50+ Christmas Events and Attractions in the UK 2023

Christmas Events and Attractions in the UK 2023 –  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 Rocks: A Magical Family Santamime

Wonderville, London

24 November – 30 December 2023

Santa is hitting the West End this Christmas in his very own magical Santamime for all the family, Santa Rocks… oh yes he is! The man who brings the magic is very busy this year getting ready for the annual Snow Ball, and all is going well until the wicked Jack Frost zaps the North Pole of all its festive cheer.

Will Christmas be cancelled? Will everyone live happily ever after? Will all turn out well amidst a plethora of panto pandemonium? Help Santa with his jolly plan to raise enough festive cheer in time for the party! Get your tickets now for Santa Rocks in London and experience the ultimate festive treat, that’s sure to have you rocking around the Christmas tree. 

Buy tickets for Santa Rocks here.

A Dickensian Christmas by Candlelight

Grand Temple at Freemasons’ Hall, 60 Great Queen St, London WC2B 5AZ

Various Saturdays & Sundays throughout the Christmas period
Times: 3 p.m, 5 p.m, 5:30 p.m. or 7:30 p.m. 
Duration: 1 hour

How about a Dickensian Christmas Concert by Candlelight?

The festive season is all about coming together with friends and family and nothing brings people closer than some classic concerts! This Christmas, join the talented Belmont Ensemble and Trafalgar Sinfonia for a series of beautiful performances, including a selection of great composer pieces, festive choral works and congregational carols for all to enjoy. Enjoy the delightful concert and feel the Christmas magic spread through the beautiful Freemasons’ Hall under the magical glow of candlelight!

Buy tickets for the Dickensian Christmas Concert by Candlelight here.

The Story of Sleeping Beauty at Blenheim Palace

Woodstock OX20 1PP

An exceptional after-dark trail with new lights for 2023 and Sleeping Beauty reimagined inside the Palace. 

Christmas at Blenheim Palace is a place where new memories are made as a multitude of twinkling lights and seasonal sounds fill the air with festive fun. Explore the Palace rooms transformed by the story of Sleeping Beauty as this classic fairy-tale is reimagined for a new generation. Outside in the Great Court discover a selection of treasurable gifts within the Christmas Market.

Your very merriest Christmas starts here. Limited capacity with timed entry. Plan now to secure the date and time of your choice.

Buy tickets for Christmas at Blenheim Palace here.

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.

A SANTA EXPERIENCE WITH ELF ACADEMY, WALK-THROUGH, MINI-GOLF AND FAMILY VISIT WITH SANTA.

Uredale Mill (ex Carrs Billington Yard), Station Rd, Askrigg., DL8 3HZ

This is a fully indoor experience.

After check in, your magical journey starts with an appointment with the Head Elf at the naming station, because as we all know, you cannot attend the elf academy until you have your secret elf name.  All elf trainees will be issued with their new name badge and a certificate which they will complete by acquiring stamps along the way, to enable Santa to fully certify them later on, as Elf qualified.

The first thing any new elf trainee needs, is to look the part. With this in mind, all students are invited to personalise their own elf hat from the vast array of decorations provided, under the supervision of an academy tutor. With hat complete, they are then asked to help Santa with the enormous task of finding his way around the world in dot-to-dot puzzle form.

Our eager young recruits are then ushered through to boot-camp. The Elf Master explains there are some key things to learn if the students are to become fully qualified Elf assistants and earn their completed certificates.  Some of these lessons include learning the elf motto and how to properly Ho-Ho-Ho,  and of course, how to address a reindeer.

Onto the North Pole sorting office, where your elf postmaster is busy sorting and weighing all the letters from the good and bad children of the world. The young elves will sit at their desks and it’s time to write their wish-list to Santa before posting it off to the North Pole.

Having completed training,  all that is now required is the final sign-off from Santa. We embark on a journey to the North Pole to see Santa himself.  We start this magical journey going through a faux-fur lined wardrobe into Narnia and an encounter with the Snow Queen in her sleigh, who will mesmerise them with an enchanted tale, and then send them on their way with a sweet treat.

An unexpected diversion takes the travellers into the fantasy world of Dr. Suess, and right to the middle of Who-ville itself. It’s now over to our intrepid elves to help the residents in preventing The Grinch from stealing Christmas. This will be done with various activities, including asking the eagle-eyed youngsters to spot where the Grinch turns up. 

With Christmas saved, it’s time to go onward to our traditional Victorian themed area where children will enjoy filling their containers (provided) with reindeer food to take home for sprinkling on their own doorsteps on Christmas Eve.

And so, It is now time for the main event. Santa resides in his grotto which is surrounded by light-up reindeer and Christmas trees. Your individual family visit (max 5 minutes) will give you the opportunity to take photos, have a chat with Santa,  and all paying young elves will receive a small gift along with Santa’s authentication of their personalised certificate.

The fun doesn’t end there! The whole family can now join in the North Pole 9-hole mini golf course to complete their experience. Putting the ball through wintry obstacles and icy challenges will be fun for the new elves and their parents alike.  This themed area will be full of sparkle and magic, and is the perfect end to a memorable visit.

Buy tickets here.

The Twelve Days of Christmas at Bamburgh Castle

Bamburgh NE69 7DF

Breathtaking Bamburgh Castle’s interior will be transformed into a spectacular festive experience inspired by The Twelve Days of Christmas.

Set to be the largest indoor Christmas event in the north east, visitors will be transported into an enchanted, whimsical world inside the castle. Sets will include lords-a-leaping, swans-a-swimming, gold rings, a partridge in a pear tree – and more – in the Northumberland castle’s wonderland installation which celebrates the lyrics of the famous Christmas carol and its festive traditions.

Opening to the public of Saturday 12 November, admission to the Christmas spectacle is included with general admission tickets, which are now on sale via the Castle’s website – www.bamburghcastle.com 

The Christmas Kingdom at Bamburgh Castle Highlights

Meet Father Christmas experience – 18 November – 23 December 2023

An enchanting and truly magical opportunity for children to meet Father Christmas himself at Bamburgh Castle in his fairy tale grotto – £19.95 per child (in addition to general admission ticket).

Christmas Wreath Making 21, 24, 27 & 30 November 

Festive wreath making at Bamburgh Castle (10.30am – 12:30pm and 1.30pm – 3.30pm)

Our Wreath Making classes are back and will be hosted by Sharon Wright from Wild With Love, local award-winning florist –  Wildwithlove.co.uk

Sharon is a born and bred Northumbrian lass and has lived in the Alnwick area for several years now. She has a passion for the natural world  and this is reflected in her wreath making and her floral arrangements.

You will be making living wreaths made on a frame of moss and wire. They are very traditional and incredibly long-lasting, brighten up your door and bring a smile to people’s faces

We will be using a variety of foliage including local ivy, seasonal greenery, twigs and festive colour.

Details of further Christmas events will be added to the website. Visit www.bamburghcastle.com for more details and to book tickets.

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

17 November 2023 – 1 January 2024

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

18 November 2023 – 1 January 2024

“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

Dates to be announced

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 to be announced

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.

See more Christmas events in Winchester.

Kielder Winter Wonderland, Northumberland

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

19th, 25th and 26th November and 2nd, 3rd, 9th, 10th, 16th, 17th, 21st, 22nd, and 23rd December

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

See more Christmas events in the North East.

Glow Marwell – A Magical Light Experience

Thompson’s Ln, Colden Common, Winchester SO21 1JH

Join us this winter as our magical Christmas lights experience Glow Marwell returns with double the sparkle! This year’s theme is an enchanted nature trail featuring brand new illuminations and immersive displays using more than 500,000 lights in a rainbow of colours.

We’re delighted to be giving our loyal members the chance to book discounted tickets on selected dates subject to availability. Please head to Members Corner or see our FAQs below for more information.

Venture through a 36 metre multicoloured light tunnel, gaze in wonder at a towering Enchanted Tree with fluttering butterflies, wander through colourful clouds projected overhead and meet some new animals brought to life in a magical Glow Forest.

Glow family favourites such as a fun-filled LED playground and light-up stepping stones, snow machines and our magical Wishing Tree will return.

Don’t miss our Premium nights where you will come face to face with some spellbinding roaming acts. Keep an eye on this page and our social media for a sneak peek of what acts are in store!

New for this year, Father Christmas will spread some seasonal cheer in his festive grotto (on selected dates, subject to availability). Guests can simply turn up and pay for Father Christmas on the day. Tickets cost £10 per child (0-17) and include a gift.

Our Christmas food cabins will delight guests with delicious winter warming treats on offer, including mulled wine and the chance to huddle around our fire pits to toast marshmallows.

Glow Marwell is running from 1pm until 8pm (last entry at 6pm). Glow Marwell tickets include free access to the zoo (1pm until 4pm) from Friday 24 November – Saturday 25 November, Friday 1 December until Saturday 23 December and Wednesday 27 December to Saturday 30 December. All tickets must be booked in advance. The zoo will close to day guests and members on all event days.

Tickets are on general sale from Monday 19 June following an exclusive member pre-sale event from Monday 12 June. Child tickets start from £13 and adult tickets cost from £17 for Marwell members.

Drayton Manor – Magical Christmas events in the UK

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

Dates to be confirmed for 2023

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, 15 November 2023 to 7 January 2024

Join us for the most wonderful time of the year at Kew Gardens as our magical winter trail lights up the evening skies for 2023

As one of the highlights of the UK’s festive calendar, Christmas at Kew is an unmissable opportunity to herald the start of Christmas or welcome in the New Year. 

It’s a botanical world brimming with seasonal cheer as twinkling lights and seasonal sounds fill the air.

Discover glittering tunnels of light, dancing lakeside reflections and trees drenched in jewel-like colour.

For a moment of reflection, pause at mesmerising flickering flames in the fire garden, wander beneath larger-than-life illuminations and don’t forget to glimpse Father Christmas along the way.

Thursford Christmas Spectacular Fakenham, Norfolk

8th November – 23rd December  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 its kind in Europe! 

Frankfurt Christmas Market, Birmingham

Thursday 2^nd November to Sunday 24th December 2023

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

Various dates from the 25th November 2023 to 24th December 2023

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 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

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

17 November to 31 December 2023

Christmas at Dunham Massey returns to the historic National Trust property in Cheshire on various dates from 17 November to 31 December 2023.  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. 

Firmly positioned as a must-see within the UK’s festive calendar, Christmas at Dunham Massey has everything you need for an unforgettable experience with friends and family.

See our post all about Christmas 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

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

Dates to be announced

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

11th November 2023 – 2nd January 2024

Christmas at Castle Howard –

See all the details of Castle Howard at Christmas.

Mother Shipton’s, Knaresborough

SAT 25 NOV 2023 – SUN 24 DEC 2023

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.

Luminate Winter Light Trails

Luminate Light Trail is designed to be a heart-warming and memorable experience for everyone. Committed to ensuring that the events can be enjoyed by all, our events are accessible for wheeled mobility aids and prams/pushchairs, as well as offering sensory slots.

Follow the mesmerising mile-long trail full of wonder and awe with enchanting light displays all set to ambient music. Slow down and immerse yourself in wow moments along the way – see if you can spot the playful fairies, make a wish, and even make your own light display! Get warm and cosy as you toast marshmallows over the firepits (you can even bring your own). Discover local tasty treats to buy and enjoy as you soak up the enticing atmosphere.
Luminate offers you the perfect way to spend the darker nights with family and friends for an unforgettable experience. With winter light trails becoming increasingly popular, Luminate is committed to giving you much more for your money – enjoy free parking, plus, when you purchase mid-week tickets, you save up to 20%. Don’t be left in the dark! Book your tickets to Luminate Winter Light Trail today. Don’t leave it too late, Luminate awaits! https://luminate.live/

Locations:
– Sandringham Estate, Norfolk – Saturday 11th November to
Sunday 24th December 2023
– Walton Hall & Gardens, Cheshire – Thursday 30th November to
Sunday 24th December 2023
– Coombe Abbey, Coventry – Friday 24th November to
Tuesday 2nd January 2024
– Shugborough Estate, Staffordshire – Friday 1st December to
Sunday 24th December 2023
– Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Birmingham – Saturday 25th November to
Tuesday 2nd January 2024
– West Park, Wolverhampton – Friday 1st December to
Sunday 24th December 2023 (Brand New For 2023!)
– National Botanical Garden of Wales, Carmarthenshire – Wednesday 29th November to
Sunday 24th December 2023
– Margam Park, Port Talbot – Wednesday 22nd November to Sunday 31st December 2023

Pin Christmas Events and Attractions in the UK to Pinterest

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.