Last Updated on October 13, 2025 by Suzy McCullough
Are you looking for something that extra bit special this Christmas? Hopefully, the following ultimate bucket list of 25 + Ultimate Christmas events in the UK in 2025 will help you plan that very special experience. I have not experienced all of these myself (sadly), they are merely suggestions. Hurry, hurry, hurry because those that can be pre-booked are booking up fast…some may already be sold out! Listed in alphabetical order.
Alton Towers – Christmas – Staffordshire – Tickets on Sale
Begin your festive story as you step into our enchanting Resort hotels, adorned with magical Christmas spirit and decorations. Then, take a tour to the North Pole and find yourself transported to Santa’s very own enchanting grotto where you can meet the jolly old man himself. Get ready to share your Christmas wishes, receive a special gift, and create treasured memories.
As evening falls, gather your family for a festive evening meal and enjoy our Christmas Panto. For a spellbinding Santa Sleepover this Christmas, set a course to Alton Towers Resort and create memories that will last a lifetime. Alton Towers
Address: Alton Towers Theme Park, Alton Towers Resort, Alton ST10 4DB
When? Selected dates from 28th November – 4th January
Bedgebury – Christmas at Bedgebury – Kent – Tickets on Sale
Immerse yourself in a new, reimagined trail at Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest, created by the award-winning light trail producers behind events such as Christmas at Kew and Christmas at Blenheim. Our world-leading collection of conifers will be illuminated by millions of sparkling festive lights and alive with sounds of festive cheer, so that you can feel the magic of Christmas as you wander through this stunning setting with your friends and family. Bedgebury
Address: Bedgebury Forest, Goudhurst, Wadhurst, TN5 7QJ
When? Selected dates from 21st November to 31st December
Belton House – Christmas – Lincolnshire – Tickets on sale
Explore the majestic grounds of Belton House as they are transformed into a glowing winter wonderland. Created by award-winning light trail producers, this breathtaking illuminated trail features twinkling lights and immersive seasonal sounds. Christmas at Belton is more than a light trail – it’s a complete Christmas experience! Enjoy the festive fairground, indulge in delicious seasonal treats, and sip on mulled wine or hot chocolate from our hand-picked food and beverage stalls. And of course, don’t miss a magical glimpse of Father Christmas along the way. Belton House
Address: High Road, Belton, Grantham, NG32 2LW
When? Selected dates from 21st November – 31st December
Blenheim Palace – Christmas at Blenheim – Oxfordshire – Tickets on sale
The Illuminated Trail is bigger, better and brighter than ever before – featuring spectacular works by international and local artists. It’s a place where new memories can be made as a multitude of glowing lights and seasonal sounds fill the air with festive fun. Firmly positioned as one of the UK’s leading illuminated trails, this has everything you need for an unforgettable time with friends and family, including a magical glimpse of Father Christmas along the way. Blenheim Palace
Address: Woodstock OX20 1PP
When? Selected dates from 14th November to 3rd January
Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland – Wales – Tickets on Sale
Cardiff Winter Wonderland transforms Cardiff Castle into a magical winter escape, featuring an open-air ice trail and an undercover ice rink. The enchanting ice trail weaves through the scenic castle grounds, offering a unique skating experience beneath the stars. For those who prefer to skate under shelter, the undercover ice rink provides a festive atmosphere, perfect for families and friends. Whether gliding through the crisp winter air or enjoying a cosy skate indoors, the ice experiences at Cardiff Castle are a must-visit highlight of the city’s holiday season. Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland
Address: Gorsedd Gardens Rd, Cardiff CF10 3NP
When? 23rd November – 3rd January
Chatsworth House – Christmas at Chatsworth – Derbyshire – Tickets on sale
Explore 20 extraordinary spaces transformed with light, sound, and shadow play. Discover towering Christmas trees, a grand cluster of mistletoe, shimmering copper toadstools, and twirling oak leaf archways, each inspired by the wonders of nature. Through animated projections, enchanted fairies are awakened, while woodland creatures crouch in secret corners, and tiny doorways hint at pathways to hidden lands. Chatsworth House
Address: Bakewell DE45 1PP
When? 8th November 4th January
Chessington World of Adventures – Winters Tail – London – Tickets on sale
A magical Christmas adventure awaits you and your family in the Christmas Village. Jingle away to a festive Silent Disco before you journey into a snowy woodland guided by an Elf to visit Santa’s Grotto. Greeted by twinkling lights and the scent of a woodfire, join Father Christmas, who is ready to hear your Christmas wishes and spread festive cheer to all who visit. Then adventure into Enchanted Hollow: Toy Workshop, where the Elves are busy making gifts for Christmas, and you may even receive an early Christmas gift. Chessington World of Adventures
Address: Leatherhead Rd, Chessington KT9 2NE
When? Selected dates 22nd November – 31st December
Drayton Manor – Christmas Wonderland – Staffordshire – Tickets on Sale
Step into a winter wonderland at Drayton Manor this Christmas, where magical memories are made around every corner! Hop aboard the Twinkle Express, enjoy festive family fun, and don’t miss a visit to the Enchanted Santa’s Grotto, where little ones can meet Santa and receive a special gift. New for 2025: Explore Elftoria, filled with festive surprises and elf-sized charm, and experience the magic of our brand-new Cinderella pantomime – a dazzling show packed with songs, sparkle, and seasonal cheer. Drayton Manor
Address: Drayton Manor Dr, Fazeley, Mile Oak, Tamworth B78 3TW
When? Selected dates from 22nd November – 31st December
Drusillas Park – Christmas – East Sussex – Tickets on sale
Watch little eyes twinkle with wonder as they experience the glistening magic of Christmas at Drusillas! Come and meet Santa snuggled in his cosy cottage, join in with our jolly singing reindeer, stroll through twinkling decorations, and marvel at our spectacular 24ft Christmas tree. You are all invited to soak up the seasonal cheer at Drusillas Park. Drusillas Park
Address: Alfriston Rd, East Sussex BN26 5QS
When? 22nd November to 23rd December
Westonbirt Arboretum – Enchanted Christmas – Gloucestershire – Tickets on sale
Created by the award-winning producers behind Christmas at Kew, this is an absolute must-see this festive season. Wander through the illuminated arboretum, where twinkling lights bring the stunning setting to life. Marvel at the brand-new installations for 2025, including ‘Laser Lights’, ‘Mycelium Network’, ‘Fireworks Trees’ and ‘Wicker Animals’. Keep your eyes peeled for Father Christmas, as you can spot him on the trail. Westonbirt
Address: Westonbirt, Tetbury GL8 8QS.
When? Selected dates from 28th November to 31st December.
Enlightened Events – Various Locations – Tickets on sale
Enlightened Light Trails cast their spell across the UK’s winter landscape, beckoning adventurers of all ages to wander their luminous paths. With over 200,000 guests enchanted by our spectacles last year, we’ve listened closely to the whispers of awe and wonder. In 2025, we unveil new installations and interactive wonders across all of our trails, promising our most dazzling and immersive season yet. Enlightened
Address: Hylands Estate, Markshall Estate, Staunton Farm. Colchester Castle Park
When? Please visit each event’s webpage
Hogwarts in the Snow – Warner Brothers Studio – Hertfordshire – Tickets on Sale
The beloved Hogwarts in the Snow feature will return for the festive season. The spectacular Great Hall will be transformed into scenes from the Yule Ball as seen in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. The Gryffindor common room, Forbidden Forest and Diagon Alley will be dressed for Christmas, and the Hogwarts castle model will be coated in snow using the same technique used in the Harry Potter film series. Warner Brothers Studio
Address: Studio Tour Dr, Leavesden, Watford WD25 7LR
When? 15th November to 18th January
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland – London – Tickets on sale
Located in the heart of London in Hyde Park, immerse yourself in all things festive for 6 weeks. Let’s make it one to remember as we celebrate our 16th Edition. Come and enjoy the ultimate party this festive season in true Winter Wonderland style. The countdown is on for this November! Offering a wide variety of attractions, activities, entertainment, food, drinks and so much more, we guarantee there’s something for everyone! Winter Wonderland
Address: Hyde Park, London W2 2UH
When? Selected dates from 21st November – 5th January
Kew Gardens – Christmas at Kew – London – Tickets on sale
Join us for the most wonderful time of the year at Kew Gardens as our magical winter trail lights up the evening skies for 2025. 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. Christmas at Kew
Address: Richmond
When? 14th November 4th January
Knowsley Safari Park – Enchanted – Merseyside – Tickets on sale
What’s waiting for you: A spectacular trail of shimmering lights. Enchanted animal displays that come alive after dark. Crackling fire pits, toasted marshmallows and festive street food (marshmallows are included in Enchanted ticket). Family rides and attractions to keep the excitement going. PLUS – A chance to meet Santa in his magical grotto!Want to meet Santa? Just add the grotto experience at checkout – separate booking & fee apply* Knowsley Safari Park
Address: Prescot L34 4AN
When? 22nd November – 23rd December
Lapland UK – Berkshire – SOLD OUT – Cancellations will be added when available
Lapland UK is the epitome of all things Christmas. It’s where the ‘magic of Christmas’ lies and where fairytales come true. Besides being an absolute visual treat with its fake snow, log cabins and real huskies, it is above all a genuinely memorable experience. Especially when the children meet Father Christmas! Lapland UK
Address: Lapland UK, Whitmoor Forest, Swinley Rd, Winkfield Row, Ascot, Berkshire, SL5 8BD
When? Selected dates in December
Legoland Windsor – Legoland at Christmas – Berkshire – BOOK NOW
Celebrate Christmas at the LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort with festive fun for the whole family! Packed with magical Christmas activities for kids and memorable Christmas events like meeting Father Christmas*, new festive holiday shows, and themed rides, it’s the ultimate destination for Christmas short breaks. Located in Windsor, LEGOLAND® offers a perfect Christmas children’s event with activities for early years through older children, creating a magical Windsor Christmas experience for everyone. LEGOLAND Windsor
Address: Winkfield Rd, Windsor SL4 4AY
When? Selected dates from 22nd November – 3rd January
Longleat – The Festival of Light – Wiltshire – Tickets on sale
Explore iconic sights as you embark on a grand day out this Christmas as The Festival of Light presents British Icons with Wallace & Gromit and friends. Meet fan-favourite characters from Shaun the Sheep, Wallace and Gromit and more while you journey to some of the UK’s most famous landmarks, marvel at native wildlife and sights — all spectacularly reimagined in lantern form. Longleat
Address: Warminster BA12 7NW
When? 8th November – 11th January
Lotherton Hall – Christmas Experience – West Yorkshire – Tickets on Sale
Explore the festive wonder of Lotherton’s beautifully decorated Hall and enchanting grounds and gardens. Wander enchanted trails, discover twinkling surprises, and let little ones be filled with the magic of Christmas. Enhance your visit with crafts, toasted marshmallows and weekend magic shows in the Elf Village. For those wishing to meet Santa and Mrs Claus, book early as spots fill quickly for this unforgettable day out filled with magic, laughter and heartwarming memories Christmas Experience
Address: Off Collier Lane, Aberford, Leeds LS25 3EB
When? Selected dates from 22nd November to 4th January
North Yorkshire Moors Railway – Santa Express – North Yorkshire – Tickets on sale
Come and enjoy a brand-new interactive adventure for families as they meet Father Christmas on the NYMR Santa Express. The steam train ride will be packed with songs, jokes and the magic of Christmas, brought to life by Santa’s Elves – families will also get to meet the great man himself on board. North Yorkshire Moors Railway
Address: 12 Park St, Pickering YO18 7AJ
When? 29, 30 November, 6, 7, 13, 14, 20 to 24 December
Paultons Park – Christmas at Paultons – Hampshire – Tickets on sale
Visit Paultons over the Christmas period and discover the Tornado Springs, magical illuminations, Peppa and George in their seasonal outfits, Christmas characters, a Christmas show featuring Father Christmas and of course, selected rides and attractions (including the UK’s one and only Peppa Pig World). Paultons at Christmas
Address: Ower, Romsey SO51 6AL
When? Selected dates in December – 3rd January
Choose a family-friendly hotel close to Paultons.
Wensleydale Polar Express – North Yorkshire – Tickets on sale now – SELLING FAST
Your journey begins just like the 2004 motion picture when THE POLAR EXPRESS™ will pick you up at Leeming Bar station to take you to the North Pole. You will get to meet the characters from the film including the conductor, the singing chefs, the hobo and of course the main man himself Father Christmas. You and your family, hopefully, dressed in PJs, will experience a fun-filled theatrical adventure as you make your way to the North Pole.
Don’t forget to have a bite of your cookie and authentic hot chocolate before arriving at the North Pole to meet Santa Claus. Santa will join you on board and, if you are on the nice list, hand you your first gift of Christmas, a Silver Sleigh Bell just as in the motion picture we all love. You will get to speak with Santa. Polar Express
Address: Leeming Bar Station, Leases Road, Leeming Bar, North Yorkshire, DL7 9AR
When? Various dates from 14th November until 23rd December.
THE POLAR EXPRESS CAN BE FOUND AT OTHER VENUES ACROSS THE UK in 2025
Thursford – Enchanted Journey of Light – Norfolk – Tickets on sale
The fading light of the Winter’s sun starts the magic of Thursford. Your journey will progress into the Fantasyland Building, as you travel past the penguins and polar bears to the giant-sized teddy bears! Get ready to see how the elves have loaded Santa’s sleigh, then past the busy elves hard at work in the toy factory using the wondrous wrapping machine! Throughout your journey, you’ll meet lots of fantasy land characters including the snowman family, make sure you watch out for their snowballs!
Your journey continues as you venture outside to the Lantern Light Extravaganza, with lots of creatures to marvel at – a beautiful, breathtaking festival of luminous sculptures, from a fantasy underwater world to the wilds of the North Pole. Watch out for the naughty mushroom gnomes! Thursford
Christmas Spectacular 2025 and Santa’s Magical Journey tickets are also on sale now…..
Address: Thursford, Fakenham NR21 0AS
When? Selected dates in December and January
Willows Activity Farm – Santa Spectacular – Hertfordshire – Tickets on Sale
There’s no better place to bring your children to meet Santa and enjoy a fabulous festive family day out. We recommend you allow a minimum of 4 hours to make the most of your visit to our Santa Spectacular as there is so much to se and do!
Our all-inclusive tickets are limited and members and non-members must book online prior to their visit. Under 2s are free but must have a ticket. If your Under 2 would like to visit Santa’s Toy Shop for a gift, Create-a-Cuddle, or take part in the toy workshop and Gingerbread decorating, you’ll need to purchase an ‘Under 2 Top Up’ ticket.
Members receive a discounted rate and must show their digital membership card at admissions at the time of their visit. Willows Activity Farm
Address: Coursers Rd, St Albans AL4 0PF
When? Selected dates in November and December
Snowdome – Winter Wonderland – Staffordshire – Tickets on sale
Santa’s back at the SnowDome for Christmas 20254 with a family festive extravaganza! From 15th November, his magical winter wonderland in the snow returns and this year he’s all set to spread even more magic along the way… with real snow, real animals and the winter wonderland show. It’s the ultimate Christmas adventure for all the family. Snowdome
Address: Leisure Island, River Drive, Tamworth B79 7ND
When? Selected dates from 15th November until 3rd January
Stockeld Park – Christmas Adventure – North Yorkshire – Tickets on Sale
What was once but a simple Christmas Tree shop, from this small acorn grew what came to be Stockeld Park’s most famous adventure season. Join us for Christmas fun, get active and discover large themed outdoor playgrounds within the beautiful woodland of Stockeld Park. Watch the Enchanted Forest come alive after dusk with our famous winter illuminations and enjoy our magical ice rink! This truly is the home of Christmas magic. Stockeld Park
Address: Wetherby Rd, Wetherby LS22 4AN
When: Selected dates November, December and January
Warwick Castle – Christmas at the castle – Warwickshire – Tickets on sale
Start a new tradition this Christmas at Warwick Castle! Glide, spin, and twirl on our open-air ice rink and explore our dazzling light trail. Be enchanted by twinkling trees, stunning decorations, and festive touches at every corner, along with a delightful winter food & drink village. Experience the magic with Santa and Mrs. Claus during our delightful Stories with Santa and even extend your visit into a magical overnight stay with a festive short break. Warwick Castle
Address: Castle, Castle Ln, Warwick CV34 4QU
When? 22nd November – 4th January
Sundown Adventureland – Glorious Christmas – Nottinghamshire – Tickets on sale
Our favourite event of the year will always be the opening of the beautiful ‘Night before Christmas’ ride. It sets the scene for the whole Christmas event and leads the guests into Santa’s Grotto. But hold up there’s more to do before you get there on your visit. When it’s your time to meet Santa himself, you make your way to the huge, warm, purpose-built Four Seasons Arena. We have laid on all sorts of entertainment to keep the kids happy and a cafe to grab a drink and a few tasty snacks. You then climb aboard one of Santa’s sleighs and take a magical journey through the enchanted forest to arrive in style at Santa’s Magical Grotto. Sundown Adventureland
Address: Treswell Rd, Rampton, Retford DN22 0HX
When? 15th November to 24th December
The Snowman Tour 2025 Various Venues – Tickets on sale
Something magical happens each Christmas. The classic animated film of The Snowman, accompanied by live orchestra. Alongside other family-friendly stories, it makes the perfect family Christmas show! The world’s leading performers of The Snowman film with live orchestra, we have staged almost 250 performances to date across the UK, with upcoming shows scheduled worldwide. Snowman Tour
On selected dates at various venues.
Winterfunland – Birmingham – Tickets on sale
We are really excited to bring the UK’s largest indoor Christmas funfair to Birmingham NEC. It’s the perfect Christmas experience for all the family where you can enjoy 4 hours of unlimited funfair rides, skate on our gigantic ice rink, visit our amazing festival circus and watch our extreme motorbike show. Even Santa will be visiting to chat to families and have pictures– all included in your ticket price. Winterfunland
Address: Manchester, Eventcity, Opposite Intu Trafford Centre.
When? 6th December – 3rd January
Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland – near York – Tickets on Sale
Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland is free to enter, with separate tickets required for skating at The Ice Factor and for Santa’s Grotto. Tokens for the funfair rides can be purchased on site.
The Ice Factor is the North of England’s largest outdoor ice rink, with 975 sq m of real ice and a 30ft high sparkling Christmas tree as its centrepiece. Surrounded by illuminated trees, log cabins, the rinkside cafe and a viewing platform, this magical setting makes for the perfect festive experience for all ages. Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland
Address: St Nicholas Ave, Fulford, York YO19 4TA
When? 14th November – 4th January
