Oh my goodness what a year it has been! Even in all the hurt and pain that has been experienced in this year, we have so much to be thankful for. Even for life itself, the fact we are still present and breathing is enough to celebrate and means there is still hope!
We are so excited to be entering into the Christmas Season. Christmas remains a focal point for us in our home. The birth of Jesus Christ is an underlying principle of our Faith. It is a time to enjoy and celebrate with family, relive and start new traditions, continue to instil core values in our sons’ with the hope they will have the heart to give as they grow; a time to enjoy sooo much food of course and would we even be us without loads and loads of fun and adventures!
We have put together several different Christmas events that you and yours can enjoy during the Festive Seasons. Just in case you didn’t know, Christmas doesn’t kick off in December. It kicks off in November right through to January. That’s EIGHT weeks of pure fun.
It is important to note that this is a real-time post. I will continue to update information and add new events accordingly. Due to Covid_19 events are subject to Government guidelines, to that end cancellations may be inevitable. Please ensure you are referring to the organiser’s website for the latest details.
Please don’t forget to tag us @lolaahmadu if you are inspired to book/ attend any of these events- we aren’t going to be able to go to all of these by any means- so it would be great to see you enjoying something we may not get to!
Winter Illuminations Trails Experience Days Pantomimes Carol Concerts Nativity Plays Christmas Markets Santa’s Sleepovers UK Winter Breaks Theatre
Winter Illuminations Trail
Land of Light
As the Land of Light takes over the Park, the much-loved Santa Train will be alighting at Longleat Central Station once again, to whisk you away to a magical grotto and meet Father Christmas himself. To improve social distancing, seats for this captivating journey have been much reduced and are in high demand, so book in early.
This year, you will also have the chance to meet Father Christmas in a brand-new storytelling experience. Enter Santa’s cosy den to hear a whimsical story told by the man himself; of course, he will also have special gifts for all the children on the nice list.
Date
3 Dec 2020 – 10 Jan 2021
Time
You have a choice of a full day to include the Land of Light in the evening, or for evening access only.
Location
Longleat, Wiltshire
Price
Adult (16yrs+) £36.50
Child (3-15yrs) £27.35
Infant (0-2yrs) FREE
Website
https://www.longleat.co.uk/whats-on/land-of-light-2020
Christmas at Waddesdon
Christmas at Waddesdon is back with magical lights and the gardens aglow. There will be festive fun with their enchanting outdoor extravaganza that will brighten the end of your year. The House and Cellars will not be open this Christmas due to social distancing.
Date
3 Dec 2020 – 3 Jan 2021, Wed-Sun
Time
12 noon -7 pm
Location
Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP18 0JH
Price
Weekdays: £16 Adult, £8 Child, £40 Family (up to 2 adults + 3 children), National Trust: £5 Adult, £2.50 Child
Website
https://waddesdon.org.uk/whats-on/christmas/
Christmas at Kew
Returning for its eighth year, their enchanting winter trail takes a new route, leading you for the first time through the beautifully illuminated Rose Garden.
Date
4 Dec 2020 – 17 Jan 2021
Time
4 – 10pm
Location
Kew Gardens, Richmond
Price
Standard advance adult: Off peak £19.50/ Peak £24.50
Website
ttps://www.kew.org/kew-gardens/whats-on/christmas
The Enchanted Journey Of Light
Thursford are holding the Enchanted Journey of Light as a one-off event for 2020, after sadly having to postpone the Christmas Spectacular until 2021 due to Covid-19.
Date
3 Dec 2020 – 10 Jan 2021
Time
3 – 9 pm
Location
Thursford, Fakenham. Norfolk
Price
£15 per person / Under 3s FREE
Website
https://www.thursford.com/enchanted-journey-of-light/#ticket-prices
Christmas at Bedgebury
Surround yourself with sparkle this Christmas as the after-dark trail at Bedgebury lights up for its third year in 2020. You’ll find new moments to share with friends and family and brand-new magical lights for winter nights.
Date
4 Dec 2020 – 10 Jan 2021
Time
4:15 – 8:00pm
Location
Goudhurst, Kent
Price
Adult from £19.50
Child (3-16 years) from £13.00
Family from £60.00
Website
https://christmasatbedgebury.seetickets.com/content/ticket-options
Christmas at Dunham Massey
It’s definitely the most wonderful time of the year when the after-dark, illuminated trail lights up for its fourth year in 2020 and winds magically through the formal gardens and deer park of Dunham Massey.
Date
Dec 2020
Time
4:15 – 8:00pm
Location
National Trust Dunham Massey, Altrincham, Greater Manchester
Price
Adult Trail Entry + A Parking Space from £27.00
Adult Trail Entry Only from £20.00
Adult Trail Entry + A Blue Badge Parking Space from £27.00
Child (3-16) Trail Entry Only from £13.00
Infant (0-2) Trail Entry Only FREE
Family Trail Entry + A Parking Space from £67.00
Family Trail Entry Only from £60.00
Family Trail Entry + A Blue Badge Parking Space from £67.00
Carer Trail Entry Only FREE
Carer Trail Entry + A Blue Badge Parking Space £7.00
Website
https://christmasatdunhammassey.seetickets.com/content/ticket-options
Illuminated Light Trail
2020 brings you new surprises from the Heart of the Stars scattering shards of light across the lawn to a scented fire garden that adorns the Water Terrace. Walk towards dynamic, colour-changing neon tunnels, lakeside reflections and onto a mesmerising place where, beneath the branches of a sprawling tree, softly glows the fairy-fire known as Will-o-the-Wisps.
Date
Dec 2020 – 3 Jan 2021
Time
4:15 – 8:30pm
Location
Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, Oxfordshire
Price
Adult from £19.00
Child (3-16 years) from £12.00
Family from £60.00
Parking Free before noon, £10.00 after that (must be pre-booked)
Website
LightOpia
LightOpia is festival of hand-sculpted lanterns, cherry-picked from across the globe. These unique pieces are carefully curated into a spellbinding trail that leads through the beautiful Heaton Park.
New this year is the stand-out Christmas showcase, which uses the Grade I-listed Heaton Hall as its sparkling backdrop – enjoy the most wonderful time of the year at Lightopia, as you pass by Santa’s sleigh, glistening snowflakes and make your festive soundtrack with a giant interactive walking piano.
Date
20 Nov 2020 – 3 Jan 2021
Time
5 – 8.30 pm
Location
Heaton Park, Manchester
Price
Adult from £20.00
Child (3-16 years) from £13.00
Under 2s FREE (Ticket needed)
Use the code, ‘august20’ for 20% discount offer running for a limited time only.
Website
https://lightopiafestival.com/
Glow Wild 2020
As darkness falls, the gardens are brought to life with glowing lanterns, mesmerising projections, immersive soundscapes, and glistening torches of fire.
Date
26 Nov – 30 Dec 2020
Time
4.30 pm – 8.10 pm
Location
Wakehurst, West Sussex
Price
Adult: £15
Children (4 – 16): £9
Infants (under 4) and carers: Free
Family (2 adults & 2 children): £46
Car parking is included in the ticket price
Website
Leonardslee Illuminated
Explore the magical, illuminated gardens as you follow a trail awash with light, sound, colour and festive cheer—a captivating experience for the whole family on a crisp winter’s evening.
Date
4 Dec – 22 Dec 2020
Time
4.30 – 9.30 pm
Location
Horsham, West Sussex
Price
Adult (age 16 plus) £16.00
Child (age 2-15) £8.00
Under 2s FREE
Website
https://buy.myonlinebooking.co.uk/leonardslee/sessions.aspx?tid=9
Experience Days
Lap Land Silverstone
Ho-Ho-Go! For the first time ever we’re opening our world famous Grand Prix Circuit for you. Drive your family in the tyre marks of legends, while enjoying our unique festive light and laser spectacle. Select the number of cars you wish to book and your preferred date below. In order to complete your purchase you will need to read and acknowledge our terms and conditions.
Date
10 Dec 2020 – 3 Jan 2021
Time
Evenings
Location
Silverstone Circuit, Towcester, Northampton NN12 8TN
Price
From £35 per car
Drive-In Cinema Bundle from £50 per car
Website
https://track.silverstone.co.uk/book.aspx?category1=d89e53ac-8322-eb11-a94a-000d3ab7bbb8
The Father Christmas Experience at Marsh Farm
This is a 2 and half hour magical experience for all the family, with magical elements/activities.
Date
14 Nov – 24 Dec 2020
Time
10 am – 5 pm
Location
Marsh Farm, Essex
Price
£13.95 – £27.00 per adult / ££27.50 – £57.50 per child / Under 1 Observer FREE
Website
https://www.marshfarm.co.uk/events/father-christmas-experience-2020/
LaplandUK
LaplandUK is an original adaptation of the Father Christmas story and the secret world of the elves brought to life through a 4-hour immersive experience of unprecedented scale and quality, as well as stories and interactive activities.
Date
14 Nov – 24 Dec 2020
Time
Various Times
Location
Ascot, Berkshire
Price
£69 – 130 per person / Under 1s FREE
Website
Santa Spectacular
2020 hasn’t been the year any of us expected, so to end the year Willows Activity Farm have been working with Santa’s elves to ensure that a visit to see Santa at Willows will be as spectacular as ever!
Date
21 Nov – 24 Dec
Time
10 am – 5 pm
Location
St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL4 0PF
Price
£22 – 27 Adult, £44 -49 Child, £22- 27 Under 2s
Website
https://www.willowsactivityfarm.com/santa-spectacular-grotto-festive-farm-fun/
Audley End Miniature Railway Christmas Special
The most magical Father Christmas experience in Essex. Perfect for families old and young to get into the Christmas Spirit. Get your Christmas Spirit in full swing by visiting Audley End Miniature Railway. On sale Monday 7 Sep 2020 9 am.
Date
21 Nov – 24 Dec 2020
Time
Various sessions
Location
Saffron Walden, Essex
Price
21st November to 23rd December:
Adult – £18.00
Child over 92cm – £18.00
Child under 92cm – £9.00
Child under 1 year – Free
Carer of Disabled – Free
Christmas Eve:
Adult – £20.00
Child over 92cm – £20.00
Child under 92cm – £10.00
Child under 1 year – Free
Carer of Disabled – Free
Website
https://www.audley-end-railway.co.uk/events/christmas-event-essex/#tabs
Christmas at Drusillas Park
Experience the winter magic first-hand at Drusillas Park this year! They’ve hung up their stockings by their chimney with care, in the knowledge that Saint Nick soon will be there! Bring your little ones to visit Santa Claus in his cosy Christmas Cottage, meet their lovable husky dogs in the husky ice cave, sample some festive food and drink and marvel at their giant Christmas tree.
Date
21 Nov – 23 Dec 2020
Time
TBC
Location
Drusillas Zoo Park, Alfriston, East Sussex
Price
tickets will go on sale in October 2020
Website
https://www.drusillas.co.uk/christmas-drusillas-2020
Meet Santa at National SEA LIFE Birmingham
In an experience unique to Birmingham, go to the North Pole of the city in Sea Life’s Antarctic Ice Cave and meet the man himself as you look onto their family of cheeky Gentoo Penguins in the exclusive setting of their breath-taking chilly Ice Adventure area.
Date
23 Nov – 23 Dec 2020
Time
10 am – 5.45 pm
Location
National SEA LIFE Centre, Brindley Pl, Birmingham
Price
Included with all entry tickets from 23 Nov -23 Dec.
Website
https://www.visitsealife.com/birmingham/discover/events/meet-santa/
Bluebell Railway Santa Special
A Christmas visit to the Bluebell Railway is a magical experience! Enjoy a journey through the Sussex countryside in all its winter splendour. Santa and his elves will be on board with a present and chocolate treat for all the children (he won’t forget the grown-ups, there’s a mince pie for them!).
Date
5 – 24 Dec 2020
Time
From Sheffield Park: 10am & 12.45pm, 2 hours duration
From East Grinstead: 11am & 1.45pm, 2 hours 15 mins duration
Location
Sheffield Park or East Grinstead, East Sussex
Price
Third class compartments (up to 8 people) – £130.00
First class compartments (up to 6 people) – £170.00
Website
Santa Specials at Tenterden Town Station
Take a magical steam train journey to meet Santa this Christmas with their popular Santa Special trains. At Tenterden Station the beautiful Victorian carousel provides unlimited free rides for the young and young at heart alike.
Date
5 – 24 Dec 2020
Time
10 am – 5 pm
Location
Kent & East Sussex Railway, UK
Price
Full details & booking will be available later this year
Website
Ride The Polar ExpressTM Train Ride
Join the The Polar Express™ for a magical Christmas Experience. This Christmas experience is unlike any other. Book your The Polar Express™ tickets today.
Mid-Norfolk Railway THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride
Date
Saturday 14th November – Wednesday 9th December 2020
Time
2.45 – 6.30pm, lasts 2 hours
Location
Mid Norfolk Railway, Norfolk, UK
Price
From £26
https://midnorfolkthepolarexpressride.com/availability/#
THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride at Wensleydale Railway
Date
Saturday 21st November – Wednesday 23rd November
Time
11 am – 7.10pm, allow 2 – 2.5 hours
Location
Wensleydale Railway, Yorkshire
Price
From £24.95
https://yorkshiredalesthepolarexpressride.com/
THE POLAR EXPRESS™ TRAM RIDE
Date
27 Nov – 24 Dec 2020
Time
2.45 – 6.30pm, lasts 2 – 2.5 hours
Location
Seaton Tramway, Devon, UK
Price
From £19.95. Under 2’s Free
https://www.tram.co.uk/ThePolarExpressSeaton
Santa’s Polar Express
Date
November & December 2020
Time
TBC
Location
Slieve Donard Resort & Spa and Culloden Estate & Spa
Price
TBC
https://www.santapolarexpress.com/
The Statfold Santa Express
Children will collect their golden tickets as the whole family join their jolly elves and climb aboard the Santa Express and be transported to the North Pole in the beautifully lit steam train where an abundance of fun and excitement awaits.
Date
28 Nov – 22 Dec 2020
Time
10 am – 5.30pm
Location
Statfold Barn Railway, Tamworth, Warwickshire
Price
Adult £18.50
Children £23.50 All ages welcome
Under 3’s Free Babies in arms or toddlers go free, however will not be seeing Santa or taking part in the children’s activities.
Family 2 Adults & 2 Children £80.00
Christmas at Hever Castle
With welcoming log fires, and beautiful decorations in the Castle, a Christmas trail to follow and the chance to see Father Christmas – be enchanted by the magic of Christmas at Hever. Tickets go on sale on the 7 October 2020.
Date
21 Nov – 24 Dec 2020
Time
Daytime arrivals between 11:30 – 14:45 and Twilight arrivals between 16:00 – 18:45
Location
Hever Castle, Edenbridge. Kent
Price
Three Ticket Type options: Gardens Only, Castle & Gardens or Father Christmas & Gardens
Adult/Senior £16.00 – £20.00
Child 5 – 17 £10.00 – £22.00
Child under 5 FREE – £12.00
Website
https://www.hevercastle.co.uk/whats-on/hever-castle-christmas/
Pantomimes
Cinderella
With his trademark humour, and of course his pots & pans, panto favourite Andy Collins will return to play Buttons. Marking the end of their 10th Birthday year, Cinderella will see Andy nostalgically return to the role he first performed in the venue’s opening pantomime back in 2010 alongside the late Cilla Black.
Date
4 Dec 2020 – 3 Jan 2021
Time
Evening and Matinee performances
Location
Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Buckinghamshire
Price
From £13
Website
https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/cinderella/aylesbury-waterside-theatre/
Snow White
Throw in a magical mirror, seven friendly dwarfs, a beautiful princess, a handsome prince and plenty of audience participation as you outwit the Wicked Queen and let love prevail in this glittering festive treat for all ages.
Date
5 Dec 2020 – 3 Jan 2021
Time
Evening and Matinee performances
Location
New Victoria Theatre, Woking. Surrey
Price
From £13
Website
https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/snow-white/new-victoria-theatre/
Dick Whittington
Join the hero Dick Whittington (and his trusty cat Tommy) as he seeks fame, fortune and happiness journeying to become the Lord Mayor of London.
Date
5 Dec 2020 – 3 Jan 2021
Time
Evening and Matinee performances
Location
New Wimbledon Theatre,Wimbledon. London
Price
From £13
Website
https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/dick-whittington/new-wimbledon-theatre/
Rapunzel
A hair-larious socially distanced family pantomime.
Date
11 Dec 2020 – 3 Jan 2021
Time
TBC
Location
The Woodville, Gravesend, Kent
Price
TBC
Website
https://www.woodville.co.uk/events/rapunzel-hairlarious-socially-distanced-family-pantomime
Carol Concerts
RAH presents ‘My Christmas Orchestral Adventure’
Calling Santa’s little helpers! My Christmas Orchestral Adventure returns in 2020 and once again, Albert’s Orchestra poised and ready for another journey through classical music. Suitable for ages 3+.
Date
13 Dec 2020
Time
4.30 pm
Location
Royal Albert hall, Chelsea, London
Price
£15.00 to £44.50 / Babies in arms FREE
Website
https://www.royalalberthall.com/tickets/events/2020/my-christmas-orchestral-adventure/
Nativity Plays
Experience Christmas at Kent Life
Go along and join in the festive fun. Meet Father Christmas in his magical grotto and take home a special gift. There’s also the opportunity to decorate some festive gingerbread too! Grown ups can also enjoy a cheeky mince pie and sampling of cider.
Date
29 Nov – 24 Dec 2020
Time
From 10.15 am or 3 pm
Location
Kent Life, Maidstone, Kent
Price
Adult £8.00
Concession £7.00
Child (age 1-15) £14.00
Child (under 1) £8.00
Family (2+2) £37.00
MEMBER Child (age 1-15) £8.00
MEMBER Child (under 1) £6.00
MEMBER Adult FREE
MEMBER Concession FREE
Website
https://kentlife.org.uk/event/meet-santa/
Wintershall Nativity Play
Enjoy the ‘real’ Christmas story at Wintershall. Stand with shepherds in the field and see Mary arrive on a donkey. Sit in the barn where the baby Jesus lies in his manger. A timeless, memorable experience for young and old as they bring the story of Christmas to life for you.
Date
15 – 20 Dec 2020
Time
Various times
Location
Wintershall, Bramley, Surrey
Price
Adult £18 – 20/ Child £9 – 10/ Family £50 -55
Website
Santa’s Grottos
Santa’s Grotto at Ally Pally
Santa Claus is swapping the North Pole for North London as he sets up camp in our festive East Court. Little ones are treated to a meeting with Santa, a small gift plus the opportunity to have their photo taken with Santa in his festive grotto.
Date
5 – 23 Dec 2020
Time
Location
Alexandra Palace East Court, Alexandra Palace Way. London N22 7AY
Price
Child £12
Website
https://www.alexandrapalace.com/whats-on/santas-grotto-2/
Hamleys Santa’s Grotto
Join Santa and his loveable elves at The Finest Toy Shop in the World for fun, magic and theatre at the most wonderful time of year. Suitable for 2 – 8 years.
Date
21 Nov – 24 Dec 2020
Time
From 9 am, 15 mins session
Location
Regent St, Soho, London W1B 5BT
Price
£45.00 for one bubble of 3 people. Additional people are charged at £15.00 per guest.
Website
https://www.hamleys.com/explore-santas-grotto.irs
Ruxley Manor Christmas Grotto
At Ruxley Manor nothing makes them happier than seeing all the excited children ready to meet Father Christmas, making memories with family is what Christmas is all about and after the tough year everybody has had we have been working very hard behind the scenes to keep the magic alive and make your visit to the Grotto extra special. They’re still working out the finer details before they give away any more information.
Date
14 Nov – 24 Dec 2020
Time
20 mins slots from 9 am
Location
Ruxley Manor, Sidcup, Kent
Price
£45 family ticket (includes a free photo), a maximum of five attendees
Website
https://www.ruxley-manor.co.uk/christmas-at-ruxley-manor/father-christmas-grotto
Santa’s Sleepovers
LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort Santa Sleepovers
Experience the magic of LEGOLAND® at Christmas this festive season. Wonder at the twinkling lights, snow-dusted pine trees, exciting seasonal festivities and see the park with a sprinkle of LEGO® magic!
Date
27 Nov – 23 Dec 2020
Location
LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Berkshire
Price
From £285 per family
Website
https://www.legolandholidays.co.uk/legoland-windsor-events/santa-sleepover.html
Christmas Breaks at Chessington Resort
Make your family’s festive wishes come true with a 2020 Father Christmas Sleepover package at Chessington World of Adventures Resort.
Date
14 – 23 Dec 2020
Location
Chessginton World of Adventures, Kingston. London
Price
Frome £50 per person
Website
https://www.chessingtonholidays.co.uk/events/father-christmas-sleepovers.html
Alton Towers Santa’s Sleepover
Experience the most magical Christmas Escape with a Santa’s Sleepover including selected Theme Park rides, a unique Santa visit, Waterpark, a festive evening meal plus much more! Ideal for families with young children.
Date
Stay tuned for 2020 Santa’s Sleepover dates.
Time
TBC
Location
Alton Towers Resort, Staffordshire
Price
TBC
Website
https://www.altontowers.com/explore/events/christmas/
UK Winter Breaks
Bluestone Resorts
Dreaming of a wonderful Christmas with family and friends in the UK this year? It’s the season to eat, drink and be merry so why not make this year extra-special by booking a break to this enchanting corner of Wales. With Christmasland and with exciting festive events adding an extra sparkle, it’s impossible not to get into the holiday spirit.
Date
1 Nov 2020 – 3 Jan 2021
Location
Bluestone National Park Resort, Pembrokeshire, SA67 8DE
Price
From £349
Website
https://www.bluestonewales.com/breaks-holidays/winter/christmas
Kielder Water & Forest Park
Unfortunately this year’s Kielder Winter Wonderland will not go ahead as it has done in previous years. The Winter Wonderland team are working hard with, Dodgy Clutch, to organise some fun activities that can be enjoyed safely by their lodge guests during November and December, and we will update on these as soon as they have full details.
Date
Nov – Dec 2020
Time
TBC
Location
Kielder Water & Forest Park,
Price
TBC
Website
https://www.kielderwinterwonderland.com/winter-wonderland/
Winter Wonderland holidays and breaks
Whether you’re on a weekend break or midweek break, you’ll find plenty of seasonal activities to keep you busy! Your Winter Wonderland holiday is about truly memorable times with friends and family.
Date
9 Nov 2020 – 2 Jan 2021
Location & Price
Whinfell Forest, Cumbria from £699
Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire from £539
Longleat Forest, Wiltshire from £729
Elveden Forest, Suffolk from £519
Woburn Forest, Bedfordshire from £499
Website
Butlins Christmas Holidays
Join Butlins throughout December on a variety of breaks as they dial up the festivities with exclusive live Christmas shows and activities for all ages. Whether it’s seeing a festive show, sitting down to eat together or wrapping up for a wander along the beach on Christmas Eve, whatever you decide to do on your break with Butlins, they’re sure the whole family will leave feeling sparkly on the outside and warm and fuzzy on the inside.
Date
4 Dec 2020 – 2 Jan 2021 (Just for Tots Christmas Fantasy 7 – 11 Dec, designed for families with under 5s)
Location and Price
Bognor Regis, West Sussex from £193
Minehead, Somerset from £89
Skegness, Lincolnshire from £82
Website
https://www.butlins.com/breaks/school-holidays/christmas?default-tab=tab39412
Christmas Markets
Edinburgh Christmas Market
Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, the traditional Christmas Market offers something for everyone.
Date
16 Nov – 4 Jan 2020
Time
10 am – 10 PM
Location
East Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh. Scotland
Price
FREE Admission
Website
http://www.edinburghschristmas.com/whats-on/christmas-market-east-princes-street-garden
Christmas at the Castle
Throughout the Castle this festive period, glorious bespoke handmade Christmas trees will be on display in the stunning state rooms. These non-traditional trees will include one made entirely of crockery in the Queen’s Gallery, with the tips and trimmings made from cutlery. The Inner Courtyard will play host to a set of trees made up of winter flowers, using flora from the Castle’s garden, and the Thorpe Hall be themed to a puzzle of wooden panels, taking its inspiration from the room’s unique panelled walls. The Seminar Room gives you the chance to be part of a growing tree installation by hanging your hopes for 2021 on the branches made from rope and twine.
Date
28 Nov 2020 – 3 Jan 2021
Time
10 am – 5 pm
Location
Leeds Castle, Maidstone. Kent
Price
Included with the price of admission
Website
https://www.leeds-castle.com/What%E2%80%99s+On/Christmas/Christmas+at+the+Castle/
Advent Feast at the Basilica
The title of “The Most Beautiful Christmas Market In Europe” 2020, voted by thousands of travelers from around the world, has been awarded last year to The Advent Feast at the Basilica in Budapest, a city that was also awarded the title of Best European Destination.
Date
20 Nov 2020 – 1 Jan 2021
Time
Mon -Thu 10 am – 8 pm
Weekends 10 am – 10 pm
Location
Budapest, Hungary
Price
Included with the price of admission
Website
Theatre
A Christmas Carol
The holidays are never the same without Charles Dickens‘ heart-warming Christmas classic to spread festive cheer! West End star and legendary TV comedian Brian Conley (9 to 5: The Musical, Hairspray, Oliver!, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang) is set to portray the iconic, miserly Ebenezer Scrooge as Dickens’ beloved fable once again springs to life, complete with a stupendous Broadway score, a cinematic 24-piece symphonic orchestra, and an all-star London cast! Not suitable for under 5s.
Date
7 Dec 2020 – 2 Jan 2021
Time
Early, Matinee and Evening Performances, Running time: 1hr 50min (inc. interval) EXCEPT early matinee which is 1hr 30min (no interval)
Location
Dominion Theatre,268-269 Tottenham Court Road, London W1T 7AQ
Price
From £28.75
Website
Breaking the Ice
This playful and light-hearted show is inspired by the true story of an unlikely friendship between a husky and a wild polar bear.Presented by Filskit Theatre. Created in association with Unicorn Theatre. Suitable for Ages 2 – 7.
Date
19 Dec – 31 Dec 2020
Time
11 am – 3 pm, Running Time: 40 mins (no interval)
Location
artsdepot5, Nether Street, Tally Ho Corner, North Finchley, London N12 0GA
Price
From £9
Under 18 mos. FREE
Website
https://www.artsdepot.co.uk/family-christmas/breaking-ice
The Gruffalo’s Child
Follow the Gruffalo’s Child on her adventurous mission in Tall Stories’ enchanting adaptation of the much-loved picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.
Date
5 Dec 2020 – 3 Jan 2021
Time
9.30 am – 3.30 pm, Running time 55 minutes (no interval)
Location
Price
Front Stalls £19
Rear Stalls £16
Circle £13
Under s 18 mos. FREE
Website
https://www.alexandrapalace.com/whats-on/the-gruffalos-child/
Alan Menken A Christmas Carol
This exciting new semi-staged musical based on the story by Charles Dickens is the perfect family Christmas show as we follow Scrooge’s transformational journey from ‘Bah-Humbug’ to ‘Merry Christmas everybody’.
Date
1 – 6 Dec 2020
Time
Evening and Matinee performances
Location
English National Opera (London Coliseum), London
Price
From £10 plus £2.25 booking fee per ticket.
Website
https://eno.org/whats-on/a-christmas-carol/
The Nutcracker
With a fresh and updated production, Let’s All Dance are delighted to be back with this sumptuous family favourite. Stunning dancing, lavish costumes, much loved music and crystal clear story-telling makes this sparkling show a treat for everyone!
Date
2 and 3 Jan 2021
Time
11 am – 4 pm, Running Time: approx. 50 mins no interval
Location
Blackheath Halls, 23 Lee Road, London SE3 9RQ
Price
Adult £15
Child £13
Website
https://www.blackheathhalls.com/whats-on/the-nutcrackerhttps://www.blackheathhalls.com/whats-on/the-nutcracker
Royal Albert Hall and Birmingham Royal Ballet present The Nutcracker
By popular demand, Birmingham Royal Ballet returns to Royal Albert Hall for a fourth season at the end of 2020 with their enchanting production of this Christmas favourite. This magical ballet, with its ravishing Tchaikovsky score, is the quintessential Christmas treat for all the family.
Date
8 – 31 Dec 2020
Time
Evening and Matinee performances
Location
Royal Albert Hall, Kensington London
Price
£190 per adult / £160 per child (including fees and Restoration Levy)
Website
https://www.royalalberthall.com/tickets/events/2020/the-nutcracker/
https://www.brb.org.uk/whats-on/event/the-nutcracker-rah-2020#dates-and-times
English National Ballet Nutcracker
Over 100 dancers and musicians bring Nutcracker to life with exquisite dancing, beautiful sets and Tchaikovsky’s popular score played live.
Date
10 Dec – 3 Jan 2021
Time
Evening and Matinee performances (Family Friendly matinee Sun 3 Jan at 2.30pm, with no minimum age restriction)
Location
London Coliseum, London
Price
£15 – £95 per adult/ £7.50 – £47.50 per child (plus booking fee)
Website
https://londoncoliseum.org/whats-on/nutcracker-2020/
Christmas Family Tea
Enjoy a delicious Christmas Family Tea at Leeds Castle. Experience sumptuous treats accompanied by storytelling by festive characters. Fun for all the family!
Date
TBC
Time
TBC
Location
Leeds Castle, Maidstone. Kent
Price
TBC
Website
https://www.leeds-castle.com/What%E2%80%99s+On/Christmas/Christmas+Family+Tea/
Festive Cinema
Tulleys “Drive In” Christmas Show
The amazingly creative team behind Tulleys have been working hard to adapt to the ever changing guidance. As Spring turned into Summer it became more obvious that our traditional family Christmas event, if it was going to be able to happen at all, would have to be a very different experience this year.
Date
28 Nov – 24 Dec 2020
Time
10 am, 1 and 4 pm
Location
Tulleys Farm, Crawley. West Sussex
Price
Adult (13 yrs. +) £8.95 – 13.95
Child (1-13 yrs.) £25.95 – 39.95
Tiddler (Under 1) FREE
Website
https://www.leeds-castle.com/What%E2%80%99s+On/Christmas/Christmas+Family+Tea/
The Parking Lot Social Winter Festival
The Parking Lot Social is BACK this Christmas, combining all your favourite festive entertainment to enjoy from the comfort & warmth of your socially-distant car! Featuring pantomime, classic Christmas movies, ‘The Big Christmas Night Out’ and even a 60ft tall rainbow coloured Christmas tree, The Parking Lot Social Winter Festival has to be seen to be believed.
Date
3 – 7 Dec Brentford, London
3 – 8 Dec Manchester
9 – 13 Dec Liverpool
9 – 13 Dec Cardiff
16 – 24 Dec Edinburgh
16 – 24 Dec Glasgow
19 – 24 Dec Coventry
27 – 30 Dec Newcastle
27 – 30 Dec Bristol
Price
See location for price
Website
https://theparkinglotsocial.co.uk/christmas/
Farms, Zoos and Aquariums
A Christmas Journey
Old MacDonald’s Farm present a festive treat for all of the family….
The Christmas Journey is designed to wow you with the best entertainment and with exclusive acts from all over the World.
Old MacDonald’s Farm prides itself on providing a safe, fun day out that is great value for money.
Date
4 Dec 2020 – 3 Jan 2021
Time
09.45 am – 5.30 pm
Location
Old MacDonald’s Farm, Weald Rd, Brentwood, Essex CM14 5AY
Price
Adult £22
Child 2 yrs + £45
Child under 2 (no bag / no gifts & Age ID Req’d) FREE
Toddler’s Gift bag only (For Under 2’s) Age ID Req’d £13.99
Website
https://christmas.omdfarm.co.uk/
Ice Skating
Skate Tunbridge Wells | Ice Skating In Calverley Grounds
Skate Tunbridge Wells is celebrating its 10th Anniversary! Skate Tunbridge Wells is a fun activity for the whole family whether you are grabbing a seal for the kids, perfecting your moves with your friends or having a romantic night out.
Of course you could just watch the action sipping a mulled wine or drinking a hot chocolate from the Calverley Café or the Polar Bar. If you fancy something to eat they have their usual burgers, hot dogs, donuts, crepes and sweet treats for all the family!
Date
4 Dec 2020 – 3 Jan 2021
Time
10 am – 8 pm
Location
Tunbridge Wells, Kent
Price
Parent & Toddler 9.15 am Session (inc. seal skate aid) £12.50
Adult £15
Child £10
Seal Skating Aid (2 – 8 years old) £4
Website
Festive Afternoon Tea
Peppa Pig Christmas Bus Tour
Looking for an exciting Peppa Pig Christmas experience for the family? Why not treat your little piggies to our unique Peppa Pig Christmas Afternoon Tea Bus Tour? With Christmas decorations, delicious Peppa Pig inspired Christmas treats and fun sing-along-songs, this is the perfect way to enjoy the festive sights of London. Suitable for ages 2 yrs. +.
Date
3 Dec 2020 – 6 Jan 2021
Time
12.15 / 2.45 pm, 90 mins
Location
XXX
Price
Adult £45 – 75
Child £35 – 65
Website
https://b-bakery.com/london/bus-tours/peppa-pig-christmas
Virtual
Santa The Experience
Embark on a magical Elf-guided journey to the North Pole and enjoy a live video chat with Santa. The experience is guided by Elf Pickles, Dimples, Bazzle and Tinsel.
Date
1 – 24 Dec 2020
Time
2 – 9 pm, The Experience will be approximately 10-12 mins in duration.
Location
Your Home
Price
£26.95 – 49.95
Website
Jade Lindo
This is so great. Thank you so much for creating this. So exciting for my daughters second Christmas but the first one she will be able to enjoy!
Ade & Lola
No worries. Oh yes, Luke my second son. There are normally ‘My First’ Christmas events so hopefully they run this year too.
Tolani Soaga
Whoop whoop!! Very excited!!
Ade & Lola
So are we!
Erica Aj
This is amazing!!! I’m really excited about Christmas this year as babygirl was still young during her 1st Christmas…she’ll enjoy this Christmas a little bit more! Such a magical and glorious time ✨♥️
Ade & Lola
Yes I totally agree- I feel the same. I think even next year I feel like that again as they keep growing!