101 fantastic activities for the Christmas 2024 school holidays

Historical holidays
What: Celebrate the glorious and occasionally grisly tale of how Christmas came to be with this new live show from Horrible Histories at London’s Alexandra Palace. Join Charles Dickens, Oliver Cromwell and even Saint Nick himself as you go on a journey through festive history featuring Victorian villains, Puritan parties and Tudor treats in this hilarious performance about the most wonderful time of the year.
Where: Alexandra Palace, Alexandra Palace Way, London N22 7AY
When: 12 December-4 January, 11.30am, 2.30pm and 7pm.
Need to know: Tickets from £17.50 per person.

Creature feature
What: Get set to go wild with plenty of animal antics taking place at London Zoo this winter. Enjoy the sight of a 25-foot-tall Christmas tree and animals enjoying their festive treats, get eco-crafty with recycled materials, learn some fascinating facts about 12 of the zoo’s most iconic residents, or meet Santa’s elves and post your letter to the North Pole before saying hello to the man himself, who will be busy feeding the animals and spreading plenty of Christmas cheer.
Where: London Zoo, The Regent’s Park, Outer Circle, London NW1 4RY
When: 23 November-5 January, 10am-4pm
Need to know: Most activities free with admission. Adult ticket from £27, child £18.90. Personalised Santa visit, £17.50 extra per child.

Garden party
What: Get illuminated at Kew this Christmas when you follow their beautiful 3km-long light trail as it weaves its way through the gardens, featuring over 20 dazzling installations. As you explore this iridescent botanical wonderland, you’ll be able to pass through glittering tunnels of light, watch flickering flames in the Fire Garden, view all sorts of larger-than-life illuminated sculptures and enjoy some delicious festive treats – but don’t forget to keep an eye out for Santa and his elves along the way.
Where: Kew Gardens, Richmond, TW9 3JR (Victoria Gate), TW9 3AB (Elizabeth Gate) or TW9 3AF (Brentford Gate).
When: 13 November-5 January, 4.20-10pm.
Need to know: Family ticket from £77.

Monarch mayhem
What: Take a trip to the Tower of London and enjoy a right royal Christmas with brand new exhibitions and activities exploring how Kings and Queens have celebrated throughout the ages. After finding out about elaborate entertainments at the Tudor court, chilly Frost fairs on the Thames and Edward I’s lavish festive feast, you can join in with a giant game of pass-the-parcel, sit on a throne for a regal family portrait, and watch a performance of A Visit from St. Nicholas, a Victorian poem that helped inspire the story of Santa as we know him today.
Where: The Tower of London, London EC3N 4AB
When: 29 November–5 January, 10am-4.30pm.
Need to know: Activities free with admission, tickets £34.80 adult, £17.40 child.

Walking in the air
What: Filled with colourful sets and extravagant costumes, Sadlers’ Wells will be bringing their magical dance adaptation of Raymond Briggs’ classic picture book The Snowman back to the Peacock Theatre, dazzling audiences of all ages for its 27th year. This enchanting stage show will leave you with a sense of wonder as you follow the timeless tale of a boy and his magical snowman journeying through a wintery wonderland to reach the North Pole, meeting a host of different woodland creatures, snowmen from around the world and even a dancing pineapple along the way, all accompanied by live orchestral music.
Where: Peacock Theatre, Portugal St, London WC2A 2HT
When: 27 November-4 January, 11am, 2.30pm and 7pm.
Need to know: Tickets from £18 per person.

World of wonder
What: Enjoy a six-week seasonal celebration as Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland opens its doors again for the winter. Expect Victorian fairground rides, Santa Land and parades, as well as the world’s tallest transportable Big Wheel! You can also watch a dazzling display of thrills and skills at the Cirque Berserk stunt show, join in with the Christmas Singalong hosted by CBeebies superstar Justin Fletcher, and journey down the rabbit hole to explore a life-sized Alice in Wonderland display carved from over 500 tonnes of ice – before you have a go at carving your own ice sculpture too. 
Where: Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park, London W2
When: 21 November-5 January, 10am-10pm
Need to know: Admission free (off-peak), £5 per person (standard), £7.50 per person (peak). Attraction costs vary.

Seasonal science
What: Join CBeebies star Maddie Moate in the West End for a new live-on-stage science show filled with festive facts and magical experiments. In this STEM-themed seasonal spectacular, inspired by Maddie’s book A Very Curious Christmas, you’ll be able to find out where snowflakes come from, why crackers go BANG, how Brussels sprouts make you fart, and many more answers to the mysteries behind our Christmas traditions.
Where: Apollo Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue, London W1D 7EZ
When: 6 December-4 January, 10.30am, 11am, 1.30am, 2pm, 3.30pm and 4pm.
Need to know: Tickets from £15 per person.

Christmas Past
What: Tiptoe into an enchanting fairytale world as Shakespeare’s Globe presents a new version of Hansel and Gretel, made to a perfect recipe including plenty of music, mayhem and festive magic.  When Hansel and Gretel’s parents abandon them in the woods, the children must try and make their way home – but they soon get distracted by a trail of treats too good to resist and a seemingly-sweet talking stranger with a plan of her own… 
Where: Shakespeare’s Globe, 21 New Globe Walk, London SE1 9DT
When: 29 November-5 January, 11am, 1.30pm, 2.30pm, 4.30pm and 5.30pm.
Need to know: Standing tickets from £10 adults, £5 children.

Going global
What: If you’ve got a head for heights this holiday, take a trip to a winter wonderland with a difference and climb to the very top of the O2 Arena! After scaling the 52m ascent, you can step inside the UK’s highest snow globe and admire the views while enjoying falling snow, tasty Christmas cookies and a whimsical Christmas display.
Where: Up at The O2, Peninsula Square, Greenwich Peninsula, London, SE10 0DX
When: 22 November-5 January, 10am-7pm.
Need to know: Tickets from £44 per person.

Let’s dance
What: Enjoy an uplifting tale of passion and persistence as this new re-imagining of Noel Streatfeild’s classic children’s novel Ballet Shoes arrives at the National Theatre. Meet the three Fossil sisters – Pauline, Petrova and Posy – as they fight to pursue their big ambitions, in an attempt to forge a future, keep their family together and maybe learn a dance or two along the way.
Where: National Theatre, South Bank, London SE1 9PX
When: 26 November-22 February, 1.30pm or 7pm.
Need to know: Tickets from £25 per person. 

Bedtime story
What: Experience the classic story of Sleeping Beauty like never before with this spellbinding new pantomime taking place at the Oxford Playhouse. After pricking her finger on a spindle and travelling 1,000 years forward in time, Aurora must draw on her intelligence, bravery and friendships to return to her rightful place in the Kingdom of Oxland, in a magical extravaganza featuring lovable heroes, boo-able villains and plenty of 1980s nostalgia.
Where: Oxford Playhouse, Beaumont Street, Oxford, OX1 2LW
When: 26 November-5 January, dates and times vary.
Need to know: Tickets from £15.

Fit for a king
What: Experience a right royal Christmas at Windsor Castle and enjoy the amazing sight of this grand palace festooned with festive decorations and displays – complete with a magnificent 20-foot-high Christmas tree (which took over 13 hours to decorate!) standing in St George’s Hall. As you follow the festive trail through the Castle, you’ll be able to step into the shoes of a Victorian child and have a go at crafting traditional Christmas decorations, preparing the menu for a royal Christmas dinner, or dressing up in elegant 19th-century attire.
Where: Windsor Castle, Windsor, Berkshire SL4 1NJ
When: 22 December-5 January, 10am-3pm.
Need to know: Events free with admission. Adults £30, children £15.

Elf yourself
What: Scout out the secrets of Santa’s elves and try your hand at becoming Father Christmas’ newest helper as you embark upon Mission: Christmas at Chatham Historic Dockyard. Step inside the secret elf station and learn all the tricks of the trade, from wrapping presents and making toys to the all-important deliveries, in order to earn your place among the Elf Apprentices! Once your training is complete, pop along to see Santa, who’ll have a reward waiting for all your hard work.
Where: Chatham Historic Dockyard, Chatham, Kent ME4 4TE
When: 24 November-24 December, times vary.
Need to know: Adult tickets £16, child £23.

All aboard!
What: Forget the grotto – this year it’s full steam ahead as Santa stops by at the Dean Forest Railway. You’re sure to be proper chuffed on this special train ride through the scenic Forest of Dean as Mr Claus makes his way through the carriages before stopping at Lydney Junction to join his elves for a hot drink and a mince pie – then it’s time to pick up your gift before heading home.
Where: Norchard Station, Forest Road, Lydney, Gloucester GL15 4ET
When: Weekends, 23 November-22 December and Wednesdays, 4-18 December, plus 24 December, various times.
Need to know: Tickets £19.75 per person.

An arrow escape
What: Take your seats for a tale of roguish revelry and derring-do as legendary outlaw Robin Hood sets out to defeat the miserly Sheriff of Nottingham in this festive adventure at Kingston’s Rose Theatre. As the snow begins to fall, Sherwood is bereft of Christmas cheer, with the cruel Sheriff and his minions squeezing every last coin they can out of their subjects. But Robin and his Merry Men are busy cooking up an audacious scheme to ensure the citizens of Sherwood will have something to celebrate come Christmas Day…
Where: Rose Theatre, 24-26 High Street, Kingston KT1 1HL
When: 30 November-5 January, various times.
Need to know: Tickets from £15 per person.

That’s the spirit!
What: Go south to Dover Castle and be prepared for some spooky shenanigans as ghosts from Christmases past take over this iconic historic fortress. Follow the fabulous new festive trail inspired by A Christmas Carol as you hear stories from spirits from the past, present and future before meeting Ebenezer Scrooge inside the atmospheric Great Tower. There’s also a chance for visitors to pop in and say hello to Santa, who’ll be happy to share some of his favourite tales as you sit around the Christmas tree.
Where: Dover Castle, Castle Hill, Dover, CT16 1HU
When: Weekends, 30 November-22 December, 10am-4pm.
Need to know: Family ticket from £66. £9.50 extra per child for Santa.

The car’s the star
What: Get ready to start your engines as you take a trip to the Brooklands Museum’s New Year’s Day Gathering, one of the largest classic car rallies in the UK. Expect a spectacular display of over 1,000 specially selected cars, trucks and motorbikes from throughout the 20th century – Astons to Austins, Jaguars to Jeeps, Peugeots to Porsches, and much more. As you work your way through this selection of magnificent motors, there’ll be live music, a winter barbeque, and lots more for the whole family to enjoy.
Where: Brooklands Museum, Brooklands Road, Weybridge, Surrey KT13 0SL
When: 1 January, 10am-4pm
Need to know: Event and activities free with admission, adult tickets £22.70, children £9.50.

Ballroom blitz
What: Enjoy a sugary-sweet musical retelling of the classic rags-to-riches fairytale when Cinderella: Ice Cream Seller sets up shop at Oxford’s Story Museum. After finding her happily-ever-after, Cinderella has gone on to launch a chain of ice-cream parlours throughout the land – but how did she do it? Join loyal Cinderella employees Talvi and Caldwell as they share this rags-to-riches tale featuring palace balls, glass slippers, live music and plenty of magical ice cream in a tale that’s bound to tantalise your tastebuds
Where: The Story Museum, 42 Pembroke Street Oxford OX1 1BP
When: 21-31 December, 11am-12pm and 2.30-3.30pm.
Need to know: Tickets £14 per person.

Lights fantastic!
What: Get ready for an illuminated wintery extravaganza as Enlightened makes its return to Hylands Estate for the 5th year in a row! With over a mile of specially curated illuminated attractions scattered throughout the estate, you can enjoy an en-lightening evening wending your way through the trails, passing through a 50m tunnel of light, watching a spectacular laser show, and seeing mysterious and magical creatures brought to life before your eyes with special effects.
Where: Hylands Park, Chelmsford CM2 8FS
When: 29 November-4 January, 4.30pm-9pm.
Need to know: Tickets from £12.50 adult, £9 child.

In the deep Midwinter
What: Enjoy some subterranean storytelling and explore a mysterious underground world down in the 4,500-year-old Clearwell Caves in the Forest of Dean. Say hello to Father Christmas and journey with him through a wintery world of decorated caverns, then meet Bernard, a boy who befriends a baby polar bear he finds floating on an iceberg and make your way through a snowy Arctic wonderland. Just don’t forget to take a break at the Underground Café along the way for a special festive treat!
Where: Clearwell Caves, The Rocks, Nr Coleford, Royal Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire GL16 8JR
When: Thursday-Monday throughout December, plus 30 November and 24 December, 9.30am-5pm.
Need to know: Tickets £19 per person, includes gift from Santa for children.

Absolutely fin-tastic
What: Get stuck into some extra-special undersea adventures at the National Marine Aquarium. Take the plunge and go snorkelling in the Aquarium’s massive Atlantic Ocean Tank – the deepest in the UK! Climb in and immerse yourself amongst the stingrays, sharks and green turtles. You can also find out more about this fascinating reptile with a special workshop working alongside the Aquarium’s team, where you’ll learn what it takes to feed over 5,000 very different sea creatures, before giving Friday The Turtle a special snack.
Where: National Marine Aquarium, Rope Walk, Coxside, Plymouth PL4 0LF
When: Snorkelling, every day, 9.30am-11am and 1.45pm-3.15pm. Turtle feeding, Saturday-Tuesday plus 27 December and 1-3, 6-7 January, 12.30pm-1.15pm.
Need to know: Snorkelling, £250 for two people, one over 18, the other 10+, good swimmers only. Turtle feeding, £240 for 4 people. Includes admission, for ages 8+.

Magical music
What: Go west this winter to the Eden Project, which will be filled full of music to mark the Christmas season. Join Father Christmas and his elves as they share the secrets of Christmas magic, then collect your present and go for a whirl on the vintage carousel before having a go on the ice-rink and warming up with a hot chocolate. Then, as darkness falls, you can follow a route around the Rainforest Biome, where the tropical landscape has been transformed into an enchanted wonderland with breath taking new light displays and festive surprises around every corner.
Where: The Eden Project, Bodelva, St Austell, Cornwall, PL24 2SG
When: 22 December-5 January, 9.30am-8pm.
Need to know: Most activities free with admission. Tickets from £38 adult, £12 child. Santa show, £12 per person, Ice skating from £34 for a family ticket.

Time after time
What: Turn back the clock and set off on a time-travelling trip around Longleat, thanks to this year’s Festival of Light, which celebrates Longleat’s 75th anniversary. Explore the evolution of the earth, from the dinosaurs to the present day, as you follow the spectacular lantern trail, featuring kings and queens alongside magnificent beasts both real and imaginary, listen as a 15-metre-tall Christmas tree sings your favourite carols, hop aboard the Santa Train or watch a passage through time projected onto the walls of Longleat House.
Where: Longleat, Warminster, Wiltshire, BA12 7NW
When: 9 November-5 January, 4pm-7.30pm.
Need to know: Ticket for Lanterns only from £27.95 adult, £20.95 child.

Bay watch
What: Enjoy some Christmas lights with a difference beside the seaside in Cornwall. First started in 1963 by Mousehole-based artist, Joan Gillchrest, the small seaside town uses more than 7,000 bulbs and 50 miles of cable to decorate the harbour and surrounding houses with hundreds of colourful displays. You'll be able to spot a blue whale, sea serpent and sailing boats as they gently drift around the old town harbour, as well as starey gazey pie – made famous in Antonia Barber's classic children's book ‘The Mousehole Cat’.
Where: Mousehole, Mounts Bay, Cornwall, Penzance TR19 6PG
When: 12 December-5 January, 5pm-10pm
Need to know: Free, but donations welcome.

Catch a cliff-hanger
What: Catch a special family-friendly theatrical performance in the beautiful open-air setting of the Minack Theatre – carved out of granite cliffs with the blue sea of Porthcurno Bay far below. Enjoy the timeless tale of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol and journey with mysterious ghosts through the darkened streets of Victorian London or shake off the Boxing Day blues with The Sea Show, a quirky and hilarious mix of puppet show, natural history and comedy cabaret, where you can meet crazy characters including Ruan the reformed.
Where: Minack Theatre, Porthcurno, Penzance, Cornwall TR19 6JU
When: A Christmas Carol, 20-21 December, The Sea Show, 30 December, all performances 3pm.
Need to know: Adult tickets, £10 (Christmas Carol), £12 (Sea Show), children half price. Book online or call 01736 810181.

Blooming marvellous
What: Head to deepest Devon and go art hunting at RHS Rosemoor, where the annual Winter Sculpture Exhibition will be on display, featuring over 200 different creations of all shapes and sizes, set against the backdrop of the beautiful winter gardens. As night falls, the enchanting Rosemoor Glow trail will switch on, featuring a flickering ‘field of fire’, a rainbow tunnel of lights, a sparkling waterfall, and enchanting music and narration telling the magical tale of Jack Frost.
Where: RHS Garden Rosemoor, Great Torrington, Devon EX38 8PH
When:  Sculptures, 9 November-31 January, 10am-5pm. Glow trail, 15 November-28 December, 4.30-8pm.
Need to know: Sculpture event free with admission, family ticket from £38.10. Glow trail tickets from £12.95 adult, £6.95 child.

Tree-mendous
What: Experience the magical spectacle of over 100 enormous glittering trees, amongst other festive illuminations, as part of Bournemouth’s annual Christmas extravaganza. Walking from the seafront, through the town centre and beyond, you can enjoy magical illuminations including a giant bauble, majestic seven-metre golden reindeer, a 3D walkthrough 60ft tall Wonderland tree with 30,000 individually programmed lights, a frosty fountain and an icicle-filled walk watched over by a family of polar bears.
Where: In and around Bournemouth town centre.
When: 15 November-31 December, times vary.
Need to know: Free.

USA A-Okay
What: Enjoy a hand-crafted Christmas experience as you pay a visit to Bath’s American Museum and Gardens. The Georgian Manor House will be decorated for the season with hundreds of beautiful, artisan decorations, topped off with a stunning 18-foot fir tree, taking pride of place in Central Hall. Find the hidden cats and dogs throughout the building as you complete your special book trail, listen in to traditional seasonal storytelling and enjoy some festive face painting.
Where: American Museum and Gardens, Claverton Manor, Claverton Down, Bath BA2 7BD
When: Weekends from 30 November-31 December, 10am-4pm
Need to know: All activities free with admission, family ticket from £41.50.

Creature feature
What: Zooluminate returns to brighten up Dartmoor Zoo for 2024, with a whole host of brand new and exciting illuminations. Enjoy a magical wintery walk around the Zoo, taking in all sorts of amazing light installations as you go: and if you’re lucky, you might see some of the zoo animals all snuggled up in their enclosures.
Where: Dartmoor Zoo, Plymouth PL7 5DG
When: 13 December-4 January, 5pm-7.30pm
Need to know: Family night only ticket £45.

Animal magic
What: Go animal crackers at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo this December and help Santa’s elves create a tasty gift for some of the zoo’s animal residents, before popping over to their enclosure to deliver it. Keep your eyes peeled for a hidden Christmas pudding as you go – if you spot it, you’ll win a festive prize! Afterwards, pop into Santa’s cosy grotto in the Lookout Lodge, where you can enjoy some Christmas crafts before meeting the big man himself. You can also learn more about Whipsnade’s reindeer herd with Mrs Claus, enjoy festive-themed animal talks and even have a go at creating the best Christmas cracker joke!
Where: ZSL Whipsnade Zoo, Whipsnade, Dunstable LU6 2LF
When: 23 November-6 January, 10am-6pm.
Need to know: Some activities free with admission, tickets from £27 adult, £18.90 child. Meet Santa, £17.50 per child, w/animal gift making, £40 child, £15 adult.

Play away
What: Be transported this Christmas with some globe-trotting festive fun at Ickworth! Roam the magnificent Ickworth House and discover winter scenes and traditions from throughout Europe, from the snow-capped Swiss Alps to the colourful Venetian Carnival, follow the activity trail on a walk through the woods, or enjoy making paper boats and hot-air-balloon lanterns in the West Wing Gallery. Plus, you’ll also be able to find out if Santa is able to sort out his broken-down sleigh in a cheerful musical stage show.
Where: Ickworth Estate, Horringer, Bury Saint Edmunds IP29 5QE
When: 30 November-5 January, 9am-4pm. Santa show, 6-8 and 13-15 December, various times.
Need to know: Some events free with admission, family ticket £32.50. Santa show, £12 children, £8 adults. Trail, £3 per family.

Hoo goes there?
What: Celebrate Yuletide at Sutton Hoo and discover what this time of year meant for the Anglo-Saxons. Find out how some of the objects uncovered at the site are related to Yule traditions, explore the Yule feasting table, and share your own festive traditions on the Yule tree, before setting off on a scavenger hunt to help a young Anglo-Saxon gather the materials for a Yule feast. You’ll also be able to pop into Tranmer House and discover what Christmas was like for the archaeologists excavating Sutton Hoo in the 1980s.
Where: Sutton Hoo, Tranmer House, Woodbridge IP12 3DJ
When: Weekends, 30 November–22 December and 26 December–5 January, 10.30am-3.30pm
Need to know: Most activities free with admission. Family ticket, from £40.

Winter wardrobe
What: Step through the wardrobe and into Wrest Park, where the wicked White Witch has cast her snowy spell over the historic house. Walk through a wintery Narnia wonderland transformed with festive decorations, sparkling lights and scenes from the story, as you steer clear of the Witch’s spell and make your way to the magical throne room. Outside, you’ll be able to enjoy a whirl on the fairground rides or follow the Narnia-themed trail wending its way around the gardens.
Where: Wrest Park, Bedfordshire, Silsoe, MK45 4HR
When: 23 November-29 December (Wednesdays-Sundays) plus 23, 30-31 December, 10am-4pm
Need to know: Event free with admission, tickets £12.70 adult, £7.70 child. Fairground rides £5 for unlimited rides.

Light and magic
What: Enjoy making some festive memories and stroll under the stars beneath illuminated trees as you lose yourself in the Sandringham Christmas Tree Maze. Work your way through over 200 sparkling Norway Spruces, inhaling the fresh pine scent, and don’t forget to snap a picture once you get to the middle. Then check out the rest of the enchanting Luminate trail, where glowing lights and Christmassy sounds fill the chilly air, and have a go at the interactive light games before warming up by toasting marshmallows over the fire pits.
Where: Sandringham Estate, Sandringham, Norfolk, PE35 6AB
When: 21 November-24 December, 4.30pm-9pm.
Need to know: Family ticket to Luminate from £45 (before 5 December), £76.50 (after 9 December).

You shall go to the ball!
What: Your carriage awaits this Christmas holiday to take you to the Cambridge Arts Theatre, which will be playing host to this year’s family pantomime spectacular, Cinderella. Expect side-splitting jokes, sensational song-and-dance numbers and a sprinkling of glitter as Cinderella is whisked away by her Fairy Godmother into a world of glass slippers, handsome princes and enchanted pumpkins. But can she escape the evil schemes of her two wicked stepsisters and live happily ever after?
Where: Cambridge Arts Theatre, 6 St Edward's Passage, Cambridge CB2 3PJ
When: 28 November-5 January, various times.
Need to know: Tickets from £20 per person.

Park life
What: Get set to play away at Wicksteed Park this Christmas, where you’ll be able to enjoy a family meet-and-greet with Santa Claus and share all of your Christmas wishes, before heading over to the Elves’ workshop to collect your special gift. Then, you’ll be able to set off on a journey down the Wicksteed Railway, meet Santa’s reindeer and all your favourite farm animals, hang your wishes on the giant Wishing Tree, and enjoy the park’s selection of over 25 rides and attractions as you whizz down the astroslide, take a spin on the carousel or have a go at crazy golf.
Where: Wicksteed Park, Barton Road, Kettering, Northamptonshire NN15 6NJ
When: 30 November-24 December, 10am-5pm.
Need to know: Tickets from £15 per person.

Perfect a puppet
What: Experience a festive panto with strings attached, thanks to this wacky and witty performance of Sleeping Beauty at the Norwich Puppet Theatre, where the classic tale is given a fresh re-telling with handmade puppets, seasonal sparkle, silly songs, and plenty of jokes. Plus, you’ll also be able to polish up your own puppeteering skills and create a whole troupe of elf, Grinch or snowman marionettes as you get stuck in to festively themed family puppet workshops.
Where: Norwich Puppet Theatre, St James Whitefriars, Norwich, Norfolk NR3 1TN
When: Sleeping Beauty, 14, 21-24 and 26-29 December, 11am or 2.30pm. Workshops,15, 21 and 22 December, various times.
Need to know: Family ticket £45 for panto, workshops £10 per person.

Wonderful Warwick
What: There’ll be twinkling trees, dazzling decorations, and plenty of festive flourishes at every turn as you pay a Christmastime visit to Warwick Castle. Take a scenic stroll around the historic grounds, taking in the dazzling light displays, get your skates on and go for a whirl on the ice rink underneath towers and turrets, laugh your stockings off at the festive pantomime, or join Santa, Mrs Claus, and their cheery elves for some festive magic and cosy winter storytelling.
Where: Warwick Castle, Warwick CV34 4QU
When: 23 November-5 January, 10am-4pm. Light trail and ice skating, 4.30pm-8pm.
Need to know: Admission from £22 per person, including Santa, from £33 per person. Light trail only, from £22 per person. Ice skating only, from £11 per person.

Express yourself
What: Don’t forget your golden ticket and climb aboard the Polar Express this Christmastime in Birmingham, where you can relive the magic of the animated Christmas classic with an extra-special steam train ride and performance. Renew your belief in the power of Christmas as you meet your conductor and set off on an enchanting journey to the North Pole, complete with dancing chefs, tasty treats and a visit from Father Christmas – you may even get a special silver sleigh bell to take home!
Where: Birmingham Moor Street station, Birmingham B4 7UL
When: Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, 25 November-23 December, 11.20am, 1.25, 3.40, 5.25 and 7.40pm.
Need to know: Set of four seats from £116. Includes hot chocolate and cookies.

Ballet brilliant
What: Join Birmingham Royal Ballet for a special performance of Christmas favourite, The Nutcracker. When Clara's toys come to life at the stroke of midnight, she embarks on a fantastical journey through a winter wonderland, fighting the evil King of Rats alongside her handsome prince, before arriving at  the Kingdom of Sweets and meeting the magical Sugar Plum Fairy. Expect daring sword fights, falling snow and 30-foot Christmas trees – all accompanied by Tchaikovsky’s classic score, performed live by a 60-piece orchestra.
Where: Birmingham Hippodrome, Hurst St, Southside, Birmingham B5 4TB
When: 22 November-14 December, various times.
Need to know: Tickets from £26 per person.

A shoe-in
What: Dust off your dancing shoes this winter in Stratford-Upon-Avon, and get up close to Hans Christian Anderson’s dark fairy tale of magic, pride and vanity with this enchanting new adaptation of The Red Shoes. When an orphaned young woman is expected to be seen and not heard, she becomes dazzled by a pair of shimmering red shoes – but her feet will end up betraying her, whisking her away to places she does not wish to go…
Where: Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Waterside, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6BB
When: Every day except Mondays until 19 January, 1pm, 2pm or 7pm.
Need to know: Tickets from £25 adult, £12.50 under 18, must be purchased alongside an adult ticket. Recommended for ages 7+

Merry and bright
What: Experience a mile-long journey of wonder as Enlightened arrives to brighten up the wintery skies of Leicester’s Abbey Park. Step through a 50-metre tunnel of cascading lights into an illuminated world, where beams of light shine through the trees, curious creatures are brought to life, and colour changing fountains react to music. You can also engage in a light sabre duel, solve the interactive shimmering puzzles, or hop, skip and jump along light up stepping-stones.
Where: Abbey Park, Abbey Park Road, Leicester, Leicestershire, LE4 5AQ
When: 29 November-24 December, 5-9pm.
Need to know: Tickets from £12.50 adult, £9 child.  

Victorian values
What: Blists Hill Victorian Town is all set to get into the historical holiday spirit, with streets speckled with snow and decorated to mark the festive season, as costumed Victorian residents (and maybe even some elves) busy themselves preparing for the big day. You’ll be able to learn all about 19^th century Christmases, watch a classic Punch and Judy show, pick up a tasty treat from one of the shops, say hello to the reindeer herd, and visit the magical Wishing Tree. There’s also the chance to meet Santa in his grotto, or enrol in Elf School, where you’ll try your hand at joining the ranks of Santa’s little helpers.
Where: Blists Hill Victorian Town, Legges Way, Telford TF7 5UD
When: 7-8 and 14-15 December, 10am-4pm.
Need to know: Most activities free with admission, adult £28, child £16. Meeting Santa, £10 per child, elf school, £3 per child.

Water lot of fun
What: You’re in for a whale of a time with this new nautical stage show at Nottingham’s Lakeside Arts Centre. Join Noi, who lives with his Dad and six cats besides the sea, as he begins an unexpected and magical friendship with a little whale who washes up on the beach. The next winter, Noi is determined to set off and see his friend once again, no matter how long he may have to wait. Expect a heartwarming tale of loneliness, love and courage, in this magical tale based on the picture book by Benji Davies.
Where: Djanogly Theatre, Lakeside Arts, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD
When: 14-15, 21-24, 27-31 December and 3-5 January, 11am and 2pm.
Need to know: Tickets from £10.50 per person.

Seasonal Shakespeare
What: Enjoy a festive family adventure that’s sure to blow your woolly socks off in Stratford-Upon-Avon – the place where a young William Shakespeare spent his schooldays. Follow the puzzle trail throughout the historic Tudor building, meeting festive characters and taking part in fun challenges along the way, compete in a gameshow hosted by Charles Dickens, discover the history of Christmas with Thursday the Elf, and spend some time with Santa beside the fireplace. Plus, you can also revive the historic festive tradition of listening to ghost stories during the long dark nights and enjoy some winter chillers by lamplight in the historic hall.
Where: Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall, 17 Church Street, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6HD
When: Ghost stories, 23 December, 7.30pm or 8.30pm. Festive trail, 24 December, 10am-4pm. 
Need to know: Adult ticket £13.50, child £8.

Unfolding events
What: Head to the Herbert this December and get your creative juices flowing with some playful paper crafts. Use a variety of different folding and origami techniques and a wide selection of paper types, colours and embellishments to create snowflakes from soft snowy material, 3D polar bear sculptures, or other Christmassy creations in this relaxing wintery workshop for the whole family to enjoy.
Where: Herbert Art Gallery and Museum, Jordan Wells, Coventry CV1 5QP
When: 27-28 and 31 December, 10.30am-3.30pm.
Need to know: Drop-in, £2.50 per child.

I should cocoa!
What: Get set to unwrap the history of famous chocolate-making families and their finest creations – alongside plenty of tasty treats – with these festive workshops at York’s Chocolate Story. Led by expert chocolatiers (and Santa Claus!) you’ll be able to decorate the perfect chocolate lolly, hand-roll Belgian chocolate truffles, craft edible tree decorations and custom chocolate bars, and enjoy a toasty hot chocolate – certain to satisfy any sweet tooth!
Where: York’s Chocolate Story, King’s Square, York YO1 7LD
When: Chocolate Making with Santa, £23.95 per person. Family workshop, £35 per person. Truffle rolling, £25.50 adult, £23 child.
Need to know: 30 November-23 December, various dates and times. 

Be a-maze-d
What: Enjoy plenty of festive frivolity on a trip to Yorkshire’s Stockeld Park. After becoming an honorary elf during the Toy’s Story stage show, popping into Santa’s grotto or going for a whirl on the ice rink, you can explore the Enchanted Forest, where you’ll meet Russell the talking tree and discover a fairy village. As dusk falls, thousands of colourful lights will illuminate the park and its 8ft-high snowflake shaped maze – can you make your way to the mysterious globe hidden at its centre?
Where: Stockeld Park, Wetherby, Yorkshire LS22 4AW
When: 16 November-6 January, 10am-9pm.
Need to know: Ice skating only, £12. Ice skating and illuminations, £19.50. Forest, maze and illuminations, £16.50 - with Santa, £20, with Santa and show, £29.50.

Travelling light
What: Grab your passport and set off on an epic journey as Yorkshire Wildlife Park is set to be brightened up by dozens of beautiful, handcrafted lanterns – all themed after Jules Verne’s iconic story, Around The World in Eighty Days! Hop into your hot air balloon and go for a magical adventure around all six continents, exploring over three kilometres of illuminated trails and enjoying fun fairground rides and tasty treats along the way.
Where: Yorkshire Wildlife Park, Hurst Lane, Auckley, Doncaster DN9 3HQ
When: 22-23 and 28-30 November, 1, 5-8, 12-24 and 26-31 December, plus 1-3 January. 4.15pm-9pm.
Need to know: Adult tickets £26, children £21.

Fairy fun
What: Get set for some fabulous, fairy fun with the Christmas Experience in Lotherton. Explore a wintery world where you can join Santa and his helpers for Christmassy crafts in the elf emporium, follow a trail of sparkling lights and interactive games along the tree-lined walk to find a hidden fairy dell, enjoy festive storytelling with Mrs Claus, or be left spellbound by a midwinter magic show.
Where: Lotherton, Lotherton Lane, Aberford, Leeds LS25 3EB
When: 23 November-5 January, 9am-8pm.
Need to know: Admission, £11 adult, £6.75 child. Meeting Santa, £15.45 per child extra. Additional charges apply for other activities.

Healthy heroes
What: Experience an inspiring and heartwarming new exhibition at the Thackray Museum of Medicine, dedicated to celebrating the NHS and all of its staff working to keep us healthy and happy. Stories from NHS workers from across the country have been used to inspire ornate paper sculptures that will be decking the Thackray’s halls this Christmas season, and these extraordinary experiences will be brought to life with pop-up performances of theatre and song, all based on the classic A Night Before Christmas.
Where: Thackray Museum of Medicine, 141 Beckett Street, Leeds, LS9 7LN
When: 30 November-5 January, 10am-5pm. Performances on weekends only.
Need to know: Tickets from £17 per child, £7 per accompanying adult.

Borrowed time
What: Enjoy the classic tale of a very tiny family with a big heart as this festive adaptation of children’s classic The Borrowers arrives at Hull Truck Theatre. Arrietty Clock is an adventurous borrower, living with her family beneath the floorboards of a West Yorkshire home. But Arrietty’s antics and friendship with a human boy begin to cause problems, and the family are forced to set off in search of a new home – will they be able to find someplace they truly belong?
Where: Hull Truck Theatre, 50 Ferensway, Hull HU2 8LB
When: 29 November-31 December, various dates and times.
Need to know: Tickets from £23 adult, £20 child.

Take art
What: Head over to the Hepworth Wakefield, get creative with all sorts of top-notch artistic activities: you can use air-dry clay to craft a Christmas bauble inspired by Barbara Hepworth’s sculptures, play I-spy on a walk through the galleries and experiment with different objects to create your own still life, or have a go at sketching some of the different birds, minibeasts, bugs and trees you might find outside in the gallery garden.
Where: The Hepworth Wakefield, Gallery Walk, Wakefield WF1 5AW
When: 23 November-5 January, 10am-4pm.
Need to know: Free with exhibition ticket, £6 adult, kids go free.

Sail away
What: Make your winter wishes on the water as you climb aboard a canal boat to meet Santa in Skipton! Enjoy a gentle, scenic 75-minute journey downstream and have a chat with Santa about your Christmas list before collecting some gifts from his magic bag of goodies and everyone’s invited to dress up in their best Christmassy outfit too!
Where: Skipton Boat Trips, 3 Coach Street, Skipton BD23 1LH
When: Weekends, 30 November-22 December, 11.30am and 1.30pm.
Need to know: Tickets, £22.50 child, £20 adult.

Lightbulb moment
What: It’s Christmastime over at Eureka!, so come along and get into the seasonal spirit! Pick up a puzzle sheet and solve the riddle by finding snowmen hiding around the museum, get creative with Santa’s elves in their busy workshop, or join in with interactive storytelling where you can let your imagination run wild.
Where: Eureka! The National Children's Museum, Discovery Rd, Halifax HX1 2NE
When: 29 November-5 January, 10am-4pm (term time), 10am-5pm (school holidays).
Need to know: Free with admission, tickets £16.95 per person.

Baby, it’s cold inside
What: Grab your cosiest scarf and hat as you join forces with Snowy the Snowman on a mission to try and help the animals of the North Pole have a fantastic Christmas and a happy New Year. Meet all sorts of amazing Arctic animals as you journey along the frozen trail, learning all about the icy northern oceans and taking part in tons of fin-tastic games, challenges and quizzes as you go – there’s maybe even a chance to win a prize!
Where: SEA LIFE Manchester, The Trafford Centre, Trafford Park, Stretford, Manchester M17 8AS
When: 23 November-31 December, 10am-6pm, 10am-7pm on weekends, plus 23, 27, 30-31 December.
Need to know: Activities free with admission, tickets from £15.95 adult, £12.50 child.

Solstice shenanigans
What: Step into an enchanting world of folklore, festive tradition and ridiculous rituals at Tatton Park Gardens as characters and creatures from winter myths and stories come to life. Meet interactive puppets and costumed characters as you take an wintery wander through the woods, keep warm as you dance to wild folk music and marvel at some spectacular fire-juggling, then gather round to listen to enchanting tales of magic and enjoy tasty toasted marshmallows.
Where: Tatton Park, Knutsford, Cheshire, WA16 6SG
When: Weekends, 16 November-23 December, 3pm-9.30pm.
Need to know: Tickets, adult £20, child, £12. Solstice prices, £26.75 adult, £18.90 child, including booking fees.

Bright sparks
What: Make some truly ‘flashinating’ discoveries as you explore the secrets of light this winter at Manchester’s Science and Industry Museum. Make light perform tricks and create colours in the Light Lab, before settling down to watch the Light Fantastic science show, where you’ll learn how light gets to Earth from the Sun, why the sky is blue, and what’s behind the mesmerising Aurora Borealis. Afterwards, discover the relationship between colour and mood at the relaxing Recharge Retreat, or take up a controller and play your way through the history of video games in the Power Up! exhibition.
Where: Science and Industry Museum, Liverpool Rd, Manchester M3 4JP
When: 14 December-5 January, 10am-5pm.
Need to know: Admission and activities free. Entry to Power Up! £8 per person.

Sticky situation
What: Wooden you know it – the fabulous theatrical adaptation of Julia Donaldson’s classic story Stick Man arrives at Manchester’s Lowry this Christmas! When Stick Man’s morning jog turns into a misadventure involving playful dogs, nesting swans and even a bonfire, will he be able to get back to his family tree? Find out in this playful show full of puppetry, live songs, funky moves, and Christmas cheer.
Where: The Lowry, Pier 8, The Quays, Salford, M50 3AZ
When: 10 December-5 January, 10.30am and 1pm.
Need to know: Tickets from £19 per person.

Ready, teddy – go!
What: Ever wondered what it’s like to live with a polar bear? Find out at the Waterside Arts Centre with The Bear, a new stage show adapted from the picture book by Raymond Briggs. One night, Tilly’s fast asleep when an enormous snowy white bear climbs into her bedroom! But she’s not scared, and soon sets off with her big white friend on a wild and magical adventure, featuring a phenomenal polar puppet, enchanting music, and plenty of laughs.
Where: Waterside Arts Centre, 1 Waterside, Sale, M33 7ZF
When: Weekends, 1 December-29 December, plus 23-24 and 26-27 December, 11am, 2pm or 6pm.
Need to know: Tickets from £14.50 per person.

Rainbow bright
What: Experience Chester Zoo in a whole new light as The Lanterns festival returns for 2024, transforming the night-time zoo into a sparkling world of colour. Make your way along the winding paths, encountering a rainbow of orangutans, lions, dolphins, woolly mammoths, and much more, while birds and stars can be seen nestled in the trees. Admire the colour changing displays stretching as far as the eye can see and don’t forget to take a walk through the ribbon tunnel of lights, play with the illuminated animal puppets, and even catch a glimpse of Father Christmas in his sleigh!
Where: Chester Zoo, Upton-by-Chester, Chester, CH2 1EU
When: 15 November-1 January, 4.30pm-8pm.
Need to know: Adult ticket from £18, child, £12.

Really chuffed!
What: Steam into Christmas on the East Lancashire Railway’s Santa Special service and take a trip through the Irwell Valley filled with festive characters and surprises. After arriving at the station, you’ll wander through a wintery world, meeting Mrs Claus, a talking Christmas tree, and even a choir of carol-singing polar bears, before hopping on the historic steam train. Once onboard, enjoy a few festive classics from the brass band before Santa himself stops by with plenty of presents to go around!
Where: Bury Transport Museum / The East Lancashire Railway, Bolton Street Station, Bury, Lancashire, BL9 0EY
When: Weekends from 23 November-22 December, plus 20, 23 and 24 December, various times.
Need to know: Adult ticket from £33, child ticket from £32.50.

Tree-mendous fun
What: If you go down to Cheshire’s Magical Woodland this winter, you’ll be sure of an evening filled with fabulous festive surprises. Wander 15 acres of enchanted forest under canopies of gleaming lights, where festive music fills the air as you say hello to Mrs and Santa Claus, enjoy all sorts of Christmas games and activities, and toast giant marshmallows besides the toasty fire – but you better keep your eyes peeled for the grumpy Grinch!
Where: Cheshire Outdoors, Blakemere Village, Sandiway, Cheshire, CW8 2EB
When: 29 November-24 December, 4pm-9pm.
Need to know: Family ticket from £65.

Curiouser and curiouser
What: Tickle your brain cells with a Christmas day out full of snow, Santa and science as you pay a visit to Eureka’s Science + Discovery centre in Liverpool! Find out about the festive science behind some of your favourite Christmassy things in a live show full of spectacular seasonal experiments, before learning about electronics and crafting your own light-up Christmas card. And if you keep your eyes peeled, you may just come across Santa Claus as he makes a surprise visit to the galleries…
Where: Eureka! Science + Discovery, Seacombe Ferry Terminal, Victoria Place, Wirral CH44 6QY
When: 2 November-5 January, Wednesday-Sunday, 10am-4pm (weekdays), 10am-5pm (weekends and 23 December -5 January).
Need to know: Activities free with admission, tickets £15.95 per person.

Roman around
What: If you’re looking for some seasonal celebrations with a difference, take a trip to Roman Vindolanda to mark the ancient winter festival of Saturnalia. Find out what life was like on the Roman Empire’s frontier over 2,000 years ago, and explore the site to find the five hidden Lords of Misrule, who’ll help you discover how Saturnalia traditions have helped inspire the Christmas festivities of today, up to and including the elf on the shelf.
Where: Roman Vindolanda Fort & Museum, Chesterholm Museum, Bardon Mill, Hexham NE47 7JN
When: 30 November-4 January, 10am-4pm.
Need to know: Event included with admission. Family ticket, £32.

Beans talk
What: Get ready for some giant laughs with Jack and the Beanstalk, this year’s festive pantomime spectacular at the Sunderland Empire. When some sneaky scoundrels steal a cow and a princess from the town of Boggy Bottom, it’s up to Jack to set off on a fairy-tale adventure to get them back, encountering a kind-hearted king, a feisty fairy, a cow with some serious beef and of course a ginormous magical plant on this reimagined romp through a classic fairy story.
Where: Sunderland Empire Theatre, 4-5 High St W, Sunderland SR1 3EX
When: 13 December-5 January, various times.
Need to know: Tickets from £10 per person. Suitable for ages 5+.

Vale tales
What: Embark upon a magical journey as Adventure Valley’s annual Winter Wonderland returns for 2024 with a jam-packed programme. Pick up your special passport at the gate and set off around the farm to get it stamped at each activity, including pony rides, Santa’s sweet shop, reindeer food making and bouncy inflatables. Then, you’ll be able to meet Santa and collect your present from the Elves’ toyshop, before decorating a tasty gingerbread biscuit with Mrs Claus or taking a seat to watch the live family show.
Where: Adventure Valley, Union Hall Farm, Durham DH1 5SG
When: Weekends, 23 November-22 December plus 23-24 December, 9am-5.30pm.
Need to know: Tickets from £16.45 adult, £35.45 child, including booking fee.

Fully booked
What: Be sure to bookmark Seven Stories for an extravaganza of literary festive fun taking place this Christmas holiday! Cosy up for storytelling with the Seven Stories elves, who’ll be on hand to tell their favourite tales of Christmas magic, have a go at crafting the perfect Christmas stocking or wooden sleigh complete with chocolate Santa, be prepared to cheer and boo during the Snow White-inspired mini panto, or enjoy a choral carol performance.
Where: Seven Stories, 30 Lime Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 2PQ
When: 30 November-5 January, times vary.
Need to know: Admission free. Storytelling, £3.99 per child. Craft workshops, £9.50 per child and adult goes free. Panto tickets, £9.50 per person.

Magical mysteries
What: Journey into a magical kingdom at the Alnwick Garden as Lilidorei, one of the world’s largest adventure playgrounds, comes alive with magic, light and sound. Explore the homes of nine different fairy clans and meet the Secret Keepers, who’ll be offering up enchanting winter storytelling and activities inspired by festive traditions from around the world, before meeting Father Christmas in his cosy grotto – you might even come face to face with his real-life reindeer and feed them a tasty treat.
Where: The Alnwick Garden, The Gardeners Cottage, Greenwell Road, Alnwick, Northumberland, NE66 1HB (follow NE66 1FJ for sat-nav).
When: 18 November-1 January, 10am-3.30pm and 4.30pm-9pm. Father Christmas, 13 November-24 December, 10.30am-4.30pm.
Need to know: Day admission, £11 per person. Night admission, £10.45 adult, £4.95 child. Father Christmas, £27.50 per child (includes admission).

Art of glass
What: Get creative with these artistic workshops at the National Glass Centre. Take inspiration from your holiday wishes and create a colourful design on a clear glass shape using glass grains and tiles, which will be melded together to become a beautiful artwork! You can also decorate a glass jar with transparent materials and make a reindeer beacon to leave out on Christmas Eve or use special paint pens to transform a glass pane into your favourite animal.
Where: National Glass Centre, Liberty Way, Sunderland, SR6 0GL
When: Glass Fusing, 24 November, 15 December and 4 January, 10am-3.30pm. Jars, 23 December, Painting, 3 January, both 10am-12pm and 1pm-3.30pm.
Need to know: Glass fusing, £12 per child, suitable for 6+. Painting, £4 per child and lanterns, £3 per child, suitable for 4+.

Seriously Scrooge
What: Watch out! Ebenezer Scrooge is coming to Newcastle this Christmas, and he’s meaner and greedier than ever before. But it may not be too late for a magical midnight visit to the spirits of Christmases past, present and future to turn his miserly outlook around. Enjoy this classic tale of ghosts and goodwill from the Northern Stage that’s sure to fill your heart with festive magic, music and merriment.
Where: Northern Stage, Barras Bridge, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RH
When: 30 November-4 January, 10am, 1pm, 2pm, 6pm and/or 7pm.
Need to know: Tickets from £12 per person.

Winged wonders
What: Discover an amazing array of angels with Ushaw’s brand new festive art exhibition, with local artists, charities and organisations producing all kinds of angelic installations on display throughout the Main House alongside classic Christmas decorations. You’ll also be able to learn festive songs, games and dances at Elf Academy before meeting Father Christmas and enjoying wintery stories and a toasty hot drink or listening to Christmas carols in St Cuthbert’s Chapel.
Where: Ushaw Historic House, Woodland Road, Ushaw, Durham DH7 7DW
When: 23 November-22 December, 10am-4pm (Angels), 2, 4, 7-8 and 10 December, 10am-11.30am (Father Christmas), 14 December, 10.30am-12pm  (Elf Academy).
Need to know: Admission, £10 adult, £6 child. Father Christmas visits, £14 per child. Elf Academy, £18 per child.

Golden opportunity
What: Step inside Santa’s workshop with the Royal Mint Experience for a magical festive adventure this winter. Meet Santa’s chief helpers and go on a tour around the workshop, explore the present factory and hear tales of how your favourite Christmas traditions came into being, then have a go at striking your own Christmassy coin before saying hello to Santa in his cosy grotto and receive a festive soft toy to take home.
Where: The Royal Mint Experience, Ynysmaerdy, Pontyclun CF72 8YT
When: 23 November-23 December, 3pm-8pm (weekdays), 9am-8pm (weekends and 20-23 December).
Need to know: Family ticket from £55.

Going underground
What: Enjoy a Christmas day out with a difference as you join the hunt for Santa and his elves deep down in a former coal mine. Join the toy miners and take a magical journey through the special toy mine, tasty sweet mine and freezing ice caverns before reaching Santa’s front door, and don’t forget to collect your enchanted star from the man in red, which you can exchange for a gift once you get back to the surface.
Where: A Welsh Coal Mining Experience, Lewis Merthyr Colliery, Coed Cae Road, Trehafod, CF37 2NP
When: 23 November-24 December. 3pm-8pm (weekdays), 10am-8pm (weekends), 9am-8pm (every day after 20 December).
Need to know: Tickets, £12.50 per person, £13.50 on Christmas Eve.

Proper chill
What: Enjoy a fabulously frosty family musical with The Snow Queen at Cardiff Christmas Festival this December. Step inside the special circus-style tent and you’ll be whisked away to an icy world in this new adaptation of Hans Christian Anderson’s classic fairy tale. Journey with Gerda through a magical world where animals talk and flowers sing as she sets off to save her best friend Kai from the cold-hearted Snow Queen before he is trapped forever!
Where: The Spiegeltent, Sophia Gardens, Pontcanna, Cardiff CF11 9XR
When: 12-31 December, various times.
Need to know: Tickets from £25 adult, £16.50 child.

Zip zip hooray!
What: Speed along to Zip World and for some high-wire seasonal surprises. Take the cable railway underground and discover a network of illuminated tunnels, leading you through a maze of lights to a magical workshop and then through to Santa in his cosy grotto. After collecting your gift, you can get stuck into Christmas crafts and decorate a slate bauble, write your official letter to Santa, and enjoy a complimentary hot chocolate and mince pie.
Where: Zip World, Llechwedd, Blaenau Ffestiniog LL41 3NB
When: 22-24 November and 29 November-24 December, excluding 3-5 and 11-12 December, 8.40am-8pm.
Need to know: Tickets from £20 adult, £23 child.

Taking the biscuit
What: Expect laughter, songs and plenty of cake with The Gingerbread Boy, a new festive family show at Glowyr Theatre. Deep in the Fairy-Tale Forest lives a boy made entirely of gingerbread, whose life is changed forever when he meets Blake, a young lad from a nearby village, and sets off on an adventurous journey of discovery – to meet a special visitor on Christmas Eve! There’ll also be the chance for you to meet Santa after the show and collect a Christmas gift.
Where: Glowyr Theatre, Wind Street, Ammanford SA18 3DN
When: 15 December, 11.30am and 2pm.
Need to know: Family ticket £45.

Garden glow
What: Enjoy a mesmerising mile-long walk through Margam Country Park, transformed for the winter with amazing illuminations courtesy of Luminate. Redesigned this year with new routes, installations and interactive elements alongside returning favourites, the whole family is sure to enjoy following the meandering trail, taking in ambient music, light games and tasty treats along the way.
Where: Margam County Park, Port Talbot SA13 2TJ
When: 21 November-31 December, entry between 4.30pm-8pm.
Need to know: Family ticket, £45.50.

In a flap
What: Get set to meet Santa and his feathered friends for some high-flying festive fun at the Botanic Garden of Wales! Meet the flock of friendly owls who’ll help deliver your Christmas wishes to Santa and watch them swoop silently overhead, while learning more about these brilliant birds of play from around the world in a special flying show, before getting creative at the art and craft station and seeking out the hidden elves in the Great Glasshouse before meeting Santa in his cosy grotto.
Where: National Botanic Garden of Wales, Middleton Hall, Llanarthne SA32 8HN
When: 30 November-23 December, 10am-4pm.
Need to know: Family ticket, £61.50. Santa’s grotto, £8.50 extra per child.

Seaside special
What: Get ready to make a splash this season with some fishy fun at SEA LIFE Loch Lomond. As you make your way through the aquarium, meeting all sorts of cool creatures from sharks to sea anemones to otters, you’ll be able to find the answers to a festive quiz, before meeting with Santa in his undersea grotto to share your Christmas wishes and receive a gift.
Where: SEA LIFE Loch Lomond Aquarium, Drumkinnon Tower, Ben Lomond Way, Balloch, Alexandria G83 8QL
When: Weekends, 7-22 plus 23 December, 11am-5pm.
Need to know: Tickets, £24.95 per child, includes gift - one accompanying adult free per child ticket, each additional adult £18.

Oh deer
What: Take a hill walk in the Highlands this winter and come face-to-face with Britain's only free-range reindeer herd. You’ll be able to feed and take photos with the magnificent beasts, taking in the dramatic Highland scenery, while your knowledgeable guide is on hand to answer any reindeer-related questions.
Where: Cairngorm Reindeer Centre, Glenmore, Aviemore, Inverness-shire, PH22 1QU
When: Daily in November and December. Hill trips, 11am and 1.30pm (December weekends only).
Need to know: Hill trip, £23 adults, £16 children. Weather permitting. Wear warm clothes and wellies/hiking boots with a good grip are essential.

Bake off bonanza
What: Something’s cooking at the Aberdeen Science Centre this winter, so come along and find out all about the chemistry that takes place in your kitchen! Find out how normal baking ingredients can cause all kinds of chemical reactions in a special science show, before joining in with drop-in experiments and storytelling. You’ll also be able to help Father Christmas and his cheeky elves to bake the perfect cookies, before embarking on a scavenger hunt around the science centre and collecting a present from the man in red.
Where: Aberdeen Science Centre, 179 Constitution St, Aberdeen AB24 5TU
When: Cookbook Chemistry, every day until 29 January, 10am-4pm. Science with Santa, 21 December, 10am-12pm.
Need to know: Cookbook Chemistry included with admission, family ticket, £35. Santa event, £18.95 for first child, £13.95 per additional child.

X marks the spot
What: Set sail for a swashbuckling tale of pirates, treachery and treasure as the Royal Lyceum Theatre’s new Christmas show, Treasure Island, weighs anchor this winter. Inspired by tales of cutlasses, ships and gold, join Jim Hawkins as he sets out in search of Captain Flint’s hidden fortune with the help of the mysterious Lean Jean Silver. Expect sea shanties and plenty of puffins but keep an eye out for the Jolly Roger!
Where: Royal Lyceum Theatre, Grindlay Street, Edinburgh EH3 9AX
When: 28-30 November, 5-8, 11-18, 20-24 and 26-31 December, 2-4 January, various times.
Need to know: Tickets from £18 adult, £8 child, plus £1.50 booking fee.

Hooray for Holyrood!
What: Enjoy some decadent decorations at the Palace of Holyroodhouse as they mark the season with two 12-foot-high Christmas trees in the Throne Room, an elaborate sugared fruit display in the Dining Room, and velvet garlands, berries and seasonal foliage adorning the Great Stair. You can also discover how the tradition of sending Christmas cards began, before making your own or creating a ribbon wreath inspired by the Palace decorations.  
Where: Palace of Holyroodhouse, Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8DX
When: Decorations until 6 January, Thursday-Monday, 9.30am-4.30pm. Crafts, 14 December, 10am-3pm.
Need to know: Activities free with admission. Adult ticket £20, child, £10.

Festive farmyard
What: Get set for a weekend of farm-themed fun as you pay a visit to Scotland’s National Museum of Rural Life. See the farmhouse spruced up for the festive season and say hello to the animals as they settle in for winter, before getting stuck in with Christmassy crafts and making a cute paper pig, turkey or Christmas tree bauble, scented pomander or reindeer dust. Then, you can add your own wish to the Moo Year tree and take a seat for some cosy winter storytelling.
Where: National Museum of Rural Life, Wester Kittochside, Philipshill Road, East Kilbride, Glasgow G76 9HR
When: 7-8 December, 11am-4pm.
Need to know: Activities free with admission, family ticket £28.90.

Elf yourself
What: This Christmas at W5, try your hand at becoming one of Santa’s little helpers as you enrol in Elf Academy! Compete in fun games and activities to earn your very own elf hat in this new live show featuring animation, adventure, robots and plenty of Christmas magic. Afterwards, you’ll be able to scale the festive-themed climbing frame, take part in a (warm and dry) indoor snowball fight, have a go at a game of curling, discover the secrets of Santa at the Science Bar, and much more.
Where: W5, The Odyssey, 2 Queens Quay, Belfast BT3 9QQ
When: 30 November-23 December, 10am-4pm (weekdays), 10am-6pm (Friday-Sunday, plus 16-23 December), 10am-8pm (18 and 19 December). Dates and times for activities vary.
Need to know: Most activities free with admission. Family ticket £31. Live show, £10 extra per child (includes gift), £5 per adult.

Christmas past
What: Enjoy some time-honoured traditions at the Ulster Folk Museum, as you stroll through the cobblestone streets enjoying the sights, sounds and smells of Christmases long ago with traditional decorations hanging from the houses, oil lamps lighting up the night, and the scent of peat fires and cinnamon toast filling the air. You can listen to Christmas-themed crafting and storytelling, catch seasonal tunes from the carol singers, traditional musicians and a brass band before wrapping the evening up with some delicious festive fare.
Where: Ulster Folk Museum, 153 Bangor Road, Cultra, Holywood, BT18 0EU
When: Weekends, 30 November-22 December, 11am-4pm, except 20 December, 10am-4pm.
Need to know: Events free with admission. Family ticket, £38.

Sounds familiar
What: Celebrate the season with some classical Christmas music courtesy of Ulster Orchestra! This family-friendly concert will help you forget your present-wrapping stresses and strains and ease you into the festive spirit with a programme of seasonal numbers including White Christmas, Let it Snow, and many more.
Where: Waterfront Hall, 2 Lanyon Place, Belfast BT1 3WH and the Millennium Forum, 3 Newmarket St, Derry/Londonderry BT48 6EB
When: 17 December, Belfast Waterfront Hall, 7.45pm. 18 December, Millennium Forum, 8pm.
Need to know: Tickets from £28 adult, £10 child (Waterfront Hall, £3 booking fee per order) or £18 per person (Millennium Forum).

Count the days
What: Enjoy a festive walk through the gardens of Hillsborough Castle as they are transformed by dazzling decorations inspired by the 12 Days of Christmas. Go for a winter wander as you hunt for the 12 different displays and keep an eye out for a few surprises including a swimming polar bear and giant Advent calendar. Afterwards, get creative and have a go at sculpting your own clay baubles or crafting your own sweet treats with the help of an expert chocolatier.      
Where: Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, The Square, Hillsborough BT26 6GT
When: 23-24 and 27-30 November, 4-8, 11-15, 18-23 and 27-31 December, 1-5 January, 10am-4pm.
Need to know: Events free with Gardens entry ticket, adult £10, child, £5.

Glorious Glenarm
What: Come along to Glenarm Castle as it hosts its annual Christmas extravaganza, where Santa and his elves are hard at work to prepare for their busiest night of the year. Hop on board the Polar Express land train and journey to Santa’s workshop, passing by a special nativity scene featuring real farmyard animals along the way. Then, you’ll be able to decorate some tasty gingerbread biscuits and enjoy storytelling with Mrs Claus before seeing Santa and picking up your present.
Where: Glenarm Castle, 2 Castle Lane, Glenarm, Ballymena BT44 0BQ
When: 2-5, 9-10 and 12-13 December, 7.45pm and 8pm.
Need to know: Tickets, £30.45 child, £25.25 adult, includes booking fee.