Winter Wonderlands: Discover family-friendly festive trails and markets

The most wonderful time of the year is almost upon us. Twinkling fairy lights wrapped around enormous snow-capped evergreens, stockings crammed with presents, lashings of delicious Turkey and the eternal magic of old Sanit Nic are just some of the many exciting things which lie in wait for us all over the coming months. 

As the long, cold nights draw in through November and December, cities across the UK begin transforming into places of enchantment, as people head out in search of merriment at Yuletide attractions and events. And there are plenty of them to be experienced in 2022. 

From dazzling light trails on the grounds of some of Britain's best-loved parks and Noel-inspired markets to immersive re-enactments of some of our favourite Christmas tales, check out our list of the finest winter wonderland experiences on offer in Britain over the festive season. 

 

(Click or tap on the event titles or images below for more details)

 

 

Christmas Trail at Kingston Lacy 

When: Sunday 18th - Saturday 24th December 2022

Where: Kingston Lacy in Wimborne

The scenic market town of Wimborne plays host to a Christmas spectacular this December, as the National Trust's Kingston Lacy becomes illuminated with thousands of Christmas light installations. 

Round up your nearest and dearest, wrap up in your warmest attire and head to the site of this stunning country mansion. Walk through mesmerising light tunnels and pass underneath giant glittering baubles whilst seasonal sounds and Christmas classics fill the cold winter air.

 

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A Winters Trail at the Palm House

When: Friday 9th - Thursday 22nd December 2022

Where: Palm House, Sefton Park in Liverpool 

Join award-winning event experts, Area 51 Design and XtraHumongous events this Christmas for a captivating journey through one of the nation's most beloved Yuletide tales, A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens.

Taking place at Liverpool’s Sefton Park Palm House, the half-hour experience sees guests encountering an array of well-known characters from the enduring short novel amid some wonderful scenery. Theatrical performances combine with a stunning Victorian location to produce what is without question one of the most unique days out you can spend with your family this Christmas.

 

Find tickets for A Winters Trail at the Palm House - Here

 

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Christmas at Gibside Estate 

 

When: Wednesday 14th - Wednesday 28th December 2022

Where: Gibside National Trust Property in Gateshead 

The Georgian gardens of Gibside estate, in the North East of England, will mimic the magic of the North Pole next month, as the centuries-old grounds turn into a dazzling venue filled with festive colours and lights. 

On top of an assortment of captivating features, the trail will also reserve a special spot for a very special guest. Taking time off from his incredibly busy schedule, Father Christmas has confirmed he will make an appearance at Gibside this year. 

Make this Christmas an especially memorable one by visiting the Gibside Estate with your family this December.

  

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Christmas at Dunham Massey

When: Sunday 4th - Sunday 18th December 2022

Where: Dunham Massey in Manchester

Two enormous reindeer adorning coats of sparkling lights will welcome you and your family to Dunham Massey over the coming festive period.

Enter past the watchful eyes of the towering installations before coming upon the striking and historic manor house, flooded with light and colourful projections. Wander across the expansive site bordered by vast woodland, exploring the mesmerising trails to the sound of your favourite Christmas classics, hand in hand with your closest loved ones. Spoil yourselves with a hot chocolate and keep a keen eye out for the real reindeer that call Dunham Massey home. 

 

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Christmas lights at Roundhay Park

When: Thursday 8th - Thursday 22nd December 2022

Where: Roundhay Park in Leeds

A handpicked selection of international artists have been commissioned to create this year's Christmas lights trail at Leeds' Roundhay Park. Choreographed to an uplifting seasonal soundtrack, each installation - from the flickering fire garden to the whimsical wild wicker sculptures - will dance around as if alive, right before your very eyes. 

Walk under the stars around this picture-perfect venue and don't pass up on the opportunity to enjoy some of the many tasty treats on offer, including traditional fire-toasted marshmallows.

 

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Blenheim Palace Christmas Market

When: Friday 18th November - Friday 2nd December 2022

Where: Blenheim Palace in Woodstock

Oxfordshire's 300-year-old Blenheim Palace, home to the Dukes of Marlborough, will host a Christmas Market with a difference through November and December this year.  

Supplying Yuletide spirit in the plenty, the grounds of the stunning country house will see traditional alpine chalets erected to showcase a fantastic range of festive treats from local craftsmen and women, artisan food producers, and boozy drink manufacturers. With treats also available for the younger members of your family, this free-to-enter market is one you can't afford to miss out on, should you live nearby.

Make this Christmas one to remember at Blenheim Palace.

 

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Whatton House - Christmas 2022 - A Yuletide Trail

When: Friday 2nd - Saturday 24th December 2022

Where: Whatton House in Loughborough

Whatton House is set to offer guests a brand-new and immersive Christmas experience this festive season.

Taking place through the final month of the year, 'A Yuletide Tale' will take attendees on a journey through 'myth and mystery to unearth the origins of Midwinter Magic'. The enchanting story will introduce you and your family to a whole host of eccentric characters, from the mischievous Lord of Misrule and Krampus, the legendary alpine Christmas beast, to Frau Holda and Le Befana, the witches of Winter. 

Don't miss your chance to witness a festive experience like no other in the UK this year. Tickets are now on sale at the link below...

 

Buy tickets:

 

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Christmas at Delemere Forest

When: Friday 25th November - Friday 9th December 2022

Where: Delamere Forest in Northwich

Looking to create lifelong memories with your family this Christmas? Then Delamere Forest should be at the very top of your list of places to visit, this coming festive season. 

Venture deep into the ancient woodland and marvel at the glowing branches of its many time-hallowed trees, decorated with thousands of twinkling fairy lights. Discover the mystical fire gardens and enjoy a winter-warming beverage along the way. Keep a watch out for an appearance from a certain bearded man dressed in red, and seek a thrilling experience on a whirlwind fairground attraction. 

Designed with all ages in mind, Christmas at Delamere Forest is a truly unmissable Christmas event. Grab your tickets now below...

 

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Check out our What's On Guide to discover rowdy raves and sweaty gigs taking place over the coming weeks and months. For festivals, lifestyle, and more family-friendly Christmas events, head on over to our Things To Do page or be inspired by the event selections on our Inspire Me page.