50+ Family Days Out at Christmas in Somerset 2025
Get into the festive spirit this winter by visiting one of the magical Christmas events in Somerset, 2025.
If you’re looking for a Christmas activity to enjoy with the whole family, you can visit a Christmas family attraction, go ice skating, see Father Christmas, visit a Christmas market and a whole host of events that will truly get you into the festive spirit.
Read our blog posts for what’s on this Christmas in Somerset: Best Christmas Light Trails in Somerset, Bristol and the surrounding area for 2025, or check out our post on the best Family Days out at Christmas in Bristol, 2025. For free and low cost events in the area, read Free Christmas Events in Somerset and Bristol, 2025.
To help you find the best experience for your family, we’ve rounded up the top Christmas events and activities in Somerset and around the Bristol area in 2025 for you. They tend to sell out quickly, so check out this list and book up as soon as you can.
Map of What's on in Somerset this Christmas, 2025
Search Somerset attractions and events by location and click on the link for details.
Top Family Attractions at Christmas in Somerset
Where: Cheddar Gorge and Caves, The Cliffs, Cheddar, BS27 3QF
When: Saturday 15th November to Wednesday 24th December 2025. Daily: 20th to 24th December 2025
- Sessions will run at the following times: 10:30am, 11:15am, 12:15pm, 1pm, 2:45pm, 3:30pm and 4:15pm
Price: Father Christmas Grotto Experience: £5.99 Child with gift (0-10yrs), £3.99 person with no gift (Any), PLUS normal admission price: £24.95/Adult (16yrs+); £18.70/Child (5-15yrs), FREE/Infant (0-4yrs)/Carers
This Christmas, deep within Gough’s Cave you’ll find the magical South West Workshop of Father Christmas’ elves. There’s also the opportunity to book a session to meet Father Christmas himself! Your children will sing some songs, listen to a festive tale and receive a present.
A Christmas at Cheddar Day Ticket gets you access into all the other exciting attractions, including the Elves South West Workshop in Gough’s Cave, Museum of Prehistory, Cox’s Cave and Jacob’s Ladder.
See our Cheddar Gorge Walk.
Where: Mendip Activity Centre, Lyncombe Drive, Churchill, BS25 5PQ
When: From Friday 7th November 2025 to Sunday 4th January 2026.
Price: From £12.50/person (£100/8 people age 4+)
Festive, fun for all the family at Mendip Activity Centre.
- Your group of up to eight people will get exclusive use of half of the toboggan slope, with festive music, snow machine and festive lights and lasers, and Santa hats to wear.
- After whizzing down the slope, you’ll head along a magical illuminated path to a camp fire, sit under giant canopies and roast marshmallows, make s’mores, light sparklers and drink hot chocolate.
Where: Kelston, Bath, BA1 9AF
When: 6th, 7th December, 13th, 14th December, 20th and 21st December 2025 – Various times – book online.
Price: From £20/person
If you’re looking for a fun, family activity this Christmas in Somerset, then a Christmas-themed archery session could be the answer.
- Recommended for age 7+
All equipment provided
Free onsite parking
- 75 minute session
This December enjoy festive archery games in ‘Santa’s Shooting Range’, with loads of unique Christmas-themed targets to aim for! Can you shoot all the balloon-baubles on the Christmas tree? Or challenge yourself to hit all the buttons on the Snowman!
Where: Royal Pavilion, Royal Victoria Park, Bath, BA1 2NR
When: Friday 14th November 2025 to Sunday 4th January 2026.
Price: Adult £11.50, Child (12 and under) £9.75, Teens £10.50, Family of 4 ticket £36.50. Pre-booking advised.
Enjoy Christmas in Bath at the popular adventure golf course which is decked out with its very own fairy light installations. Playing golf at night with glow-in-the-dark balls adds a whole new layer of excitement to the classic daytime experience. The 18-hole mini-golf course in Royal Victoria Park has been colourfully illuminated with rainbow lights for the festive season.
Afterwards, you can enjoy a hot chocolate and a selection of food at Moguls Alpine Bar next door, open every day from 10:30am – 10:00pm.
Ice Skating in Bath
Pop next door to Bath on Ice for their outdoor ice rink which is open from Friday 14th November 2025, until January 4th 2026.
Light Up The Lake, Clevedon
Where: Clevedon Marine Lake, Old Church Road, Clevedon
When: Saturday 6th December 2025
- 4 pm – Meet at the Pier
- Procession from the pier to the lake with North Somerset Samba
- 5 pm – Light show at the Lake, Darklyte Collective fire dancers
Price: Free Event
Light up the lake is the big winter celebration at Clevedon seafront. Bring a lantern, torch or glow sticks and join in the lively procession from Clevedon Pier to the Marine Lake, following a Samba band.
At the lake, watch it light up with fire dancers, paddle boards decorated with fairy lights, illuminated model boats and other floating vessels. This is one of our favourite FREE Christmas events in Somerset for families.
Spectators are encouraged to wear lights and bring lanterns!
Visitors are invited to give generously to a bucket collection for MARLENS, the local volunteer-run charity which continues to fund raise toward the management and further development of Clevedon Marine Lake.
For more FREE Christmas events, read this post: FREE Christmas Events in Somerset for Families 2025.
Where: Somerset Reindeer Ranch, Orchid Stud, Oakley Lane, Ilchester Road, Somerset, BA22 8RF
When: 13th, 14th, 22nd – 24th December 2025
1300-1400
1430-1530
1600-1700
1730-1830
Price: £30.45/person, plus reindeer food can be purchased for £2 per portion. Tickets on sale from 1st November 2025.
The One Hour Magical Christmas Experience at Somerset Reindeer Ranch Includes:
- Story time with the Unicorn Princess
- A gift for each child under 16 years old
- A complementary luxury hot chocolate for you to make and enjoy at home.
- A magical, Elf led guided tour to see real Reindeer. As a special treat you will take a journey through the magical wardrobe, where everyone’s favourite Unicorn can be seen and photographed.
Festive Evening at Somerset Reindeer Ranch
- Christmas carols sung by a live singer.
- Age 16+
- £30.45
- 3 hrs
- Meet and feed the friendly reindeer
- Toast marshmallows
Where: Taunton Town Centre
When: Sunday 23rd November 2025.
- From 10 am to 8 pm
- 6 pm Christmas Light switch on
Price: Free Event
Come along and enjoy a day packed full of festive fun in Taunton. There will be a Christmas market, fairground rides, delicious food and great entertainment.
SEE MORE: Christmas Markets in Somerset 2025
Where: Shepton Mallet Prison, Frithfield Lane, Shepton Mallet, Somerset, BA4 5FQ
When: Saturday 29th November 2025 – Sunday 4th January 2026 | Closed: 25th & 26th December
- Times: 10am – 5pm
Price: 25% off all daytime tickets. No codes, no hassle – your discount is automatically applied at checkout! Plus, get 10% off hot drinks in the cafe with your ticket. Offers valid from 29th November to 4th January for the daytime tours and activities.
Unwrap the Past with a Guided Tour which have been given a seasonal twist, offering a fascinating glimpse into how officers, inmates and visitors marked Christmas behind bars.
Escape Rooms: Operation Christmas Breakout – can you beat the clock in one of the Christmas-themed escape rooms?
Alongside your daytime tickets, there are added festive activities to fill your day with cheer, all included at no extra cost!
- The Great Elf Adventure – Embark on a fun trail to collect elf cards, complete festive challenges and earn a treat! Compare Elf Stats to see who’s top of the toy shop!
- Letters to Santa – Write your wish list and post it straight to the North Pole.
- Christmas Wish Tree – Add your festive wish to our tree and help spread the magic of the season.
- Festive Colouring – Colour, create, and get in the Christmas spirit!
Where: Royal Victoria Park, Bath Somerset, BA1 2NQ
When: Postponed until Saturday 21st November 2026
Details: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer takes to the Skies in a magical drone light show.
Witness the sky come alive with the heart-warming tale of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, told through cinematic sound and light, through a spectacular drone light show.
For the first time in the UK, the epic musical and long-running TV holiday hit in the USA, will be brought to life this Christmas with a mesmerising swarm of 600 LED drones.
Set to a rich, cinematic score, this cutting-edge production transforms the night sky into a moving canvas, capturing the magic and wonder of Rudolph’s story like never before.
This event is ideal for families and is a great alternative to fireworks. Plus, you can combine with Glo in the Dark Golf or Bath on Ice.
Where to see Santa in Somerset...
Where: Wookey Hole, Wells, Somerset BA5 1BB
When: Open weekends from 22nd November and daily from 20th to 24th December 2025, from 9.30 am until 5 pm.
Price: Adults £24.99, OAP’s £21.99, Children £19.99 (3-15yrs), Under 3 yrs FREE – visit website and book online here.
Get into the spirit of Christmas in Somerset at Wookey Hole’s Winter Wonderland Christmas event. Your adventure includes three incredible Christmas experiences wrapped up into one magical day out. Visit the caves where over 100,000 of lights magically illuminate the way. It’s a breath-taking Christmas light show.
Immerse yourself in Santa’s North Pole Grotto, where every child will get to meet Santa and take home a present from Santa’s Elves from the Toy Shop. You’ll also get to watch a spectacular Christmas-themed circus show, performed in the Wookey Hole Theatre as part of your experience.
- Shows are at 12pm and 1.30pm and 3pm.
Your day out will include all the other attractions of Wookey Hole, including a special Christmas Movie in the 4D Cinema.
Where: Pixash Lane, Bath Road, Keynsham, BS31 1TP
When: 29th & 30th November. 6th, 7th, 13th, 14th, 19th, 20th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd, 24th December 2025.
Price: Adults £26/£56, Children 36/£61, + Booking fee, Babe in arms (No gift) FREE
There is so much to enjoy this year at Avon Valley’s Christmas event in Somerset. Enjoy a specially curated day complete with an theatrical show and many themed activities and entertainment areas to enjoy.
- Santa’s Show
- Santa’s Toy Factory
- The Rudolph Show
- Making Reindeer Food
- Mrs Claus Gingerbread Parlour
- The Magic Forest
- Santa’s Post Room, The Polar Express Mini Railway
Choice of Standard package, or Premium package (additional Meal Deal Token, Teddy Mountain Build a Soft Toy and a Christmas Photo Booklet).
Please note, there is no ice skating or festive light trail at Avon Valley this year.
Where: Ashton Court Estate, Long Ashton, North Somerset, BS41 9JN
When: Every weekend and selected weekdays from Wednesday 3rd December to Tuesday 23rd December 2025
Price: £18.97/Child (includes a gift), £6.50 Adults (inc. booking fee) Booking is essential, online. 2025
- Various time slots
- Experience lasts 20 minutes
- Photo opportunities.
- A small gift for your grown-up
Come on a magical adventure with Father Christmas at the historic Ashton Court Mansion. A fun interactive experience where you will meet Father Christmas and receive a gift.
The experience starts in the Great Hall of the beautiful Victorian manor house and finishes with a gift from Father Christmas who makes a surprising entrance!
The Experience is designed to be enjoyed by all ages, though it is especially suitable for children aged 2–11 and one of the best places to see Santa in Bristol.
Where: Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm Clevedon Road, Wraxall, North Somerset, BS48 1PG
When: Saturday 29th November – Sunday 21st December 2025, 11.00am – 3.00pm. Tickets to meet Santa are only pre-bookable online in advance.
Price: Meet Santa for just £12 per child (+ Standard Day Admission). Members and Under 2’s £10/Child.
Accompanying adults do NOT need to pay to meet Santa but will still need to pay for day admission.
Step into the warmth and wonder of Santa Claus’s library with twinkling lights, festive books, and a hint of peppermint in the air. Little ones can share festive wishes, hear Santa’s Christmas stories, and capture a cherished memory with a photo before taking home a special gift from Santa himself.
There are Santa’s storytelling sessions on these dates too. Gather for a magical experience as Santa brings Christmas to life with charming tales!
Cosy up in the Ark Arena as Santa shares stories sure to captivate young and old alike.
How to get there: Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm is less than half an hour drive from Bristol and just down the road from National Trust Tyntesfield.
Regular buses (X6) running between Bristol and Clevedon stop at the entrance of Noah’s Ark.
Noah’s Ark Christmas Markets Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th November 2025, 11am – 5.00pm.
Read here for more Christmas Markets in Somerset and Bristol 2025.
Plus, there’s a Christmas Tree sale at their Farm Shop.
Where: Marine Parade, Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, BS23 1AL
When: Saturday 6th – Wednesday 24th December 2025
- Time slots between 10 am – 4.40 pm
Price: £19.95/Child +1 Adult, Additional Adult £5.00. + £7.50/£10.00 for wristband. + £7 for a printed photo, + £8 bauble. (Ideal age is 18 months to 10 years). Pre-book your tickets to avoid disappointment.
Price includes:
- Pier admission
- Present from Santa
Upgrade your child’s ticket, and get an UNLIMITED ride wristband for just HALF PRICE! (Subject to height & age) eg.
Little Elves Wristband entry includes:
- Laser Maze
- Crystal Maze
- Krazy Circus
- House of Mirrors
- Helter Skelter
Visit the Grand Pier this Christmas for a magical adventure to Santa’s Grotto where you can meet the great man himself and some of his trusty elves!
During your visit, Santa will warmly welcome you, offering a wonderful moment of story time, a photo to cherish forever (payable souvenir), as well as a special gift for everyone.
Even Mrs. Claus will make an appearance and join in on all the fun!
The Grinch will be available Saturday 6th December, until Sunday 21st December. Each experience will last approximately 10 minutes.
Where: Taunton Castle, Castle Green, Taunton, Somerset, TA1 4AA
When: Saturday 6th, Saturday 13th, Friday 19th, Saturday 20th, Tuesday 23rd December 2025.
Price: Booking essential, Grotto £10.00 per child
Enjoy a magical Santa experience in the Museum’s festive grotto this Christmas.
Upon arrival, you will be greeted by Santa’s friendly elves. They will guide you through to the magical grotto where you can meet and chat with Santa. Each child will be presented with their own special gift.
After visiting Santa, see if you can spot the cuddly reindeers around the museum with the festive elf trail, £1 each with a treat at the end.
The café will be open serving hot drinks and seasonal treats.
Where: Locking Moor Road, Weston-Super-Mare, North Somerset, BS24 8PP
When: Sunday 14th December 2025,
Christmas Ho Ho Ho’pen Cockpit Day
Price: Adults – £13.00; Children (4-15) – £6.00; Senior/Concession – £11.00; Family (2 Adults & 2 Children) – £30.00; Family (2 Adults & 3 Children) – £32.00
See Santa arrive by helicopter!
Come and see Santa and meet him in his special Helicopter Grotto. Free present from Santa included with every child’s admission ticket purchased on the day!
- Open cockpits,
- Charity stalls
- Face painting
- Seasonal Fayre
- Magic Shows (11.30am and 1.30pm)
Where: Smallway, Congresbury, North Somerset, BS49 5AA
When: Sunday 7th, Sunday 14th, Friday 19th – Wednesday 24th December 2025.
Breakfast with Santa
Enjoy a delicious family breakfast with Santa and his elves, gather around for a festive north pole story with each child receiving a special gift to take home.
Price: £18.50/person
VR experience: £5/person
Where: Now at, Holburne Museum, Bath, BA2 4DB
When: Friday 28th November – Tuesday 23rd December 2025 on selected dates and times.
Price: £13.70/Child, £11.55/Adult. Most suitable for children ages 3 – 12 years.
Father Christmas has discovered an exciting new home for his magical grotto adventure! Now nestled in the enchanting gardens of the Holburne Museum, this beloved festive experience is bigger, brighter, and more magical than ever before.
Father Christmas’ Grotto is presented to you by talented professional actors, right in the heart of Bath. Be whisked away to Father Christmas’s cozy North Pole living room, join the merry elves in gently waking him up, and listen to the delightful story of their plan to make this Christmas the most magical one yet!
A 20-minute Father Christmas Experience with professional actors and musicians in the heart of Bath.
A meet and greet with Father Christmas.
A chance to take your own photo with Father Christmas and his magical musical elf Sprinkles.
Children and adults both receive a small gift.
Where: 1 Royal Crescent, Bath, Bath and North East Somerset, BA1 2LR
When: Saturday 6th December 2025 @ 10:00 am – Sunday 21st December 2025 @ 4:00 pm
- Various times from 10 am to 4 pm. (book a time slot online in advance)
Price: £15/child
Father Christmas is making a special stop at No.1 Royal Crescent this year, he’s keen to experience the ’12 Tales of a Georgian Christmas’.
The children will be greeted by Christmas helpers and led into the beautifully decorated Servant’s Hall where Father Christmas will read them a story. They will have a chance to talk to him, have a photo with him and there is a special post box if your child would like to leave a letter for him.
Each child will be given a gift and a Georgian Christmas Cookie recipe card to take home.
Where: Bath Abbey, Bath, BA1 1LT
When: Saturday 29th November 2025
Details: Bath Abbey’s youngest choir, The Melody Makers unwrap the magic of Christmas. The heartwarming tale of The Snowman will be beautifully narrated, accompanied by the young Melody Makers and yourselves. With Christmas songs and carols for young and old.
Price: Tickets £7 / £3 child
Where: Three Bridges, Bradford-on-Tone, Taunton, Somerset, TA4 1ER
When: Saturday 6th December 2025, plus more dates to be added.
- 10 am to 4 pm
Price: £13.50 per child (Ticket includes visit with Father Christmas and age appropriate gift as well as an activity trail sheet)
Father Christmas can’t wait to greet children in his roundhouse grotto based in Sheppy’s Oak Vat. Children will get to meet Father Christmas and receive a gift.
Afterwards:
- Complete the Christmas activity trail
- Winter walks around the orchards
- The Café will be open for hot food and drinks to take-away or eat-in.
Where: Puxton Park, Cowslip Lane, Hewish, BS24 6AH
The Grand Christmas Light Switch On and Meet Father Christmas
When: Friday 5th of December, 5pm – 7pm
Price: FREE for members or £5/pp
Meet Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the enchanting Ice Princesses
Enjoy festive carols
- Free mince pies and mulled wine
Puxton Park’s Magical Christmas
Adventure
When: 6th, 7th, 13th, 14th, and 21st–24th December 2025
- Christmas Tree Village with Wish Granting Tree
- Elves Workshop
- Mrs Claus Gingerbread Kitchen
- Festive Animal Shows
Price: £12/pp plus park entry
Other Christmas Events at Puxton Park
- Danish Christmas Celebration – 10th December 6pm-9pm
Christmas Dinner & Afternoon Tea – Weekdays 1st – 19th December
- Supper with Santa – 6th, 7th, 13th, 14th, 20th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd & 24th December 2025, Time: 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm.
Where: Mendip Avenue, Fosseway Industrial Estate, Shepton Mallet, Somerset, BA4 4PE
When: Breakfast with Santa – Saturday 29 November – Wednesday 24th December 2025
Price: Breakfast with Santa –
Over 3s: £18-£20 – includes the soft toy to build and take home, breakfast and all activities.
Adult’s Menu from £9.00
Come along and join in this festive family event at Debbie’s Garden Centre.
- Create your own soft toy: each child over 3 will receive a soft festive character to stuff, fluff and name. Plus, they can take their new furry friend home!
- Each child under 3 will receive a gift from Santa to take home
- Meet and greet: kids will meet Santa and share their Christmas wishes
- Storytelling corner: gather round for storytelling time with Santa
- Festive games and activity sheets: colour-in, solve puzzles and enjoy festive-themed activities and games
- Delicious breakfast for all the family
Other events include Santa’s Grotto at the Garden Centre too. Lots of dates from 28th Nov – 24th December 2024 | £12.99 per child. This includes quiet sessions.
Santa Paws 2025 – Treat your furry friend to a visit to Santa Paw’s Grotto, including a special gift from Santa himself. From 29 Nov – 24 Dec | £10.50- £12.50 per dog depending on location
Where: 14-15 North Parade, Frome, BA11 1AU
When: Friday 21st November 2025
- 4.30 pm to 7.30 pm (Half hour time slots)
Price: Grotto – £4/Child (includes a gift and a sweet treat).
Parade your beautiful lantern through the town for the Christmas lights switch on. This year’s theme is Winter Woodland, creations will include mice, deer, foxes and badgers.
Other entertainment this year, ranges from traditional Christmas cheer with Frome Town Band and Frome Choir, to international swing singer and showman Andrew Bourn, to the uplifting and energetic Enrichments.
Pop in to the grotto to tell the big man what you’re hoping to find under the tree on Christmas Day.
SEE MORE: Christmas Light Trails in Somerset and Bristol 2025
Where: Pyle Farm, Trudoxhill, Near Frome, Somerset. BA11 5DL
When: 6th, 7th, 13th, 14th, 20th – 23rd December 2025.
Price: £19.50 Child Ticket (Santa Meet & Greet, Elf Hat, Animal Feed and Christmas Activities); £6 Adult; £11.50 Child (Under 2) Ticket – Elf Hat and Animal Feed Only. (No Santa meet & greet or Christmas Activities); Under 2 years old Free (under 2 year old siblings can accompany family to Santa Meet & Greet when a older sibling/s has purchased a Child Ticket). Dog Ticket £6
Visit to Santa with Gift (dogs who do not require a gift do not need a ticket and can enter the trail with their family for free).
Come along and join an exciting all-weather walking Christmas Farm Trail with Activities, Seasonal Scenes, and Farm Animals.
Count all the Mischievous Elves hiding on the Farm. Look out for the Giant Farm Style Snowman, and have a dance in the snow with the Reindeers singing to you. The trail includes a fantastic Santa Meet & Greet. Each Child chooses a gift from the toy shop.
- Make Reindeer Food
- Write your letter to give to Santa.
- Plant a Candy Cane
- Feed some of the animals in the farm-style nativity scene
Where: Charlton Farm, Children’s Hospice South West, Charlton Drive, Wraxall, North Somerset, BS48 1PE
When: Sunday 7th December 2025
- 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
- The run starts at 1.00 pm
Price: Tickets: Adult (16+) £9.60, Child (3- 15years) £4.80 Child (2 and under) Free
£30 per person, £86 per family.
Christmas Railway days Out in Somerset...
Where: Yeovil Junction Station, Stoford, Nr Yeovil, Somerset, BA22 9UU
When: Weekends: 6th & 7th, 13th & 14th, 20th & 21st December, and Tues 23rd December 2025.
Trains run at:
10.15am, 10.40am, 11.05am, 11.30am, 11.55am, 12.20pm, 1.40pm, 2.05pm, 2.30pm, 2.55pm, 3.20pm
Price: £15/Person, (Under 1’s FREE) pre-booking is essential at least 24 hrs in advance (no bookings on the day). £12 on Saturday 6 December. An Early Bird discount of 10% applies until 30 September 2025.
You start your visit with a steam train ride in a decorated heritage carriage. Then, you make their way to the ex GWR Transfer Shed, where Santa will be ready to receive his visitors. After you have concluded the visit to Santa you may wish to visit the Shop.
Your visit includes:
- Steam train ride,
- Tea/coffee and a mince pie with soft drink for the children
- A visit to see Santa where the children will receive a carefully selected and appropriate gift.
Where: The Railway Station, Bishop’s Lydeard, Somerset, TA4 3RU
When: Saturday 6th, Sunday 7th, Saturday 13th, Sunday 14th, Saturday 20th. Sunday 21st, Tuesday 23rd, Wednesday 24th December 2025 – two trains a day.
Price: £27.50/person, Infant (under 1 yr) £10
Step aboard the festively decorated heritage carriages, filled with Christmas cheer and excitement and take a wonderful journey through West Somerset’s winter woodlands.
Santa’s presents and refreshments will be waiting at your table and he’ll be along for the ride to ensure you have received them! A round trip to Williton means there will be plenty of time aboard to soak up the experience, get in the festive spirit or relax with some refreshments whilst enjoying the journey.
Please note, only assistance dogs are allowed on our festive trains.
Other West Somerset Railway events includes Fish and Chipmas on selected dates Sunday 30th November, Sunday 7th December and Friday 12th December 2025.
Take the festively decorated heritage service from Bishops Lydeard and meander through the Quantock Hills behind a heritage locomotive taking in the breath-taking scenery whilst enjoying your fish and chips.
Plus, Minehead Christmas Market and Train, taking place over two days on Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th November 2025.
READ MORE: Christmas markets in Somerset 2025
Where: Great Western Dockyard, Gas Ferry Road, Bristol, BS1 6TY
Festive Lunch on Board
When: Saturday 7th & 14th December 2025.
Sittings: 12.00, 12.30, 13.00, 14.00, 14.30
Price: From £18.50
Enjoy a festive celebration like no other, where history meets holiday cheer aboard the SS Great Britain.
Step aboard and indulge in a carefully curated festive lunch featuring the best of seasonal flavours. Dine in the opulent First Class Dining Saloon and sit in the same surroundings as the Victorian passengers who voyaged on board the ship over 100 years ago.
An audience with Old Father Christmas
Gather on the Promenade Deck and settle in as Old Father Christmas shares captivating tales of Christmases past. Discover how the festive season was celebrated through the ages – from Victorian traditions aboard the SS Great Britain to yuletide customs from times gone by.
Dates: 6-7, 13-14, 20-23 December 2025
Times: 11am, 1pm, 3pm – first-come, first-served
Location: Promenade Deck
Go back in time this Christmas and soak up the festive cheer at the magical Victorian Christmas Weekends on board the S.S. Great Britain.
Festive Music in the Dockyard at SS Great Britain
Merry musicians will guide you through the dockyard with traditional carols, sea shanties and festive pop favourites. Roving performers will fill the Great Western Dockyard with seasonal cheer. Join in for a sing-along or simply soak up the atmosphere with a mince pie and warm drink in hand.
Dates: 6-7, 13-14, 20-23 Dec
Times: 11am, 1pm, 2pm
Location: Dockyard
Where: Blackhorse Hill, Bristol, BS10 7TP
When: Saturday 29th November 2025 – Sunday 4th January 2026
Price: Adults £18; Children (age 2 – 14) £14, Under 2’s and Carers FREE. Family of 4 £54. Book in advance.
Come along this Christmas for the Big Gift Hunt! Join the festive trail to find the giant presents across the zoo, solve the riddles and match them to the animals. Don’t forget to enter the prize draws. Plus, don’t miss:
- Fascinating animal talks and feeds
- Elves Post Office – write a wish for wildlife in your letter to Santa at the magical post office (weekends and school holidays)
- Ultimate Christmas photos – step inside a giant snow globe, Santa’s sledge, giant hanging bells and the tipi grotto.
- The award-winning Bear Wood with panoramic views and chance to get nose-to-nose with the wolves!
- Fun play areas
- Lemur walk through
Get up close to giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, geladas and more.
Where: Hayes Way, Patchway, BS34 5BZ
When: From 1st December 2025
Price: Included in admission price
Christmas Wish Trail ⭐ – from 1 December
Explore the hangars on a family-friendly festive trail. Write your Christmas wish, hang it high, and feel your imagination take off.
Freighter 80 🛩️ – from 1 December
Join special guided tours and step back in time to celebrate one of Bristol’s most remarkable aircraft the Bristol Freighter, as it marks a grand 80 years this December!
The Dome Club returns bringing you ‘out of this world’ adventures in the amazing 360° planetarium. There are three sparkling shows to choose from, with something for all ages.
The Planetarium with Pink Floyd! 🌌
Enjoy a cosmic sound and light journey set to the timeless music of Pink Floyd guided on your adventure by the memorising voice of Mario.
Christmas Trees from Frenchay Forestry 🎄Friday 28 Nov – Tuesday 23 December 2025.
Sustainably sourced, locally grown trees available to buy on site, visitors to Aerospace Bristol receive 10% off their tree with a valid ticket.
Carols under Concorde – Sunday 14 Dec 2025, 5:30pm & 7:30pm. Join a community carol service for all ages led by the Concord Church.
Festive Pub Quiz, 18 December 🍻
Gather your team, grab a drink, and test your trivia knowledge with our festive-themed quiz night in our new kitchen & bar, Flightline
FOR MORE BRISTOL CHRISTMAS EVENTS, READ: Family Days Out at Christmas in Bristol, 2025
Where: Foxholes Lane, Tockington, Bristol, BS32 4PG
When: Saturday 6th December – Sunday 28th December 2025 | From 4:30pm – 7:30pm.
Price: Adults £19.50, Child £13.00 (2 – 15 yrs), concessions £13.00. Family of 4 £59. Booking ahead is advised.
This festive Illumination Trail offers a magical sensory experience that lights the beautiful Country Park. Follow the star lit trail, guiding you around Old Down Estate and surrounding you with music, colour and light with interactive areas along the way. A truly magical Christmas experience for the whole family.
New for 2025, the Illumination Trail is taking a brand new direction – quite literally! This year has a new and refreshed route, ready for you to stroll and soak in the magic. The Adventure Park will be lit up for even more twilight adventures for the little ones, and the festive market stalls will be brimming with seasonal treasures.
Follow the pathway to the festive village, where you can toast marshmallows, sip on hot chocolates and mulled wine, all finished off with a warming crumble.
Make a Christmas wish and embellish your night with holiday seasonal crafts for the kids to enjoy. Meet some of the friendly animals and be part of a wondrous evening.
Dogs on a lead are more than welcome to join you on this magical trail.
Quieter Sunday sessions – On Sunday 7th and 14th December, there’s reduced capacity, lower noise sessions designed for visitors who prefer a calmer experience.
FOR MORE ILLUMINATED TRAILS, READ: Christmas Light Trails in Somerset and Bristol, 2025
Where: Foxholes Lane, Tockington, Bristol, BS32 4PG
When: Saturday 20th – Wednesday 24th December 2025, 8:30am – 10am, or 10:30am – 12pm.
Price: £24.95 (Member’s £19.95) – Pre-booking essential.
Make Christmas magical this year with an exciting and delicious Breakfast with Santa. Go along to the cosy barn for a scrumptious breakfast and a very special visit from one very special guest.
After the plates are clean, Santa will join you for a morning of stories, festive cheer and gift giving. As you say goodbye to Santa, you’ll get the chance to meet one of the animals and then go off to enjoy the rest of the day at the Country Park.
Where: Foxholes Lane, Tockington, Bristol, BS32 4PG
When: Saturday 20th – Wednesday 24th December 2025, 8:30am – 10am, or 10:30am – 12pm.
Price: Adult: FREE | Child: £15.00 | Under 2’s £6.00
Come along to see Santa’s Grotto, meet and greet with Santa, and receive your own magical gift chosen just for you by Santa himself!
You’ll also have the opportunity to have a family photograph taken with Santa to keep that magical moment for a lifetime.
New for 2025, adults can now visit Santa’s Grotto for FREE! This year the grotto has a brand-new home in Pets Corner, where you’ll also have the chance to meet and feed the animals.
Your Visit Santa ticket includes meeting Santa in his magically decorated grotto, receiving a special present from Santa for children, a family photograph with Santa to treasure forever and access to Pets Corner. Please note that this experience does not include full Country Park access.
Best Christmas Events in Wiltshire and Gloucestershire 2025
Where: Warminster, Wiltshire, BA12 7NW
When: Selected dates from Saturday 8th November 2025 to Sunday 11th January 2026
Price: See website for details (various ticket options available).
Make it a Christmas to remember at The Festival of Light 2025: British Icons with Wallace & Gromit and friends. Meet fan-favourite characters and journey through their adventures, plus travel to some of the UK’s most famous landmarks, native wildlife and sights, all spectacularly reimagined in lantern form.
- Go on the iconic Winter Safari
- Themed lanterns
- Festive attractions including the Enchanted Christmas Tree Show
- A whole host of attractions to explore including Adventure Castle, Rockin’ Rhino and the Hedge Maze
- Santa Train
- A spectacular fountain display on Half Mile Pond.
- A phenomenal light show will bring the historic facade of Longleat House to life.
Where: Whitehall Garden Centre, Corsham Road, Lacock, Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN15 2LZ
Come along for the launch of Christmas at Whitehall Garden Centre Lacock. Where you can meet Santa and his elves, ride on Chuffy the train, meet the nativity animals, plus festive face painting, children’s fun fair. Experience the brand new festive food market and alpine terrace restaurant.
When: From Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th November 2025.
Price: This is a free event no need to book a ticket. But there are additional prices for face painting, the children’s fun fair and Chuffy the train. Please note, Chuffy the train is cash only.
Other events:
Festive Family Fun Weekend – Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th December 2025 – FREE.
- Breakfast With Santa – 6th, 7th, 13th, 14th and 19th December 2025 – £22.99/Child
Where: WWT Slimbridge, Bowditch, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, GL2 7BT
When: Saturday 13th December and Sunday 14th December | Saturday 20th to Tuesday 23rd December 2025
Time slots: 10am, 10.30am, 11am, 11.45am, 12.15pm, 1.45pm, 2.15pm.
Price: Adult Ticket (includes concessions and essential helpers): £17.50 – Includes a full English Breakfast. Admission not included.
Junior Ticket (3-17): £13.50 – Includes a visit to Santa’s Grotto and a gift (for participating child). Along with a full English Breakfast. £10.50 – No Santa visit. Admission not included.
Child Under 3 Ticket: £7 – Includes a visit to Santa’s Grotto and a gift (for participating child). Along with a full English Breakfast.
Child Under 3 (no Santa Visit) FREE. Admission is free for under 3’s.
Breakfast with Santa includes a visit to Santa’s Grotto where you can meet Santa and receive a gift in his wetland grotto. You will also receive a full English breakfast in the Kingfisher Kitchen, which will be decked out for the holidays.
Soak up the seasonal wildlife and enjoy an adventure-packed day at Slimbridge. There’s also festive activities throughout the centre so you can enjoy a full day in the wetland wonderlands.
Where: Bitton Station, Bath Rd, South Gloucestershire, BS30 6HD
When: 23rd, 29th, 30th November 2025, and 6th, 7th, 13th,14th, 19th – 24th December 2025 – Five trains per day. Book in advance, online or via the booking office on 0117 932 5538.
Price: From £18/person to £40.50 depending on day and age of child.
All aboard the festive trains at Avon Valley Railway. Once the whistle sounds you’ll depart on your fifty minute Christmas train ride.
Whilst you’re travelling, you’ll enjoy a mince pie or festive biscuit and Santa will pass through the train saying hello to everyone.
Then, when you return to Bitton Station each family group will meet Santa again and all children will receive a present from him too! There will also be the chance for your family group to take photographs and create those special festive memories.
You’ll see the festive Christmas donkeys on the lawn at Bitton Station, either before or after you’ve travelled on the train.
New for 2025, upgrade to the Premium Santa Experience to enjoy quality time with Father Christmas from the comfort of our first-class carriage. Spend more time with Santa as he joins you on his festive throne in the beautifully decorated carriage, where children can spend precious time with him and his elves whilst they collect their present. All Premium Santa passengers will also enjoy a cosy hot chocolate alongside their festive sweet treat whilst you travel the line.
Where: Tortworth, Wotton Under Edge, Gloucestershire, GL12 8HH
When: 14th and 21st December 2025.
- Dining time 12.30 pm – 4 pm
Price: Adults £40.00, Children (age 4 – 12) £40.00
A very special visitor will be arriving in the 1853 Restaurant at De Vere Tortworth Court this festive season as Santa drops by to join the families at their traditional lunch. You’ll enjoy a three-course festive lunch with coffee and mince pies. Then, Santa will make his appearance with a gift for each child.
Where: Southwick Country Park, Trowbridge, Wiltshire, BA14 9QD
When: 29th, 30th November, 6th, 7th, 13th – 23rd December 2025
Times: Slots are available between 9:30 – 3:30pm
Price: Tickets to meet Santa are £12.95 and include
- Santa Meet and Greet
- Wrapped Present
- Free Day entry to the Animal Park
Where: Guiting Power, Cheltenham, Gloucester, GL54 5FL
When:
- 21st – 23rd Nov 2025
- 28th – 30th Nov 2025
- 5th – 7th Dec 2025
- 12th – 14th Dec 2025
- 18th – 23rd Dec 2025
2025 Christmas Experience Ticket Price: £56.95/Toddler/Child/Young person; Member Christmas Experience price £51.95; Baby (0&1) Meet Father Christmas £22.95; Personalised Letter from Father Christmas £12.95.
- Personalised Meeting with Father Christmas
- Present Room
- Teddy Bear Workshop
- Gingerbread Decorating
- Festive Food & Drink
- Meet & Feed the Animals
You’ll also get Farm Park entry to meet the animals and make the most of the indoor and outdoor play, all included in one price.
Christmas Events at the National Trust: In Somerset, Bristol and surrounding area, 2025
Where: Wraxall, North Somerset, BS48 1PA
When: Once Upon a Christmas Time and Reindeer Trail: TBC
- Daily between 10:30am and 3:00pm (last entry 3 pm)
Price: Usual admission fee to enter the estate (free for NT members), plus a donation to charity for the trail.
This Christmas, Tyntesfield, invites you to step into a festive fairytale with Once Upon a Christmas Time. The estate will be transformed with enchanting decorations and a magical fairytale trail, full of surprises waiting to be discovered.
Throughout the house and gardens, discover fairytales and magical moments, from the Hatter’s tea party in the Library to a towering beanstalk in the hall!
Christmas at Tyntesfield will also feature a charming street scene in the chapel courtyard, festive concerts in the chapel, Christmas trails, and hands-on craft workshops.
During this family event an adult and child work together to construct a festive reindeer from parts provided by the Somerset Bodgers.
When: Sunday 14th, Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st December 2025.
Sessions: 10:30 – 12:30; 12:30 -14:30; 14:30 – 16:30
Price: £38
Where: Broomfield, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA5 2EQ
Price: Free entry, £5 car parking (NT members park for free)
Carols in the Courtyard
When: Sunday 14th Dec 2025
- 2 – 3pm
Hear traditional carols performed by a local choir as you enjoy a festive treat from the Courtyard Café.
Winter Wildlife and Cosy Crafts with the RSPCA
When: Tues 23rd and Tues 30th Dec 2025
Enjoy winter wildlife activities and cosy crafts in the Music Hall.
Join a Winter Wildlife activity session with our friends at the RSPCA. Learn about native birds and what they like to eat! Create your own bird feeder to take home.
Pick up a nature explorer backpack and a pair of binoculars then head off on a bird spotting adventure through the grounds.
Where: Dyrham, near Bath, South Gloucestershire, SN14 8HY
When: Friday 21st November 2025 to Sunday 4th January 2026.
Price: Usual Admission price (Free entry for NT members)
Take a journey through time, and explore Christmas through the ages at Dyrham Park.
- Through the ages – the house will be dressed in the style of five different eras, with festive writings by the likes of Samuel Pepys, Jane Austen and Charles Dickens brought to life.
- Children’s Trail – families can track down giant wooden presents in a discovery trail around the estate. Indoor crafts and games in the house’s basement bringing to life the magic of the popular festive poem ‘The Night before Christmas’.
- Christmas food and shopping – the tearoom is open serving mince pies, snacks, cakes and hot and cold drinks. The NT shop is open with lots of gift ideas.
Where: Mere, Wiltshire, BA12 6QD
When: Friday 28th November 2025 to Wednesday 31st December 2025. Various time slots available each evening. Booking is essential.
Quiet sessions available on Sunday 30th November at 4pm and Thursday 4th December 2025 at 4pm. .
Price: Peak and off-peak time slots available. View prices online here.
Christmas at Stourhead is a renowned annual event that sees this world-famous Wiltshire estate lit up with festive illuminations. Look forward to spending time together with friends and family as you discover sparkling tunnels, giant baubles and glistening trees drenched in jewel-like colour. Discover a sea of light stretching out into the distance, larger-than-life crystals suspended in trees and Liquid Sky filling the air with all the colours of the rainbow!
And don’t forget to keep an eye out for Father Christmas along the way.
There’ll be a range of delicious and tempting treats for sale. So, why not complete your walk under the stars with a spiced winter warmer, a hot chocolate or some toasted marshmallows, shared with someone special.
Storytime with Father Christmas at Stourhead
When: 6th – 7th, 13th – 14th, 20th – 23rd December 2025. Various time slots between 10.30am – 3.30pm.
Price: Grotto £18 per child (+ 1 adult) plus normal admission prices. It is essential to prebook your tickets.
Enjoy some festive magic at Stourhead. Begin in the Stableyard and get creative with the jolly helpers. Then jingle your way up the drive on one of the hobby reindeer. Before snuggling down for a cosy Christmas story with Father Christmas himself.
- This event is recommended for children age 3 – 12.
The Christmas House
Friday 21st November – Tuesday 23rd December 2025
Feel the festive spirit come to life as you wander through the grand rooms of Stourhead house, decorated with twinkling lights, festive floral arrangements, and showstopping trees.
Where: Ozleworth, Wotton-under-Edge, Gloucestershire, GL12 7PZ
When: Saturday 29th – Sunday 30th November, Saturday 6th, Sunday 7th, Saturday 13th, Sunday 14th December 2025.
- Time-slots 11.00 am – 3.30 pm.
Price: £10/Child plus normal NT admission applies (Free admission for NT members)
Father Christmas is stopping at Newark Park before he heads off for his busiest night of the year. There will be a little gift and a chat with the man himself in his cosy grotto in the Drawing Room of Newark house. (Your family will get a short private session with Father Christmas).
Where: Montacute, Somerset, TA15 6XP
When: Saturday 29th November 2025 – Thursday 1st January 2026 (except Christmas day and Boxing day).
Price: Normal admission price (NT members free)
Montacute House Sings
Experience the sounds of Christmas at Montacute House this winter.
You’ll hear Christmas carols that have been specially recorded by five Somerset choirs local to Montacute House.
The Great Hall on the ground floor of the house will be decorated with a beautiful 15-foot Christmas tree. Down at the Stables block, you can warm yourself by the braziers and there is an opportunity for a fun Christmas photo. Leave your Christmas wish on the wishing tree and hopefully it will come true. In the Courtyard Café, edible treats like mince pies and mulled drinks will be available.
Best Pantomimes and Christmas Shows in Somerset 2025
Weston super Mare
Cinderella
The Playhouse, High St, Weston-Super-Mare, BS23 1HP
Saturday 6th Dec 2025 to Wednesday 31st Dec 2025Where Did the Snow Go?
Front Room Theatre, 13 Central Walk, Weston-super-Mare BS23 1FF
Saturday 13th December 2025 – Tuesday 30th December 2025 – Ideal for 3-8 yrs.
Bath
The Further Adventures of PETER PAN: The Return of Captain Hook
Theatre Royal Bath, Sawclose, Bath, BA1 1ET
11th Dec 2025 to 11th Jan 2026Snow Mice!
The Egg, Theatre Royal Bath, Sawclose, Bath, BA1 1ET
20th Nov 2025 to 11th Jan 2026 – Ideal for 3-9 yrs.Christmas Carol Goes Wrong
Theatre Royal Bath, Sawclose, Bath, BA1 1ET
25th Nov 2025 to 30th Nov 2025 – Ideal for age 8+
Taunton
The Nutcracker
Taunton Brewhouse., Coal Orchard, Taunton, TA1 1JL
2nd Dec 2025 to 28th Dec 2025
For a full list of Christmas Theatre Shows and Pantomines, read our new post Family Christmas Shows and Pantomimes in Somerset 2025-2026.
We hope you have a fantastic Christmas in Somerset!
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Disclaimer: Whilst we endeavour to provide accurate information, please always check the details with the organisers/venue before you leave in case there are any changes or cancellations. Many of these events need pre-booking. If you have any more suggestions for family-friendly days out in Somerset, we’d love to hear from you!
