Last Updated on October 17, 2025 by Suzy McCullough
There are some magical events happening this festive period in the East Midlands in 2025 and some are yet to be confirmed. I’ve put them into one big post so you can search for the best Christmas events near you – in Lincolnshire – Derbyshire – Nottinghamshire – Leicestershire and Northamptonshire where you can meet Santa and more. Don’t forget to book in advance this winter so your festive cheer isn’t left feeling disappointed.
Please double-check the event descriptions on the attraction’s website as the below information could change. It is essential that you read their own information carefully, some venues require you to prebook. There’s nothing like attending an event before Christmas Day and enjoying the festive atmosphere. Plus many places have some amazing Christmas decorations, previous years have been a testament to that.
Christmas Events Leicestershire 2025
Battlefield Line – Santa Specials – Leicestershire – Tickets on Sale
Join Santa and his elves at The Battlefield Line Railway this Christmas. Our railway volunteers will once again be decorating the station at Shackerstone and our festive express train, then welcoming you all on board your 90-minute journey. They offer three different packages. Battlefield Line
Address: Shackerstone Station, Shackerstone CV13 6NW
When? Selected dates from 29th November to 24th December
Belvoir Castle – Magical Night Before Christmas – Leicestershire – Tickets on sale
Enchanting Christmas castle displays brimming with festive storytelling and seasonal Christmas décor. Festive Afternoon Tea featuring indulgent Christmas treats and winter flavours at Belvoir Castle. Meet Santa experiences, including Santa’s Grotto and Search for Santa Christmas activities (new for 2025). Christmas parkland and grounds — perfect for winter walks and a Christmas day out in Leicestershire. Family-friendly Christmas Mice Trail throughout the Castle for curious little explorers. Belvoir Castle
Address: Grantham NG32 1PE
When? From November 29th to December 30th
Conkers – Winter Wonderland – Leicestershire – Tickets on sale
Wrap up warm and get ready for a silly Elf adventure as you arrive at Waterside Winter Wonderland, where Santa’s Chief Elf and his team will lead you through the Enchanted Forest and the Valley of Christmas Lights to discover Santa’s Woodland Grotto. This is your chance to tell Santa that you have been good, and fingers crossed, he may share some pre-Christmas presents! Conkers
Address: Rawdon Rd, Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Swadlincote DE12 6GA
When? Selected dates in December
Great Central Railway – Santa Express – Leicestershire – Tickets on Sale
Step aboard and be transported to a Christmas of days gone by. Our heritage carriages and stations are beautifully decorated for the season, evoking the charm of traditional festive celebrations. The sight of vintage steam trains, steam rising gently through the crisp winter air, combined with the glow of twinkling lights and the scent of seasonal fare, makes every journey truly magical.
For younger visitors and the young at heart, our GCR Santa Express trains offer a delightful festive adventure. Meet Santa himself, enjoy seasonal treats, and experience the excitement of a winter wonderland onboard, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Great Central Railway
Address: Great Central Rd, Loughborough LE11 1RW
When? Services depart on selected dates from 22nd November through to 24th December
Manor Farm Park and Woodland – Christmas Wonderland – Leicestershire – Tickets On Sale
- Meet Santa in his woodland grotto.
- Choose a gift from the wonderland toy shop.
- Feed Santa’s reindeer a tasty treat.*
- Explore the Elves’ Village.
- Toast marshmallows and make s’mores.*
- Decorate a gingerbread biscuit with Mrs Claus.
- Ride the Christmas carousel.*
- Join our animal petting sessions.
- Groom a donkey.
- Write a letter to Santa to post in our special North Pole postbox.
- Make reindeer food to take home and sprinkle on your lawn.
- Watch a falconry display.
- Experience bird handling.*
- Warm up with a slice of Christmas toast.
- Try skating on our rink designed especially for little ones (wheelchairs are welcome).*
- Enjoy our Christmas pantomime, filled with seasonal silliness and laughs for the whole family.
- Take a break in the Indoor Playbarn – the LARGEST in Nottinghamshire.
- See who you can find along The World of Dinosaur Roar! Discovery Trail.
- Upgrade to a Children’s VIP ticket and make a Christmas squishie to take home! – Manor Farm Park
Address: Castle Hill, East Leake, Loughborough LE12 6LU
When? Selected dates from 29th November to 24th December
Tropical Birdland – Winter Wonderland – Leicestershire – Tickets on Sale
We are excited to announce that our Christmas winter wonderland is back by popular demand! Grab a lantern and take a magical stroll down to Santa’s grotto visiting all his fairy friends along the way. Plus daytime with Santa which is a separate event Tropical Birdland
Address: Lindridge Ln, Desford, Leicester LE9 9GN
When? Selected dates in December
Christmas Events Lincolnshire 2025
Christmas at Belton House – Lincolnshire – Tickets on sale
A Spectacular After-Dark Experience. 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 to 31st December
Cleethorpes Coast Light Railway – Santa Specials – Lincolnshire – Tickets on sale
Fun for all the family – all aboard the magical Jingle Belle! Immerse yourself in festive wonder as this very special train takes you on a journey to Lapland Central. Whilst waiting to see Santa, inside Mrs Claus’ Kitchen, adults can enjoy complimentary seasonal refreshments including mince pies, hot chocolate and mulled wine with juice and biscuits for the children.
There will be the chance to have a ride on Santa’s sleigh, write your letter to Santa, make your own Reindeer food and much more to keep all entertained! Cleethorpes Coast Light Railway
Address: Lakeside Station, Kings Road, Cleethorpes, DN35 0AG
When? Selected dates from 13th to 24th December
Doddington Hall – Christmas at Doddington – Lincolnshire – Tickets On Sale
Immerse yourself in a truly mesmerising experience as you journey through a ‘Fairytale Christmas’. Step into a land of magical fairytales as the displays unfold over three floors of the Elizabethan Hall, with a Doddington twist of course. It’s an opportunity to soak up the seasonal atmosphere of Christmas in a treasured family home, which has seen a lot of Christmas mornings over its four hundred years plus history. Doddington Hall
Address: Main St, Doddington, Lincoln LN6 4RU
When? From 8th November – 21st December
Lincolnshire Wolds Railway – Santa Specials – Lincolnshire – Tickets on Sale Soon
Info from last year – Santa will visit you during your journey. The total journey is just under 1 hour. Don’t forget to visit Santa’s Grotto after your journey to take your own photos. We would love to see everyone wearing your best Christmas costumes/jumpers or something Christmassy – one elf in particular will be checking & telling Santa if you’ve co-operated ha-ha. Lincolnshire Wolds Railway
Address: Ludborough Station, Station Road, Ludborough, Lincolnshire, DN36 5SQ.
When? 13th-14th, 20th-22nd December
Pink Pig Farm – Meet Santa – Lincolnshire – Tickets on Sale
Affordable family Christmas experiences near Scunthorpe: meet Santa, explore our farm park, and make memories they’ll never forget. Bring your family for an immersive Christmas experience at The Pink Pig Farm. With tickets just £12 for under 1s (gift included) and £25 for children, we’re home to North Lincolnshire’s best value Christmas experience. Pink Pig Farm
Address: Holme Hall, Holme Ln, Scunthorpe DN16 3RE
When? Selected dates from 29th November to 24th December
Rand Farm Park – The Real Christmas Experience – Lincolnshire – Tickets on Sale
Step into a world of wonder with The Real Christmas Experience, an enchanting, immersive, and interactive theatrical experience! Join us as we invite all Farmer Folk to explore the magical Elven town of Merryjingle, where the spirit of the season comes alive in the most spectacular way. Journey through the twinkling streets, meet the cheerful elves, and dive into the heart of Santa Claus’s world. Whether you’re young or young at heart, this unforgettable experience will fill you with the true joy of Christmas. Rand Farm Park
Address: Rand, Market Rasen, LN8 5NJ
When? Selected dates from 22nd November – 24th December
Christmas Events Derbyshire 2025
Bluebells Dairy ice cream – Santas Enchanted Christmas – Derbyshire – Tickets on sale
The most magical and interactive Christmas event in Derbyshire! Each child ticket includes a toy from the chimney, a bear to take home from the Create-a-Bear workshop with the elves, a delicious hot chocolate (for adults too), access to the Farm Park from 9:30 am, two captivating shows, a magical visit to see Santa, time to relax in the cosy Alpine Bar, and the chance to collect your special gift from the enchanting Toyshop. Bluebells Dairy Ice Cream
Address: Locko Rd, Derby DE21 7AR
When? Selected dates from 29th November until 24th December
Chatsworth House – Christmas at Chatsworth – Derbyshire – Tickets on sale
The Enchanted Garden and be transported by the quiet beauty and hidden magic of the natural world in midwinter. Created in collaboration with acclaimed British artists and animators, this immersive, multi-sensory experience invites you into a realm where the mystical spirit of the outdoors reigns. 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. Plus you can book to include a visit to the beautifully decorated house. Chatsworth House
Address: Bakewell DE45 1PP
When? 8th November – 4th January 2026
Ecclesbourne Valley Railway – Santa’s Enchanted Journey – Derbyshire – Tickets on Sale
Every passenger receives: Hot chocolate and cookies will be served during the journey. A festive welcome from our jolly elves to our beautifully decorated platform at Wirksworth Station. A return steam train ride from Wirksworth to Duffield in a seasonally decorated carriage. Festive entertainment from Mrs Claus and Santa’s team of jolly elves during the journey. A visit from Santa to your seat, who will have a present for every child. Ecclesbourne Valley Railway
Address: Unit 1, Wirksworth Station, Coldwell St, Wirksworth, Matlock DE4 4FB
When? Selected dates from 29th November – 24th December
Garden King – Santa’s Grotto & other events – Derbyshire – Tickets on sale
Welcome to our ever-popular traditional group grotto experience for 2025! Here you will make reindeer food, write a letter to Santa, and see the big man himself in his lodge. This will be held in our beautiful, purpose-built wooden events chalet by the woods. Plus lots of other festive events, which are listed on their website. Garden King
All these events include entry to the Festive Woods afterwards.
Address: Garden King Garden Centre, Park Rd, Newhall, Swadlincote DE11 0TX
When? Selected dates from 22nd November to 24th December
Matlock Farm Park – Christmas Experience – Derbyshire – Tickets on sale soon
We’ve had confirmation from the BIG man in red that he’s returning to Matlock Farm Park to see all of our wonderful visitors. First stop will be our Christmas Crafts with the super friendly Chief Elf and her accomplice. Whilst hearing what’s been happening at back at the Noth Pole this year, children will be able to get stuck in making food for Santa’s Reindeer and take this home with them ready to put out on Christmas Eve. Children will also make a lovely decorative keepsake to take away and be able to write a letter to put in the North Pole post box or hand over to Santa himself. Matlock Farm Park
Address: Jaggers Ln, Matlock DE4 5LH
When? 30th November to 23rd December
Peak Rail – Santa Specials – Derbyshire – Tickets on sale
Santa and his Railway Helpers invite you to get Christmas off to a magical start by riding Santa’s festive steam train, through the delightful Derwent Valley. Join them on their special train at Peak Rail from Rowsley South Station. As you sit back and enjoy the journey, a variety of professional entertainers will perform for you, Santa and his helpers will make their way through the train and meet everyone at their seat. Santa will have with him a wonderful age suitable gift for all the children. Peak Rail
Address: Matlock Station Station Yard, Matlock DE4 3NA
When? Selected dates from 6th to 24th December
Poole’s Cavern – Santa’s Grotto – Derbyshire – Tickets on sale
This December, Santa is opening the doors to his favourite grotto – a real underground wonderland tucked beneath the hills of Buxton. Journey through the twinkling lights of the cavern and share your Christmas wishes with Santa in his magical grotto. Poole’s Cavern
Address: Green Ln, Buxton SK17 9DH
When? Weekends from 29th & 30th November onwards, plus 22nd & 24th December
Christmas Events Northamptonshire 2025
Mini Meadows Farm – Christmas Experience – Northamptonshire – Tickets on Sale
This year, our magical Christmas experience is set to be bigger and better than ever, with a brand new story coming to life to help you and your family make magical Christmas memories that will last a lifetime. As the magic of Christmas surrounds you on our one hour long walk-through experience, children (and adults) can take a moment to write a heartfelt letter to Santa, before joining the elves to create a magical concoction of mystical reindeer food which you can take home to sprinkle on your lawn come Christmas Eve, Rudolph will be sure to smell it all the way from the North Pole.
The highlight of your visit will surely be your encounter with Santa Claus in his cosy workshop, where you can snap a jolly ‘Elfie’ with the big man himself. Mini Meadows Farm
Address: Naseby Road, Northampton NN6 6HZ
When? Selected dates from 22nd November – 23rd December
Northampton and Lamport Railway – Santa Specials – Northamptonshire – Tickets On Sale
All tickets include complementary refreshments onboard the train, comprising: a glass of sherry and a mince pie for adults and a sweet treat and a Fruit Shoot for kids. Whilst on the train, children can write their letters to Santa. Once you get off the train, you’ll meet Santa in his workshop, where all the children receive a present. Northampton & Lamport Railway
Address: Pitsford Rd, Chapel Brampton, Northampton NN6 8BA
When? 30th November to 21st December
Northampton – Winter Light Trail – Northamptonshire – Tickets on Sale
Embark on a magical, immersive trail through Delapré Abbey’s beautiful woodland and grounds. Featuring interactive displays that the whole family will love and surprises around every corner! Warm up at the pit stop with toasting marshmallows and festive drinks. Enjoy delicious food from local independent vendors, or book a private mini chalet to continue the festivities in style. Northampton Winter Light Trail
Address: London Rd, Northampton NN4 8AW
When? 28th November to 31st December
Wicksteed Park – Christmas at Wicksteed – Northamptonshire – Tickets on sale
Make unforgettable memories as you meet Santa Claus, then explore the open attractions at your leisure. Take a ride on Wicksteed Park Railway boarding at the North Pole station, meet the animals at Wicky’s Farmyard, play a game of crazy golf at Pig ‘N Putt, whizz down the Astroslide and twirl on the Carousel, Cups and Saucers or our Heritage Toy Roundabout to your heart’s content.
Have a Christmas wish? You can also leave your wish on our magnificent Wishing Tree. NEW FOR 2025 – You can have a go at making your very own reindeer food to leave out on Christmas Eve or decorate a festive biscuit with the Bakery Elf. Wicksteed Park
Address: Barton Rd, Kettering NN15 6NJ
When? 6th – 24th December
Christmas Events Nottinghamshire 2025
Newstead Abbey – Christmas at Newstead – Nottinghamshire – Event not yet confirmed
Info from last year –
- Delight in Alice in Wonderland, with our festive storybook scenes and a self-led walk through our Historic House
- Indulge with Afternoon Tea & Christmas Dinner
- Craft stalls on weekends in December in the run-up to Christmas
- Discover Alice in Wonderland with the Family-Friendly Tour
- Explore the Historic House after dark with an Evening Tour
- Explore our Christmas outdoor trail – Newstead Abbey
Address: Newstead Village NG15 8NA
When? TBC
Rufford Abbey – Santa’s Grotto – Nottinghamshire – Tickets on sale
Step into the magic of Christmas at Santa’s Grotto. Bring the little ones to meet Santa and create memories they’ll treasure forever. Each child will receive a special gift from Santa—a cuddly 10” TY plush to take home and cherish. Plus other events such as – Arrival of Santa, Christmas Brunch and more. Rufford Abbey
Address: Rufford Abbey Country Park, Ollerton NG22 9DF
When? Selected dates from 29th November until 23rd December
Sundown Adventureland – Christmas Spectacular – 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? Selected dates from 15th November to 24th December
Willow Tree Farm – Reindeer Encounter – Nottinghamshire – Tickets on sale
Reindeer encounter for up to 6 people. Entry to Willow Tree Farm meet the elves for a 30-minute VIP reindeer encounter. Feed our magic moss to the reindeer, and you will also get a free hot drink for everyone in your group. Willow Tree Farm
Address: Barton Rd, Kettering NN15 6NJ
When? Selected dates from 29th November until the 23rd December
Wollaton Hall – Wollaton Winter Light Trail – Nottinghamshire – Tickets on Sale
This immersive festive experience will debut in winter 2025, transforming the historic grounds into a captivating wonderland of light, sound, and seasonal storytelling. The Wollaton Winter Light Trail represents a fresh and innovative approach to festive programming in Nottingham. Developed by a new creative operator, the trail will feature never-before-seen installations, interactive elements, and immersive soundscapes designed to delight visitors of all ages. Wollaton Hall
Address: Wollaton Hall Natural History Museum, Wollaton Park, Wollaton, Nottingham, NG8 2AE
When? 26th November until the 31st of December
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