Best Christmas Events East of England 2025 – Meet Santa | East Anglia

Last Updated on October 18, 2025 by Suzy McCullough

There are some magical events happening this festive period in the East of England 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 the East of England including East Anglia – Bedfordshire – Cambridgeshire – Essex – Hertfordshire – Norfolk – Suffolk 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 Bedfordshire 2025

Leighton Buzzard Railway – Santa Steam Specials – Bedfordshire – Tickets on Sale

Take a 25-minute steam-train ride over a historic narrow-gauge railway that’s more than 100 years old, and run by enthusiastic volunteers. Please note that our Santa trains only operate between Page’s Park Station and Leedon Loop over our suburban section of track, and trains do not travel to Stonehenge Works or Munday’s Hill. Meet Santa on arrival back at Page’s Park grotto, where children up to 12 will receive an early present. Leighton Buzzard Railway

Address: Pages Park Station, Billington Rd, Leighton Buzzard LU7 4TG

When? Selected dates from 30th November – 24th December

Mead Open Farm – Magic of Christmas – Bedfordshire – Tickets on Sale

Experience a magical festive adventure on selected dates in December, as the yuletide cheer of the North Pole takes over the farm. Meet Father Christmas in his grotto for a group story, then visit the Make a Bear Workshop to create your own cuddly bear. Don’t forget to pick a toy from his Grotto. Decorate gingerbread with Mother Christmas, wander through The Magical Forest, have a laugh at The Pudding Club Show and make some Reindeer food to take home ready for Christmas Eve. New for 2025: a brand-new immersive adventure at Christmas HQ. Mead Open Farm

Address: Stanbridge Rd, Leighton Buzzard LU7 9JH

When? 6th – 24th December

Shuttleworth – Shuttleworth in Lights – Bedfordshire – Tickets on sale

Produced entirely in-house, our trail lets you explore Swiss Garden’s quirky features aglow in vibrant colours, with some fun interactive elements and photo-worthy moments. In the Collection hangars, our iconic aircraft, vehicles and machines will be bathed in light, adding to the awesome reverence these fantastic machines inspire.. Shuttleworth

Address: Old Warden Aerodrome, Hill Lane, Biggleswade SG18 9DX

When? Selected dates from 5th December to 3rd January.

Stockwood Discovery Centre – Stockwood Illuminated – Bedfordshire – To be confirmed

Info from last year – This December, we invite you to join us for our winter light celebration set against the backdrop of the beautiful gardens at Stockwood Discovery Centre. Discover Stockwood like you’ve never seen it before, as you weave your way on a self-guided tour through the illuminated pathways, set against the backdrop of the lush greenery. Stockwood Discovery Centre

Address: Stockwood Park Golf Club, London Rd, Luton LU1 4LX

When? TBC

Whipsnade Zoo – Meet Santa at Whipsnade – Bedfordshire – Tickets on Sale

Santa will once again be making a special stop at Whipsnade Zoo this year. You can look forward to a magical experience as little ones meet Santa in his new, enchanting grotto and receive a special early Christmas gift. Whipsnade Zoo

Address: Whipsnade, Dunstable LU6 2LF

When? 22, 23, 29 and 30 November, then 6, 7, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23 and 24 December.

Wrest Park – Christmas at Wrest Park – Bedfordshire – Tickets on Sale

Join Father Christmas at Wrest Park this winter for a magical way to start the festive season.

Father Christmas is taking time out of his busy festive schedule to tell some of his favourite seasonal stories around the Christmas tree. After the group storytelling session, you and your children will meet the man himself, with the chance to take photographs and make memories to treasure. Father Christmas will also give every child a traditional present to unwrap. Wrest Park

Address: Silsoe, Bedfordshire MK45 4HR

When? Weekends from 29th November – 21st December

Christmas Events Cambridgeshire 2025

Anglesey Abbey – Meet Father Christmas – Cambridgeshire – Tickets on sale

Experience a magical, festive encounter this winter as Father Christmas comes to stay at Anglesey Abbey. This charming group Santa experience invites families into a world of seasonal wonder and storytelling. Join Peppermint the Elf on a magical mini adventure and step inside the richly decorated Lower Gallery of the house. Father Christmas will share a heartwarming festive story, and children will receive a gift and have the opportunity to take photos together at the end. Anglesey Abbey

Address: Quy Rd, Lode, Cambridge CB25 9EJ

When? Selected dates from 6th – 23rd December

Nene Valley Railway – Santa’s Reindeer Rescue – Cambridgeshire – Tickets on sale

Address: Nene Valley Railway Ltd, Wansford Station, Stibbington, Cambridgeshire, PE8 6LR

When? Selected dates from 29th November to 24th December

Wimpole Estate – Christmas at Wimpole – Cambridgeshire – Event confirmed

This festive season, discover the magic of Christmases past at Wimpole Hall. Wander through grand rooms dressed in timeless tradition, relive the joy of childhood memories, and let classic melodies fill the air. From twinkling lights to the warmth of shared nostalgia, experience the true spirit of Christmas at Wimpole. Wimpole Estate

Address: Wimpole Estate, Arrington, Royston SG8 0BW

When? 21st November – 4th January

Christmas Events Hertfordshire 2025

Hertfordshire Zoo – Christmas at the Zoo – Hertfordshire – Tickets on Sale

This December, Hertfordshire Zoo is bringing Christmas to life like never before! Step into a sparkling winter wonderland filled with festive cheer, dazzling lights, and magical memories waiting to be made. Meet Santa in his Grotto – Every child will have the chance to meet Father Christmas himself and receive a special gift to take home. Wander the Christmas Walkway – Stroll through twinkling decorations, festive scenes, and glowing displays perfect for family photos. Hertfordshire Zoo

Address: White Stubbs Lane, Broxbourne EN10 7QA

When? Selected dates from 29th November – 24th December

Warner Bros Studio Tour – Hogwarts in the Snow – Hertfordshire – Tickets on Sale

Lined with Christmas trees, the Great Hall will see a festive makeover with the long tables laden with a mouth-watering Christmas feast. A blanket of filmmaking snow will cover the majestic Hogwarts castle model and shop fronts of Diagon Alley as part of the wintery transformation. Warner Bros Studio Tour

Address: Studio Tour Dr, Leavesden, Watford WD25 7LR

When? 15th November to 18th January

Willows Activity Farm – Santa Spectacular – Hertfordshire – Tickets on Sale

Take a trip through our magical winter wonderland where you’ll find Santa in his amazing Grotto. Santa will give children a key to his Toy Shop where they can choose any gift from the hundreds stacked from floor to ceiling. Visit our Create-a-Cuddle Workshop where children can choose from a range of soft toys to make, name and take home along with a certificate. Get crafty and decorate tasty gingerbread. Write a letter to Santa (don’t forget to add your address so he can reply) and so much more. Willows Activity Farm

Address: Coursers Rd, St Albans AL4 0PF

When? Selected dates from 22nd November – 24th December

Christmas Events Essex 2025

Audley End – Father Christmas – Essex – Tickets on Sale

Father Christmas is taking time out of his busy festive schedule to tell some of his favourite seasonal stories around the Christmas tree. After the group storytelling session, you and your children will meet the man himself, with the chance to take photographs and make memories to treasure. Father Christmas will also give every child a traditional present to unwrap. Audley End – Plus a separate Festive Fun event.

Address: Audley End Rd, Audley End, Saffron Walden CB11 4JF

When? Weekends from 29th November – 21st December

Audley End Miniature Railway – Christmas Special – Essex – Tickets on Sale

Your day begins with a warm welcome from Holly the Christmas Fairy, who will guide you onto the train. As it chugs deep into the enchanted forest, the air fills with the glow of festive lights and the promise of Christmas wonder. You will spot Christmas scenes along the way before you arrive at Father Christmas’ workshop, where more friendly elves await, along with the Nutcracker and a graceful Ballerina who will bring a touch of theatre to your visit. The highlight, of course, is meeting Father Christmas and Mother Christmas, who will greet each child personally from the comfort of your train carriage and present each little one with a small gift and more. Audley End

Address: Audley End Rd, Audley End, Saffron Walden CB11 4JB

When? Selected dates from 22nd November – 24th December

Barleylands – Christmas at Barleylands – Essex – Tickets on Sale

Once you have been checked into our Magical Christmas Barn, the elf will take you through to the grotto. Waiting for you will be Father Christmas himself, in his cosy grotto, ready to find out what your heart truly desires this year. His helpful elves can then take your photo with your own phone or camera. Before you leave, Father Christmas will decide if you have been good enough to receive a special token! If you have been a good girl or boy, you will be given a token for the Toy Factory, where you can trade your token for a present of your choice…and more Barleylands

Address: Barleylands Farm Office, Barleylands Rd, Billericay CM11 2UD

When? Selected dates from 29th November – 24th December

Colchester Castle Park – Enlightened – Essex – Tickets on sale

Step into a world of wonder at Enlightened at Colchester Castle Park. Wander through dazzling light trails, soak in the magic, and create unforgettable memories. This epic event is the perfect opportunity for families to experience the magic and wonder of winter together this Christmas. Enlightened Colchester – Book Tickets

Address: High St, Colchester CO1 1UG

When? 12th – 28th December

Colchester Zoo – The Santa Experience – Essex – Tickets on Sale

Visit the main man himself and receive a special gift, Mila & River, the Amur leopards. Discover how ‘Mila & River’, the Amur leopard toys, are made in the Elf Workshop and see if you can spot the cheeky elves playing. Take a break at Mrs Claus’ Kitchen, where you can enjoy a tasty treat on your journey to meet the big man himself. Colchester Zoo

Address: Maldon Rd, Stanway, Heckfordbridge, Colchester CO3 0SL

When? Selected dates from 22nd November to 21st December

Colchester Zoo – Enchanted Trail of Light – Essex – Tickets on sale

Enjoy a magical journey along a 1-mile route, featuring a BRAND NEW 40m light tunnel with over 20,000 lights, and NEW animal sculptures, all put together by our creative in-house events team! PLUS, appearances along the route by a special guest from the North Pole on dates prior to Christmas- Special guest appearances cannot be guaranteed on dates after Christmas. Colchester Zoo

Address: Maldon Rd, Heckfordbridge, Colchester CO3 0SL

When? Selected dates from 28th November to 21st December.

Colne Valley Railway – Santa is Coming – Essex – Tickets on Sale

Santa is coming to town. Throughout December 2025, he will be at the Colne Valley Railway. Get to meet Santa and his elves, take a train ride through the Essex countryside and be delivered directly to Santa, who will be waiting for you. There is a present for everyone, including the dog. Colne Valley Railway

Address: Castle Hedingham, Halstead CO9 3DZ

When? Selected dates from 6th – 24th December

Epping Ongar Railway – Santa Specials – Essex – Tickets on sale

All children receive a present from Santa. Inclusive Park and Ride service on our vintage London buses from Epping or Ongar. Take a return journey on Santa’s Fantastically Festive Special Train from North Weald. Meet Santa and his friends during the experience. Epping Ongar Railway

Address: Station Approach, Chipping Ongar, Ongar CM5 9BN

When? Selected dates from 29th November – 24th December

Hylands Estate – Enlightened – Essex – Tickets on sale

This winter, Enlightened returns to Hylands Estate, bringing a bigger, brighter, and even more magical light trail experience. After last year’s sell-out success, the event is back with a breathtaking new route, brand-new installations, and a truly immersive festive atmosphere.

From twinkling tunnels of light to dazzling laser projections, every step along the trail is designed to captivate and amaze. Whether it’s your first time or a returning favourite, Enlightened at Hylands Estate is a must-visit festive experience for all ages. Enlightened Hylands Estate

Address: London Rd, Writtle, Chelmsford CM2 8WQ

When? Selected dates from 28th November to 3rd January

Kentwell Hall – Enchanting Gardens Lit by Night – Essex – Tickets on Sale

Step into a world of enchantment as Kentwell Hall’s stunning gardens come alive with light! With their unique charm and captivating features, our gardens are the perfect canvas for an unforgettable illuminated experience. The carefully designed route winds through these breathtaking features, offering approximately 50 minutes of pure wonder. Along the way, take a moment to relax and recharge at our cosy watering hole. Kentwell Hall

Address: High Street, Long Melford, Sudbury CO10 9BA

When? Selected dates from 13th November – 31st December

Markshall Estate Coggeshall – Enlightened – Essex – Tickets on Sale

For the very first time, the acclaimed Enlightened winter light trail is making its way to the magnificent Markshall Estate this winter for an enchanting family experience that’s not to be missed. Immerse yourself in the giant digital tunnel of light, be awestruck by a captivating laser show, and get ready to be dazzled as enigmatic creatures are brought to life with 3D special effects. Enlightened – Book tickets

Address: High Street, Long Melford, Sudbury CO10 9BA

When? Selected dates until 31st December

Marsh Farm – The Father Christmas Experience – Essex – Tickets on sale

A wondrous journey awaits you, but before you can embark on your enchanted adventure, you’ll need to be granted special access to the North Pole! Don’t worry, our expert Elves in Passport Control will make sure all your papers are in order and send you on your way.

First stop, the Elf Academy! Here you have a once-in-a-lifetime chance to be inducted as an honorary Elf! Yes, you can learn the spells that could land you a spot on Fathers Christmas’s team…that’s as long as those mischievous Elves can remember how they go! and more (see link above). Marsh Farm

Address: Marsh Farm, Marsh Farm Rd, South Woodham Ferrers CM3 5WP

When? Selected dates from 15th November to 24th December

RHS Hyde Hall – Glow – Essex – Tickets on sale

Start your journey with the iconic sycamore sculpture, framed by an amazing avenue of light that sets the tone for the magic ahead. Weave your way through the Australia and New Zealand Garden, where glittering snowballs float among the trees, creating a frosty, sparkling scene. Prepare to be wowed in the Queen Mother’s Garden by the neon tree, with its natural form transformed into a radiant sculpture of shocking colours.

New for 2025, venture into the Robinson Garden, where the mesmerising mycelium installation glows with 2,500 shimmering fibres, inspired by the hidden networks of fungi beneath our feet – just one of 13 brand-new features and many more favourites on this year’s trail. RHS Hyde Hall

Address: RHS Garden Hyde Hall, Creephedge Lane, Chelmsford CM3 8ET

When? Selected dates from 21st November to 27th December

Christmas Events Norfolk 2025

Bressingham Steam & Gardens – Christmas at Bressingham – Norfolk – Tickets on Sale

Join us for a festive adventure at Bressingham Steam Museum this Christmas! Experience the magic of the season with a visit to our enchanting grotto, where Father Christmas, Mother Christmas, and their elves await to greet children aged 12 and under with special gifts. After your grotto visit, explore our festive exhibition hall, be amazed by a magical show, embark on a scenic Christmas train ride, or indulge in delicious festive treats at our café. Bressingham

Address: Low Rd, Diss IP22 2AA

When? 30th November – 24th December

Bure Valley Railway – Festive Express – Norfolk – Tickets on Sale

Arrive at Aylsham Station 20-30 minutes before your train departs to collect your boarding pass and festive refreshments to enjoy on your journey. You will have your own heated private compartment for your party. Once everyone has boarded, the train will depart our brightly decorated station to Brampton. Wave to your Steam engine from your carriage as it turns around before returning. As you make your way back to Aylsham Station, Santa will be waiting to greet you on his sleigh. Depart your train and visit Santa and his elves in his grotto. Bure Valley Railway

Address: Aylsham Station, Norwich Rd, Aylsham, Norwich NR11 6BW

When? December 6th – 24th

Church Farm Stow Bardolph – Father Christmas – Norfolk – Tickets on sale

All Father Christmas tickets include entrance to the Farm as well as visiting Father Christmas, so you can stay all day and enjoy everything Church Farm has to offer, including the indoor and outdoor play areas, animal encounters, undercover petting pens, Christmas shopping and market and lots, lots more. Church Farm Stow Bardolph

Address: Lynn Rd, Norfolk PE34 3HT

When? 4th to 23rd of December

North Norfolk Railway – Santa Specials – Norfolk – Tickets on sale

Sit back and relax as your train steams non-stop from Sheringham up the whole length of the line to Holt. Get into the festive spirit and make merry with complimentary onboard refreshments served to your table – mince pies and mulled cider for adults and gingerbread and hot chocolate for every child! There are festive children’s activity booklets too, plus entertainers and balloon modellers who will stroll through the train, spending time in each carriage for part of the journey.

On the return journey, the train will stop at Weybourne Station, where you will make your way through an enchanted Christmas Tree Kingdom with a magical seasonal theme, a snowy model railway and Santa’s friendly helpers before you meet Father Christmas himself, who will present every child with a special, wrapped gift before you rejoin the train for the short journey back to Sheringham. North Norfolk Railway

Address: Sheringham Station, North Norfolk Railway PLC, Station Approach, Sheringham NR26 8RA

When? 22nd November – 23rd December

Roarr! – Dippy’s Christmas Celebrations – Norfolk – Tickets on Sale

Enjoy the Christmas sparkle that Father Christmas has spread, helped by his friend Dippy at this year’s Dippy’s Christmas Celebration. Wander through the Candy Cane Trail, glide on our open-air synthetic ice-skating rink, and enjoy thrilling rides. Be sure to catch the Dippy & Friends Christmas Show and the Dippy Live Christmas performance. Plus, don’t miss the chance to write your letter to Father Christmas! With all this and our ROARR-some attractions, you’re in for an unforgettable festive adventure! Roarr! Plus other festive events

Address: Lenwade, Norwich NR9 5JE

When? Selected dates from 6th – 24th December

Sandringham Estate – Luminate Light Trail – Norfolk – Tickets on Sale

This unforgettable evening returns in 2025 with breathtaking new installations designed to delight and inspire. The renowned light trail – which has welcomed over one million visitors nationwide since its debut in 2019 – offers a magical after-dark experience, enchanting visitors of all ages in the run-up to the festive season.

As darkness descends, join us on our enchanting journey as we weave a captivating light trail through the Royal Parkland at Sandringham. Immerse yourself in our mesmerising mile-long trail, with stunning lighting elements and fabulous interactive light play, all set to music. Luminate Sandringham

Address: Sandringham PE35 6EN

When? 12th November – 24th December

Thursford – Santa’s Magical Journey – Norfolk – Tickets on sale

Remember the excitement of your first visit to see Father Christmas? Give your children, grandchildren, or someone special a day they’ll never forget! Come and visit Father Christmas in the magical setting of Thursford. It will be a treat to cherish for everyone who wants to experience this magical fantasy journey.

Your journey takes you from penguins and polar bears to giant-sized teddy bears ready to load Santa’s sleigh, and then past the busy elves hard at work in the toy factory with the wonderful wrapping machine. You’ll meet lots of fantasy characters, including the snowman’s family, but watch out for the snowballs. Thursford

The Christmas Spectacular and Enchanted Journey of Light events are also available at this venue.

Address: Thursford, Fakenham, NR21 0AS

When? Selected dates in November and December

Wroxham Barns – The Christmas Experience – Norfolk – Tickets on Sale

From Santa’s grotto to festive treats and cheeky surprises along the way, our Christmas Experience is packed with fun, wonder, and magic at every turn. Each family gets to explore, discover, and collect memories that will last a lifetime.  Wroxham Barns

Address: Tunstead Rd, Hoveton, Norwich NR12 8QU

When? Selected dates from 6th – 23rd December

Christmas Events Suffolk 2025

Easton Farm Park – Christmas Festive Fun – Suffolk – Tickets on Sale

Christmas Show • Mother Christmas’ Kitchen • Christmas Craft • Festive Woodland Walk • Meet all our Animals • Activities and Rides. Plusm Choose your Gift & Time Slot. – Easton Farm Park

Address: Easton Farm Park, Easton, Woodbridge IP13 0EQ

When? December 6th, 7th, 13th, 14th, 20th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd, 24th​

Kersey Mill – Santa’s Workshop – Suffolk – Tickets on Sale

Are you ready to immerse yourself in an exciting and truly magical Christmas experience, where children & families experience a mystical Santa’s Workshop in a wonderful, charming historical building with beautiful gardens & grounds? Santa & his team cannot wait to make everlasting memories with you. Lots of fun activities include making reindeer food, helping load the sleigh in preparation for Christmas Eve and making Christmas decoration crafts. Children will check Santa’s Good List Scroll with his chief elf for their name. Kersey Mill

Address: Kersey, Ipswich IP7 6DP

When? Selected dates 7th – 23rd December

Looking for more inspiration? Why not check out these posts

Best Christmas Events North East 2025 – Meet Santa and More

60+ Best Christmas Light Trails UK 2025

Best Christmas Events North West 2025 – Meet Santa and More

Best Christmas Events West Midlands 2024 – Meet Santa and More

Best Christmas Events East Midlands 2025 – Meet Santa and More

25 + Ultimate Christmas Events in the UK | Best Things to do 2025

Best Christmas Events South West 2025 – Meet Santa and More

Best Christmas Events South East 2025 – Meet Santa and more

Best Christmas Events in Yorkshire 2025 – Meet Santa and More

25 + Things to do in Lincolnshire over Christmas – Meet Santa and more 2025