Every parent knows that planning is essential for executing the perfect Christmas, and this is especially true when it comes to organising the best Christmas events for kids. It's never too early to start planning those magical trips to create lifelong memories for the whole family. Whether it's visiting Santa at his grotto or getting up close with some reindeer, these experiences help the whole family get in the Christmas spirit.
Many of the best family attractions around the country kick off their Christmas events for kids as early as November. While this might feel a bit early for some, it’s wise to plan a few family outings before the December rush sets in. Of course, this helps ease Santa's busy schedule, too.
Whether you're planning a festive day trip or a weekend family getaway, we’ve rounded up the best spots for some winter wonderment this season. And if you're dreaming of a Santa sighting somewhere warmer, maybe on a beach or even skiing down a sunny slope, check out our guide to the top family-friendly Airbnbs worldwide.
So, without further avail, here's our in-depth guide to the best Christmas things to do with kids this year.
Christmas days out for children 2024
Christmas at The Gruffalo Discovery Land, Twycross Zoo
16th November 2024 - 24th December 2024
£38+ adult, £32 children and £14 toddlers.
Families can explore wintry woodlands, meet beloved characters, and enjoy holiday-themed activities at Christmas at The Gruffalo Discovery Land. From twinkling lights to cosy storytelling spots, the experience is packed with Christmas magic, creating a memorable day out surrounded by nature and the zoo's fascinating animals. Perfect for little Gruffalo fans, this holiday experience blends festive cheer with the wonder of wildlife. We love that each child who visits will receive a Gruffalo gift for every child worth £14.
Grinchmas Afternoon Tea Sightseeing Bus Tour
Not suitable for children under 5 years.
11 November 2024 - 31 January 2025
_£_130 (based on one child and one adult)
There’s nothing we love more than London at Christmas. The capital’s streets sparkle with festive decorations, and stores are bustling with shoppers preparing for the big day. But if, like us, you steer clear of holiday shopping with the kids, the Grinchmas Afternoon Tea Sightseeing Bus Tour is the perfect solution. It lets you soak in all the beauty of London at Christmas while enjoying Grinch-themed treats. The bus takes you past London’s iconic landmarks, like the Tower of London, Harrods, and Big Ben. When we experienced the Peppa Pig bus tour, we were amazed by just how magical the ride was.
Hogwarts In The Snow, Hertfordshire
16 November 2024 - 19 January 2024
Tickets start from £56 per person
For many of us, Harry Potter is synonymous with Christmas, probably because when the movies were first released just before Christmas more than two decades ago. If your family are the Harry Potter franchise fans, this is the perfect Christmas day out.
This magical event turns the Warner Bros. Studio Tour into a dazzling winter wonderland. Imagine wandering the cobbled streets of Diagon Alley, exploring the snow-dusted Forbidden Forest, and even stepping into the enchantment of a real-life Yule Ball. The holiday magic doesn’t stop there. You can drink ButterBeer, step aboard the Hogwarts Express, and wander through the marble hall of Gringott's Bank. Mother&Baby's Digital Writer, Rebecca Lancaster, visited with her 10 year old son and both were wowed by the sheer magic of being surrounded by the sets, props and familiar sights of the films. Be prepared to spend over three hours exploring, and you may never want to leave!
Yorkshire Wildlife Park, Doncaster
November - December
Prices are £24.99+ for adults, £20.99+ for children, and free for those under three.
Yorkshire Wildlife Park will be a fun day out for the whole family. There are festive markets, a Santa's Grotto, Breakfast with Santa, and the opportunity to visit all the animals. Standard entry prices apply, with additional fees for events such as the Winter Illuminations.
Illuminations at Bedgebury, Kent
**Friday 15 November 2024 - Wednesday 1 January 2025 - Selected evenings
**Times vary depending on the day.
Tickets for adults are £17.00+ ; childrens aged 3-16 are £12.00+; infants 0-2 go free
Bedgebury National Pinetum celebrates Christmas with a festive extravaganza featuring a dazzling illuminated trail through the enchanting forest. Families can immerse themselves in the magical atmosphere of sparkling lights and seasonal decorations. This annual event offers a unique holiday experience, blending nature and celebration in a picturesque setting, creating cherished memories for visitors of all ages.
LEGOLAND at Christmas, Windsor Resort
November 25 - January 3
Tickets from £29+ a day pass.
LEGOLAND Windsor Resort transforms into a festive wonderland during Christmas, offering families a unique holiday experience. The park is adorned with twinkling lights, LEGO-themed decorations, and seasonal surprises. Visitors can enjoy special shows, meet LEGO characters dressed in holiday attire, and explore the winter-themed attractions. LEGOLAND at Christmas promises a magical atmosphere, blending the joy of LEGO creations with the spirit of the holiday season.
Book a trip to meet Father Christmas in his magical grotto this festive season to create the ultimate family memory. Plus, every child receives a special LEGO gift!
Christmas at Chatsworth, Bakewell
9 November 2024 –5 January 2025
Prices are £32+ for adults and £29+ for children.
Chatsworth House hosts a spectacular Christmas event, transforming the historic estate into a festive haven. The annual celebration features elaborate decorations, enchanting displays, and a Christmas market offering unique gifts. Visitors can revel in the magic of the season while exploring the opulent interiors of Chatsworth House, creating timeless holiday memories in a grand and picturesque setting.
Enchanted Christmas, Tetbury
Friday 29 November - Tuesday 31 December 2024 - Selected evenings
Tickets cost £18+ for adults and £12+ for children aged 3-16; under two are free.
Westonbirt Arboretum goes all out in December, decorating the trees with thousands of twinkling lights, forming a mile-long illuminated walkway that looks amazing. Santa and his reindeer are on hand to meet the children, and there is even a choir and band to provide an extra special Christmassy atmosphere. This is one of our favourite contenders for children's best Christmas days out.
Christmas at Paultons Park, Hampshire
Selected dates from December 2 to 23 December
Tickets are £27+ each, and children under 1 metre are free.
Peppa Pig World at Paulton’s Park has a festive makeover, making it perfect for the best Christmas days out for Children. Highlights include Santa's Christmas Wish Show, the Musical Christmas Tree, and Santa's Storytime. Little ones will love meeting Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph the Reindeer, and Billy and Belinda the Elves.
Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park
21st November 2024 to 5th January 2025
Entry is free during off-peak periods.
For peak periods, it costs £7.50 for adults and children 3-12 years old; and two and under go free.
With so much to do, there's fun for the whole family at Winter Wonderland! Visit Santa's Grotto and take a trip down the ice slide near the Magical Ice Kingdom. There are plenty of food and drink options to indulge in, and a giant wheel allows you to look over the whole city! It's really a magical day out. There's a special family entrance that goes straight into Santa Land as well. For thrill-seekers in the family, there are more than 100 rides that you can enjoy.
The Polar Express Train Ride, Various locations
November 16th - December 23rd
From £41.90 to £46.90 per person; £3 for babies under two on parents' knees.
Become part of the most popular Christmas film and take a train journey on the Polar Express! Dress the family cosy in pyjamas and join in on the Christmas magic with singing chefs and waiters who serve hot chocolate and cookies. When you arrive at the North Pole, keep your eyes peeled for Santa, who will board the train and give everyone a special silver bell from his sleigh. It really is a magical experience for the whole family!
Lapland UK
Berkshire, November 9th to December 24th
Sold out for 2024, sign up to the mailing list to find out when booking opens for 2025
Who says you have to travel far to visit Lapland? This really is one of the best Christmas days out for children. It’s a Christmas festival, with elves introducing little ones to reindeer and weaving stories of their work in Santa’s grotto. And talking of which, kids can visit Santa and take home a signed photo of themselves with him, plus make gingerbread men, build toys together and receive a little gift. There’s also ice-skating and a log cabin restaurant. Tickets have already sold out for 2024 so sign up to the mailing list to be the first to find out about 2025 tickets which are likely to go on sale in March.
Santa's Winter Wonderland, Snow Dome, Tamworth
November 12th - January 5th
From £18.95 for adults and children aged 2-15 years
Santa’s Winter Wonderland brings snowy adventures to the UK. Play and slide around in the real snow while exploring Santa’s snow trail, take a walk through the enchanted forest, throw a snowball or two and take a ride on a sledge or slide about in the snow tubes. The Santa show is a brand new Winter Wonderland stage show and you can meet all Santa's furry friends in the animal village. Don’t forget to write Santa a letter to drop in his talking post box... it’s what dreams are made of!
Cardiff's Winter Wonderland
November 14th - January 5th
Entry is free, but some activities and rides are bookable separately
Cardiff's Winter Wonderland is right in the heart of the city so you can make an evening of it with shopping before fun at the ice-skating rink, an Alpine village selling yummy food from German sausages to crepes, funfair rides and attractions. For parents, there’s even some 'Apres Skate' at the Bierkeller Bar where they can sample the mulled wine.
FAQs for the best Christmas events for kids
Do we need to book tickets in advance for Christmas events?
Yes, most popular events require advance booking as they sell out quickly. Check for early bird discounts, Black Friday deals and bundled family packages.
Are there sensory-friendly or accessible events?
Yes, many events now offer sensory-friendly hours for children with special needs. Check with each venue to confirm details.
Hannah Carroll is our Senior Digital Writer. In her capacity, she curates top-notch listicles, crafts insightful how-to guides, and delivers expert product reviews. As a mother of three, Hannah draws upon her comprehensive understanding of all facets of family life to bring true insight into all the products that make running a home easier.