Best 9 Christmas Events and Attractions in the UK

Updated On: November 08, 2023 by   Omnia Essawy

Christmas is the most special time of the year, we all know that. However, there are things that can be done to make it even more special, especially for our little precious ones so that they can have a day they remember for the rest of their lives. 

Luckily, the UK is a fairly magical place all on its own that gets a bit more magical during Christmas time. With countless events and attractions coming to life during this time of year with holiday-themed decorations and activities, the options of where to take your kids this year are endless. To help you locate the best ones, we have compiled for you a list of the best 9 Christmas events and attractions in the UK this year. So just read on and find the one that will steal the hearts of your precious offspring. 

 Santa’s Sleepover – Alton Towers – Staffordshire 

Santa’s Sleepover is coming back to the Alton Towers Resort this year, and it is the perfect opportunity for the entire family to enjoy a quick yet incredibly magical escape. Santa Sleepover’s festivities are held on November 27th-28th,  December 3rd-5th, 10th-12th, 17th-23rd. A Santa’s Sleepover, you can enjoy specially selected rides for families, take a dive in the Caribbean-themed Water Park, enjoy the Christmas-themed evening entertainment, get some holiday shopping done in the New Towers Christmas Market, take a walk under the twinkling stars in the Gardens Light Walk, and of course, last but not least, pay a visit to Santa and his elves in Santa’s Grotto. 

Blenheim Palace – Oxfordshire 

Not much introduction is needed when it comes to the Blenheim Palace at Christmas. Who wouldn’t want to be surrounded by millions of lights, lasers, and seasonal sounds and music as they roam around the gardens of a picture-perfect royal palace? On your Blenheim Palace visit, you will, for sure, be mesmerized by the flickering flames in the fire garden of the palace and the amazing illuminations everywhere. Don’t forget to also catch a glimpse of Father Christmas himself on your way out. 

Lapland UK – Berkshire  

Lapland UK is the pinnacle of Christmas celebrations. After you feast your eyes on the beautifully themed village, fake snow, and unique huskies, feast your appetite in any of the village’s cafes and restaurants. If you are visiting with kids, don’t forget to take them ice skating and meet Father Christmas. To say their minds will be blown is an understatement. 

The Polar Express – North Yorkshire 

If you truly want to make your Kids’ holiday season, then you most definitely can not choose a better event to take them to. Just like the 2004 popular motion picture, The Polar Express, you will get to go on a journey on The Polar Express train to the North Pole. On the train ride, you will get to meet the characters from the movie including the singing chefs, the conductor, the hobo, and of course, Father Christmas. When you get to the North Pole, you and your little ones will get to meet Santa Claus who will join you onboard and might even hand you your first gift, a Silver Sleigh just like in the movie itself. 

Hyde Park – Winter Wonderland – London 

Located in the heart of London, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland brings Christmas and New Year’s festivities to life every year from November 19th to Jan 3rd. Hyde Park Winter Wonderland has several unmissable Christmas attractions like the world’s tallest transportable Observation Wheel, the Magical Ice Kingdom, UK’s largest open-air ice rink, and some incredible acts in the Circus MegaDome. 

Drayton Manor’s Magical Christmas – Staffordshire

Taking your kids to Drayton Manor Park’s Magical Christmas is the ultimate holiday adventure, especially for your precious little ones. Immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere with falling snow, enchanting decorations, a mind-blowing 35ft symphony tree, cheeky elves frolicking around the park, and about 25 kid-friendly rides and attractions including Europe’s only Thomas Land and a 15-acre zoo. There is also live entertainment and an incredible firework display by the lake featuring Father Christmas, Mrs. Claus, and the elves. All and all, your children will for sure enjoy a magical Christmas night that they will be remembering for the rest of their lives. 

Great Central Railway – Santa Steam Trains, Leicestershire 

What could possibly be more Christmas-y than riding the trails to the North Pole with Santa Clause himself? If it sounds too good to be true, it is not. This is something you can do with your precious children this Christmas on the award-winning Santa Special Steam Train where Father Christmas will surprise you on board with a Christmas present at your seat and a chat about your wishes this Christmas. 

Legoland Windsor – Legoland – Berkshire 

If your kids are into legos, then Legoland Windsor is definitely the perfect choice for your Christmas outing. Your kids can wonder at the twinkling lights, snow-dusted pine trees, and just lose themselves in some incredible seasonal festivities with some serious LEGO magic.  

Snowdome – Winter Wonderland – Staffordshire 

Santa is back again this year for his 16th year of festivities. Starting on November the 13th, Santa’s magical winter wonderland in the snow is returning along with extended reception areas and a large theatre experience. Your kids will, for sure, have the time of their lives celebrating this holy season in Tamworth’s Snowdome surrounded by real animals, real snow, and Santa Clause himself. 

If you know of any other Christmas events or attractions that we might have missed, do let us know in the comments below. You could be the reason to save someone’s holiday.

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