Top Christmas events in the UK this December

Christmas is an absolutely magical time of year, and the things we at Magic Freebies always look forward to are the fantastic events that pop up in December that just make the month so much more special, particularly if you spend it with some family and friends.

So whether you live in the UK or are visiting in December, we’ve had a look and assembled some cool events to check out this December for a variety of budgets and preferences and with a variety of interesting things going on!

1. Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, London

Best for: Big days out, rides, shows and festive food
Cost: Free entry off peak (booking required), paid attractions

If you want Christmas dialled up to maximum, this is the place. Winter Wonderland takes over a huge corner of Hyde Park every year with rollercoasters, a giant observation wheel, circus shows and the famous Ice Kingdom made entirely from sculpted ice and snow.

There are also German-style food stalls, ski bars, craft markets and endless photogenic light displays… perfect for friends, families or a festive date night. Pro tip is to visit on a weekday if you prefer smaller crowds.

2. Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market

Best for: German-style food, festive nights out, local shopping
Cost: Free to browse

One of the biggest German Christmas markets outside Germany, Birmingham’s Frankfurt Market brings bratwurst, pretzels, hot chocolate, yummy mulled wine, and dozens of gift stalls to the heart of the city.

It’s vibrant, lively, and brilliant for a cosy evening stroll with friends — especially if you’re local or don’t fancy travelling far for festive fun.

3. Christmas at Kew, London

Best for: Couples, families, magical evenings
Cost: Ticketed

Kew Gardens’ famous winter light trail is one of the most beautiful experiences you can have at Christmas. Expect tunnels of sparkling lights, glowing sculptures reflected in lakes, and colourful projections on the iconic Palm House.

It sells out fast every year, so book ahead, but it’s absolutely worth it. It’s atmospheric rather than busy, and the perfect place for a cosy wander with a hot chocolate in hand.

4. York St Nicholas Fair (aka York Christmas Market)

Best for: That “Traditional Christmas” vibe and independent sellers
Cost: Free to browse, items from stalls cost money

York’s medieval streets are already magical - add wooden market stalls, twinkling displays and the smell of roasting chestnuts, and you’ve got one of the most charming Christmas markets in the country.

Pick up local crafts, enjoy food from Yorkshire producers, and soak in that fairytale atmosphere as you wander through the iconic Shambles, King’s Square and Parliament Street. A great choice if you want something quintessentially festive!

5. Snoopy Trail (Fleet Street, London)

Best for: Free festive fun, art lovers, relaxed city strolls
Cost: Free

A brand-new addition to London’s seasonal lineup! Take a wander through the historic streets around Fleet Street and discover a trail of artist-designed Snoopy sculptures celebrating the 75th anniversary of the beloved Peanuts comic strip.

It’s a charming, low-pressure alternative to the big-ticket events - ideal if you want something Christmassy that won’t eat into your budget. Plus, the area lights up beautifully in the evenings.

6. Blenheim Palace (Oxfordshire)

Best for: Magical festive getaway
Cost: Around £65 for adults & £42 for kids (off-peak)

Blenheim Palace goes all-out every year for Christmas, with some fantastic events and shows going on throughout the estate. This year, for instance, they’ve put up a truly magical-looking light trail, described by The Telegraph as one of the top light trails in the UK.

Not only that, but they’ve also got their very own Christmas Market, ice skating rink plus the Palace of Oz - a part of the estate inspired by L. Frank Baum’s iconic The Wizard of Oz!

Bonus Ideas Across the UK

If you want even more festive sparkle, try:

• Edinburgh Christmas Market — Free, huge stalls, ice rink and castle views
• Bath Christmas Market — Free, gorgeous Georgian backdrop + artisan gifts
• Manchester Christmas Markets — Free, multiple themed sites across the city

Final tips before you go

• Book early for any ticketed events - especially Kew and Winter Wonderland.
• Visit mid-week to avoid peak crowds.
• Bring a bag - you’ll want to take home goodies from the markets.

There’s countless Christmas events going on this year throughout the UK, and doubtless there’s some amazing ones near you, with something for everyone to be found.

But, we hope this list has helped inspire you with some ideas on where to check out and inspire making some amazing Christmas memories this December!