Best Christmas Events North West 2024

Last Updated on September 4, 2024 by Suzy McCullough

There are some magical events happening this festive period in the North West in 2024 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.

Best Christmas Events North West 2020 – Meet Santa and More

Table of Contents

Bewilderwood – Presents Christmas – Cheshire – Tickets On Sale

Meet Father Christmas himself and children will even receive a small, sweet treat! Join us for a very special BeWILDerwood pantomime suitable for all ages. Full of family fun and magical merriment, enjoy our unique spin on a traditional pantomime. Follow The Sparkly Light Trail through BeWILDerwood this Christmas! Spot Silly Snowmen, candy canes and other festive favourites along the way! – Bewilderwood

Address: Malpas, Bickley Moss, Cheshire, Whitchurch SY13 4JF

When? Selected dates from 30th November – 23rd December

Bolesworth Castle – Christmas – Cheshire – To be confirmed

Info from last year – We invite you to walk in our winter wonderland! Features our iconic festive lights trail, an amazing 240sqm real ice skating rink, Santa’s Grotto and more. As dusk falls our dog-friendly Christmas Lights Trail comes to life and becomes the most dazzling winter illuminations event in Cheshire and beyond. Bolesworth is bathed in seasonal colour, our beautiful grounds lit with thousands of stunning lights and effects, projections and interactive installations creating an unforgettable seasonal experience for children and grown-ups alike.

If after all that walking you’re feeling a little sleighed, the perfect place to recharge is Rudolph’s Rest! As well as the chance to enjoy some festive refreshments halfway through the lights trail, you can meet Santa’s reindeer as they get ready for the big day. Please note Rudolph’s Rest will close after December 24 as the reindeer enjoy a well-earned rest! – Bolesworth

Address: Bolesworth Rd, Tattenhall, Chester CH3 9HQ

When? TBC

Chester Zoo – Lanterns and Light – Cheshire – Tickets On Sale

Create lasting memories on an unforgettable Christmas light trail! Journey through vibrant lands where orangutans, elephants and lions roam. Wander through a glowing tunnel of lights, enjoy festive treats at our Christmas food markets on the trail, and greet Father Christmas in his workshop! – Chester Zoo

Address: Chester CH2 1EU

When? Selected dates from 15th November – 1st January

Church Farm Events – Santa Experience – Cheshire – Tickets on sale

The Santa Experience is a 60-minute journey around the farm with colourful characters, real reindeer, magical lighting, special effects, farm animals and a very special personalised * visit to see Santa. The journey takes place on the tractor and on foot at a number of locations around the farm. Each paying child will also receive a chocolate gift from Santa and a marshmallow to toast on the fire – Church Farm Events

Address: Church Ln, Thurstaston, Wirral CH61 0HW

When? Selected dates in November and December

Gulliver’s Warrington – Christmas – Cheshire – Tickets on sale

All Christmas theme park packages at Gulliver’s World Warrington include a visit to Santa’s Grotto with the opportunity for children to choose their own gift. If you want to extend the fun then book a fantastic festive short break. – Gullivers

Address: Worrall House Farm Larder, Flatman’sShackleton Cl, Old Hall, Warrington WA5 9YZ

When? Selected dates in November and December

Tatton Park – Journey to Oz – Cheshire – Tickets on Sale

Be swept away on a wonderful adventure through iconic scenes from the Wizard of Oz, transformed and brought to life within the grandeur of Tatton Park’s historic mansion. As you wander through the beautifully decorated staterooms, each corner turned will reveal a new surprise, from the exciting adventure following the Yellow Brick Road to the sparkling Emerald City, all adorned in beautiful festive decorations. Whether you’re a fan of Dorothy, have a soft spot for the Scarecrow, or you’re intrigued by the Wicked Witch, there’s something here to capture the hearts of visitors of all ages.- Tatton Park Plus other Christmas Events

Address: Tatton Park Tatton Park, Knutsford WA16 6SG

When? 23rd November – 29th December

Walton Hall Gardens – Luminate – Cheshire – To be confirmed

Info from last year – Luminate’s Walton Gardens Winter Light Trail presents a delightful world of light and music in the beautiful Cheshire gardens. Immerse yourself in the trail as you enjoy stunning light displays and a captivating ambience as you stroll along the enchanting path of what feels like magic. Be sure to wrap up warm! These are outdoor evening events and will be taking place whatever the weather, come rain or snow.

Address: Walton Lea Rd, Higher Walton, Warrington WA4 6SN

When? TBC

Cockfields Farm – Christmas at Cockfields – Greater Manchester – Tickets on Sale

True enchantment awaits when you encounter the legendary figure himself, Santa Claus. Begin your adventure by following the glow of the northern lights, leading you to meet Santa’s fantastical elves who will check if you’ve been naughty or nice. With a mischievous twinkle in his eye, Santa welcomes you to his cosy grotto. Share your Christmas wishes and pose for a photo with the jolly old man. Will you be fortunate enough to receive one of Santa’s magical golden coins? After your encounter with Santa, journey into the indoor Christmas winter woodland toy shop to claim your special present. – Cockfields Farm

Address: Lees Rd, Oldham, Ashton-under-Lyne OL6 8AR

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

Best Christmas Events Greater Manchester 2020

Dunham Massey – Christmas – Greater Manchester – To be confirmed

Infro from last year – A magical trail with new lights – after-dark festive fun for all the family. Firmly positioned within the UK’s seasonal calendar, Christmas at Dunham Massey, Cheshire has everything you need for an unforgettable time with friends and family, including a magical glimpse of Father Christmas along the way. Discover colour-changing batons of light stretching out into the distance, a huge silver star, Nova, shrouded in mist as if just fallen from the sky and star-shaped arches high above you, just some of the new displays to see this year.

Address: Dunham Massey, Altrincham WA14 4SJ

When? TBC

Heaton Park – Light Trail – Greater Manchester – To be confirmed

Info from last year – From the makers of Christmas at Kew and Christmas at Dunham Massey comes something completely new. Christmas at Heaton Park has everything you need for an unforgettable time with friends and family. There’s all the fun of the fair surrounded by breathtaking seasonal lights as never seen before. Discover colour-changing globes of light stretching out into the distance, larger-than-life flowers and neon strings that reach high into the sky.

Address: Middleton Rd, Manchester M25 2SW
When? TBC

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 TraffordCity next to The Trafford Centre, Manchester M17 8AS

When? TBC

Farmer Parrs – Christmas 2024 – Lancashire – To be confirmed

Info from last year – Herd ewer flock over to Farmer Parr’s, where they can have a good old chat with Santa and meet Rudolph too! Santa lives in his own special log cabin, with Rudolph peeping through the window. Ewe are welcome to take a tour around the rest of the animal farm as well & see all the animals in their cuddly winter coats and help us feed them too.

Please remember your ticket is to visit the farm and reserve your time with Santa. TICKETS ARE NOT JUST FOR VISITING SANTA. As a result, a gift from Santa is not included in the price. There will be the option to purchase a gift from the elf assisting Santa on the day of your visit – Farmer Parrs

Address: Rossall Ln., Fleetwood FY7 8SL

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!

Catch Christmas Storytime everyday with one of Father Christmas’ helpers. This will be an interactive storytime experience where your little ones can join in and feel the magic of Christmas through one or two of our lovely Christmas tales. Make sure you check the storytime timetable when you arrive for times and location on the day…and more – Farmer Teds

Address: Worrall House Farm Larder, Flatman’s Ln, Ormskirk L39 7HW

When? Selected dates in December

WanderWoods – Christmas – Lancashire – Tickets on Sale

A magical Christmas event that will immerse you in the world of our Elves, taking you and your family on a journey to behold, ending with Santa and a feast in the great Elven Hall. – WanderWoods

Address: 69 Roman Way, Ribbleton, Preston PR2 5BE

When? 16th 17th 22nd 23rd & 24th 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? Selected dates in December.

Holker Hall – Mini Grotto Experience – Cumbria – Event not yet confirmed

Info from last year – We are delighted to announce Father Christmas has taken time out of his busy schedule to welcome all the good boys and girls to his Grotto set up on the top floor of Holker Hall. At the end of the visit, each child will receive a Christmas gift and visits are 10 minutes per child/family. Holker Hall

Address: Cark, Grange-over-Sands LA11 7PL

When? TBC

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 Express – Cumbria – Tickets on Sale

Join us onboard the magical Santa Express where our elves will be on hand at Ravenglass at the start of your festive adventure! The 40-minute journey to Dalegarth is filled with excitement as you make your way up the valley to Dalegarth Grotto where Santa Claus and his team of helpers are on hand to welcome you along with Stu Di Doo the magician and one of his festive puppets. Children will be called up to meet Santa and receive a gift from the big man himself. Children will also receive an activity pack and some festive refreshments. Grown-ups are not without favour (only the ones on the good list!) and will also receive a festive snack and drink whilst the train waits at Dalegarth station for the return journey back to Ravenglass. Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway

Address: Station, Main St, Ravenglass CA18 1SW

When? Selected dates from 23rd Nov – 23rd Dec

Walby Farm Park – Father Christmas on the farm – Cumbria – Tickets on Sale

The experience includes;
Visit Passport Control
Snow Time Fun
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
Enter the Naughty and Nice machine
Meet Father Christmas himself (group session for 15 mins, including time for individual photographs)
Exchange your magical golden coin for a gift in the Elves’ Toyshop
Build a Teddie in the Teddie-Tastic workshop and more. Walby Farm Park

Address: Walby Farm Park, Walby, Crosby-on-Eden, Carlisle CA6 4QL

When? 23rd November – 24th December

World of Beatrix Potter – Santas Christmas Cracker – Cumbria – Tickets on Sale

Join Father Christmas and friends for a fun, festive, musical adventure to discover the wonder of Christmas – you may even get to pull a cracker with Dotty the Elf! After the show, each child gets to meet Father Christmas and receive a wrapped present from him – it’s the most Christmassy Christmas show ever – ho ho ho! 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

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

Otterspool Adventure Centre – Lapland Liverpool – Merseyside – Tickets not yet on sale

Take a magical journey through the glistening Winter Walkway! Keep your eyes peeled, little explorers, because nestled amongst the snow-covered trees, you’ll discover a Cabin! Father Christmas himself awaits by the crackling fireplace, eager to hear all about your Christmas wishes. But first, he must check his trusty naughty and nice list..and so much more Otterspool Adventure Centre

Address: 37 Otterspool Dr, Liverpool L17 5AL

When? Selected dates from late November until Christmas Eve