Your children have handed over their Christmas thank-you teacher gifts and left the school gates for the festivities – now it’s time to build magical memories with these events to thrill the whole family.
English National Ballet’s Nutcracker
London Coliseum; until 11 January 2026
A feast for the senses, this acclaimed production by English National Ballet will delight ballet fans old and new. Set to Tchaikovsky’s sweeping score, follow Clara on a journey full of delight as she battles the Rat King and pirouettes with the Sugar Plum Fairy in the towering Land of Sweets. Injecting fresh vibrancy into an age-old Christmas classic, the production boasts over 100 dancers and musicians, for a festive family tradition in the making. www.ballet.org.uk/nutcracker
Christmas at The Eden Project
Cornwall; until 4 January 2026
A botanical extravaganza to excite everyone in your family, visitors flood to The Eden Project each year to witness enormous glowing bauble biomes and twinkling installations woven throughout Cornwall’s famed gardens. Guests can also help Father Christmas prepare for the big day in an all-new interactive theatrical experience, glide across the fabulous undercover ice rink, or feast on a festive three-course lunch in the iconic Mediterranean biome for yuletide plant perfection. www.edenproject.com
Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol A Ghost Story
Alexandra Palace, London; until 4 January 2026
Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without watching at least one version of Charles Dickens’ beloved tale – but Mark Gatiss’ adaption is a high-end way to introduce your family to Dickensian delight. Perfectly complemented by the faded grandeur of Alexandra Palace, the production stars Neil Morrissey as Jacob Marley, and Matthew Cottle as Scrooge. Expect spine-tingling atmospheric effects aplenty. Nothing about your experience will be bar humbug. www.christmascarolonstage.co.uk
A Magical Night Before Christmas
Belvoir Castle, Leicestershire; until 30 December 2025
The Crown was filmed within this opulent castle, and, for a few weeks only, the home of the Duke and Duchess of Rutland is opening its doors after a two year hiatus. Dressed in all its Regency festive finery, highlights include a 20-foot tall Wishing Tree, carols sung in The Ballroom, and a charming family trail searching for mischievous Christmas mice. Want to extend your visit? Make a stop at the beautiful Santa’s grotto. Or for those seeking a gourmet treat, book a sumptuous Christmas Afternoon Tea, served with sparkling wine from the Estate’s own vineyard. www.belvoircastle.com/christmas
Disney On Ice Find Your Hero
Manchester, Sheffield and London; until 4 January 2026
Nothing thrills a Disney fan like a trip to this ever-popular experience, and your little Prince and Princesses will rejoice at the sight of their favourite characters swirling around the ice. Take a spellbinding adventure with Stitch, Belle, Mickey, and Minnie to discover what it truly means to be a hero. Expect to see over 200 jaw-dropping costumes and the kind of world-class skating that would impress even Elsa herself. www.disneyonice.com
Lap of Lights
Silverstone, Northamptonshire; until 3 January 2026
Bringing new meaning to the word Lapland, head to the home of British motorsport for one of the world’s longest light trails. F1 enthusiasts can follow the tyre tracks of legends as you drive your own car around this iconic circuit enjoying a journey of light and sound. And when the lap is done? Pay a visit to Santa’s Garage, created in partnership with Lego, to meet Santa and his elf technicians, or take to the ice in the world-famous garages used by F1 teams. There’s also Silverstone Museum to explore and lots of tempting food and drink options when you need to refuel. www.silverstone.co.uk/events/lap-of-lights
Christmas at Kew Gardens
Richmond; until 4 January 2026
Finally, as one of the UK’s most acclaimed illumination trails, Christmas at Kew is an annual must-visit. Offering foliage-filled festivities for young and old, visitors can take in brand new installations, shop for Christmas gifts, and see the glittering night-time treetops atop the newly added Big Wheel in the family fairground. The Pavilion Restaurant is also hosting diners for a decadent Christmas menu to ensure everyone leaves with a full stomach and a full heart. www.christmasatkew.seetickets.com
