Best Christmas Events South West 2025 – Meet Santa and More

Last Updated on October 18, 2025 by Suzy McCullough

There are some magical events happening this festive period in the South West of England 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 South West – in Cornwall – Devon – Dorset – Gloucestershire – Somerset & Bristol – Wiltshire 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 information below 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 South West 2020 – Meet Santa and More

Table of Contents

Best Christmas Events Dorset 2025

Corfe Castle – Christmas at Corfe – Dorset – Tickets on sale

Experience the charm of Corfe Castle this Christmas. Explore the ruins to find festive scenes, toast marshmallows around firepits, enjoy family crafting activities, or, for an extra touch of magic, experience the ambience of the castle at night. Plus other events. Please visit Corfe Castle

Address: The Square, Corfe Castle, Wareham BH20 5EZ

When? 19th December – 3rd January 2026

Farmer Palmers – Christmas Experiences – Dorset – Tickets on sale

We have two different experiences and opportunities to meet Farmer Christmas. You can choose between our Daytime Experience or Twilight Experience. Children can enjoy a farm-tastic time at the Farm Park. Experience the wonder and excitement of meeting ‘the man in red’ and all his festive friends in the Magical Christmas Barn. PLUS every child with a ‘Farmer Christmas Experience Ticket’ receives a great gift from the Elves at Ye Olde Toy Shoppe! Farmer Palmers

Address: Wareham Rd, Organford, Poole, Organford, Poole BH16 6EU

When? Selected dates in December

Kingston Lacy – Storytelling with Santa – Dorset – Tickets on Sale

Santa is stopping at Kingston Lacy this festive season! Make memories, start traditions and come on a fantastical journey with his helpers to find the storybook nook, before settling in for a festive tale, an early Christmas gift and a chance to take a picture together with Santa. Kingston Lacy

Address: Kingston Lacy, Wimborne BH21 4EA

When? Selected dates from 22nd November until the 23rd of December

Swanage Railway – Father Christmas Yuletide Express – Dorset – Tickets on Sale

All aboard! Settle into your seat for a one-hour return journey through the stunning Purbeck countryside, where wintry views and festive spirit go hand-in-hand. Be greeted by our Magic Ticket Collector, who’ll make sure your family is ready for the enchantment ahead. Our cheerful Christmas Elves will lead songs, spread joy, and bring smiles to little faces.

Then, a moment to remember – Father Christmas himself will make his way through the train, meeting each family and delighting every child with a festive gift: A quality Christmas present. A traditional candy cane. And of course – a satsuma, just like the ones tucked into stockings long ago. Swanage Railway

Address: Swanage BH19 1HB

When? Selected dates from 29th November – 24th December

Best Christmas Events Somerset & Bristol 2025

Ashton Court – Luminate – Bristol – Tickets on Sale

Experience the best Christmas light trail in Bristol
Wander through 1.6km of glowing woodland paths and open parkland
Enjoy a captivating soundtrack that brings the trail to life
Discover brand-new installations for 2025, including a laser and searchlight show across the Ashton Court vista
Say hello to the magical “Hello Tree” – a glowing, talking tree that responds to visitors
Step across glowing stepping stones and explore hidden corners of the estate
Toast marshmallows over fire pits and sip mulled wine under the stars
Indulge in festive food and drinks from local vendors in the courtyard – Luminate Ashton Court

Address: Ashton Court Estate, Long Ashton, Bristol, BS41 9JN
When? 28th November – 28th December

Don’t Miss Out – Book Tickets

Avon Valley Adventure Park – Christmas Experience – Somerset – Tickets on sale

Step into the snowy, pine-scented forests of Christmastown and meet Stardust, a young reindeer with big dreams, and her lovable friends Spike the Hedgehog and Red the Squirrel. Join their heartwarming journey as they discover that believing in yourself can make Christmas truly magical for everyone. With enchanting puppetry and a breathtaking Nordic forest set, this is a festive family show you’ll never forget.

Visit Santa in his beautifully decorated wooden cabin to get your ‘golden ticket’ to take to the toy factory. There will be the opportunity to have a professional family photograph taken (additional charge) and so much more. Avon Valley Adventure Park

Address: Pixash Ln, Bath Rd, Keynsham, Bristol BS31 1TP

When? Selected dates from 29th November – 24th December

Avon Valley Railway – Santa Specials – Somerset – Tickets on Sale

Join us at the Avon Valley Railway to make unforgettable Christmas memories onboard our 2025 Santa Special. Once onboard our festive trains the whistle will sound and you’ll depart on your fifty-minute train ride. Whilst you’re travelling, you’ll enjoy a mince pie or festive biscuit and Santa will pass through the train saying hello to everyone. Then, when you return to Bitton Station each family group will meet Santa again and all good boys and girls will receive a present from him too! There will also be the chance for your family group to take photographs and create those special festive memories. Avon Valley Railway

Address: Bitton Station, 3 Bath Rd, Bristol BS30 6HD

When? Selected dates from 23rd November to 24th December

Bishop’s Palace – Christmas Illuminations – Somerset – Tickets on sale

Step into the magic of Christmas as our much-loved Illuminations return for 2025, bigger, brighter, and more enchanting than ever before. Sparkle transforms our historic Palace and RHS partner inner gardens into a dazzling wonderland of light, colour, and festive joy. With added dates, extra lights, seasonal refreshments, live music and a beautifully decorated Palace, it’s the ultimate Christmas lights experience in Somerset. Bishops Palace

Address: The Bishop’s Palace, Wells BA5 2PD

When? 29th November – 4th January

West Somerset Railway – Santa Express – Somerset – Tickets on sale

Make memories to treasure for a lifetime on our Christmas family favourite – our Santa Express! Step aboard our festively decorated heritage carriages for a magical ride behind a steam locomotive through the scenic Quantock Hills from Bishops Lydeard to Williton and back. A gift from Santa and refreshments will be waiting for you at your table, with the man himself visiting during the journey. West Somerset Railway

Address: Station Rd, Bishop’s Lydeard, Taunton TA4 3BX

When? Selected dates from 6th – 24th December

Wookey Hole – Winter Wonderland – Somerset – Tickets on sale

Get ready to unwrap the festive season with a magical visit to Wookey Hole’s Winter Wonderland. Your enchanting journey includes: A thrilling and festive Christmas circus show, full of surprises. A magical visit to Santa himself. A breathtaking underground light experience. Wookey Hole

Address: Wookey Hole Ltd. Wookey Hole, Wells, Somerset BA5 1BB

When? — open weekends from 22nd November and daily from 20th to 24th December.

Best Christmas Events Devon 2025

Bicton Park Gardens – Father Christmas – Devon – To be confirmed

Info from last year – We have a host of Christmas activities for you and your family to enjoy over the festive break. We have the traditional Santa in his lounge along with his little helpers, to make a special visit to remember. Bicton Gardens

Address: Bicton, East Budleigh Salterton, Budleigh Salterton EX9 7BJ

When? TBC

Dartmoor Zoo – Zooluminate – Devon – Tickets on Sale

Zooluminate is BACK – bigger, better and brighter than ever – and this year, as a festive little thank you, your ticket includes a free hot drink and a mince pie – the perfect way to kick off your Christmas celebrations. Get a chance to see the animals snuggled up, as enclosures are illuminated. Experience a magical and wintry walk around Dartmoor Zoo.

Soak up a series of incredible light displays as the zoo is brought to life after dark. Admire light displays from JHAV, the team that brought you Illuminate Festival of Light. Witness a collection of brand-new Christmas lights, decorations and installations. Snap some festive photos with your family in front of beautiful backdrops. Dartmoor Zoo

Address: Northernhay Gardens, Northernhay Gate, Exeter, EX4 3SA

When? 12th – 28th December

BOOK Your Tickets

Exeter – Winter Wonderland – Devon – Tickets on Sale

Start your festive season off right with a trip to Exeter Winter Wonderland – the ultimate Christmas destination. BRAND NEW! Light Trail: Discover the sparkle of Exeter’s light trail as you’re treated to a feast for the senses with incredible illuminations and dazzling Christmas displays. Festive Funfair: From classic rides for little ones to fun-filled attractions for families, add a dash of excitement to your Winter Wonderland experience! Additional charges apply. Festive Food & Drink: Treat yourself to a mouthwatering range of festive food and drink from onsite stalls, offering everything from comforting classics to festive favourites. Winter Wonderland

Address: Northernhay Gardens, Northernhay Gate, Exeter, EX4 3SA

When? 21st November – 28th December

BOOK Tickets

Pennywell Farm – Christmas Experience – Devon – Tickets on Sale soon

Arrive at the magical North Pole, where you will be greeted by our friendly Elves and checked in. Collect your Christmas passport and get the stamps as you journey through our Christmas experience. It’s then time to journey back 2000 years! Experience a real manger with all the Pennywell animals looking on. The scene is set, and the story of the first Christmas comes to life. Next, enter our sparkl,y enchanted forest. Father Christmas will be waiting in his grotto with a special gift for every child. Group visits to Father Christmas will be limited to a maximum of 2 families at a time…and more Pennywell Farm

Address: Lower Dean, Buckfastleigh TQ11 0LT

When? Selected dates from 21st November – 24th December

Powderham Castle – Christmas at the Castle – Devon – Tickets on sale

Explore the Castle and Grounds as they are transformed for the season, filled with twinkling lights, festive displays, and the sound of Christmas music. Each room and pathway is carefully dressed to celebrate the spirit of the season.

Whether you are visiting with family and friends or simply looking for a festive evening out, Christmas at the Castle offers the perfect setting to enjoy the warmth of Christmas.Powderham Castle

Address: Powderham Estate, Exeter EX6 8JQ

When? 1st – 31st December

RHS Rosemoor – Glow – Devon – Tickets on sale

Create magical festive memories at RHS Garden Rosemoor with a trail that’s more enchanting than ever. New for 2025, discover the redesigned Winter Garden, where trees shimmer in ethereal blues and greens, and light installations create a wonderland perfect for families and festive photos. Let your imagination soar as you journey through a garden reimagined in radiant colour and festive fantasy. RHS Rosemoor

Address: RHS Garden Rosemoor, Torrington EX38 8PH

When? 21st November – 4th January

BOOK Tickets

South Devon Railway – Polar Express – Devon – Tickets on sale

The most iconic feature of The Polar Express is its sleek black steam engine. It’s even inscribed with the ‘1225’ signage to identify it as Santa’s own train. Your children will gasp with amazement as the Polar Express train pulls into the station. Billowing steam all the way, your authentic steam train ride will last around an hour.

Throughout your train ride, you’ll be entertained, meeting the Conductor and his crew. All the while, the train steams towards the North Pole. Here you’ll meet Santa and one of his friendly elves. He will climb on board the train to meet you all. The Conductor will even clip your Polar Express tickets just like in the film. Polar Express

Address: Buckfastleigh station, TQ11 0DZ

When? Selected dates from 28th November to 23rd December

Best Christmas Events Cornwall 2025

Camel Creek – Christmas at Camel Creek – Cornwall – To be confirmed

Info from last year – Santa’s Grotto – Free gift for every child. Christmas Tree Forest. Christmas light tunnel (One of the longest). Seasonal arts & crafts. Christmas family photo opportunities. Christmas Decorations – Delicious festive treats and more. Camel Creek

Address: Tredinnick, Wadebridge PL27 7RA

When? TBC

Eden Project – Christmas Lights Experience – Cornwall – Tickets on Sale

Step into a dazzling world of twinkling lights, festive music, and immersive seasonal magic. See the Eden Project’s incredible biomes become a dreamscape of colour and sparkle. Discover a brand-new Christmas trail through Eden’s iconic Biomes and glowing Outdoor Gardens. Wander through shimmering installations and rainbow-lit pathways as night falls across the site. Marvel at the glowing Rainforest and Mediterranean Biomes, transformed into dreamscapes of colour and sound. Snap magical selfies under illuminated arches, sparkling trees, and interactive light displays. Eden Project

Address: Eden Project, Bodelva, Par, Cornwall, PL24 2SG

When? 21-23, 27-30 November; 4-7, 11-24, 26-31 December; 1-4 January

BOOK Tickets

Gardens of Heligan – Heligan Night Garden – Cornwall – Tickets on sale

The award-winning Heligan Night Garden returns for another season of wonder and beauty. Journey through the magical garden trail, exploring woodlands and gardens beautifully lit with installations and lanterns. Discover glittering tunnels of light, trees lit from within and enchanting larger-than-life wildlife lanterns celebrating the Heligan gardens and estate. Gardens of Heligan

Address: B3273, Pentewan, Saint Austell PL26 6EN

When? Selected dates from 15th November – 3rd January

Newquay Zoo – Tea or Breakfast with Santa – Cornwall – To be confirmed

More info coming soon. Newquay Zoo

Address: Trenance Gardens, Newquay TR7 2NL

When? TBC

Best Christmas Events Gloucestershire 2025

Clearwell Caves – Festive Forest – Gloucestershire – Tickets on sale

See Father Christmas and collect a small pre-Christmas gift from his helpers. Follow the woodland animals’ antics as they prepare for Christmas Day in a magical underground forest that has grown throughout the caverns. Take a break 100ft underground in our special underground Café, selling hot drinks and delicious cakes. Buy Christmas decorations and stocking fillers from our shop as you leave the Caves. Clearwell Caves

Address: The Rocks, Clearwell, Coleford GL16 8JR

When? Selected dates from 5th to 31st December

Cotswold Farm Park – Christmas on the Farm – Gloucestershire – Tickets on Sale

Step into a magical festive world at Cotswold Farm Park, where twinkling lights, joyful characters, and heart-warming experiences bring the spirit of Christmas to life. Families are invited to make memories together through meaningful moments – from an unforgettable meeting with Father Christmas to hands-on creative workshops and cosy winter gatherings. Cotswold Farm Park

Address: Guiting Power, Cheltenham GL54 5FL

When? Selected dates from 21st November to 23rd December

Dean Forest Railway – Santa Specials – Gloucestershire – Tickets on sale

The train will depart from Norchard Station, heading first to Parkend Station, where there is a short stop while the engine runs round (toilet facilities available on the platform). The train will then depart Parkend and head non-stop through the forest to Lydney Junction Station. Santa will visit everyone at their seats during this time. At Lydney Junction, you will then visit Santa’s Elves to collect your presents before returning back to Norchard Station to complete your 75-minute journey. Dean Forest Railway

Address: Forest Road, Lydney GL15 4ET

When? Selected dates from 29th November to 24th December

Best Christmas Events Gloucestershire 2020

Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway – Santa Express – Gloucestershire – Tickets on Sale

What’s Included – Free refreshments for all: mince pies and mulled wine for adults, chocolate and a drink for children. Singing Penguins on Platform 1. Photo opportunities: in the snowy sleigh, with selfie frames, or meeting the Snowman or Reindeer (elves will take photos on your phone/camera). Write and post your letter to Santa (blank letter in your booklet). And of course, your all-important present from Santa. GWSR Railway

Address: The Railway Station, Toddington GL54 5DT

When? Selected dates from 22nd November – 23rd December

Perrygrove Railway – Father Christmas at Perrygrove – Gloucestershire – Tickets on sale

All aboard the Christmas Express to North Pole Station to meet Father Christmas at Perrygrove. Take your seats with a seasonal drink in the Carriage Shed Theatre, where Mrs Claus and the Head Elf really need your children’s help. Will they be successful in persuading cheeky Santa to finally get himself down the chimney? Kids adore this heartwarming show, packed with giggles, festive fun, and a very special audience with Father Christmas himself. Every child will meet Santa and receive an age-appropriate gift. Perrygrove Railway

Address: Perrygrove Rd, Coleford GL16 8QB

When? 7th-24th December

Sudeley Castle – Spectacle of Light – Gloucestershire – Tickets on sale

Discover the Court of King Arthur and the Magic of Merlin as you experience this wondrous after-dark adventure around Sudeley’s magical castle grounds. Meet mythical characters from the Arthurian legend such as Guinevere, Lancelot and the magician, Merlin. Sudeley Castle

Address: Sudeley Castle & Gardens Gloucestershire, Winchcombe GL54 5JD

When? Selected dates from November 21st to 30th of December

Westonbirt Arboretum – Enchanted Christmas – Gloucestershire – Tickets on sale

Get ready for an unforgettable Christmas evening at Westonbirt, The National Arboretum. This magical after-dark trail returns for 2025 with brand-new lights, spectacular installations, and festive fun for the whole family. Created by the award-winning producers behind Christmas at Kew, this is an absolute must-see this festive season. Wander through the illuminated arboretum, where twinkling lights bring the stunning setting to life. Westonbirt Arboretum

Address: Westonbirt, Tetbury GL8 8QS.

When? 28th November – 31st December, open on selected evenings

Best Christmas Events Wiltshire 2025

Longleat – Festival of Light – Wiltshire – Tickets on Sale

This year Longleat’s Festival of Light celebrates beloved characters with the theme ‘British Icons with Wallace & Gromit and Friends’. Embark on a grand day out this Christmas as you encounter fan-favourite characters from Shaun the Sheep, Wallace & Gromit, and many more. Plus, journey to some of the UK’s most famous landmarks, and discover the native wildlife all in breath-taking lantern form. Festival of Light

Address: Warminster BA12 7NW

When? Selected dates from 8th November 2025 – 11th January 2025

BOOK Your Tickets

Roves Farm – Christmas Experience – Wiltshire – Tickets on Sale

Meet Father Christmas. Exchange your gold coin for a gift from the shop. Mix up a treat for Santa’s reindeer. Enjoy the fun elf show. Paper crafts. A festive activity trail and more. Your visit to the Grotto will fall within the time slot you select at booking, and you will receive your exact Grotto time upon arrival. Roves Farm

Address: Sevenhampton, Swindon SN6 7QG

When? Selected dates in December

Stourhead – Christmas Lights – Wiltshire – Tickets on sale

Immerse yourself in a new, reimagined trail at Stourhead as the garden is illuminated by millions of sparkling festive lights and comes alive with the sound of festive cheer. You will be able to feel the magic of Christmas as you wander through this stunning setting with your friends and family. You can enjoy a brand-new array of dazzling installations for 2025, including the mesmerising Star Show, a shimmering Sea of Light and spectacular lasers cutting through the night sky. Stourhead

Address: Stourton, Warminster, Wiltshire, BA12 6QF

When? Selected dates from 28 November to 31 December