Britain's festive experiences
Get stuck into the festive season with Christmas experiences in Britain that are set to up the jolly antics. Pop on your skates for a glide at an ice rink or discover a hidden world of Christmassy grottos. Take a wintery walk through illuminated woodland trails and marvel at the Christmas Lights in London. Visit all-out Christmas displays across the UK and head Christmas shopping at Selfridges and Fortnum and Mason. There’s no better place to be than Britain for atmospheric Christmas experiences in 2024.
Christmas trees and carols in Trafalgar Square
London’s main Christmas tree stands in Trafalgar Square, and has a charming history. It’s presented as a gift each year by the Norwegian city of Oslo in return for British support during the Second World War and has appeared in the square every year since 1947. It’s absolutely enormous and is something of a Christmas focal point just next to London’s shopping centres. On the first Thursday in December there’s a grand tree lighting ceremony which is extremely popular. This is the place to come to hear traditional Christmas carols, which are often sung by choirs gathered around the tree itself.
A Narnia Christmas at Leeds Castle
Step into the magical winter wonderland of Narnia as C.S Lewis’ fictional “The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe” comes to life this Christmas. Push your way through the magical wardrobe to begin your very own Narnia adventure. Meet the book’s beloved characters and explore the snowy woodland, all without even leaving the castle walls! Have a go on the White Witch’s sleigh and look out for Father Christmas.
London's Christmas Lights
From Covent Garden to Kew, Carnaby Street to Oxford Street and more, London’s Christmas lights are world famous. Embrace the spirit of Christmas as you walk through spectacular Christmas light displays in the city from November through to early New Year.
Christmas at Hampton Court Palace
Imagine yourself putting on your skates and gliding around outside one of London’s most iconic Tudor buildings. This winter, see the former home of King Henry VIII transform into a wintery wonderland of colourful lights, and icy adventure as you take to the Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink. For an indulgent Christmas treat, kick back and relax at the on-site café and bar, whether it’s a warming sweet hot chocolate or a cheeky tipple of mulled wine it’s sure to bring the festive spirit out in you.
Christmas experiences in Britain
Immerse yourself in British Christmas Experiences
Brigit’s Christmas Afternoon Tea Bus Tour, London
Think decadent lady fingers, delightful sweet treats and classic British Scones as you dine in Christmassy style and see the iconic sites of Britain’s capital. Guided by your trustee bus driver, you’ll be tucking into Britain’s best flavours as you take Christmas afternoon tea to new levels.
Advent and Christmas at St Paul’s Cathedral, London
Celebrate Advent and Christmas with traditional church services at St Paul’s Cathedral, including Family Carols, A Celebration of Christmas and Midnight Mass services. All are welcome to experience the Christmas spirit at this iconic location through concerts and services.
Glasgow festive silent disco, Scotland
Throw your best shapes and sing to your hearts content on this festive themed silent disco trot through Glasgow. Whether you’re blasting out the tunes of Christmas classics, or festive pop anthems you’re sure to dance, strut and sing around the city on this adventure.
The Great Christmas Feast, London
For Christmas with a twist, sample The Great Christmas Feast, a festive experience which takes visitors back to Victorian London and the home of Charles Dickens, where feasting is woven into a magical retelling of A Christmas Carol.
Winter Funland Manchester
Expect an all-out festive spectacle to hit up Manchester this winter. From 17 December 2023 to 1 January 2024, step into Winter Funland Manchester at Trafford Park for an indoor carnival full of adrenaline fuelled funfair rides, a circus run by elves, ice-skating and plenty of festive fayre.
Winter Funland Birmingham
The Midlands comes alive from 9 December 2023 to 1 January 2024 with festive cheer and a whole host of Christmassy entertainment. Head to the NEC Arena for Winter Funland Birmingham. Spy Santa in his grotto, watch acrobats fly through the sky at the circus, and put your driving skills to the test with dodgems!
Hallé Christmas Concerts, Manchester
The sounds of winter come to Bridgewater Hall from 3 December 2023 to 6 January 2024, with Christmas Concerts set to bring the festive spirit. From the sounds of the Hallé Christmas Family Concert, Hallé Christmas Cracker, Hallé Carol Concerts and the iconic story of The Snowman, let the sounds fill the hall as the season sets in Manchester.
Llandudno Christmas Extravaganza, Wales
With live music, food, drinks, stalls selling gifts, a funfair and more, Llandudno’s Christmas Extraviganza is bringing all the festive joy. From 16 to 19 November 2023, enjoy the Oompah band and other live entertainment, and look out for Mr and Mrs Clause! For something extra special, book a dining igloo complete with twinkling fairly lights.
Leeds Playhouse Christmas shows, Leeds
Look out for productions throughout winter for theatrical entertainment At Leeds Playhouse. Two family-friendly theatre stand-outs include Oliver! and Roald Dahl’s The Enormous Crocodile. Adults might enjoy the slightly more raucous ‘Santa Must Die’, a story about how Christmas can be all work and no play.
Glide, Battersea Power Station, London
Spin round the ice at one of London’s most iconic sites from 10 November 2023 to 7 January 2024. With Battersea Power Station as your backdrop, you’re sure to get into the festive spirit at Glide. Choose to skate over three interconnecting rinks, or for a warming treat head to the cabin for mulled wine, or pick up the adrenaline at the vintage fun fair.
Other festive events in the UK to book now
London by Night with Christmas Lights Tour
Feel the magic of Christmas invading London’s most famous landmarks and see how the skyline shines against the dark wintery sky on this night time tour.
Illuminations of London on Christmas Eve Tour
Kickstart your festive celebrations with an unforgettable journey through the enchanting beauty of the city with a tour of London that will leave you spellbound.
Canterbury, Dover and Greenwich Tour with Christmas Lunch
Discover the enchantment of a Canterbury, Dover and Greenwich on this tour with a delightful traditional Christmas lunch.
Salisbury, Stonehenge and Windsor Tour with Christmas Lunch
Embark on a one-of-a-kind holiday adventure with this Salisbury, Stonehenge, Bath and Windsor tour, enhanced by a heart-warming traditional Christmas lunch.
Christmas Eve in London Tour with Dinner and Midnight Mass
Indulge in a festive dinner at a top London restaurant, followed by a memorable midnight Mass service in a historic church on this Christmas Eve London tour.
Oxford, Cotswolds and Stratford-upon-Avon Tour with Christmas Lunch
Indulge in a sumptuous Christmas lunch while immersing yourself in the rich history and picturesque landscapes of iconic English destinations on this festive tour.
Discover more festive experiences at the VisitBritain Shop
Get in the festive mood and book tickets for the best Christmas things to do in London and the UK. Enjoy spellbinding family shows like Disney’s Frozen, Elf and The Snowman. Experience the magic of a London Christmas lights tour. Or treat yourself to a luxurious Christmas lunch with a visit to some of the most enchanting destinations in England. Experience Britain as it comes alive this Christmas.
Get in the festive mood and book tickets for the best Christmas things to do in London and the UK. Enjoy spellbinding family shows like Disney’s Frozen, Elf and The Snowman. Experience the magic of a London Christmas lights tour. Or treat yourself to a luxurious Christmas lunch with a visit to some of the most enchanting destinations in England. Experience Britain as it comes alive this Christmas.
