in the fire garden, spot larger-than-life illuminations and say hello to Father Christmas along the way.

Along the route, our delicious independent street food vendors will offer tasty festive delights, from hot food and sweet treats to spiced winter warmers and hot chocolate. 

Walk under the stars and have yourself a holly, jolly Christmas as seasonal sounds fill the air. 

 

 

 

Thursford Christmas Spectacular Fakenham, Norfolk

8th November – 23rd December 2022  2.00pm & 7.00pm

Thursford Christmas Spectacular – Set in the magical surroundings of mechanical organs and fairground carousels, with a cast of 130 professional singers, dancers and musicians – many of whom are West End performers. The 3 hour performance delivers an extravaganza of non-stop singing, dancing, music, humour and variety.

Our Christmas Spectacular is an extravaganza of non-stop singing, dancing, music, humour and variety. It’s a fast moving celebration of the festive season featuring an eclectic mix of both seasonal and year round favourites. With a cast of 130 this is the biggest Christmas show of it’s kind in Europe! 

 

 

Frankfurt Christmas Market, Birmingham

Waiting for confirmation for 2022

Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market is a firm fixture in the city’s annual calendar and, together with the neighbouring Christmas Craft Market, a massive favourite with both residents and visitors to the city from across the UK and Europe. Birmingham comes alive every winter with the arrival of the Market, a clear sign that Christmas is just around the corner. With more than 80 stalls there is something for everyone.

The largest authentic German Christmas market outside of Germany or Austria Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market offers a large range of traditional good and gifts and a selection of tempting food and drink. Pretzels, schnitzels, bratwursts, and roasted almonds will tempt your tastebuds, all of which can be washed down with gluhwein, weissbeer (wheat beer), or tasty hot chocolate.

A great place to meet up with family and friends and enjoy the live music programme on Victoria Square. And whilst you’re here why not pick up some presents for your family and friends with everything from handcrafted wooden decorations and delicate glass baubles to in the form of the ever-favourite crystal lamps, Sounds of Nature, hand-crafted leatherwork, toys, jewellery and much more besides!

 

 

Tulley’s Farm

Unit 1 Turners Hill Rd, Crawley RH10 4PE

26th November 2022 to 24th December 2022

Tulley’s Farm do an awesome Xmas event from the end of November, through December. There’s a magical woodland walk, gingerbread decorating, Xmas puppet show, reindeer food package, sleigh ride to visit Santa in the woods and a build a bear type present from Santa, plus loads more.

Bring your family to enjoy a magical and unique Christmas experience for all ages!

Created by the same award winning team that bring you the Tulley’s Halloween Festivals and Escape Rooms. The Christmas Experience is set within the beautiful woodland grounds of Tulley’s Farm.

 

 

 

 

Illuminated Trails Across the UK

 

With NINE trails set to be unveiled in historic and iconic venues across the country, there’s never been a better time to find your happy place with friends and family – tickets have already gone live, due to high public demand.

Each magical trail is created to showcase the natural and unique environment of the individual location, so wrap up warm and be transported into a winter wonderland, surrounded by millions of twinkling lights and amazing illuminated installations, all choreographed to a soundtrack of Christmas classics

Independent street food vendors bring a delicious twist to tasty treats on offer. Have yourself a holly, jolly Christmas and complete your walk under the stars with a *spiced winter warmer or *hot chocolate shared with someone special.

My Christmas Trails provides a special way to celebrate the festive season with an unmissable outdoor experience. Every trail is designed for visitors of all ages to enjoy.

For information on all the illuminated trails and to book tickets visit: mychristmastrails.co.uk

 

 

 

CHRISTMAS AT BEDGEBURY

Bedgebury National Pinetum & Forest, Kent, christmasatbedgebury.co.uk  #christmasatbedgebury

 

CHRISTMAS AT BLENHEIM PALACE

Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, Oxfordshire, OX20 1PP, blenheimpalace.com/christmas  #christmasatblenheimpalace

 

 

CHRISTMAS AT BELTON

Belton House, Grantham, Lincolnshire, NG32 2LS, nationaltrust.org.uk/belton-house #christmasatbelton

 

CHRISTMAS AT THE BOTANICS

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, EH3 5NZ, rbge.org.uk/christmas  #christmasatthebotanics

 

CHRISTMAS AT STOURHEAD

Stourhead, Mere, Wiltshire, BA12 6QD, nationaltrust.org.uk/Stourhead  #christmasatstourhead

 

NEW FOR 2O21: CHRISTMAS AT TEMPLE NEWSAM

Temple Newsam Rd, Leeds LS15 0AE, Museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk/temple-newsam, #christmas-at-temple-newsam

 

NEW FOR 2O21: CHRISTMAS AT KINGSTON LACY

Kingston Lacy, Wimborne Minster, Dorset BH21 4EA, nationaltrust.org.uk/Kingston-lacy #christmasatkingstonlacy

 

Raymond Gubbay Limited, a division of Sony Music, work with venue partners to transform heritage landscapes into magical winter wonderlands. Trails are created by Culture Creative.

 

Christmas Illuminated Trail at Dunham Massey

18 November 2022 and 2 January 2023

Christmas at Dunham Massey returns to the historic National Trust property in Cheshire on various dates from 19th November 2021 – 2nd January 2022.  We love these illuminated trails.  As well as the illuminations there will be a Victorian carousel, helter-skelter and other family rides (you will need to pay extra for these) and keep your eyes peeled for Father Christmas and his helpers along the way. 

Discover new immersive installations as the magical winter trail is set to be bigger and better than ever. Now in its fifth year, the seasonal trail is established as a much-anticipated experience for all. 

See our post all about Christmas at Dunham Massey 

 

Illuminated Light Trail at Dunham Massey 

Let Loose!

Hull Rd, Woodmansey, Beverley HU17 0RS

Let Loose is tipped to be one of the best places for believers to experience a magical Christmas this year, this immersive family-oriented experience promises to get you into the Christmas Spirit in style. Wrap up warm for the Christmas Train Ride, a Wonderland of Pine Trees and Glittering Lights, discover Christmas round every corner and a beautiful Nativity Scene. Father Christmas will be waiting with a Special Gift for you.

A Magical Carousel ride will finish your treat and leave you with lasting memories.

You may linger for up to 1 hour extra in our themed cafe, write a letter to Santa and post it in our post box for Express Christmas Mail to Lapland and buy a selection of Sweets & Treats to take home with you.

What’s Included:

• Baby Ticket – Please purchase at least 1 Adult Ticket with this ticket. Includes: Christmas Train, Forest of Lights, Christmas Scenes, Father Christmas Grotto & Gift. (see accessibility statement below)
• Child Ticket – Please purchase at least 1 Adult Ticket with this ticket. Includes: Christmas Train, Forest of Lights, Christmas Scenes, Father Christmas Grotto & Gift, Carousel Ride.
• Adult Ticket – Please purchase at least 1 Child or Baby Ticket with this Ticket. Maximum 2 Adult Tickets per order. Adult Ticket Includes: Christmas Train, Forest of Lights, Christmas Scenes, Father Christmas Grotto, Carousel Ride.
• Accessibility: Pushchairs and wheelchairs will be able to go on the Christmas Train and the rest of your Christmas Adventure is accessible for both wheelchairs and pushchairs.

See more details, photos and a video of Let Loose at Christmas.

 

 

Big Christmas Concert with Alistair Griffin

Taking place next to York Minster in the beautiful medieval Michael Le Belfrey Church. A brass band will play you in, then Alistair Griffin’s Big Christmas Concert will take you on a musical journey from acoustic versions of traditional carols through to Wizard, Slade and The Pogues.  Sing along and sip mulled wine whilst enjoying the fairytale of old York.

Buy Tickets for the Big Christmas Concert here.

Candlelit Concert with Alistair Griffin

Waiting to see if there is another one this year

Alistair Griffin presents a very special Christmas show by candlelight in the unique Holy Trinity Church. Take a seat or in this case a medieval pew and soak in the festive atmosphere. While you warm your cockles with a mulled wine listen to classic Christmas tunes, acoustic renditions of famous festive numbers and a Christmas carol singalong.

Buy Tickets for the Candlelit Concert here.

 

 

The Snowman

Various

The iconic Christmas film, The Snowman is being shown in various places this Christmas.  We saw it in York Minster a few years ago and it truly is a magical experience.  The film is projected onto a large screen and has a live orchestra accompanying it.  They have a local child singer to sing ‘Walking in the Air’.  Tickets sell out fast, so get booked in!

 

 

Christmas at Roundhay Park – Illuminated Trail

8 December 2022 – 1 January 2023

Christmas at Roundhay Park – A new Christmas trail featuring larger than life illuminations and much-loved seasonal music, will light up Roundhay Park in Leeds one of the biggest city parks in Europe, between 8 December 2022 and 1 January 2023.

Tickets are on sale now for this captivating light trail, where you will spend quality time with loved ones, as you create everlasting memories in this unique park. Christmas at Roundhay Park offers you the chance to wander between striking light installations designed by a range of international artists, all carefully choreographed to a soundtrack of much-loved festive music. 

From the flickering fire garden, wild wicker sculptures to magical and whimsical light creations, it’s ‘instant Christmas’ providing picture perfect moments all the way.

 

 

Castle Howard, Malton, North Yorkshire

12th November 2022 – 2nd January 2023

Christmas at Castle Howard – Castle Howard becomes a wonderland of happily ever afters, fair maidens and magic as we bring you a Christmas experience like no other.

See all the details of Castle Howard at Christmas.

 

 

Mother Shipton’s, Knaresborough

Christmas: Selected dates from 19th November – 24th December 2022

Santa is flying here to see you! Let the twinkling lights draw you into the wonder of Mother Shipton’s magical, memory-making Christmas experience.

Wander through the gorgeous winter woodland to see the enchanted Christmas Village, festooned with festive delights and merry displays to marvel at along the way.

• See Santa (socially distanced)
• Meet Chief Elf Chestnut
• Optional add-on purchase of a special soft toy gift to receive from Santa’s Elf Helper whilst you meet Santa
• Winter Woodland Walk
• Festive Displays & Scenes
• Christmas Post Office
• Adventure Playground*
• Cave where Mother Shipton was born*
• Petrifying Well*
• Gift Shop
• Museum
• Wishing Well
• Wishing Logs
• Take-Away refreshments available to purchase
• Picnic tables available & toilets open
• Dog Friendly (on a lead, the only place that dogs can’t go is inside the adventure playground)

Read all about Mother Shipton’s at Christmas here.

 

 

Rockingham Castle’s Victorian Christmas

To be updated

Experience a Christmas like no other as you time-travel to the Victorian era at Rockingham Castle. With roaring fires, candle-lit trees and traditional Victorian costumes, visitors will join the Watson family on Christmas eve in 1849, with several characters regaling the audience of this immersive festive experience with tales of Victorian family life. Homemade and locally sourced Christmas lunch and dinner dishes will also be available at the Walker’s House Restaurant. The Victorian Christmas experience will take place over two long weekends, from November 25th until November 28th, and again from December 2nd until December 5th 2021.

For further information visit www.discover-rutland.co.uk/rockingham-castles-victorian-christmas

 

 

 

Spanhoe Lodge Christmas Light Switch On in Laxton

To be updated

Start the festive season in style with a traditional Christmas Lights ceremony at Spanhoe Lodge on Laxton’s Main Street from 6pm on November 27th. Bed & Breakfast owners Reece and Neil are known locally for their fantastic festive decorations and this year, they have decked out both the inside and exterior of Spanhoe Lodge with thousands of lights. As well as the switching on of the Christmas lights at 7pm, a magical winter village scene and brand new area await visitors. There will also be carol singing, and hot and cold refreshments such as mince pies and hot chocolate. Santa himself is also expected to make an appearance. As in previous years, funds will be raised for Lakelands Hospice. By popular demand, Reece and Neil are also bringing back Festive Fridays on December 3rd, 10th and 17th with lights, festive food and (perhaps) some singing.

For further information visit www.discover-rutland.co.uk/spanhoe-lodge-christmas-light-switch-on

 

Christmas Shows at The Royal Albert Hall

Christmas at the Royal Albert Hall is set to return at full capacity after two years, with nearly 40 shows over 24 days as part of the venue’s 150th anniversary celebrations.

New shows include an evening with international opera star Jonas Kaufmann, an in-concert screening of movie classic The Muppet Christmas Carol, and a special Royal Albert Hall edition of variety show Christmas Compendium of Reason – hosted by Professor Brian Cox and Robin Ince.

Trevor Nelson’s Soul Christmas, a favourite from 2019, returns with a new line-up of special guests including Chic’s Kimberly Davis, Basement Jaxx vocalist Vula Malinga, soul singer Tony Momrelle, and Ivor Novello-winning producer Troy Miller. Momrelle also joins Guy Barker’s Big Band Christmas, which returns for a 6th year running with first guests also including soul singer Liv Warfield and Clare Teal.

And the season features many classic favourites including Carols at the Royal Albert Hall, The Nutcracker, the London Community Gospel Choir, My Christmas Orchestral Adventure, Royal Choral Society, and Handel’s Messiah – which has been performed at the Hall since 1871.

See more information and the complete list of shows at The Royal Albert Hall here.

 

 

 

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Or why not visit Lapland itself in Finland? 

Thank you also to Christmas Magic, Cruises and Caravans, Inspire Gratitude, Candyfloss and Dreams, Vikki at Family Travel with Ellie, Mel from Two Plus Dogs, Faye at Glossytots. and to Faith at Raising Moonbows, Boo, Roo and Tigger Too, Wave to Mummy. Heidi from Southern Mummy. Candace at Buckets of Tea, Awaybies Kids, Mama Mighalls, Stacey from One Small Human. 

Looking for European Christmas Markets, have a look at this great foodie post!

Also have a look at our dedicated post for Christmas events in Manchester and Yorkshire.