Christmas Experiences
Christmas Experiences Around the World!
Whether you’re looking for majestic markets, delicious food and drink, or a unique experience for the little ones, we’ve picked a selection of the best there is to offer for a Christmas you won’t forget.
UK
Winter Wonderland, London
This free entry event in the heart of London is a fantastic family day out for all. Christmas markets, rides and rollercoasters, and many delicious eateries are on offer. Book your tickets in advance with additional events and experiences such as the open air ice rink, Magical Ice Kingdom, a range of shows and much more. It is open until the end of the year and only closed for business on Christmas Day.
Lapland UK, Berkshire
Hidden away in Whitmoor Forest, this unique experience is possibly the closest thing to the real Lapland we can experience here in the UK. Make wooden toys with the Christmas Elves, decorate gingerbread men with Mother Christmas, have a go on the ice rink and visit the reindeers as well as Santa himself.
Burning the Clocks, Brighton
This stunning event involves beautiful lanterns in the shapes of clocks made from paper and willow being carried through the city to Brighton beach, and then released. There is also a light sculpture, impressive fireworks show and live music to celebrate the Burning of the Clocks celebration which takes place on the 21st December every year.
Visit Father Christmas, National Trust - Various Locations
No Christmas is complete without a trip to visit Santa for the little ones. The National Trust hold Santa’s Grottos in its gorgeous locations around the UK. With festive stories, food and drink, and wintry walks, these events are not to be missed. Find out more here: http://bit.ly/2AAPr1E
Rest of the World
Lapland, Finland
This may be an obvious one, but as it is the epitome of a winter wonderland it cannot be missed. It can be visited as a day trip or longer break to fit more of the magic in! You can try husky sledding, a reindeer sleigh ride, tobogganing, snow hockey, ice fishing, a private meeting with Santa, and even an adventure in an igloo. The Lapland experience is sure to be memorable whatever you choose.
Christmas Markets, Copenhagen
As one of the prettiest cities in Europe, Copenhagen’s Christmas Markets are almost guaranteed to be an incredible experience. Highlights are the markets at Tivoli Gardens, the Water and Light Show, the family friendly rides and rollercoasters, and the amazing variety of food and drink on offer.
Basel, Switzerland
Basel’s Christmas Markets are said to be one of the largest in Switzerland, offering over 180 stalls of beautiful crafts, tasty food, and drinks that are sure to get you in the spirit. The beautiful old town is also home to a number of events and attractions throughout the festive period, as well as being known for having the longest illuminated street in Europe at Christmas-time.
Santa Claus, Indiana
“America’s Christmas Hometown” is an actual town called Santa Claus in Indiana, USA. Although it is known as being Christmas all year round, the three week celebration over the festive period is extra special. Roast chestnuts over an open fire with all the family, drive the 1.2 mile Christmas Light Adventure along Lake Rudolph, watch a parade, have Christmas dinner with Santa and so much more! The list really does go on and on…
Staff Pick - Hamburg Christmas Markets
Top 3 Experiences
1. Miniature wonderland museum
2. Boat trip round the Alster
3. Santa flying at the Rathaus Markets