Last Updated on October 18, 2025 by Suzy McCullough
There are some magical events happening this festive period in the North West 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 the North West – in Cheshire – Cumbria – Greater Manchester – Lancashire – Merseyside 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.
Bewilderwood – Presents Christmas – Cheshire – Tickets On Sale
Wander beneath twinkling stars and through a mesmerising Sparkly light Trail. Enjoy a mini pantomime bursting with festive cheer, suitable for all ages. (Approx. 20 minutes). Meet your favourite BeWILDerwood characters. Spot Father Christmas along the way. – Bewilderwood
Address: Malpas, Bickley Moss, Cheshire, Whitchurch SY13 4JF
When? Selected dates from 29th November – 23rd December
Chester Zoo – Lanterns and Light – Cheshire – Tickets On Sale
So much more than just a Christmas light trail, Lanterns & Light is an outdoor light experience that will amaze and delight you at every turn. Interact with playful puppets, drift through the Ribbon Tunnel, gaze at kaleidoscope stars and explore the Laser Garden – plus discover new installations for 2025, including Airquarium, Bubble Walk and Submergence. Enjoy seasonal street food and warm drinks and make magical Christmas memories with loved ones. – Chester Zoo
Address: Chester CH2 1EU
When? Selected dates from 14th November – 3rd January
Gulliver’s Warrington – Christmas – Cheshire – Tickets on sale
North Pole Express Experience & See Santa in his Grotto. Children choose their own gift from the Elf Workshop. Plus Gully’s Christmas show, selected Christmas rides and attractions and more. If you want to extend the fun, then book a fantastic festive short break. – Gullivers
Address: Worrall House Farm Larder, Flatman’s Shackleton Cl, Old Hall, Warrington WA5 9YZ
When? Selected dates from 22nd November – 22nd December
Gulliver’s Warrington – Land of Lights – Cheshire – Tickets on sale
This year, the glow will be bigger, brighter, and more magical than ever before. Wander through a world where imagination shines, from majestic monuments to roaring dinosaurs and fantastical dreamworlds, all brought to life with breathtaking colour and creativity – Gullivers
Address: Worrall House Farm Larder, Flatman’s Shackleton Cl, Old Hall, Warrington WA5 9YZ
When? Selected dates from 25th October – 31st January
Tatton Park – Once Upon a Christmas – Cheshire – Tickets on Sale
Step through the pages of your favourite festive tales at Tatton Park’s grand Mansion this Christmas. Immerse yourself in scenes from the Nutcracker, the Snow Queen, A Christmas Carol, and more. This year’s Christmas Mansion takes visitors on a journey through a storybook where each beautifully decorated stateroom will bring to life a different classic tale from the season with immersive displays, lights, music, and enchanting surprises to delight all ages. Tatton Park Plus other Christmas Events
Address: Tatton Park, Knutsford WA16 6SG
When? 22nd November – 31st December
Walton Hall Gardens – Santa’s Grotto – Cheshire – Tickets on Sale
Warrington Disability Partnership present a spectacular, fully accessible Santa’s Grotto experience at Walton Hall and Gardens for Christmas 2025. Each visit is £12 per child, which includes a booking fee, a visit to see Santa, a present and a puzzle trail. There will be photographs and gifts to purchase of your magical moment on the day. There will also be lots of other wonderful festive activities to take part in, including craft activities to keep all the family busy. Walton Hall Gardens
Address: Walton Lea Rd, Higher Walton, Warrington WA4 6SN
When? Selected dates from 29th November – 24th December
Beacon Country Park – Beacon Light Trail – Greater Manchester – Tickets on Sale
Wander through woodland transformed by lights, music, and festive installations at Beacon Light Trail, with complimentary marshmallow toasting included in your tickets. Visit Beacon Country Park after dark and navigate your way through a tunnel of lights and larger-than-life festive installations. With the trail designed to engage every sense, you can enjoy an array of seasonal music accompanying the incredible visual displays. Beacon Light Trail
Address: The Beacon Country Park, Beacon Lane, Up Holland, Wigan, WN8 7RU
When? 4th – 21st December
Cockfields Farm – Christmas at Cockfields – Greater Manchester – Tickets on Sale
Ride the Train to the North Pole – Board at Platform 25 and journey through a snowy, festive landscape. Wander through Elf Village – Experience the Elves’ magical world up close. Private Grotto Visit with Santa – Receive a magical golden coin to exchange for a toy in Santa’s Toy Shop. Choose a Toy from Santa’s Toy Shop – The choice is yours. Stroll through the Enchanted Forest – Put on your magical glasses and discover festive surprises. Watch a Christmas Show & Build-your-own-Bear – Enjoy a joyful Christmas performance and take home your very own cuddly friend. Decorate a Treat in Mrs Claus’s Kitchen – With allergy-friendly options available and more. – Cockfields Farm Plus other festive themed events.
Address: Lees Rd, Oldham, Ashton-under-Lyne OL6 8AR
When? Selected dates from 29th November to 24th December
Dunham Massey – Christmas – Greater Manchester – Tickets on Sale
Why You Won’t Want to Miss It: Brand-new light installations transforming the historic grounds. Wander through a magical, illuminated trail filled with festive wonder. Catch a glimpse of Father Christmas along the way. Enjoy seasonal treats and winter warmers from hand-picked vendors. Dunham Massey
Address: Dunham Massey, Altrincham WA14 4SJ
When? 14th November – 3rd January
Heaton Park – Northern Lights – Greater Manchester – Tickets on Sale
The Northern Lights winter light trail has made its way to Heaton Park in Manchester. Here’s what to expect from this year’s event: A Christmas Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re with family, friends, or festive colleagues, this mesmerising light trail is the perfect seasonal outing. Magical Moments: Step into a world of winter wonder, where dazzling illuminations and immersive visuals bring enchantment to life, crafted by world-class lighting designers.
Festive Fun: Celebrate Christmas in the iconic Heaton Park with a holly jolly stroll through sparkling scenes and seasonal cheer. Inclusive & Multi-Sensory: Created for all ages, backgrounds and abilities, Northern Lights offer something special for everyone, from the youngest elves to wise old toymakers. Northern Lights
Address: Northern Lights Manchester, Heaton Park, Bury Old Road, Manchester, M25 0EQ
When? 20th November – 31st December
LEGOLAND Discovery Centre – Christmas Bricktacular – Greater Manchester – To be confirmed
Info from last year – There are so many festive-themed activities, plus access to two rides, LEGO® build & play zones and a 4D cinema experience at the ultimate indoor LEGO playground.
- Take part in a scavenger hunt in our winter wonderland-themed MINILAND®
- Build a cool LEGO decoration and display it for others to see.
- Rock around the LEGO Christmas tree at our pop-up dance parties with our mascots.
- Spin the advent wheel and see what number it lands on to win a treat!
- Awesome photo opportunities for the whole family.
Address: Trafford Palazzo in Trafford City, next to The Trafford Centre, Manchester M17 8AS
When? TBC
Farmer Teds – Farmer Christmas – Lancashire – Tickets on sale
You’ll begin your journey within our Animal Barn, before checking in to start your Christmas Adventure, you’ll get to walk through Santa’s winter wonderland, see where his elves make all your toys, where Santa sleeps too and much more – Farmer Teds
Address: Worrall House Farm Larder, Flatman’s Lane, Ormskirk L39 7HW
When? Selected dates from 29th November – 23rd December
RHS Bridgewater – Glow – Greater Manchester – Tickets on Sale
Looking for magical winter events in Greater Manchester? Whether you’re planning a family get-together, a romantic date night or festive catch-up with friends, RHS Bridgewater Glow invites you into an enchanting world like no other. Wander through winter landscapes that come alive with twinkling lights, seasonal sounds and captivating installations. Follow a brand-new trail for 2025, where every path reveals hidden wonders and picture-perfect photo opportunities capture the wonder of the season. RHS Bridgewater
Address: Occupation Rd, Worsley, Manchester M28 2LJ
When? Selected dates from 26th November – 30th December
Windmill Animal Farm – Santa Train – Lancashire – Tickets on Sale soon
Experience a delightful family adventure aboard our festive farm train as you embark on a journey to meet Santa. Along the way, keep an eye out for our stunning herd of Fallow deer as you arrive at Lake View Station. Santa awaits you in his newly designed, spacious, and magical grotto, ready to warmly welcome you and your loved ones. Meanwhile, Santa’s mischievous elves will be spreading joy and laughter with their playful antics. – Windmill Animal Farm
Address: Fish Lane, Burscough, Ormskirk L40 1UQ
When? 6th – 23rd December.
Holker Hall – Holker’s Christmas Grotto – Cumbria – Tickets on Sale
Meet Father Christmas and the Elves at Holker Hall and discover the magic of Christmas. Receive a gift from Father Christmas by the roaring fire in the magical setting of Holker’s grand library. Take part in a range of activities and trails as you and your family create cherished memories together. Holker Hall
Address: Cark, Grange-over-Sands LA11 7PL
When? 13th, 14th, 20th, 21st and 22nd December
Lake District Wildlife Park – Meet Father Christmas – Cumbria – Event to be Confirmed
Info from last year – Visit our Living Nativity and enjoy indoor animal displays and encounters. Join in Christmas crafts and activities on selected days. Book your own private Children’s Christmas Party. Plus Father Christmas will be visiting on the 11th, 12th and 18th December. Normal Entrance Fees to the Park apply – suggested donations for craft activities go to our animal conservation charities. There is no extra charge to meet Father Christmas but we are raising funds to help Lemurs in Madagascar. So come and meet Father Christmas and do your bit for conservation! Lake District Wildlife Park
Address: Bassenthwaite, Keswick CA12 4RD
When? TBC
Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway – Santa’s Express – Cumbria – Tickets on Sale
Begin your journey at Ravenglass, where our elves bring Christmas tales to life in the Ravenglass Railway Museum. Our very special Head Elf will guide you through an interactive storytelling experience to set the festive scene. Climb aboard for a 40-minute steam train ride through the stunning Eskdale Valley, filled with Christmas excitement as you make your way to Dalegarth Grotto.
Santa and his team of merry helpers will be waiting to welcome you, along with Stu Di Doo the magician and his festive puppet friend. Children will be called up to meet Santa, receive a Christmas gift of a special 150th anniversary teddy bear, and enjoy a festive activity pack. Pre-ordered food and your complimentary drink will be served at your table and you will be able to order on the day if you wish (subject to availability). Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway
Address: Station, Main St, Ravenglass CA18 1SW
When? Selected dates from 22nd Nov – 23rd Dec
Walby Farm Park – Father Christmas on the farm – Cumbria – Tickets on Sale
The experience includes;
Visit Passport Control
Snow Time Fun
Explore the enchanted Forest with 3D glasses
Decorate gingerbread biscuits – fun for both the kids and parents!
Make some Reindeer Food to take home and sprinkle outside on Christmas Eve
Meet real Reindeer – including our baby Reindeer, born earlier this year
Post your letter to Father Christmas
Toast Marshmallows
Meet Father Christmas himself in a small group sessions (with time for individual photos)
Exchange your magical golden coin for a gift in the Elves’ Toyshop
Build your own cuddly friend in the Teddie-Tastic Workshop and more. Walby Farm Park
Address: Walby Farm Park, Walby, Crosby-on-Eden, Carlisle CA6 4QL
When? Selected dates from 22nd November – 24th December
World of Beatrix Potter – Santa’s New Sleigh – Cumbria – Tickets on Sale
Christmas is fast approaching and Santa’s Sleigh is nowhere to be found. Will Sprocket and Dibs be able to create a new sleigh in time or will Christmas be cancelled? Can you help them save the day? Only time will tell but with audience participation, sing-along songs and a free present from Santa for every child it promises to be the perfect festive treat. World of Beatrix Potter
Address: Rayrigg Road, Bowness-on-Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 3BZ
When? The show runs from 20-24 December. Other events will also be taking place
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 the Enchanted ticket). Family rides and attractions to keep the excitement going. PLUS – A chance to meet Santa in his magical grotto. Knowsley Safari Park
Address: Prescot L34 4AN
When? 22nd November – 23rd December
Otterspool Adventure Centre – North Pole Express – Merseyside – Tickets on sale
This Christmas, Otterspool Adventure becomes a festive wonderland where families can journey to the North Pole, meet Father Christmas, and enjoy an unforgettable day of seasonal magic. With colourful characters, festive crafts, tasty treats and plenty of surprises, it’s the ultimate Christmas tradition for families across Liverpool and beyond. Otterspool Adventure Centre Plus a Christmas Grotto experience on Fridays in December.
Address: 37 Otterspool Dr, Liverpool L17 5AL
When? Selected dates from 29th November – 23rd December
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