Last Updated on September 6, 2024 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 2024 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.
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.
Alton Towers – Christmas – Staffordshire – Tickets on Sale
Santa’s Sleepover at Alton Towers – Selected dates in late November and through December. A Santa’s Sleepover is the most magical, wonderful Christmassy Escape. Jump onto specially selected rides ideal for families, dive into the Whacky Waterpark, tuck into a lusciously festive evening meal and meet Santa!
Experience the ultimate festive short break at Alton Towers Resort this Christmas! Immerse yourself in a world of enchantment and wonder with our best-ever Santa Sleepover. Jump onto specially selected rides ideal for families, dive into the Whacky Waterpark, tuck into a lusciously festive evening meal and meet Santa! Alton Towers
Address: Alton Towers Theme Park Alton Towers Resort, Alton ST10 4DB
When? Selected dates from 29th November – 31st December
Bedgebury – Christmas at Bedgebury – Kent – Tickets on Sale
A magical trail with new lights for 2024 – an after-dark stroll through our world-leading collection of conifers. Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest is a place to make new memories with your friends and family this Christmas. Over a million twinkling lights and seasonal sounds will fill the air with festive fun. Bedgebury
Address: Bedgebury ForestGoudhurst, Wadhurst TN5 7QJ
When? Selected dates from 15th November to 1st January
Belton House – Christmas – Lincolnshire – Tickets on sale
A magical trail with new lights for 2024 – after-dark festive fun for everyone. Created by award-winning, internationally acclaimed light trail producers and firmly positioned within the UK’s seasonal calendar, Christmas at Belton, Lincolnshire has everything you need for an unforgettable time with friends and family. Discover a meadow of light stretching out into the distance, colour-changing larger-than-life neon string flowers, candles floating high into the sky and batons of light that shine all the colours of the rainbow. Belton House
Address: High Road Belton, Grantham NG32 2LW
When? Selected dates from 22nd November to 1st January
Blenheim Palace – Christmas at Blenheim – Oxfordshire – Tickets on sale
Discover a festive atmosphere like no other at Blenheim Palace in 2024. The historic Palace and Gardens will once again come alive with thousands of twinkling lights, seasonal scents, sparkling baubles and the warmth of the festive season. This year, we invite you to enjoy a special Christmas experience with us and soak in the joy of the season with your loved ones. Firmly positioned as one of the UK’s leading illuminated trails and unmissable within the seasonal calendar, 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 15th November to 1st January
Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland – Wales – To be confirmed
Info from last year – We’re back for 2023 – bigger and better than ever before! You can join us for the ultimate winter experience split across two prestigious locations. You’ll be pleased to hear all your festive favourites of the ice rink, funfair attractions, ice bar, food and drink are making a return!” Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland
Address: Gorsedd Gardens Rd, Cardiff CF10 3NP
When? TBC
Chatsworth House – Christmas at Chatsworth – Derbyshire – Tickets on sale
Christmas at Chatsworth offers the opportunity to experience the house decorated for the season, a garden light trail, and the farmyard and adventure playground. Each year, our decorations celebrate a different theme, and we will announce our 2024 theme in mid-September. Chatsworth House
Address: Bakewell DE45 1PP
When? 9th November 2024 – 5th January 2025.
Chessington World of Adventures – Winters Tail – London – Tickets on sale
Get ready to unwrap the magic of Christmas at Winter’s Tail. Our festive extravaganza is back and brighter than ever before with our brand-new Christmas Village, promising a sleigh full of festive delights for the whole family to enjoy! With the help of our jolly elves step into a world of wonder as you journey through a festive wonderland to meet the big man. Nestled in his cosy grotto, Father Christmas awaits with a twinkle in his eye and a warm smile for every visitor. Then venture through Enchanted Hollow where we’ve heard the Elves, with the help of the friendly animal residents, have set up their Toy Workshop in the underground town! and more Chessington World of Adventures
Address: Leatherhead Rd, Chessington KT9 2NE
When? Selected dates 23rd November – 31st December
Drayton Manor – Christmas Wonderland – Staffordshire – Tickets not yet on sale
Info from last year – The ultimate destination for family Christmas fun featuring ALL NEW festive shows and attractions, Thomas Land rides & shows, plus over 500 animals in our fantastic zoo.
- NEW: Wishmas Express – an illuminating light trail train journey
- NEW: Enchanted Christmas Grotto
- NEW: Rory’s Christmas Party Show
- NEW: Mrs Claus’ Christmas Spectacular End-of-Day Show
- NEW: Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen
- NEW: Open late to make the most of magical Christmas evenings
- Thomas Land rides & shows
- Snowfall each day – Drayton Manor
Address: Drayton Manor Dr, Fazeley, Mile Oak, Tamworth B78 3TW
When? TBC
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? 23rd November to 23rd December
Westonbirt Arboretum 2023 – Enchanted Christmas – Gloucestershire – Tickets on sale
Our brand-new illuminated trail, Christmas at Westonbirt, launches this festive season. Get ready for a brand-new festive experience at Westonbirt, The National Arboretum this Christmas. We’ve teamed up with the award-winning, internationally acclaimed light trail producers behind Christmas at Kew, Christmas at Bedgebury and Christmas at Blenheim to bring you a light trail never-before-seen at Westonbirt. Westonbrit
Address: Westonbirt, Tetbury GL8 8QS.
When? Selected dates from 29th 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 2024, we unveil new installations and interactive wonders across all of our trails, promising our most dazzling and immersive season yet. Enlightened
Address: Hylands Estate, Staunton Farm. Colchester Castle Park, Leicester Abbey Park, Markshall Estate
When? Please visit each event’s webpage
Great Central Railway – Santa Express – Leicestershire – Tickets on Sale
Experience the enchantment of Christmas with a heart warming journey on our heritage steam railway! Join us for a festive adventure as we invite you to meet Santa and his jolly helpers on the train!
The little ones will be delighted with our specially created Christmas Activity Pack, filled with games, puzzles, and colouring sheets. Santa knows how to spread happiness and cheer, and every child on board will receive a special Christmas gift from the man himself! The joy in their eyes will be priceless as they unwrap their surprises, and that’s not all! Each child will receive a drink and a treat onboard as well! Great Central Railway
Address: Great Central Rd, Loughborough LE11 1RW
When? Services depart from 25th November through to 24th December
Hogwarts in the Snow – Warner Brothers Studio – Hertfordshire – Tickets on Sale
2024 will conclude with the return of the Yule Ball for Hogwarts in the Snow, as the Great Hall is transformed with the icy silvers of the iconic Yule Ball scene. The Gryffindor common room will be dressed for the season and a blanket of filmmaking snow will cover the Forbidden Forest, Diagon Alley and the magnificent Hogwarts castle model. Warner Brothers Studio
Address: Studio Tour Dr, Leavesden, Watford WD25 7LR
When? 16th November 2024 to 15th January 2025
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 2024. 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? 13th November 2024 – 5th January 2025
Knowsley Safari Park – Enchanted – Merseyside – Tickets on sale
This winter, our Foot Safari will once again transform into a magical wonderland, where you can wander among illuminated animals, from camels to wolves, to exciting new additions like towering giraffes and playful lion cubs. For the third year running, explore our Winter Village, stroll through the sparkling light tunnel, and catch Santa’s elves hard at work. While you’re here, post your Christmas wish list and enjoy the festive favourite activity of toasting marshmallows by the fire. There will also be plenty of pitstops along the way where you’ll be able to enjoy festive foods throughout the trail and then jump on our thrilling rides to complete your adventure* Knowsley Safari Park
Address: Prescot L34 4AN
When? 30th 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
Get ready for a magical day of entertainment starting as soon as you enter the Park. Start your day snapping an (s)elfie in front of our giant DUPLO® Christmas Tree – the perfect spot for a family photo worthy of a Christmas Card.
There will be lots of festive scenes hidden in Miniland for your little builders to discover. Also, in Miniland, Christmas is taking over The Brick! Your little elves will be able to do festive activities and LEGO builds. There will be live entertainment and characters to meet plus a selection of our amazing rides and attractions will be available so you and your family will be able to build memories that will last a lifetime. LEGOLAND Windsor
Address: Winkfield Rd, Windsor SL4 4AY
When? Selected dates from 23rd November
Longleat – The Festival of Light – Wiltshire – Tickets on sale
Turn back the clock and travel the world with us as we invite you to journey through time at The Festival of Light this Christmas. Explore the era you want to discover as we showcase the evolution of the earth from the age of the dinosaurs to present day. This year’s spectacular lantern trail is a historical wonderland just waiting to be explored! Longleat
Address: Warminster BA12 7NW
When? 9h November ’24 – 5th January ’25
Lotherton Hall – Christmas Experience – West Yorkshire – Tickets on Sale soon
A magical journey through the enchanting world of Christmas. From visiting Santa in the North Pole to crafting in the Elf Village, there’s something for all the family. Explore the Christmas Traditions Woodland Walk, and Fairy Dell. Marvel at Lotherton’s splendour in the Hall and lit gardens. Warm up with a hot chocolate or mulled wine, don’t forget to visit the Christmas stalls on a weekend. Christmas Experience
Address: Off Collier Lane, Aberford, Leeds LS25 3EB
When? Selected dates from 23rd November to 5th January
North Yorkshire Moors Railway – Santa Specials – North Yorkshire – Tickets on sale
Come and join in the fun with us at the North Yorkshire Moors Railway this Christmas. Get in the festive spirit as you and your family start your adventure at our beautifully decorated Pickering Station. You’ll be greeted by twinkling lights, real Christmas trees and the joyful sounds of Christmas music filling the air. Take a Christmas selfie, visit our charming Christmas tea rooms for an indulgent treat, or browse our Christmas Emporium for more unique Christmas gifts, plus children will have the chance to visit our festive Signal Box. North Yorkshire Moors Railway
Address: 12 Park St, Pickering YO18 7AJ
When? Selected dates from 30th November to 24th December
Paultons Park – Christmas at Paultons – Hampshire – Tickets on sale
Visit Paultons over the Christmas period and discover the new land 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.
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 9th November until 23rd December.
THE POLAR EXPRESS CAN BE FOUND AT OTHER VENUES ACROSS THE UK in 2024
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 2024 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 2024 with a family festive extravaganza! From 16th 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 ALL NEW 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 16th November until 5th 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? 23rd November ’24 – 5th January 2025
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? 16th November to 24th December
The Snowman Tour 2024 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 2024 – 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 and visit our amazing festival circus – all included in your ticket price! Winter Funland is a great opportunity to wear your Christmas jumpers and get into the festive spirit….without worrying about the weather! Expect plenty of Christmas magic, with all the fun of the fair and a spectacular circus show.
There’ll be lots of smiles on the ice rink too, whether you’re gliding along like a pro or wobbling along with the help of one of our penguins! Visit our food and drink vendors for that Christmas market feel, and watch out for the mischievous elves who’ll be popping up around the event to help you make some special memories. Winterfunland
Address: Manchester, Eventcity, Opposite Intu Trafford Centre.
When? 7th December – 1st 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? 15th November – 5th January
Looking for more inspiration? Why not check out these posts
60+ Best Christmas Light Trails UK 2024
Polar Express Christmas Train Ride Events UK 2024
