15 things to do in the UK in December 2024

And just like that, December has made its delightful return! 🎄

With Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa celebrations lighting up the entire month, there are countless ways to join in the holiday merriment this December.

From enchanting candle-lit orchestras to fun-filled wreath-making workshops and charming Christmas markets – December is full of thrilling events to keep you joyfully occupied throughout this festive season. Discover our top 15 things to do in the UK in December below.


1. Wreath Making Workshop & Prosecco Afternoon Tea at The Assembly Rooms

1st December 2024

Festive wreath making classGet creative this December with a Christmas wreath-making experience perfect for DIY lovers out there. Hosted at The Assembly Rooms in Newcastle upon Tyne, learn the exciting floristry techniques that go into creating these Christmassy delights while enjoying an array of festive afternoon tea – including nibbles and a glass of bubbles!

With all materials provided, you’re welcome to take your creation home to appreciate throughout the Christmas season. With wreath-making experts on hand to guide you through the process, your magical creation is sure to sleigh the game.

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2. Cinderella at the Royal Opera House

3rd December 2024 – 16th January 2025

In the mood for an unforgettable ballet affair this festive season? Experience the beloved fairytale of Cinderella with an enchanting theatrical ballet performance the whole family will love.

Created by celebrated British ballet dancer and founding choreographer of the Royal Ballet, Sir Frederick William Mallandaine Ashton, Cinderella is a gorgeous exploration of light and nature alongside the classic childhood story. Step into an ethereal new world filled with fairies, pumpkin carriages and the promise of true love. This acclaimed ballet is the perfect way to get into the festive spirit this December – book your tickets here today!

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3. Home Alone in Concert

7th December 2024

Relive an 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 that 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. Cotswold Reindeer Herd

Reindeer grazing in fieldYou might know the Cotswolds for its rolling hills, tranquil meadows and storybook villages. But guess what? It’s also home to a rather unexpected bunch – meet the Cotswold Reindeer Herd.

Tucked away in this secret reindeer paradise, the Cotswold Reindeer Herd team of reindeer enthusiasts passionately work to improve the well-being and welfare of these magnificent creatures. This tiny piece of the North Pole has lots on offer! Walk the magical Santa Trail, grab a picture at the Selfie Sleigh, marvel at the array of Christmas trees and (of course) meet the wonderful herd of local reindeer.

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5. Frankfurt Birmingham Christmas Market

1st November – 24th December 2024

Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas MarketNothing quite says Christmas like an authentic German Christmas market! Famed for being the largest of its kind outside of Germany and Austria, the Frankfurt Birmingham Christmas Market is a showstopping favourite for locals and tourists alike. It’s like the North Pole relocated to Birmingham, and everyone’s invited to join the jolly fun!

From traditional Christmas gifts and inspiration to a humongous selection of festive German treats – this market has it all. After devouring endless pretzels, schnitzels and bratwursts, don’t forget to wash it all down with a pint of weissbier, Gluhwein mulled wine or a scrumptious hot chocolate.

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6. Glide at Battersea Power Station

8th November 2024 – 5th January 2025

Glide at Battersea Power StationThe sparkling Christmas activities have returned to Battersea Power Station! Whether you’re a pro on the ice or a wobbly newbie, the Glide at Battersea Power Station ice rink has become the coolest holiday tradition in the city. Located in the extraordinary setting of the capital’s most unique and historic building, lace up your skates and grab a festive selfie with this London ice rink’s jaw-dropping 30-foot Christmas tree.

After you’ve worked up an appetite from all that skating, head over to The Glass House bar café for a cosy hot chocolate that’ll warm your heart, not to mention the twinkling London skyline views that come with it. Glide is the place to be for a slice of winter magic in the heart of the city!

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7. Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland

21st November 2024 – 5th January 2025

Hyde Park's Winter WonderlandNo Christmas city break in London would be complete without a trip to the one and only Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland. With a rollercoaster sleigh-load of theme park rides to keep your festive spirits soaring, Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland has endless festive activities to explore this December.

Open late into the night from late November to early January, Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland is the ‘world’s best destination for festive fun’ and guarantees a joyful night out. From tasty food stalls to thrilling roller coaster rides, there’s truly something for everyone at this dazzling Christmas event. Don’t forget to check out our guide to Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland here.

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8. Bath Christmas Market

28th November – 15th December 2025

Bath Christmas MarketThe festive cheer has returned to this Roman city’s picturesque streets with the annual Bath Christmas Market! Prepare for the alluring smells of festive sweet treats, an endless array of handmade creations and gifts and the sparkling, lively atmosphere of Bath’s city centre.

If you’re looking for a cosy, city break date night, take a stroll through the delightful streets of Bath and make your way through the 160+ sparkling chalet stalls. Or, for a jolly evening out with your mates, swing by the food stalls and grab a tasty treat with your pint – all while grooving to some toe-tapping, festive tunes.

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9. Christmas at Waddesdon

15th November 2024 – 5th January 2025

Waddesdon Manor at ChristmasWith local produce, takeaway delights and festive gift stalls to peruse, Waddesdon Christmas Market is one of the best ways to spend a wintery evening this December. From mid-November until early January, Waddesdon Manor & Gardens is hosting its annual Christmas affair. Explore a plentiful supply of festive crafts and treat your senses to the tastes and smells of local food and drink from countless specially selected exhibitors.

As the evening draws in, wander the light trail and marvel at the festive feast of light and colour around the grounds of the house and the grounds. Plus, you can even pre-book a ticket into Waddesdon Manor itself giving you access around the house where there’ll be Christmas trees aplenty!

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10. Edinburgh Christmas Market

15th November 2024 – 4th January 2025

Edinburgh Christmas lightsScotland’s capital is renowned for its festive cheer throughout December thanks to the return to the stunning Edinburgh Christmas Market! As one of the best Christmas markets in Scotland (and the UK!), prepare for the alluring smells of festive goodies as well as handmade creations and gifts all throughout Edinburgh’s iconic streets.

Enjoy a lively night out with friends or family as you explore the array of food and drink stalls and grab yourself a warming cup of mulled cider or yummy hot chocolate. Or perhaps daytime festive shopping is more your thing? Uncover unique local treasures for your loved ones at Edinburgh Christmas Market’s trinket and gift stalls.

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11. The Snowman Tour Liverpool Cathedral

20th December 2024

The Snowman in ConcertGet ready to experience the Christmas classic of all classics as you’ve never seen it before. The Snowman Tour is making its grand entrance at Liverpool Cathedral this December. And this Christmas event is sure to warm your heart with festive nostalgia.

This enchanting showing of The Snowman inside the historic Liverpool Cathedral wouldn’t be complete without its jaw-dropping live orchestra that’ll leave you with goosebumps of joy!

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12. Burning the Clocks in Brighton

21st December 2024

Burning the Clocks festival in BrightonThe Burning the Clocks festival is probably the most quirky and unusual December event on our list! Get ready for a heartwarming evening where reflection and community take centre stage, bringing families, friends and strangers together for a night of winter wonder.

In celebration of the year’s end, the Burning the Clocks is an annual event set on the 21st December, totally unique to Brighton. Locals are inspired to reflect on the year while making their own fascinating paper lanterns, parading them through the streets and then passing them onto the smouldering beach bonfire.

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13. Candlelight: Best of Bridgerton on Strings, London

30th December 2024

Calling all Bridgerton superfans! This festive season experience the gorgeous tunes from this iconic Netflix series at Candlelight: Best of Bridgerton on Strings. Taking place at Southwark Cathedral, this unique live music performance is the perfect way to relive your favourite Bridgerton moments.

With enchanting melodies alongside dreamy candlelight, this live orchestral performance is sure to be the perfect send-off to the festive season. But book fast – there are only a few tickets left!

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14. Christmas at Kew

13th November 2024 – 5th January 2025

Christmas lights at Kew GardensThis Christmas, west London’s beautiful botanical haven, Kew Gardens will be packed with stunning illuminations, thousands of glistening lights, lakeside reflections and even Father Christmas (if you’re lucky!). Christmas at Kew is one of the UK’s favourite winter trails and the perfect evening out for families, couples or besties!

With plenty of street vendors ready to fill your tummies with delicious festive treats, we recommend grabbing your tickets early! This beloved attraction has limited capacity!

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15. New Year’s Eve in St Ives

31st December 

St Ives New Year's Eve Fireworks on the beachBeginning as a humble beach celebration, New Year’s Eve in St Ives has evolved into a spectacular night of festivities. With a sensational firework display, plenty of spots to grab a late-night bite throughout the town and a street party that will get you ready to see out 2024 in style – St Ives is the ultimate NYE party destination.

And by the way, New Year’s Eve in St Ives takes fancy dress VERY seriously. So, grab your sparkliest sequins and silliest superhero costumes, because the more outrageous, the better!

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