With the festive season upon us, it's time to start planning some of those Christmas trips the whole family will love, whether it's visiting Santa at his grotto or getting up close with some reindeer.
Christmas is a wonderful time of year, it's a time for creating special memories with the family and spending quality time with them too. So what better way to do that than with a festive-filled day out for the whole family?
Whether you're looking for a day out in the holidays or a weekend family getaway, we've put together a list of the best places for some winter wonderment this season. Don't forget to check out our best toddler days out guide for even more fun ideas.
Christmas days out for children
Yorkshire Wildlife Park, Doncaster
December 2, 3, 9, 10, 16 and 17.
A fun day out for the whole family is sure to be had at Yorkshire Wildlife Park, with festive markets, a Santa's Grotto and you can visit all the animals in the wildlife park. Standard entry prices apply, with additional fees for events such as the Winter Illuminations.
Prices are £12 adults; £12 children; under 3's free.
Illuminations at Bedgebury, Kent
November 17 - December 31
Bedgebury National Pinetum celebrates Christmas with a festive extravaganza, featuring a dazzling illuminated trail through the enchanting forest. Families can immerse themselves in the magical atmosphere, adorned with sparkling lights and seasonal decorations. This annual event offers a unique holiday experience, blending nature and celebration in a picturesque setting, creating cherished memories for visitors of all ages.
Tickets for adults are £21.50; childrens aged 3-16 are £14.50; infants 0-2 go free
Lapland UK, Ascot
November 11 to December 24
Who says you have to travel far to visit Lapland? This really is one of the best Christmas days out for children. It’s a Christmas festival, with elves introducing little ones to reindeer and weaving stories of their work in Santa’s grotto. And talking of which, kids can visit Santa and take home a signed photo of themselves with him, plus make gingerbread men, build toys together and receive a little gift. There’s also ice skating and a log cabin restaurant. Celebrities like Katherine Jenkins, Kimberly Walsh and Rochelle Humes have all been enjoying a visit to Lapland UK.
Although it's now sadly sold out, you can already sign up for 2024 ticket updates.
Reindeer Lodge, North Wales
November 27 - December 24
Why not take a trip to the stunning, Welsh countryside and enjoy an enchanted Winter drive-thru adventure at Reindeer Lodge? Tickets include the walk-around Christmas town, magical drive-thru Safari trail to see the reindeer herds, the hidden elf village plus a visit to Father Christmas in his Grotto.
£62.00 for up to 4 occupants in the vehicle.
LEGOLAND at Christmas, Windsor Resort
November 25 - January 3
LEGOLAND Windsor Resort transforms into a festive wonderland during Christmas, offering families a unique holiday experience. The park is adorned with twinkling lights, LEGO-themed decorations, and seasonal surprises. Visitors can enjoy special shows, meet LEGO characters dressed in holiday attire, and explore the winter-themed attractions. LEGOLAND at Christmas promises a magical atmosphere, blending the joy of LEGO creations with the spirit of the holiday season.
Tickets are £43 for a day pass.
Christmas at Chatsworth, Bakewell
November 4 - January 7
Chatsworth House hosts a spectacular Christmas event, transforming the historic estate into a festive haven. The annual celebration features elaborate decorations, enchanting displays, and a Christmas market offering unique gifts. Visitors can revel in the magic of the season while exploring the opulent interiors of Chatsworth House, creating timeless holiday memories in a grand and picturesque setting.
Prices £34 adults; £19 children.
Enchanted Christmas, Tetbury
November 24 - December 23
Westonbirt Arboretum goes all-out in December, decorating the trees with thousands of twinkling lights, forming a mile-long illuminated walkway that looks amazing. Santa and his reindeer are on hand to meet the children, and there is even a choir and band to provide extra special Christmassy atmosphere. This is one of our favourite contenders for the best Christmas days out for children.
Tickets cost £21 for adults; £14 for children aged 3-16; under 2's are free.
Christmas at Paultons Park, Hampshire
Selected dates from December 2 to 23 December
Peppa Pig World at Paulton’s Park is having a festive makeover, making it perfect for the best Christmas days out for Children. Highlights include Santa's Christmas Wish Show, the Musical Christmas Tree and Santa's Storytime. Little ones will love meeting Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph the Reindeer and Billy and Belinda Elves.
Tickets are £37 each, children under 1 metre are free.
Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park
November 17 - January 1
With so much to do, there's fun for the whole family at Winter Wonderland! Visit Santa's Grotto and take a trip down the ice slide near the Magical Ice Kingdom. There's plenty of food and drink options to indulge in too, and a giant wheel that you can look over the whole city! It's really a magical day out. There's a special family entrance as well that goes straight into Santa Land.
Entry is free during off peak periods and for peak periods costs £5 adults; £5 children 3-12 years old; 2 and under go free.
The Polar Express Train Ride, Various locations
November 29th - December 23rd
Become part of the most popular Christmas film, and take a train journey on the Polar Express! Dress the family cosy in pyjamas and join in on the Christmas magic, with singing chefs, waiters who serve hot chocolate and cookies. When you arrive at the North Pole, keep your eyes peeled for Santa, who will board the train and give everyone a special silver bell from his sleigh. It really is a magical experience for the whole family!
£37.50 per person; £3 for babies under 2 on parents knee.
Emily Gilbert is the Features & Reviews Editor for Mother&Baby and has written for the website and previously the magazine for six years. Specialising in product reviews, Emily is the first to know about all the exciting new releases in the parenting industry.