Last Updated on September 21, 2026 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 2026 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.
But the magic doesn’t end there! Enjoy a variety of family rides and attractions, including the UK’s only CBeebies Land, where you can meet some of your favourite CBeebies friends, plus experience theme park entertainment and activities. Dive into splashtastic fun at the Waterpark, where slides and splash-filled adventures await. 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 27th November – 3rd January
Bedgebury – Christmas at Bedgebury – Kent – Tickets on Sale
Wander beneath towering conifers as the forest comes alive with colour, light and seasonal sounds in a magical experience designed for friends and family of all ages. This year’s trail is reimagined for 2026 with new installations and festive favourites to give you an unforgettable new experience. Marvel beneath the classic Christmas Cathedral, witness the beauty of the brand-new Laser Garden, and soak up the breathtaking sight of Bedgebury’s tall trees glowing against the night sky. Around every corner, enchanting moments await and you may even catch a magical glimpse of Father Christmas along the way Bedgebury
Address: Bedgebury Forest, Goudhurst, Wadhurst, TN5 7QJ
When? Selected dates from 20th 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 20th November – 3rd January
Blenheim Palace – Christmas at Blenheim – Oxfordshire – Tickets on sale
Boasting more than a million lights, our enchanting Illuminated Trail winds through gardens and grounds, past glistening treetops and shimmering waterfalls. The Illuminated Trail has become a firm date in many families’ festive calendars, and The Telegraph agrees that it’s one of the best light trails in the country and better still, you’ll get to see Father Christmas on the way around. This year on certain dates, dogs are welcome on the trail, which means the whole family can be in the Christmas photograph. Blenheim Palace
Address: Woodstock OX20 1PP
When? Selected dates from 13th 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? 13th 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…and more. Chatsworth House
Address: Bakewell DE45 1PP
When? 7th November 4th January
Chessington World of Adventures – Chessington at Christmas – London – Tickets on sale
Guided by your Christmas Village Passport, begin your journey with the Elf Welcome, full of festive fun and whimsical cheer, before stopping by to write your wishes at Letters to Father Christmas. Jingle away to a festive Silent Disco before you journey into a snowy woodland guided by an Elf to visit Father Christmas’ 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 cheeky Elves are busy making gifts for Christmas; you may even receive an early Christmas gift…and more Chessington World of Adventures
Address: Leatherhead Rd, Chessington KT9 2NE
When? Selected dates 21st November – 24th December
Drayton Manor – Christmas Wonderland – Staffordshire – Tickets on Sale
Step into a world of festive family fun this Christmas at Drayton Manor! Create unforgettable family memories with a magical visit to the Enchanted Christmas Grotto, or enjoy a calmer, more relaxed festive experience at our dedicated SEND Christmas Grotto. From the excitement of Thomas Land rides and festive entertainment to the laughter of our Aladdin Pantomime, there’s something magical waiting around every corner. Enjoy Christmas shows, seasonal surprises, and plenty of festive fun as Drayton Manor comes alive this Christmas! Drayton Manor
Address: Drayton Manor Dr, Fazeley, Mile Oak, Tamworth B78 3TW
When? Selected dates from 28th November – 24th 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? 21st November to 23rd December
Westonbirt Arboretum – Enchanted Christmas – Gloucestershire – Tickets on sale
Our enchanting after-dark trail returns for 2026 with dazzling lights, spectacular installations, and festive fun for the whole family! Created by the award-winning producers behind Christmas at Kew, it’s a must-see festive experience. This year’s trail is reimagined for 2026 with new installations and festive favourites to give you an unforgettable new experience. Wander through the illuminated arboretum, where twinkling lights transform the forest into a festive wonderland. Marvel at the stunning installations, including the classic Christmas Cathedral, fan-favourite Fire Garden, mesmerising Sea of Light, and interactive Ribbon Tunnels. Westonbirt
Address: Westonbirt, Tetbury GL8 8QS.
When? Selected dates from 27th November to 31st December.
Enlightened Events – Various Locations – Tickets on sale soon
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 2026, 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? 14th November to 17th 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? 19th November – 3rd January
Kew Gardens – Christmas at Kew – London – Tickets on sale
Experience the wonder of Christmas at Kew, London’s most enchanting festive light trail. Explore a breathtaking botanical world of light, music and magic set in the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. As one of the UK’s leading and most acclaimed illuminated trails, Christmas at Kew is the perfect way to celebrate the season or welcome the New Year. Brand-new light installations by world-renowned artists transform Kew into a dazzling winter dreamscape. Explore larger-than-life illuminations, wander through glowing tunnels and enjoy a spectacular music and light show. There may even be a special visit from Father Christmas along the way… Christmas at Kew
Address: Richmond
When? 13th November 3rd January
Knowsley Safari Park – Enchanted – Merseyside – Tickets on sale
As darkness falls, Knowsley Safari will once again transform into a spectacular world of light, wonder and festive adventure. Follow an all-new extended illuminated trail through the Foot Safari, where dazzling displays, glowing animal installations and magical surprises await around every corner. From sparkling pathways and enchanting woodland scenes to festive treats and unforgettable family moments, Enchanted is the perfect way to kick off the Christmas season. Knowsley Safari Park
Address: Prescot L34 4AN
When? 20th 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 21st November – 2nd January
Longleat – The Festival of Light – Wiltshire – Tickets on sale
Follow the glow of more than 1,000 spectacular lanterns along a breathtaking 2.5km trail through worlds of myth, magic and adventure. Explore the lost city of Atlantis, wander beneath a life-sized blue whale and encounter mighty gods, dragons, giants and magical creatures as legendary tales come to life in lights. Wrap up warm, discover dazzling displays and share moments of wonder together. Longleat
Address: Warminster BA12 7NW
When? 7th November – 10th January
Lotherton Hall – Christmas Experience – West Yorkshire – Tickets on Sale
A whole estate dressed for the season. The Hall in its Edwardian finery, every room a small wonder. The formal gardens lit from end to end. A walk through Captain’s Wood where the much-loved Twelve Days of Christmas come to life. Tiny houses in the rockery where the fairies live. Our beloved 12 Days Walk is back for 2026, and this year it is more magical than ever before. Created by the original artists who brought it to life, this self-guided trail winds through Captain’s Wood and tells the timeless tale of the Twelve Days of Christmas through twelve breathtaking installations.
Plus, Journey deep into the North Pole, meet the elves, Mrs Claus and Santa in his cosy home and receive a special gift or experience a gentler, slower visit designed just for our littlest guests. Pre-schoolers meet Santa in his woodland cabin and take home a treasured gift. Christmas Experience
Address: Off Collier Lane, Aberford, Leeds LS25 3EB
When? Selected dates from 21st November to 3rd January
North Yorkshire Moors Railway – Santa Express – North Yorkshire – Tickets on sale
Step aboard our heritage steam train for a magical Christmas journey this festive season. You’ll be welcomed by Santa’s cheeky elves before enjoying a personal visit from Santa on board. Every child will also receive a gingerbread man plush toy (20cm tall) and a festive book to take home. Relax and enjoy the winter scenery as the elves fill the journey with songs, games and festive fun. Back at the station, the Christmas magic continues with festive fete games and a letter to Santa post box, so be sure to leave a little extra time to enjoy it all. North Yorkshire Moors Railway
Address: 12 Park St, Pickering YO18 7AJ
When? Selected dates from 28th November – 24th 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 from 5th December – 3rd January
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 2026
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 Fantasy Land Building, as you travel past the penguins and polar bears to the giant-sized teddy bears! Get ready to pass the busy elves as they load Santa’s sleigh using the wondrous wrapping machine, and keep a lookout for the snowman family and their snowballs. Your journey continues as you venture outside to the Lantern Light Extravaganza, with lots of creatures to marvel at – a beautiful, breath-taking 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 2026 and Santa’s Magical Journey tickets are also on sale now…..
Address: Thursford, Fakenham NR21 0AS
When? Selected dates from 2nd – 24th December
Willows Activity Farm – Santa Spectacular – Hertfordshire – Tickets on Sale
There’s no better place to bring your children to meet Santa in his grotto and enjoy a fabulous festive family day out. Your visit to Santa is an individual family experience for a truly magical visit. 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 see and do. Our all-inclusive tickets are limited, and members and non-members must book online prior to 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 Winter Wonderland at the SnowDome is a magical festive experience filled with real snow, guaranteed every single session. Families can play, slide and sledge through a snowy trail as snowflakes fall all around, before enjoying a fun mini panto, exploring Santa’s cosy Christmas Village with alpacas and a vintage carousel, and finishing the visit by writing and posting letters to Santa at the SledEx post room. It’s one of the UK’s only Christmas events where you can enjoy 100% real indoor snow, making it a truly wintry adventure whatever the weather outside. Snowdome
Address: Leisure Island, River Drive, Tamworth B79 7ND
When? Selected dates from 21st November until 3rd January
Stockeld Park – Christmas Adventure – North Yorkshire – Tickets on Sale
Start your journey to meet Father Christmas by making your way through our magical North Pole village, where you’ll explore whimsical interactive play and encounter Santa’s jolly elves. Then, take a ride in our enchanted elevator, which will transport you (via magic!) to Santa’s cosy log cabin. Here, you’ll be greeted by Mrs Claus before heading into the Grotto to meet Santa himself! Snap a photo, collect a gift and create special family memories.
Experience a spectacular Christmas light show with your loved ones in our Enchanted Forest. At dusk, our ancient woodland is illuminated by dazzling installations, projections and sculptures, complete with magical animations and soundscapes. Venture through our mile-long Christmas light trail, which is complete with four outdoor playgrounds and stops to warm up with a hot chocolate en route… and more. Stockeld Park
Address: Wetherby Rd, Wetherby LS22 4AN
When: Selected dates from 21st November – 24th December
Warwick Castle – Christmas at the castle – Warwickshire – Tickets on sale
Christmas at Warwick Castle brings festive magic to its historic grounds, with a range of seasonal attractions for all ages. Families can enjoy Stories with Santa, where Santa and Mrs Claus share heart‑warming tales, glide across the brand‑new ice rink set beneath Guy’s Tower, and wander through a spectacular light trail featuring over half a million twinkling lights across 64 acres of the castle grounds. The Food & Drink Village adds to the experience with marshmallows, mulled wine and plenty of seasonal treats, making it a perfect festive day out wrapped in the castle’s enchanting atmosphere. Warwick Castle
Address: Castle, Castle Ln, Warwick CV34 4QU
When? 22nd November – 4th January
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? 14th November to 24th December
The Snowman Tour 2026 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
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. 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! Winterfunland
Address: Manchester, Eventcity, Opposite Intu Trafford Centre.
When? 4th December – 4th January (closed on the 25th)
