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60+ UK Christmas days out for families in 2025

60+ UK Christmas days out for families in 2025

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Stuck for what to get your kids this Christmas? Why not give them a Christmas experience rather than another toy! In this post I’ve included some of the best UK Christmas days out with kids in 2025.

Ticket sales for some of the most popular Christmas days out are already live. Don’t delay in booking these confirmed Christmas events happening in 2025. They’re bound to get snapped up fast.

*Advertisement feature – this post contains affiliate links*

Christmas days out around the UK

I do love Christmas events for kids. That’s why you’ll find plenty of them listed here on Tin Box Traveller.

Below I’m pointing you to where to find some favourites like Christmas markets and light trails. Scroll a bit further and I’ve ordered what’s on in 2025 alphabetically by county and city.

Contents - jump to what you'd like to know

Christmas markets in the UK

Visitors experience Winchester Christmas Market
Picture credit: Visit Winchester

If you’re after the bet places to enjoy a Bavarian sausage and pick up some unique gifts take a look at my guide to the best UK Christmas markets.

Christmas light trails in the UK

Family in the tunnel of light made iup of strings of fair lights at Killerton in Devon

And if you need some sparkle in your winter, illuminations are where it’s at. Here’s my guide to Christmas light trails around the UK.

Find more days out in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland in my big round up of 101 UK attractions for families.

More Christmas family days out near you

Here’s where you’ll find snowy white winter wonderlands, amazing Christmas shows and sparkling Santa’s grottos near you in 2024 (sorted alphabetically by area)!

For updates and inclusion of your event please contact me.

What’s on this Christmas in Bedfordshire

Here’s where to find festive cheer in Bedfordshire this year:

Father Christmas at Wardown Museum

This 30 minute experience includes a festive story with Miss Christmas, whimsical elves, and a special gift from under the tree when you meet Father Christmas. Plus, you’ll be treated to milk and cookies in the cozy café afterwards.

Wardown Museum, Luton.

Days out this Christmas in Berkshire

Here’s some of the most popular Christmas days out in Berkshire this year:

The UK’s REAL Santa

PODCast LaplandUK - elf workshop - Christmas family days out
Image credit – PODCast

Lapland UK is an immersive Christmas experience near Ascot and one of the best Christmas days out in the UK.

Find out what it’s like to experience Lapland UK.

Sign up to the Lapland UK mailing list to hear how to snap up any cancelled tickets and about bookings for Christmas.

LaplandUK, Ascot.

The magic of Christmas at LEGOLAND

Family at LEGOLAND at Christmas

Families can have a festive experience at LEGOLAND this Christmas with rides, characters and LEGO builds all going for a seasonal spin.

Spot tiny festive scenes in Miniland, see the DUPLO Puppet pantomime and see Father Christmas as he roams the park on his magical sleigh.

You can also have a Santa Sleepover in a themed family room at the resort hotel including breakfast, evening entertainment and a day in LEGOLAND.

Christmas at LEGOLAND*, Windsor.

Christmas days out in Birmingham

Here’s some ideas for Christmas days out in and around Birmingham:

Christmas at Cadbury World

Father Christmas will be spreading festive cheer at Cadbury World in his tree-mendous stage show throughout the day.

Filled with festive fun and toe-tapping Christmas jingles, alongside a sleigh filled with chocolatey gifts for all little helpers at the show, the Santa Show is filled with entertainment for the whole family.

Keep an eye in the Cadbury World website for full details of this year’s event.

Christmas at Cadbury World*, Birmingham.

Magical Christmas at Drayton Manor

Christmas fun returns to Drayton Manor this year with Father Christmas himself making an appearance.

You can also explore the amazing 15-acre zoo, and the 4D cinema, featuring Thomas & Friends Bubbling Boilers. There’s also no fewer than six brand new Christmas experiences including a grotto, a party show and Mrs Claus’ kitchen.

Here’s a taster of what to expect in this review of Drayton Manor’s yule-tide experience from a previous year by Natalie at Plutonium Sox.

Sign up on the Drayton Manor website for event details as they are announced.

Drayton Manor’s Magical Christmas.

Here are some more great family days out in the Midlands.

Christmas experiences in Buckinghamshire

Here’s a festive event in Buckinghamshire you won’t want to miss:

Christmas at Waddesdon – the Rothchild house

Waddesdon Manor at Christmas

Experience a world of festive, musical splendour, as the gardens and exterior of Waddesdon – the Rothschild house in Buckinghamshire – is transformed for Christmas.

This year the Manor will have displays in the house inspired by the classic fairytale Sleeping Beauty. The light projections on the façade will return for another year as well as a light trail and Christmas market.

Christmas at Waddesdon, Buckinghamshire.

Find Christmas events in Cambridgeshire

Here’s some ideas for Christmas days out in and around Cambridge:

Christmas at Wimpole

Tree stars
Tree Stars. Credit: Richard Haughton, Sony Music

Visit Wimpole National Trust estate in Royston and see its trail of magical lights illuminating the gardens. 

Lights, lasers and seasonal sounds will fill the air with festive fun, making the most wonderful time of year even more magical.

Plus, the Mansion House will be decorated for Christmas, with festive food and drink in the restaurant and cafés, and local choirs singing Christmas carols.

Christmas at Wimpole, Royston.

Days out this Christmas in Carmarthenshire

Check out these family attractions in Carmarthenshire to find out what they have in store for you this Christmas.

Christmas days out in Cheshire

Take your pick from these Christmas days out in Cheshire:

Christmas at Dunham Massey

Dunham Massey House illuminated
Picture credit: Andrew Ogilvy

Tickets are on sale now for this popular illuminated trail which is returning for a seventh year to this historic National Trust property.

Discover colour-changing batons of light, step into tunnels of stars, watch lights dance along the lawn and discover larger than life flowers that tower overhead.

Tickets sell out fast each year, therefore early booking is essential.

Dunham Massey, Altrincham.

Christmas at Tatton Park

Tatton Park Mansion in snow - Christmas days out with kids

Tatton Park is holding three Christmas experiences giving you plenty of opportunities to enjoy the season in its house and grounds.

Step inside Tatton Park house and find a wonderful World of Oz. In the garden there’s illuminating garden trail with a difference and Santa is returning to the farmyard.

All events including the Christmas Mansion and light trail are ticketed separately.

Tatton Park, Knutsford.

The Lanterns at Chester Zoo

The lantern festival at Chester Zoo is a highlight in its events calendar. This year there will be new captivating light installations that will transport you into enchanting lands filled with colour and festivity.

Meet orangutans, lions and elephants as well as a glowing tunnel of light. You might spot Santa along the way too.

The trails is accompanied by a Christmas food market so you can top up on festive treats.

The Lanterns at Chester Zoo, Chester.

Also skip to the section about what’s on in the Peak District this Christmas.

Christmas days out in Cornwall

Here’s where you will find the best festive events in Cornwall:

Night Gardens at the Lost Gardens of Heligan

Illuminated umbrellas in trees at the Lost Gardens of Heligan
Illuminations at Lost Gardens of Heligan

Enter the Heligan Night Gardens and enjoy an enchanting lantern experience set amidst the atmospheric Lost Gardens.

Explore the Gardens as they are beautifully lit by a variety of traditional paraffin lanterns and discover a breath-taking display of flora and fauna lanterns, illuminated within Heligan’s much-loved and iconic locations.  

Heligan Night GardensSt Austell.

Christmas at the Eden Project

Father Christmas and elves in a festive grotto at the Eden Project
Picture credit: Eden Project

Enjoy an immersive light experience across Eden Project’s biome when you visit this winter.

You can also book to meet Father Christmas and spin around the Eden ice rink.

Booking Father Christmas and the the ice rink is essential. Don’t forget you’ll need to have tickets for the Eden Project as well as Christmas event tickets.

Christmas at the Eden Project, St Austell.

More Christmas events in Cornwall

I’m updating a separate post about what’s on in Cornwall this Christmas with more events as they are announced.

Christmas in County Antrim

Check out this festive event in County Antrim:

Enchanted Winter Garden at Antrim Castle Gardens

With more than a decade of magical Christmas experiences at the Castle, this year’s is certain to host another.

Visit the Wonderland Wood, enjoy the twinkling lights, drop in on Santa and don’t forget the rides, attractions, and mouth-watering food in the Festive Food Fayre. 

Enchanted Winter Garden, Antrim.

What’s on this Christmas in County Durham

Here’s an event not to be missed in County Durham:

Forest of Light at Beamish Hall

Expect an immersive theatrical experience laid out across Beamish’s ancient woodland. This illuminated experience is accompanied by music, interactive props and projections to dazzle and amaze. 

Christmas at Beamish Hall, Stanley.

Christmas in Derbyshire

Skip to the section about what’s on in the Peak District this Christmas.

Christmas days out in Devon

If you’re looking for more inspiration for days out in Devon this December I’ve written about Christmas events in Devon including cruises with Father Christmas, Santa trains and events happening at family attractions.

We love the Christmas experience at Pennywell Farm.

Girls cuddling a piglet during Christmas event at Pennywell Farm in Devon
Piglet cuddles are standard at Pennywell Farm

The Crealy Christmas Spectacular ia another of our favourites and is back this year with new features (check the Crealy website for this year’s event details):

Christmas days out in Dorset this year

There’s loads of things to do in Dorset with kids all year round and Christmas is no exception.

Christmas at Kingston Lacey

Visit this historic National Trust property in Dorset where Kingston Lacy Wish Makers have been busy transforming the house with beautiful decorations to fulfil every Christmas wish. 

Can you help find some rough wishes that have escaped into the garden?

Kingston Lacey, Wimborne Minster.

Christmas experiences in Edinburgh

Here’s where to book a Christmas experience in Edinburgh:

Christmas at the Botanics

Now established as a firm family tradition in Edinburgh, this year’s trail will showcase a botanical world festooned with seasonal cheer. 

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.

Christmas Experience at Conifox Adventure Park

Elves at Conifox Adventure Park near Edinburgh
Conifox Adventure Park elves

Conifox Adventure Park sees the return of its sell-out Christmas experience which will be bigger and better than ever this winter.

Embark on a journey to the North Pole to Meet Santa and his friends with plenty of festive activities and experiences along the way including a post room, reindeer flying school and make a teddy factory.

Advance booking is essential.

Conifox Adventure Park, Kirkliston.

Find more Christmas events in Scotland as collated by Jenny from Monkey and Mouse.

Christmas days out in Essex

Here’s where to enjoy a Christmas experience in Essex:

Miniature Santa Express at Audley End

Ride the Santa Express at Audley End Miniature Railway for a magical festive experience.

Each year the woods are transformed into a winter wonderland compete with a craft area where you can write a letter to the Big Man under the guidance of cheeky elves.

Kids will also get to meet Santa and receive a gift and see a Christmas fairy storytelling show.

A Magical Christmas Experience, Audley End Miniature Railway.

Christmas days out in Gloucestershire

Have a magical Christmas is Gloucestershire with these days out:

Enchanted Christmas at Westonbirt Arboretum

Family walking through Enchanted Christmas light at Westonbirt

Enchanted Christmas for Westonbirt © [email protected]

The Enchanted Westonbirt illuminated trail is one of the most magical Christmas activities happening this year.

This year’s trail will have brand new displays designed by the producers behind Christmas at Kew, Christmas at Bedgebury and Christmas at Blenheim.

Westonbirt Arboretum, Gloucestershire.

See my post about even more Christmas lights trails around the UK.

Days out this Christmas in Hampshire

Here’s some of the places to check for events in Hampshire this Christmas:

Festive light trail at Marwell Zoo

Family enjoying the Glow illuminated trail at Marwell Zoo in Hampshire
Glow at Marwell Zoo

Glow Marwell is going to be bigger and better than ever with brand new illuminations and interactive elements.

Enjoy the enchanted tree, an amazing light tunnel, playful moon chairs and interactive light-up stepping stones.

For an additional charge you can also meet Father Christmas in his grotto and have your face painted with vibrant UV designs which come to life under special lights around the trail.

Marwell Zoo, Winchester.

The Magical Christmas Adventure at 4 Kingdoms Adventure Park

A group of elves ready to greet visitors to the Christmas experience
Picture credit: 4 Kingdoms Adventure Park and Farm

Santa is coming to 4 Kingdoms Adventure Park in Headley which hosts the UK’s biggest indoor Christmas experience.

The Magical Christmas Adventure is a spectacular 2.5-hour storytelling journey filled with immersive experiences.

Book tickets for your children to experience a private audience with the big man himself before exploring his magical North Pole village of Sparkle Copse.

From toys to teddies, snowballs, and sleighs, immerse yourself in a seasonal extravaganza; take lots of fantastic photos and come away laden with goodies and filled with Christmas cheer.

4 Kingdoms Adventure Park, Headley.

Cosmic Christmas at Winchester Science Centre

Father Christmas and helper at Winchester Science Centre

Step inside an intergalactic wonderland this Christmas at Winchester Science Centre.

Blast off on a live-action immersive festive space adventure for the whole family, meet the man in red himself and get a special Christmas gift.

Winchester Science Centre.

Christmas at Paultons Park and Peppa Pig World

Peppa Pig and George dress in winter coats and standing in snow
Image credit: Peppa Pig World

Visitors to Paulton’s Park near Southampton will be able to see Peppa Pig World decorated for the season as well as Santa’s Storytime, a Christmas tree light show, festive character meets and illuminations around the park.

Paultons Park, Romsey.

Take a look at my full guide to more than 20 Christmas events in Hampshire.

Christmas days out in Kent

Here’s some seasonal experiences to seek out in Kent this year:

Illuminations at Bedgebury

Cathedral of Light at Bedgbury

This family-friendly one-mile magical festive trail in the heart of the High Weald AONB countryside will once again be awash with colour. 

Discover a sparkling flock of jolly robins, giant luminous seed pods floating high into the night sky, neon gallopers peeping out behind trees, sparkling tunnels of light and the forest filled with all the colours of the rainbow.

Bedgebury National Pinetum & Forest, Kent.

Festive fun at Kent Life heritage farm

A host of Christmas activities happens at Kent Life, from a live nativity with real animals to a WWI Home Front Christmas experience.

Dates have been confirmed for the Christmas event at Kent Life but full details are still to be published. Check the website for updates.

Kent Life heritage farm, Maidstone.

Santa’s grotto at The Reindeer Centre

Meet Santa and his reindeer at The Reindeer Centre’s 150ft magical grotto.

Afterwards you can head into the big Christmas barn, meet all the wonderful farm animals, feed the reindeer and have fun in the popular snow pit.

The Reindeer Centre, Bethersden.

Christmas events in Leicestershire

All aboard for a Christmas train ride in Leicestershire:

Santa Steam Trains at Great Central Railway

Santa has swapped his sleigh for a fun filled journey on an enchanting steam train.

Ride on board this award winning Santa Special and let Father Christmas surprise you with an exciting present at your seat and a chat with the man himself!

There’s also a festive drink and mince pie for adults.

Great Central Railway, Loughborough.

Christmas in Lincolnshire

Here’s what’s on this Christmas in Lincolnshire:

Christmas at Belton

Neon Tree - family stands in front of illuminated tree
Photo by Richard Haughton © Sony Music

This year visitors will see a new illuminations at Belton National Trust’s magical Christmas light trail.

Discover a meadow of light, colour-changing larger-than-life neon string flowers, candles floating high into the sky and batons of light shining all the colours of the rainbow.

Belton House, Grantham.

Christmas days out in London

We do love visiting London with our kids – there’s a surprising amount you can fit in, even when you only have a weekend to explore. Here’s all the things to do in London with kids that we fitted into our last short visit.

If you want to give a special someone a London-themed gift to enjoy after Christmas then Red Letter Days have lot of experiences in and around the capital. Bag a bargain with these Red Letter Days voucher codes.

And here’s what’s on in London this Christmas:

Shrek’s Christmas Adventure

Shrek’s Adventure! London is hosting a special seasonal experience with a grotto inspired by DreamWorks Animation’s beloved Christmas special, Shrek the Halls.

Meet Shrek santa, pose for a picture with him and take away a Christmas card.

Shrek’s Christmas Adventure*, Westminster.

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

Christmas fair in Hyde park in 2016, London
Christmas in Hyde Park

This popular London event returns this year with all the fun of spectacular shows, fairground rides, a Christmas market and Santa experiences in the heart of the capital.

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park.

Santa Steam Express from London Victoria

Climb on board a vintage steam train at London Victoria and hear the squeals of delight and excitement as you take a magical trip and meet Santa and his helpers.

Children will be welcomed on board with a drink and sweet treat before meeting Santa and his helpers with their bag of gifts.

Santa Steam Express, London Victoria.

More festive ideas

If you’re looking for more ideas why not spend a whole weekend in London in the run up to Christmas.

Christmas fun in Manchester

The very best place to find out about is to read this guide to what’s on in Manchester at Christmas by We’re Going on an Adventure. Colette is the expert!

Want to make a date with the big man? Here’s also where to meet Santa in the Manchester area.

Christmas days out in Newcastle

Here’s some of what’s on in and around Newcastle this Christmas:

Christmas at Gibside

Visit Santa, meet his reindeer in the stables and enjoy a woodland fairy trail around the gardens.

Gibside, Gateshead.

See my post about even more Christmas lights trails around the UK.

Fenwick’s magical window

Fenwick Window North East Family Fun

For events in Newcastle and the North East there’s no better place to search for festive days out than North East Family Fun. Here’s the family’s visit to see Fenwick’s window revealed.

Fenwick, Newcastle, early November onwards.

Festive Planetarium Show at the Life Science Centre

Look up in the North’s largest planetarium to see Santa’s global journey across the world on Christmas Eve.

This world first show by the Life Science Centre team and includes specially tailored relaxed sessions for those with sensory needs.

Following this starry adventure, visit Santa’s home for an unforgettable encounter and enjoy an array of festive demonstrations.

What Santa Sees, Newcastle Life Science Centre.

Days out this Christmas in Norfolk

Here’s some of what’s on in and around Norfolk this Christmas:

Christmas Spectacular at Thursford

Show girl at Thursford - UK Christmas days out

The Christmas Spectacular returns this year with magical surroundings of mechanical organs and fairground carousels, with a cast of 130 professional singers, dancers and musicians making it the biggest show of its kind in Europe.

The three hour performance delivers 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 famous and much-loved chart toppers being performed alongside traditional carols.

Thursford Christmas Spectacular.

A Sparkly Light and Panto Trail at BeWILDerwood

Explore brand new areas of BeWILDerwood as you follow The Sparkly Light and Pants Trail through the woods.

Father Christmas will also be making an appearance for the first time this year.

BeWILDerwood Christmas, Hoveton.

The North Norfolk Pole Experience at Pensthorpe

Father Christmas is setting up shop in Norfolk for nine days this December to kick-start the Christmas celebrations.

Join Santa and his playful elves as they spread the holiday spirit, singing merry tunes and sharing yuletide tales in the Grotto’s storytelling sessions.

There will be festive crafts, creating Christmas-themed decorations and the opportunity to indulge in some hot chocolate and cookies before heading over to the present room.

The North Norfolk Pole, Pensthorpe, Fakenham.

Christmas experiences in Northumberland

Here’s some of what’s on in Northumberland this Christmas:

A Christmas through time at Bamburgh Hall

Father Christmas at Bamburgh Castle
Picture credit: Phil Punton

Embark on a magical journey through Christmases past, present and future in the Castle’s 14 State Rooms.

Meet merry-making characters, marvel at festive tales and Viking sails below shimmering Northern Lights and delve into Christmas traditions that delight.

Father Christmas will also be at the Castle on selected dates.

Christmas at Bamburgh Hall, Bamburgh.

Christmas days out in Oxfordshire

Here’s where to celebrate Christmas in Oxfordshire this year:

Christmas at Blenheim

Illuminations at Blenheim Palace - UK Christmas days out

The Palace’s gardens will be illuminated by a million lights, while inside you’ll find rooms transformed into Neverland.

Follow Tinkerbell for a swashbuckling adventure inside the Palace as she sprinkles fairy dust over baubles and Christmas trees.

Outdoors you’ll also find Blenheim’s famed Christmas market in the Great Court.

This event is supporting Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity.

Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire.

Christmas in the Peak District

Take a look at this brilliant guide on Peak District Kids to what’s happening in the Peak District this Christmas including events at Chatsworth House and Poole’s Cavern, plus Christmas markets.

Christmas events in Shropshire

Here’s a festive event not to missed:

Santa Island Experience at Alderford Lake

Enjoy an unconventional Santa visit involving a power boat ride to ‘Santa Island’ in the centre of Alderford Lake.

One the island you can meet Santa, make a toy, listen to a story and enjoy lots of other festive experiences.

Santa Island, Alderford Lake.

Christmas in Somerset

Here’s where to find Christmas fun in Somerset:

Winter Wonderland at The American Museum & Gardens

This Georgian House will get a Christmas makeover this December with an impressive 18-foot tree in the main hall, adorned with 9000 twinkling lights.

On offer for visitors will be Christmastide workshops and activities, the opportunity to make the most of the extended opening hours (open until 5pm) with a frost covered walk in the extensive grounds and a visit to the LEGO exhibition, Brick America.

Normal admission applies.

Find out more about visiting The American Museum.

Winter Wonderland at The American Museum, Bath.

Christmas days out in Staffordshire

Here’s some of what’s on in Staffordshire this Christmas:

Christmas days out at Alton Towers

Make magical Christmas memories at Alton Towers and CBeebies Lands this winter. As well as all the usual rides and attractions there will be some extra seasonal sparkle with special shows and plenty of festive spirit.

Why not make an extra special trip of it and book a Santa Sleepover. This includes a visit to Santa’s grotto and an all new pantomime.

Sign up for the Alton Towers newsletter to receive more information.

Christmas at Alton Towers*, Staffordshire.

Winter Wonderland at Snowdome

Santa’s magical winter wonderland returns to Snowdome this year with a Santa show, snow trail and Christmas Village.

Snowdome, Tamworth.

A North Pole Adventure at National Finest Adventure Farm

Immerse yourselves in a festive experience at the National Forest Adventure Farm this Christmas.

There promises to be fun and surprises, from exploring a charming Victorian Village and decorating delicious gingerbread treats to fixing toy machines in the Elves workshop. And of course Santa will be showing up too.

Here’s a review of previous visit to The North Pole Adventure by Otis & Us to give you a taster.

The North Pole Adventure, National Forest Adventure Farm.

Also see the section above about what’s on in the Peak District this Christmas.

Christmas events in Surrey

Here’s where to find festive fun in Surrey:

Christmas at Chessington World of Adventures

This Christmas Chessington presents its Winter’s Tail event complete with elves, reindeer, Father Christmas’ grotto and a panto.

Christmas at Chessington*, Surrey.

Christmas at Kew

Christmas at Kew. ©RBG Kew.
©RBG Kew.

Christmas at Kew, a much-loved highlight of London’s festive calendar, returns for its twelfth year this November.

This year’s light trail will illuminate Kew Gardens’ UNESCO World Heritage landscape with vibrant bursts of colour and over a million twinkling lights.

Immerse yourselves in sparkling tunnels of light, dancing waterside reflections, glitter balls and trees drenched in jewel-like colour on your way to the panoramic Palm House light display.

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Christmas days out in Sussex

There’s some brilliant days out with kids in Sussex. Here’s what’s on this Christmas:

Christmas at Drusillas

Child and husky in Husky Ice Cave at Drusillas Park

Bring your little elves to meet the big man himself in the Drusillas grotto,as well as meet huskies and pose for plenty of festive photo opportunities around the park.

Santa’s grotto ticket must be bought in addition to park entry.

Drusillas Park, East Sussex.

Christmas days out in Warwickshire

Here’s some of what’s on in Warwickshire this Christmas:

Christmas at the Magic Alley

This year’s immersive event at the Magic Alley starts in a snow covered enchanted forest from where you will make your way through the magical rooms completing a Christmas quest and solving puzzles on the way.

There are age targeted and SEN sessions to help you pick the best experience for your family.

The Magic Alley, Stratford.

Christmas at Warwick Castle

This year’s Christmas event at Warwick Castle includes a light trail with twinkling trees, stunning decorations and festive touches at every corner.

Theres also an ice rink and winter food village. 

You can read review of previous Christmas celebrations at Warwick Castle on the Plutonium Sox and Mummy Travels blogs.

Christmas at Warwick Castle*.

Things to Do at Christmas in West Sussex

Here’s the Christmas events to enjoy in West Sussex this year:

Leonardslee Illuminated Spectacular

Lake scene of a country estate garden with illuminated lilypads and birds
Photo Credit; Ray Gibson

With the event in its fifth year, the historic 240-acre Grade I Listed estate will transport visitors into a magical world as the gardens are transformed with illuminations, large-scale installations and atmospheric soundscapes.

Guests are welcomed with a Victorian funfair, a small Christmas market, a selection of seasonal food and drink and other entertainment before entering the mile long trail.  

Leonardslee Illuminated, Horsham.

Christmas days out in Wiltshire

Here’s some of what’s on in Wiltshire this Christmas:

Longleat Festival of Light

Longleat House illuminated for Land of Light, Christmas event in 2020

Expect show-stopping scenes and towering light installations and an the impressive house light show.

The Festival of Light, Longleat.

Christmas activities in Worcestershire

Here’s what’s on in and around Worchestershire this Christmas:

Winter Glow at Three Counties Showground, Malvern

Family picture of 2 adults and 4 children with Father Christmas
Photo credit: Mikal Ludlow Photography

Winter Glow invites you to embrace all things seasonal, with an impressive line-up of activities and excitement on offer this Christmas.

The light trail showcases structures, installations, and illuminations created especially for Winter Glow by our teams of local creative artists, lighting designers and craft-persons.

There’s also an ice rink, Santa experience and festive fairground. Ice skating and Santa must be booked separately.

Winter Glow Illuminated Light Trail, Malvern.

Victorian Christmas Fayre

This well loved event has been running for more than 30 years with Victorian themed characters, treats and diverse street food on Worcester’s historic streets.

This year there will be more than 200 stalls and festive chalets, showcasing an array of Christmas delights, artisanal crafts, local products, and international cuisine.

Alongside the stalls, there will be a lineup of entertainment, including Victorian performers, stilt walkers, skilled musicians and lively buskers.

Victorian Christmas Fayre in Worchester.

Christmas days out in Yorkshire

Here’s where to celebrate Christmas in Yorkshire:

Christmas at Mother Shipton’s

Two young boys sat in a Christmas sleigh
Picture credit: Mother Shipton’s

Mother Shipton’s magical Christmas experience returns this winter with storytelling, reindeer food making and a visit to meet Santa in his grotto.

Venture deep into the twinkling woodland to visit the incredible Petrifying Well and see the Cave where the famous prophetess Mother Shipton was born.

Make a Christmas wish in the Wishing Well or hammer a coin into Wishing Logs as you explore the historic site.

Christmas at Mother Shipton’s, Knaresborough.

Winter Illuminations and Christmas Adventure at Stockeld Park

Illuminations at Stockeld Park
Stockeld Park. Picture credit Richard Walker

Stockeld’s Christmas adventure will return this years with all the magic of the season.

Sign up to the Stockeld newsletter for more details as they are released.

Winter Illuminations and Christmas Adventure, Stockeld Park.

Alice’s Christmas Wonderland at Castle Howard

Tumble down the rabbit hole into a Christmassy wonderland at Castle Howard this winter.

Expect a huge Christmas party complete with fanciful festive surprises, theatrical installations and an elegant Mad Hatter’s Afternoon Tea.

Treat yourselves to special mementos from the Bauble Emporium, toast giant marshmallow by the Christmas Tree, and stock up on delicious seasonal essentials from the Farm Shop and Garden Centre.

Alice’s Christmas Wonderland at Castle Howard, York.

Santa Special at North Yorkshire Moors Railway

Santa is stepping into the driver's cab of a vintage train at North Yorkshire Model Railway
Picture Credit: Charlotte Graham

Hop aboard a heritage steam engine at the beautifully decorated Pickering Station for a magical Christmas adventure.

Mr Claus and his jolly helpers will pass through the heritage carriages, giving children a chance to meet the legendary man himself on board the train.

There will be a special soft toy for all the children onboard, providing they’ve managed to keep themselves off the naughty list this year.

North Yorkshire Moor Railway Santa Specials.

Victorian Christmas at York Castle Museum

Father Christmas at York Castle Museum

Immerse yourself in all things traditional at York Castle Museum this winter.

This beautiful twinkling street comes into its own at Christmas and its renowned period rooms are dressed to impress, plus there are many immersive experiences, perfect for children of all ages.

On various dates in the build up to and during the festive season there will be performances by Ebenezer Scrooge, carol singers, street performers, crafts, storytelling and the chance to meet Green Father Christmas.

Find out more about the individual activities on the York Castle Museum website.

Christmas at York Castle Museum.

Take a look at Yorkshire Tots to Teens for a full guide to things to do this Christmas in West Yorkshire.

Where else for Christmas days out in the UK?

Don’t forget to check out my post about Christmas markets happening this year.

Carrie at Flying with a Baby has all the info on Santa’s Grottos in Cambridgeshire, Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire and Rutland.

Still looking for the perfect Christmas present? Here’s some more ideas for gifts for the whole family and for kids who have everything.

If you know of a wonderful Christmas day out with kids that should be included in my post get in touch.

Find more days out in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland in my big round up of 101 UK attractions for families.

I’ve also got posts on what’s on in England and Wales at Easter and things to do in England in the autumn.

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Ask The Dutch Guy

Monday 21st of December 2020

Wow! Looks really great! Pretty sure that the kids will enjoy these places.

Susan Mann

Friday 12th of October 2018

Wow what a great list. So many I'd love to visit x

Kel

Monday 13th of November 2017

What a comprehensive list! I'm eyeing up the Victorian Christmas at Harewood House this year I think!

Lynsey

Sunday 12th of November 2017

The Princesshay events look really good! Might give this a go this year! I've always found my youngest got too tired to venture out , now he's getting older this sounds ideal xx

Nell (Pigeon Pair and Me)

Sunday 12th of November 2017

Ooh what a phenomenal list! I love this idea - there are so many inspiring ways to get into the Christmas spirit. Thanks for putting it all together (and for mentioning my post)! x

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