Best Christmas Events East Midlands 2023

Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Suzy McCullough

There are some magical events happening this festive period in the East Midlands in 2023 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.

30 + Best Christmas Events East Midlands 2019 – Meet Santa and More

Table of Contents

Christmas Events Leicestershire 2023

Abbey Park – Enlightened – Leicestershire – Tickets on Sale

Enlightened are a series of magical outdoor light trails hosted at multiple venues throughout the UK each winter. Last year, Enlightened trails were visited by over 125,000 people and the feedback received was superb. Our 2023 season brings new installations and interactive elements across all of our trails to make Enlightened 2023 the biggest and brightest season of winter events to date.

Our unique festive trail is a magical experience for all the family and the perfect opportunity to join together and immerse yourself in the enchanted, illuminated world.

Address: Abbey Park, Abbey Park Rd, Leicester LE4 5AQ
When? 16th November – 24th December

Don’t Miss Out – Book Your Tickets Today

Battlefield Line – Santa Specials – Leicestershire – Tickets on Sale

Following on from our highly successful 2022 Santa trains, we have listened to customer feedback and kept our Bronze, Silver and Gold ticket format. Last year was a complete sell-out, so book quick to avoid disappointment! There are 3 departure times each day. Enjoy a train ride with us on board Santa’s special train and meet Father Christmas!

Address: Shackerstone Station, Shackerstone CV13 6NW

When? Selected dates in November and December

How much? Prices start at £18 per person. Prebooking is essential.

Best Christmas Events East Midlands 2020 – Meet Santa and More

Belvoir Castle – 12 Days of Christmas – Leicestershire – Tickets On Sale

The ultimate destination for a magical Christmas experience. Step into a world of wonder as we bring to life the enchanting theme of the Twelve Days of Christmas, curated by the talented Charlotte Lloyd-Webber. Immerse yourself in the grandeur and festive charm of Belvoir Castle, where the spirit of the season is celebrated in extraordinary ways.

Whether you’re seeking a delightful family outing or a romantic escape, join us for an immersive experience. Book your tickets now for an unforgettable fun-filled family day out.

Address: Grantham NG32 1PE

When? 18th November – 2nd January

How much? Please visit their website

Don’t Miss Out – Book Tickets in Advance

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!

Address: Rawdon Rd, Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Swadlincote DE12 6GA

When? Selected dates in November and December

How much? Adults from £14.95, children aged 1+ £18.95 and under 1s are £3.95.

Great Central Railway – Santa Express – Leicestershire – Tickets on Sale

Experience the enchantment of Christmas with a heartwarming 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!

We haven’t forgotten about the grown-ups! As you enjoy the scenery and laughter of the children, indulge in a complimentary Irish Cream Liqueur and a delectable warm Mince Pie. It’s the perfect way to savour the season.

Address: Great Central Rd, Loughborough LE11 1RW

When? Services depart from 25th November through to 24th December

How much? Tickets from £24.

Manor Farm Park and Woodland – Santa’s Woodland Wonderland – Leicestershire – Tickets On Sale

Visit Santa in his grotto and choose a toy from his woodland toy shop (must be pre-booked online in advance).
Say hello to Santa’s reindeer and feed them a tasty treat (reindeer food available at £2.50 per bag).
Enjoy our festive scavenger hunt as you explore the Elves’ Village.
Watch our Christmas pantomime (choose from between five and seven show times each day on a ‘first come, first served’ basis – specific shows cannot be pre-booked).
Decorate a gingerbread biscuit in Mrs Claus’ house.
Write a letter to Santa and post it in our special postbox…and more

Address: Castle Hill, East Leake, Loughborough LE12 6LU

When? Every weekend from 25th November 2023 until Christmas Eve. Daily from Wednesday 20th until Sunday 24th December.

How much? Adults £14.50-18.50, children aged 2-17 £23.50-27.50, under 2 £10.50-14.50 and other pricing options are available.

Tropical Birdland – Winter Wonderland – Leicestershire – Tickets on Sale

There will be two different events this year. Winter Wonderland and the Snow Queen – Grab a lantern and take a magical stroll down to Santa’s Grotto visiting all of his fairy friends along the way, visit our amazing Snow Queen in her Ice Cave plus much, much more.

Plus Tropical Birdland and Santa – Why not combine your tropical birdland experience with a magical visit to see Santa & our famous fairy walk? Take it in your own stride to walk around the bird garden meeting & feeding all the parrots along the way. Our free-flying parrots will be going to bed at 2:30 pm. Please ensure to arrive early to give yourself enough time to enjoy the full experience.”

Address: Lindridge Ln, Desford, Leicester LE9 9GN

When? Selected dates in December

How much? Daytime – Children are £16.96, children not seeing Santa are £6.36 and adults are £10.60. Evening prices can be found online.

Christmas Events Lincolnshire 2023

Christmas at Belton House – Lincolnshire – Tickets on sale

A magical trail with new lights for 2023 – after-dark festive fun for all the family. Firmly positioned within the UK’s seasonal calendar, Christmas at Belton, Lincolnshire has everything you need for an unforgettable time with friends and family, including a magical glimpse of Father Christmas along the way.

Discover a lawn filled with larger-than-life flowers, glowing lantern trees, a sparkling flock of jolly robins and contemporary Christmas trees all the colours of the rainbow, just some of the new displays this year.

Address: High Road Belton, Grantham NG32 2LW

When? Selected dates from 24th November to 31st December

How much? Adult peak tickets are £22.50, children aged 3-16 are £17, under 3s are free and off-peak tickets are cheaper.

Don’t Miss Out – Book Your Tickets Today

Cleethorpes Coast Light Railway – Santa Specials – Lincolnshire – Tickets on sale

Fun for all the family – all aboard the magical Christmas Express, immerse yourself in festive wonder as this very special train takes you on a journey to Lapland Central.

Whilst waiting to see Santa, inside cosy 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!

Once it is your time, you will be led by our mischievous elves to the beautifully decorated Grotto to spend some quality one to one time with the man himself and receive a special gift.

Address: Lakeside Station, Kings Road, Cleethorpes, DN35 0AG

When? 9th, 10th, 16th, 17th, 22nd & 23rd December

How much? Adults £14.95-16.95, children 12 months – 16 years -£16.95-19.95 and infants are cheaper.

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

Doddington Hall – Christmas at Doddington – Lincolnshire – Tickets On Sale

Discover a truly mesmerising experience as you journey through ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’ with spectacular scenes created by Doddington staff, volunteers, local artists and students from Lincoln College. From partridges in pear trees to drummers drumming, step into the classic carol as it unfolds over three floors of the Elizabethan Hall, with a Doddington twist of course!

This year we’ll be extending opening hours on selected dates into early evening, so visitors can make the most of twilight with the warm glow of decorations and twinkling fairy lights.

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 year plus history.

Address: Main St, Doddington, Lincoln LN6 4RU

When? From 18th November – 22nd December

How much? Adults are £15, children aged 4-16 are £8.50 and under 4s are free.

Lincolnshire Wolds Railway – Santa Specials – Lincolnshire – Tickets on Sale Soon

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.

Address: Ludborough Station, Station Road, Ludborough, Lincolnshire, DN36 5SQ.

When? TBC

How much? £12 pp aged 12+ and children are £15 including a present. Under 1 year are £6.

Pink Pig Farm – Christmas – Lincolnshire – Tickets on Sale

Take a walk through our magical wood, meet the man himself on his sleigh, receive your quality present down the chimney then join our elves for gingerbread decoration. Add on a Build a Teddy experience by upgrading to our North Star Ticket.

Address: Holme Hall, Holme Ln, Scunthorpe DN16 3RE

When? Selected dates in December

How much? Please visit their website for different pricing options

Rand Farm Park – The Real Christmas Experience – Lincolnshire – Tickets on Sale

Begin your Christmas Experience with Chip and Sparky in Sugarplum HQ.
Learn our hit song, Place a Star on Top, in MerryJingle’s Music School.
Visit Postie in the Sorting Office.
Say hello to our two real reindeer, Rudi and Rossi.
Wander through our 3D Enchanted Forest.
Learn how Santa’s sleigh flies with Oakley in the 3D Forest.
Help Santa’s Reindeer Keeper in the stables.
Make reindeer feed to leave out on Christmas Eve.
Meet Santa in his grotto with your family.
Pick a present from Santa’s Secret Toy Shop.
Decorate biscuits with Mrs Claus.
Finish your magical day out in our Build a Bear Workshop (charged separately).
At set times throughout the day, join Ginger and Pepper in Elf Academy.

Address: Rand, Market Rasen LN8 5NJ

When? Selected dates from 25th November – 24th December.

How much? Adults are from £15.95-24.95 and children are from £19.95-42.95.

Springfields – Winter Wonderland Walk – Lincolnshire – Event not yet confirmed

Info from last year “Our Winter Wonderland Walk is back for 2023. Plus a small booking fee from the ticketing site to maximise the amount going to the charity, Marie Curie.”

Address; Camel Gate, Spalding PE12 6EU

When? TBC

How much? TBC

Christmas Events Derbyshire 2023

Bluebells Dairy ice cream – Father Christmas Experience – Derbyshire – Tickets On Sale

Celebrate the wonder of Santa’s Enchanted Christmas this year!

Meet real reindeer, unleash your creativity at the Create-a-Bear workshop, meet our friendly and happy Elves and receive a gift from the magical chimney! This heart warming adventure promises unforgettable moments of joy and togetherness for the whole family!

Address: Locko Rd, Derby DE21 7AR

When? 25th-26th November and 2nd-3rd, 9th-10th, 16th-17th, 21st-24th December

How much? Adults are from £18.50 and children aged 1-16 are from £35.

Chatsworth House – Christmas at Chatsworth – Derbyshire – Tickets on sale

Discover 24 rooms filled with Christmas wonder and the sights, sounds and scents of the season. Travel under archways adorned with candy canes, handmade Christmas stockings and mistletoe. Explore a winter wonderland and glittering Christmas tree brooch forest.

At the heart of the house, you’ll find Father Christmas’ workshop; a hive of activity as preparations are underway for the all-important Christmas Eve deliveries. Keep your eyes peeled for his little helpers around the house, who you may spot making mischief while Father Christmas is away.

Every festive celebration needs a host, and welcoming you on arrival will be Chatsworth’s ‘Host of Advent’, a gregarious character with a fondness for fun (and mince pies).

Address: Bakewell DE45 1PP

When? 4th November – 7th January 2024

How much? Christmas tickets include admission to the house, garden and farmyard. Pre-booking is essential and includes car parking, one car per transaction. – Adults £34, children £19 and other pricing options are available.

Ecclesbourne Valley Railway – Santa’s Enchanted Journey – Derbyshire – Tickets on Sale

All passengers receive…

A festive welcome to our beautifully decorated Wirksworth Station platform from our jolly elves
The steam train ride from Wirksworth and return in a seasonally-decorated period carriage
Festive entertainment from Santa’s team of elves during the journey
A visit from Santa to your seat who has a present for every child
Hot chocolate and cookies for every passenger on board

Address: Unit 1, Wirksworth Station, Coldwell St, Wirksworth, Matlock DE4 4FB

When? Selected dates from 25th November – 24th December

How much? Prices range from £95 to £105 for standard class. Other pricing options are available

Garden King – Santa’s Grotto – Derbyshire – Tickets on Sale

Book now for one of our fantastical grotto & Christmas events! From our ever-popular Christmas grotto experience, photo opportunities for your furry best friend, or meeting Santa himself in our soft play… there are plenty of different opportunities to keep the magic alive this Christmas.

All these events include entry to our Festive Woods afterwards.

Address: Garden King Garden Centre, Park Rd, Newhall, Swadlincote DE11 0TX

When? Selected dates in December

How much? Prices vary as there are a number of events to book, please visit their website.

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Matlock Farm Park – Christmas Events – Derbyshire – Tickets on Sale

2023 will see an exciting and fuller Christmas experience for our visitors with encounters and activities with different characters around the Christmas village, including:

Christmas craft-making with Chief Elf and Mrs Claus, with special goodies to take home. A magical storytelling experience for children with letter writing, so children can post their Christmas letters in the North Pole post box. Mulled wine and hot chocolate. Meeting the cheeky elves at the naughty-or-nice meter to see if you are on Santa’s ‘Good List’!

Address: Jaggers Ln, Matlock DE4 5LH

When? Selected dates from 26th November – 23rd December

How much? There are three different events, please visit their website for pricing.

Peak Rail – Santa and Steam – 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 Derbyshire countryside. 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 seats. Santa will have with him a wonderful age-suitable gift for all the children.

Children will receive a bottle of water and a small packet of sweets each, whilst Adults can sit back and enjoy a glass of wine and a mince pie (Dietary requirements can be catered for and a bottle of water available upon pre-booked request.)

Address: Matlock Station Station Yard, Matlock DE4 3NA

When? Saturdays: 2nd, 9th, 16th & 23rd. Sundays: 3rd, 10th, 17th & 24th & Friday 22nd

How much? Prices from £40 for a table for 2, from £60 for a table for 3 and from £80 for a table for 4.

Poole’s Cavern – Christmas Light Walk – Derbyshire – Tickets on Sale

This special event gives you the opportunity to see our cavern lit for Christmas – perfect for ‘big kids’ (adults) and the little ones. This is a self-guided walk through Poole’s Cavern; while you will see our Grotto & chambers lit with festive LEDS and decorations, please be aware Santa and his elves are very busy and will not be around for our light walk-through event. You can enjoy our cavern at your leisure and guides will be around to answer questions & tell you about the cave.

Address: Green Ln, Buxton SK17 9DH

When? This event will run every Monday, Wednesday & Friday throughout December up to Friday 15th.

How much? Tickets cost £8.50pp., with under 5s going free.

Christmas Events Northamptonshire 2023

Mini Meadows Farm – Christmas Experience – Northamptonshire – Tickets on Sale

It’s never too early to talk Christmas here on the farm. The festive feeling never really leaves us. And neither do the memories of so many happy faces that visit Santa through our doors. We’re ready for all the merriment and magic our elves will be bringing when our Christmas Experience returns for 2023. Promising more surprises than ever before and a little sprinkling of mischief.

Explore our elf village and choose sweets from the shop
Taste the best mince pies of your life, toasted with a festive drink
Write a letter to Santa
Meet Santa in his workshop (and take a selfie too)
Visit Santa’s toy shop

Address: Naseby Road, Northampton NN6 6HZ

When? Selected dates from 25th November – 23rd December

How much? Adults £12.50 and children from £25.50.

Northampton and Lamport Railway – Santa Specials – Northamptonshire – Tickets On Sale

All tickets include a meet with Santa, a present for children and complementary on-train refreshments. All trains will be hauled by one of our steam locos, subject to its availability. Alternatively, trains will be hauled by one of our heritage diesel locos.

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.

Address: Pitsford Rd, Chapel Brampton, Northampton NN6 8BA

When? 26th Nov, 2nd, 3rd, 9th, 10th, 16th, 17th and 23rd Dec

How much? Adults from £14-18, children aged 1-15 from £15.50-19.50 and under 1s receiving a present are £6.90.

Northampton – Winter Light Trail – Northamptonshire – Tickets on Sale

This year we’re bringing you more installations, soundscapes and features! Get ready for the ultimate festive illuminations, following around a woodland trail through the stunning surroundings of Delapré Abbey.

PLUS, a great selection of local, independent food vendors, Après Ski bar and kids funfair attractions.

Address: London Rd, Northampton NN4 8AW

When? Selected dates in November and December

How much? Adults are £15-17 and children are £13-15. Other pricing options are available.

Wickstead Park – Daytime Shows – Northamptonshire – Tickets on Sale

Experience the magic of Wicksteed Park’s Christmas Day Time Shows as they make a triumphant return! Guests are warmly welcomed at 11 am, creating anticipation for the festivities ahead. Indulge in a delightful 2-course lunch served at 12:00, satisfying your taste buds and setting the stage for an unforgettable day.

Prepare to be entertained as the first half of the show takes place from 1:30 to 2:15. Take a refreshing break during the interval from 2:15 to 3:00, allowing you to recharge and relish the festive atmosphere. Then, settle in for the second half of the show, thrilling spectators from 3:00 to 3:45.

Address: Barton Rd, Kettering NN15 6NJ

When? 6th, 13th, 14th and 19th December

How much? £40 pp.

Christmas Events Nottinghamshire 2023

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

Address: Newstead Village NG15 8NA

When? TBC

How much? TBC

Rufford Abbey – Breakfast With Santa – Nottinghamshire – Tickets on Sale

Join Santa for a delicious freshly cooked breakfast in our cosy Victorian kitchen restaurant. After you are full to the brim, meet Santa by the fireplace to receive your gift.

Plus Santa’s Grotto – Santa will return to Rufford this festive season with a brand new Grotto! Will are running time slots from 10.45am – 4.00pm on selected dates in November and December.

Address: Rufford Abbey Country Park, Ollerton NG22 9DF

When? 25th November – 23rd December

How much? Breakfast with Santa – Adult £13.95 | Child £13.95 (includes gift) | Under 3s £5.00 (includes gift). Santa’s Grotto – £9.95 per child (this includes a present from Santa)

Sundown Adventureland – Glorious Christmas – Nottinghamshire – Tickets on sale

As Christmas draws near, the park is converted into a Winter Wonderland with Christmas theming throughout and the annual opening of the wonderful ‘Night before Christmas’ ride. 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.

You’ll be greeted by the elves and the ever-friendly Mrs Claus and when it’s your time, you’ll be invited to meet the big man himself. Where you’ll receive a lovely, individually wrapped present and the chance to share your wishes with him.

This year there is a HUGE new surprise with a massive purpose-built Four Seasons Arena. This will be the home for all of our biggest events throughout the year and we can’t wait to show you it!

Address: Treswell Rd, Rampton, Retford DN22 0HX

When? Selected dates in November and December

How much? Adults from £19-25, children 90cm-10years from £23-29 and under 90cm with a gift are £4.

Willow Tree Farm – Reindeer Encounter – Nottinghamshire – Tickets on Sale

This ticket will admit up to 6 people to have entry to Willow Tree family farm and 30 minutes’ reindeer encounter this VIP experience will be in the reindeer Christmas barn Santa’s elves will teach you all about the reindeer you will meet our little baby reindeer ( sparkle ) and be able to take some very exclusive photos. The elves will give you some of our magic reindeer moss to feed them with.

once you have some of the magic of Christmas you can head up to the café for a free hot drink each, you can upgrade your drink to a Baileys hot chocolate if you wish (adults only ).

Address: Barton Rd, Kettering NN15 6NJ

When? Selected dates from 25th November – 23rd December

How much? From £60-66.

Wollaton Hall – Christmas at Wollaton – Nottinghamshire – Tickets on Sale

With over ten brand new installations and a whole new look, this interactive light trail invites you to expect the unexpected and allow the Christmas spirit take over as you take a stroll through the grounds of Wollaton.

Surprises are around every corner, and festive food, warming cocktails and picture perfect moments add to the exciting and unique spectacle that will have you captivated as you enjoy a magical Christmas with family, friends and loved ones at this seasonal classic with a contemporary twist.

Address: Wollaton Hall Natural History Museum, Wollaton Park, Wollaton, Nottingham, NG8 2AE

When? Most dates from 1st December – 1st January

How much? There are different pricing options – please visit their website