This winter season, dive into unforgettable and unique Christmas experiences that go far beyond the ordinary festive activities!
From spectacular train rides to underground grotto adventures, ‘yule’ love exploring these quirky, festive things to do across the UK this winter season.
1. The Great Christmas Feast
London
For the perfect unique dining experience in London, check out The Great Christmas Feast and discover a magical retelling of Charles Dickens’ classic, ‘A Christmas Carol’. Bringing together immersive dining and theatre in the e heart of West Kensington, The Great Christmas Feast experience features an unforgettably scrumptious three-course banquet.
With a splendid selection of traditional Victorian beverages, including the Smoking Bishop and Pear Tree Cup, rediscover this eerie tale this festive season.
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2. Hogwarts in the Snow – The Warner Bros. Studio Tour
Watford
For many of us, the start of winter is the perfect time to start another charming rewatch of the Harry Potter film series. But this festive season, why not visit where this magical franchise began?
At the Warner Bros. Studio Tour in Watford, you can walk the cobblestone streets of Diagon Alley, enter the sparklingly decorated Great Hall and discover the spectacular, snowy-covered miniature Hogwarts castle. Pssst! Don’t forget to spot the tiny snowman figure hidden throughout the Hogwarts model.
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3. Home Alone in Concert
London
Relive this enchanting Christmas classic in London’s magnificent Royal Albert Hall. Combining cinema with an exquisite live orchestra, Home & Alone in Concert is the perfect Christmas day out the whole family will adore!
Immerse in the enchanting live performance of Home Alone by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, savour popcorn, and share a memorable Christmas with loved ones!
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4. Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market
Birmingham
As the largest authentic German market outside of Germany or Austria, Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market is one of the most famous festive markets in the UK.
Set in the stunning surroundings of Victoria Square, take a stroll and discover all sorts, from handmade gifts and local artisans to festive spirit sampling and cosy cups of mulled wine. Explore this vibrant market, full of local charm – perfect for a delightful night out with friends and family.
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5. Luna Cinema at Battersea Arts Centre
London
Discover The Luna Cinema at Battersea Arts Centre this Christmas as it’s transformed into the ultimate winter wonderland cinema experience. Showing all the festive classics, including The Muppet Christmas Carol, Love Actually and Die Hard (yes, this IS a Christmas movie), this is one wonderfully unique Christmas experience you won’t want to miss.
With more pop-up venues across the country, explore The Luna Cinema’s selection of upcoming Christmas cinema experiences here.
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6. Liverpool Christmas Ice Festival
Liverpool
The UK’s favourite Ice Festival returns for another year of unique Christmas activities! The Liverpool Christmas Ice Festival, located at Liverpool’s Pier Head, will welcome back their iconic Ice Slide, Ice Rink and Ice Bar from the 17th November 2023.
While ice skating, The Liverpool Christmas Ice Festival’s Ice Slide is the first in the UK! Zoom down three thrilling 30m slides, concluding your winter wonderland with a visit to the unique Ice Bar. Featuring gorgeous crystal clear sculptures and ice furniture, you can wrap up warm with your very own foil blanket.
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7. Christmas Afternoon Tea Bus Tour
London
Embrace the festive charm and spirit of London’s magnificent Christmas light displays this winter with a Christmas Afternoon Tea aboard Brigit’s London Bus Tours.
Hop aboard Brigit’s charming 1960s Routemaster bus and discover London’s rich history and festively transformed spots. As you pass the capital’s most famous attractions, including Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, St James’s Park, The Royal Albert Hall and more, enjoy an assortment of freshly prepared finger sandwiches and homemade tarts alongside a pot of your tea or glass Prosecco of your choice.
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8. Zipmas
Blaenau Ffestiniog
Discover North Wales like you’ve never seen before. Featuring an enchanting Christmas Grotto experience deep within an underground cable railway adventure, Zipmas at Zip World delivers endless fun!
Your underground Christmas expedition begins with an awe-inspiring light maze chamber. Then, you’ll weave your way to a second chamber, Santa’s Workshop. And finally, make your way through a magical archway to chamber three, where Santa will be waiting in his cosy Grotto. Why not enhance your experience with an 18-hole round of mini golf on the UK’s only cave adventure golf course?
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9. Late-Night Shopping at Bicester Village
Bicester
Make the drag of Christmas shopping a magical evening out with your friends or family with Late-Night Shopping at Bicester Village. Taking place from the 19th to the 21st December, the spectacular Bicester Village outlet in Oxfordshire will be open until 10pm.
Discover the UK’s favourite luxury brands with a special festive treat… up to 70% off retail prices! Whilst you make your way through your Christmas list, enjoy live music, mulled wine and even a glass of bubbly from the Veuve Clicquot champagne bar. From Burberry and The White Company to New Balance and even Lindt chocolatiers – there’s something for everyone!
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10. Christmas at the Eden Project
Bodelva
This December, the Eden Project is putting on a Christmas show like nowhere else! New for 2023, Christmas at the Eden Project has created an immersive after-dark light and music experience perfect for a family night out.
Kids of all ages will love exploring the magically transformed Eden Project as they encounter mystical light installations, ice skating and even a visit from Father Christmas himself. With various dates available throughout December, book your ticket and make unforgettable memories with your loved ones this festive season.
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11. Silent Disco Christmas Spectacular by Guru Dudu
Brighton
Christmas on Brighton seafront just got even more exciting this festive season. For a unique Christmas experience, why not try one of the NOT So Silent Disco Night Christmas Specials by Guru Dudu?
This non-stop night of fun will have you feeling the festive and community spirit in no time. Dance and sing through Brighton’s Winter Wonderland alongside other music and silent disco enthusiasts! Experience spontaneous flash mobs to the biggest tunes of the 70s, 80s, 90s and 00s and, of course, with some Christmas classics throughout.
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12. The Polar Express™ Train Ride
Birmingham
Are you ready to believe? This winter Vintage Trains is proudly hosting The Polar Express™ Train Ride experience like no other! Lovingly recreating the festive delight of the 2004 festive classic, The Polar Express™ will depart from Birmingham Moor Street station while fully immersing friends and family with the sights, sounds and magic of the iconic Christmas story.
So grab your golden ticket and the stunning steam engine-carrying heritage carriages filled with joy and wonder. With performances delivering the charm of the 2004 motion picture, this is one train ride little ones and adults alike will never forget.
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