26 Most Wonderful Christmas Days Out in England for 2023

Looking for the best UK Christmas days out 2023 has to offer? Well, here you go. We need to make the most of the rest of this year, so get yourself booked in to these fab Christmas events ASAP!

It’s the MOST WONDERFUL time of the year! Whether you celebrate Christmas or not, ‘Tis the season to be Jolly! (okay no more puns or songs) I believe you get the point, Christmas is dreamy and an almost surreal time of festivities that you don’t really get to experience at any other time in the year.

Christmas is the perfect opportunity to cosy up with loved ones and friends relaxing with mulled wine and movies. Or enjoy all the long weekend breaks that take us up to the New Year just the way you’d been hoping to all year long.

You need to get planning your Christmas days out 2023 now!

You may dream about having the ideal Christmas in a European fairytale land with snow-capped mountains, frost-covered trees, twinkling lights, and snow that comes up to your knees. But don’t forget about the treasures we have here at home. We have some great Christmas days out to choose from. Days out at Christmas are some of the best there is.

There are plenty of incredible Christmas getaway options and activities right here in the UK for adults, children, and for the whole family to enjoy together. Here’s our list of only 11 and in no particular order, as we want to gift you with the decision, there’s bound to be at least one suggestion you’d love. These are the best days out in December money can buy.

Best Christmas Days Out in England

Here are the best days out for Christmas across England. If you’re looking for xmas days out inspiration, then read on. These are the best UK Christmas events 2023 has to offer.

1. Christmas in Bath, Somerset

All year round, Bath is an extra special English location for a romantic weekend getaway, but during Christmas, this picturesque Georgian town transforms into the perfect novel kind of Christmas scene. The Bath Christmas market is famous for having almost 200 light-strewn wooden chalets dotted around the iconic Roman Baths and the Abbey.

It’s one of the best Christmas markets in England – but all of them make for a great Christmas day out!

You’re sure to find all sorts of unique ceramics, glassware, clothing items, and presents you can get personalised then and there, as well as plenty of food and drink for sale. You can then head out on the Christmas Tree Carol Trail to spot the 10 trees each decorated in a unique musical theme.

Bath is a great day out anytime of year, but at Christmas, it’s that little bit extra special!

You can find more great days out in Somerset for Christmas here.

2. LEGOLAND at Christmas 

Your children are sure to enjoy the magical experience of LEGOLAND® at Christmas this festive season.

There’ll be special twinkling lights on all the attractions, snow-dusted pine trees, exciting seasonal festivities and you can even opt to Sleepover at the resort where you’ll stay in a themed family room with extra festive entertainment another bonus is that all guests staying before Christmas will receive a personalised letter and LEGO gift from Santa!

LEGOLAND is one of the best Christmas days out for kids. All the fun starts on the 25th November. If you want some more inspiration, check out our list of the best days out for toddlers, and the best days out for babies too.

DO YOU WANT TO SEE SANTA?

Here are the best Santa experiences in England for you to enjoy this winter – some of the best Christmas activities 2023 has!

3. Christmas at Warwick Castle

Warwick Castle has got loads going on this year for a fun and festive day out for all the family. There’s a light trail, the ice rink is back, and you can join in with stories with Santa too. There’s also a festive market for you to pick up that all important mulled wine.

You can book your Midlands Christmas day out at Warwick Castle here. Ticket prices start at £16, rising to £23.50 if you want to include a visit to Santa in your trip.

• Come inside and enjoy the castle at Christmas
• Includes access to daily shows & attractions
• Pre-book online to guarantee entry
• Book with Confidence Guarantee

BOOK YOUR TICKETS TO WARWICK CASTLE BEFORE YOU GO TO SAVE TIME & MONEY

You could also do a Santa Sleepover this Christmas at Warwick Castle! How amazing does this sound? It’s one of the best days out in November and one of the best Christmas things to do in the country.

4. Christmas in York, Yorkshire

York’s Christmas festival draws more people every year with its spectacular shows and ice sculptures. You won’t be able to help but feel the Christmas spirit in the air as you browse the St. Nicholas fair and if you’re not one for crowds and the cold outdoors, you can escape to Castle Howard – a historic country house just outside York – and take a tour.

The traditional decorations look like they came straight out of a fairytale.

York is one of the best English cities for Christmas magic and one of the best festive days out in Yorkshire.

Definitely one of the best UK Christmas events 2023 has to offer!

5. Christmas at Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park, London

Yes! The ultimate Christmas destination in London is BACK and BIGGER!

Located in the heart of London in Hyde Park, lasting six weeks from 17th November 2023 to 1st January 2024. There’s a real buzz about celebrating the festive season at Winter Wonderland Hyde Park, there’ll be a wide variety of rides, attractions, entertainment, food, drinks and so much more. It’s one of the most popular Christmas activities 2023 has for us.

This year you’ll have to book your tickets in advance online to keep everyone safe and once you’re inside the event, you can stay for as long as you like.

It’s been suggested that if you’re visiting as a family day out then mornings will be a great time where you can enjoy winter wonderland at a leisurely pace. When the evening rolls around, the park will be transformed by thousands of sparkling lights and exhilarating festive fun.

Winter Wonderland is one of Christmas’ best days out in England – there’s just so much going on. Winter Wonderland is a great day out in winter.

6. Christmas at Alton Towers

Christmas at Alton Towers is a festive delight, drawing visitors to the famed theme park set in the Staffordshire countryside. During the holiday season, the resort is transformed into a winter wonderland, with a sprinkle of enchanting magic at every corner.

Towering Christmas trees adorned with shimmering lights greet guests, while melodious carolers and jolly tunes set a festive mood. Selected rides operate with a festive twist, allowing visitors both thrilling experiences and yuletide joy. The highlight is Santa’s enchanted grotto, where children get a chance to meet Santa and his elves, making memories that last a lifetime at this unique holiday destination.

Book your Christmas at Alton Towers tickets now!

7. Christmas day out at Cadbury World

Christmas at Cadbury World is a chocolatey affair that combines the festive spirit with the deliciousness of Cadbury chocolates. It’s a great Christmas thing to do if you have a sweet tooth!

Nestled in Birmingham, this popular Midlands attraction turns into a sweet wonderland during the holidays. Visitors are welcomed by glittering decorations and the delightful aroma of chocolate in the air. Festive shows and interactive storytelling sessions captivate the young and the young-at-heart.

Santa’s grotto is a special highlight, where children can meet Father Christmas and even receive a Cadbury gift. The joy of watching chocolatiers craft seasonal treats and the chance to indulge in festive-themed chocolates make Christmas at Cadbury World a mouthwatering, memorable experience. Book your Christmas at Cadbury World tickets now!

8. Festive day out in the New Forest

Visit the New Forest for one of the best days out in Hampshire. And for a Christmas day out, that soft covering of frost on the ground makes it even more special. You could spend the morning walking in the forest deer spotting with the Deer Spotting Walk Routes Map from the Forestry Commission, England.

And then your afternoon looking around the New Forest villages and getting toasty by a crackling fire at a New Forest pub. You could also meet Santa on a canoe in the New Forest – find out more in our article on the best Christmas days out in Hampshire.

On a frosty day, the New Forest is a magical place to visit at Christmas.

9. Xmas day out at Blenheim Palace and Oxford

Christmas at Blenheim Palace is all kinds of magical. The whole palace is specially decorated and there are themed experiences throughout. There’s also a Christmas market to enjoy, and the whole atmosphere is just amazing. The experience makes for a great Christmas day out for all the family.

If you want to read more about Christmas at Blenheim Palace, click here for our editor’s review of her trip there in Christmas 2022.

Immerse yourself in the history of English academia in Oxford this Christmas. Touring the grounds of the university at any time of the year is a truly special experience, but Oxford possesses an extra bit of magic during the Christmas holidays. The city’s historic Broad Street is livened up by the annual Christmas market with over 60 stalls selling gifts and food, and local live entertainment.

For more days out at Christmas in Oxfordshire, click here. The holiday season is such an enchanting time for planning one night breaks, you could make this trip into two days and check out Oxford Christmas Market, too.

READ MORE: The BIG Kids Christmas Quiz

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10. Christmas day out at Disney’s FROZEN The Musical

The beloved animated film that always gives its audience chills, both children and adults alike –has now come to London’s West End. For the first time in forever, the Theatre Royal Drury Lane has reopened its doors, bringing Elsa and Anna’s story to the stage in a magical and heart-melting theatrical production.

With jaw-dropping scenery, special effects, and all the English Christmas songs you know and love, you’re sure to have an incredible experience that will stay with you long after the curtain falls if you decide to watch the musical this Christmas. 

London is always a fun day out at Christmas, but add the Frozen musical to the mix and you’ll have a super special festive day out to enjoy with family, or friends. This is one of the biggest Christmas days out in the UK, especially if you combine it with Winter Wonderland too.

11. Christmas at Chatsworth and Bakewell, Derbyshire

Chatsworth House is one of the absolute highlights of the Peak District, and makes for a great Christmas day out in the Midlands. It’s one of the top Christmas attractions in the UK.

If you’re wondering if the infamous pudding ‘Bakewell Tart’ is named after this place then we’re pleased to inform you, you’re correct and it’s safe to say they know a thing or two about Christmas cheer. In Bakewell, there are pubs and tea rooms almost around every corner, and if you’re counting calories the Peak District is right at its doorstep where you can walk it all off on a nature trail or hike.

If you want a low-key day out the town hosts candlelit tours of Haddon Hall, a romantic medieval manor house that has featured in several period films such as Pride & Prejudice and Elizabeth.

You can read our readers’ tried and tested review of Chatsworth at Christmas here.

12. Christmas at Longleat Safari Park

Christmas at Longleat Safari Park is a jolly jungle jamboree!

Where else can you see a lion wearing a Santa hat or a monkey unwrapping presents?

I mean, that’s obviously not true, but you never know what you will see!

The Festival of Light at Longleat Safari Park is one of the best Christmas activities of 2023. This year it’s based around The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.

“This year’s event is brimming with festive treats – from firm favourites like our incredible 15-metre Enchanted Christmas Tree show and beloved Santa Train, to a spectacular fountain display on Half Mile Pond. Longleat House will be even more luminous, with a phenomenal light show bringing its historic facade to life.”

– Longleat Safari Park

13. Christmas day out in Chipping Campden, Gloucestershire

If there ever was a place created with Christmas in mind, the Cotswolds would be it and Chipping Camden would be its star attraction. An Enchanted Christmas festival fully sets the tone for the rest of the Winter festivities.

Father Christmas parades the town and is preceded by a traditional brass band which is a breath-taking sight to behold. Then local traders really go to town turning the picture-postcard high street into a scene straight out of a Charles Dickens novel.

It’s one of the best days out in the Cotswolds – there are always loads of Christmas events there, so maybe go all out and book in a weekend!

14. Christmas days out in Newquay, Cornwall

Fancy a coastal vibe this Christmas?

Look no further than Newquay. It’s one of the best Christmas places to visit.

It’s Cornwall we’re talking about and who doesn’t like Cornwall?

It may be crowded in the summer but in the winter it’s the perfect break from the crowds, for those seeking to curl up by a fire while being serenaded by the sound of crashing waves. 

Bundle up and stroll along Fistral Beach before taking in a stunning sunset over the rugged cliffs. It’s ideal for families too, you could visit Newquay Zoo – an aminal lovers dream. With dozens of different animals across 13 acres – you’re in for a really wild time. Here are a few more ideas on how to spend a great day out in Newquay for your Christmas activities 2023.

15. Christmas day out in Rochester, Kent 

‘A Christmas Carol’ is still to this day one of the most loved Christmas stories of all time, and with Rochester being the final resting place of Charles Dickens, the city truly honours him in the form of a festival with all the bells and whistles.

Its dramatic cathedral, castle, and medieval architecture become the perfect backdrop for the Charles Dickens Christmas festival, which sets the tone for a magical season. Even the streets come alive with performers, markets, pantomimes, and artificial snow. The overall effect turns the clocks back two hundred years during the festive season, bringing the world of England’s most loved author back to life for a spell.

Rochester is one of the best days out in Kent year round, but at Christmas, it’s that little bit extra special.

16. Christmas with Peppa Pig at a theme park

Paulton’s Park is one of the most popular theme parks in the UK, and a definite winner with the kids. Running from the 2nd to 23^rd December 2023, the entire Peppa Pig World will be decorated for Christmas, right down to characters sporting their favourite holiday outfits. There’s even Santa’s Christmas Wish Show, starring the main man himself!

The best part is, all of the special Christmas extras are included in the price of a standard Paulton’s ticket. If you’re looking for Christmas events for kids near you, this is the one!

17. Christmas days out in Birmingham, West Midlands

Birmingham has become England’s second most populous city for a good reason and it could be the ideal spot for you to get your Christmas fix this year. 

If you enjoy authentic German Christmas markets then Birmingham is perfect for you. It hosts the largest Christmas market outside of Germany and Austria, attracting over 5 million visitors. If you’re visiting with children you have to stop by Santa’s Winter Wonderland at SnowDome.

England’s cities are always one of the best things to do at Christmas, and Birmingham is one of the most fun out there. There are also some great days out from Birmingham you can try too.

18. UK Christmas days out on trains

Amerton Railway (Staffordshire) are hosting their Santa Specials again this year, as is Dartmouth Steam Railway’s Train of Lights in Devon, and North York Moors Railway’s Santa Specials. Check out your local train station to see what Santa specials are available near you!

For a classic UK Christmas day out, a Santa Special train ride is always a good idea. If you’re visiting the Isle of Wight for Christmas for example, you could join a Santa’s Special train ride at Havenstreet Station for a fun Xmas day out.

19. Your local Christmas day out

Fancy staying local for Christmas? We’ve written these great Christmas day out guides to some of the top counties. Don’t be offended if yours isn’t there though!

Here are some of the best Christmas events 2023 has to offer.

• The Best Days Out for Christmas in Somerset
• The Best Days Out for Christmas in Oxfordshire
• The Best Days Out for Christmas in Northumberland
• The Best Days Out for Christmas in Sussex
• The Best Days Out for Christmas on the Isle of Wight
• The Best Days Out for Christmas in Devon
• The Best Days Out for Christmas in Yorkshire
• The Best Days Out for Christmas in Cotswolds
• The Best Days Out for Christmas in Hampshire
• The Best Days Out for Christmas in The Midlands

20. Christmas Carols on the River in Cambridgeshire

Christmas is the time that we come together and enjoy the festivities with our loved ones. To honour the spirit of Christmas, each year the Traditional Punting Company embrace the festive period with a music charity event for all to enjoy. Carols on the River is a great way to get into the Christmas spirit in the run up to the big day.

Wrap up warm, snuggle under a blanket, and have a hot chocolate in hand, while St John the Evangelist choir serenade you with carols whilst you are effortlessly punted along the College Backs. This Punting in Cambridge experience will be one to remember this joyous season. Feel free to sing along!

Join them for an hour long chauffeured punting experience along the river Cam for ‘the best of the year.

– 100% of ticket sales will be donated to Cambridge Aid to help local people in crisis.

If you can’t make the date check out the details for the Christmas Punt and Hunt. Your family can have a magical experience in the beautiful city of Cambridge hunting for Santa’s elves, reindeer, dinky door’s and so much more with a festive punt and hunt experience. Join a top-rated chauffeured punting tour with a joyful twist as you find the answers for a sweet surprise. Then take to the cobbled streets to walk the path of Santa and his elves in the run up to the big day itself. It is a christmassy activity like no other which the whole family can be a part of.’

This festive experience runs throughout the advent calendar up until Christmas Day and can be included as part of a shared or private chauffeured punt tour.

21. Christmas day out in Brighton by the sea

If you want some fresh air in your lungs this festive period – how about spending a day out at Christmas in Brighton? There’s the Christmas Festival, pantomimes, the ice rink at the Pavilion, and you can even meet Santa up the i360. Also, you’ve got the wonderfully wild beach, and all the foodie options Brighton is so well known for too.

Check out our guide to all the best things to do in Brighton for Christmas here.

22. 2023 Christmas at Kew Gardens

Definitely one of the best things to do at Christmas 2023, Kew Gardens is a magical experience that has become a beloved holiday tradition in England.

As dusk falls, the famous botanical gardens are transformed into an enchanted winter wonderland, illuminated by over a million twinkling lights. Visitors can stroll along a trail adorned with mesmerising light installations, glowing lanterns, and animated projections that bring the garden’s trees and plants to life.

The reflections on the lake amplify the ethereal atmosphere, while the scent of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts fills the air. Carol singers and festive music heighten the spirit of the season, making Christmas at Kew an unforgettable festive outing for all ages.

Dates for this 2023 Christmas activity are 15 November 2023 to 7th January 2024.

23. Hogwarts in the Snow

Christmas at Hogwarts is pure magical mayhem!

The Great Hall’s ceiling blankets itself with snow, ghostly carolers float by – occasionally going flat (looking at you, Nearly Headless Nick!) – while bewitched trees dance merrily.

Visit Hogwarts in the Snow and you’ll see the school bedecked in the gold decorations from Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.

From the Gryffindor Boys’ Dormitory to the Gryffindor and Slytherin common rooms, discover how these sets were dressed for Christmas scenes in the film series. You’ll have the chance to spot authentic decorations and Christmas cards made by the crew during filming!

Step into the Forbidden Forest, where the woodlands will be covered in snow, or stroll down Diagon Alley with its snowy shop fronts and cobbled stones. Stop by the Christmas shop which has returned this year to provide you with a premium and exclusive selection of Christmas gifts, souvenirs, and stocking fillers. It’s a great time to enjoy one of the best 2023 Christmas activities there is.

24. SEALIFE Centre

If the weather outside is frightful, and you’re looking for somewhere delightful – how about one of the amazing SEALIFE Centres dotted around England?

Each SEALIFE Centre is different so you’ll have to check your local listing for the best things to do at Christmas when it comes to marine life but here are the links to make it that bit easier for you.

• Sea Life Brighton
• National Sea Life Centre, Birmingham
• Weymouth Sea Life Adventure Park
• Sea Life London Aquarium
• Sea Life Manchester
• Sea Life Scarborough 
• Sea Life Great Yarmouth
• Sea Life Blackpool

25. Best day ‘IN’ (Bonus Suggestion)

If you’re staying in more than going out this Christmas, you could also have a go at our Christmas dinner quiz, our England Christmas quiz and all our other England quizzes too – lots to choose from!

Christmas in the Lake District anyone?

Best Christmas days out for 2023

Which one of these Christmas days out are you most tempted to visit after going through our list? Are you planning to take on the challenge of visiting them all? Hope you’ve enjoyed all these Christmas events for 2023.

However you decide to celebrate the festive season this year we wish you a very merry Christmas with lots of fun and a happy and safe new year. Enjoy your 2023 days out at Christmas!

Best days out for Christmas 2023

• 1. Christmas in Bath, Somerset
• 2. LEGOLAND at Christmas 
• 3. Christmas in York, Yorkshire
• 4. Christmas at Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park, London
• 5. Festive day out in the New Forest
• 6. Xmas day out at Blenheim Palace and Oxford
• 7. Christmas day out at Disney’s FROZEN The Musical
• 8. Christmas at Chatsworth and Bakewell, Derbyshire
• 9. Christmas day out in Chipping Campden, Gloucestershire
• 10. Christmas days out in Newquay, Cornwall
• 11. Xmas day out in Rochester, Kent 
• 12. Christmas with Peppa Pig at a theme park
• 13. Christmas days out in Birmingham, West Midlands
• 14. Christmas days out on trains
• 17. Christmas day out in Brighton by the sea

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Vicky

Editor at DayOutinEngland.com

Vicky is the founder of DayOutinEngland.com. She's better known online as VickyFlipFlop, and has been blogging for over 15 years. She's written for Lonely Planet, Rough Guides and many more online publications. She's lived all over England, but is currently in Hampshire.

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