Family Days Out at Christmas in Bristol, 2026
Are you looking for some fun Christmas events in Bristol to get in the festive mood?
This year, there are loads of Christmassy things to do in and around Bristol and, you might be wondering what are the best Christmas events near me.
Get into the festive spirit by visiting one of the many magical Christmas events in Bristol. 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, attend a Christmas light switch on, enjoy a pantomime, and a whole host of other events that will truly get you into the festive spirit.
Read our blog post for the Best Christmas Light Trails in Somerset, Bristol and the surrounding area for 2026, or check out our Family Days Out at Christmas in Somerset 2026. For some free and cheap ideas read, FREE Christmas Events in Somerset and Bristol, 2026.
To help you find the best experience for your family, here’s a pick of festive fun in and around Bristol in 2026. Many places will sell out quickly, so check out this list and book up as early as you can.
Best Christmas Events in Bristol 2026
Where: Bristol Zoo Project, Blackhorse Hill, Bristol, BS10 7TP
When: Friday 27th November – Wednesday 23rd December 2026
Price: Adults £18, children (ages 2–14) £14. Under-2s and carers go free. Family tickets are £54.
Brand new for 2026, Wild Lights is an exciting addition to Bristol’s Christmas light trails. Follow an illuminated trail through Bristol Zoo Project, with spectacular displays of light and sound transforming the woodland setting into a magical winter wonderland.
Wander along winding pathways beneath towering trees, discover interactive displays and look out for surprises around every corner. There’s also a fire pit where you can toast marshmallows, making this a lovely festive evening out with the family.
Good to know: Wild Lights is a separate ticketed experience and does not include daytime zoo admission. Animals will not be on show during the light trail, so book in advance to secure your preferred time slot.
Find out more and book: Wild Lights at Bristol Zoo Project
For more local light trails, read Christmas Light Trails in Somerset and Bristol 2026.
Where: 127 Albert Rd, Bristol, BS2 0YA
When: 14th November 2026 – 4th January 2027.Â
Price: Adult/From £20; Child/From £16.00; Under 5/FREE; Family tickets also available. Book early for 20% discount.
Step through the festive portal into another world!Â
The Great Pud Off
This Christmas, step into Wake the Tiger’s Dream Factory for The Great Pud Off, running from 14 November to 4 January. Discover five spectacular festive pudding installations, from mince pies and Christmas pudding to yule logs and gingerbread houses, then head to The Pudd Inn to vote for your favourite using a £1 token.
Every penny raised will go to FareShare South West, with Wake the Tiger matching the total to help tackle food poverty and food waste. The nation’s favourite Christmas pud will be revealed in January!
Festive After Hours
From £35.00
Step through the festive portal after dark! Enjoy a welcome drink, live DJ and The Great Pud Off at Festive After Hours (18+).
Where: Hayes Way, Patchway, BS34 5BZ
When: From 1st December 2026
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. Â
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!Â
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.
Christmas Trees from Frenchay Forestry – 2026 TBC
Sustainably sourced, locally grown trees available to buy on site, visitors to Aerospace Bristol receive 10% off their tree with a valid ticket.Â
Carols under Concorde – 2026 TBC 5:30pm & 7:30pm. Join a community carol service for all ages led by the Concord Church.
For more information about visiting the Aerospace Museum, read our Aerospace Bristol Review.
Where: Trenchard Street, Bristol, BS1 5AR
- Sunday 13th December 2026 (2pm) – Home Alone: Orchestra & Choir. A comedy classic features renowned composer John Williams’ charming and delightful score performed live to picture by orchestra and choir.
- Â Saturday 19th December 2026 (10.30am) – Festive Family Gig. Designed especially for families.
- Tuesday 22nd December 2026 (2pm) – The Snowman and Paddington Bear’s First Concert
Where: Great Western Dockyard, Gas Ferry Road, Bristol, BS1 6TY
Festive Lunch on Board
When: Sunday 6th and Sunday 13th December 2026
Sittings: 12.00, 12.30, 13.00, 14.00, 14.30
Price: Adults £42.50 or £35 (for annual ticket holders; Children (under 12) £26 or £18.50 (for annual ticket holders)
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.
Where to see Santa in Bristol...
Where: 197 Church Road, St George, Bristol, BS5 9HG
When: The Grotto will be open Sunday 6th, 13th and 20th December 2026
- Opening times: 10:00 am – 4:15 pm
Price:
- £7.50 per child
- Adults go free
 Every child will receive a special gift from Santa.
Please provide your child’s name, age, and gender when booking so Santa can choose a suitable present.
- *Update -places are selling out fast*
Where: Clifton Observatory, Bristol, BS8 3LT
When: Weekends: 5th, 6th, 12th, 13th, 19th, 20th December 2026Â at 9am, 11:30am and 2pm.
Price: Adult £22.00 (15+), £18 for Children (3-14), and £5 for Under 3s. All Children receive a gift with their booking!
- Brunch buffet
- Mimosas for grownups and hot chocolates for kids
- Meet Santa
- Gift for children
- Visit the attractions and the Elf hunt
Santa is very busy preparing for Christmas, but he’s found some time to stop for brunch at Clifton Observatory and you are invited to join him! Enjoy a delectable brunch spread of bacon and eggs, a selection of fresh fruit, and stacks of waffles and pancakes with an array of toppings for you to mix and match. Juice, chocolate milk, hot chocolates, teas and coffee will be available along with festively indulgent mimosas for grown-ups.
Where: 10 Gloucester Road, Almondsbury, Bristol, BS32 4AA
When: TBC, 12pm – 2pm OR 3pm – 5pm
Price: Tickets £12 Child & £4 Adult
Christmas Festival Of Fun has all the usual incredible range of games, activities and music! This year there’s a Christmas Rave Room including Snow Party and Confetti Cannons and Santas Grotto including a Gift for all Children. Visits from The Grinch and Naughty Elves, Santas Sweet Shop, Santa’s Snowball Hunt and much much more!
Breakfast With Santa at Almondsbury Creative, Bristol
When: TBC, 12pm – 2pm
Price: Tickets £12 Adult; £15 Child
Details: Enjoy a delicious festive breakfast served by the cheeky Elf waiters, before meeting the big man himself – Santa Claus!Â
Every child will receive a special present from Santa, plus there’ll be festive fun throughout with Santa’s Mailbox, a Mini Craft Corner, and a complimentary Santa’s Sweet Workshop for all to enjoy.
Where: Over Lane, Almondsbury, Bristol, BS32 4BP
When: Weekends from 28th November 2026, then everyday between 19th – 24th December 2026.
- Time slots between 9am – 5.30pm.
A Magical Experience For the Whole Family – Step into a world of festive wonder at Almondsbury! Follow the playful elves through 5 magical rooms, take part in festive activities and visit Santa where a special gift is waiting for you!
What’s Included in Your Ticket:
- Guided tour through enchanting passages and chambers
- A visit to Santa’s secret workshop
- Interactive experience in every room
- Storytime or activities with Santa’s cheeky elves
- A personal meet-and-greet with Santa Claus
- A gift for each child
Plus:
- SEN-friendly sessions Friday 11th December 2026 – £20
- Santa-Paws: meet Santa with your pooch! Friday 4th December – £15.
Price: Adult £10; Child £20
Where: Level 1 of Cabot Circus, in the ODEON Luxe foyer.Â
When: Sunday 1st November – Thursday 24th December 2026.
- November: weekends only, starting Sunday 1 November.
- December: open every day from Friday 4 to Thursday 24 December.
- Sessions running throughout the day.
Price: From £8.50 per child, Grown-Ups go free.
Details: Santa is setting up his grotto on Level 1 of Cabot Circus, in the ODEON Luxe foyer. Enjoy a traditional visit to Santa’s Grotto: spend a few magical minutes with the man himself, send a letter sent straight to the North Pole, and receive a gift to take home.
Before you go in, little ones can write their letter to Santa at our letter writing table. Your child pops their letter in, pulls the lever and it’s sent off to the North Pole, then the phone rings and Santa receives confirmation from back home that the letter has been received.
Every child leaves with an age-appropriate gift. The visit lasts around five minutes, so it slots easily into a day out. Photos and Santa merch are available to buy on the day.
Dogs are welcome too.
Where: Redcliffe Caves. Redcliffe Way, Redcliffe BS1 6SR
When: Friday 4th December – Thursday 24th December 2026.
Details: Come and visit the Redcliffe Caves for an immersive Christmas experience. Meet Santa in his grotto, get crafty with the elves and even meet a Polar Bear.
From the moment you arrive, the cheerful elves will guide you through the beautifully lit tunnels of the Redcliffe Caves, setting the scene for a magical festive adventure.
Visit the Elf Workshop where little ones can get hands-on with festive crafts.
Enjoy a personal meet-and-greet with Santa Claus himself in his cosy grotto — complete with photo opportunities and a special eco-friendly gift for every child.
End your magical experience with a heartwarming visit to Floki, the friendly Polar Bear who lives in the caves with Santa and the elves!
The full experience lasts around 45 minutes, making it the perfect family-friendly Christmas treat.
Where: Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, Queens Road, Bristol, BS8 1RL.
When: 5th, 6th, 12th, 13th, 19th and 20th December 2026.
Prices: Adults free, one child £15, additional children £12. Instant film photographs are available for £5 each.
Step into Santa’s festive workshop at Bristol Museum & Art Gallery on selected weekends in December. Children can enjoy cosy storytelling, a winter trail around the museum, an activity goody bag and a special visit with Santa, including a festive gift. The museum will be beautifully decorated for Christmas, with free galleries to explore.
Where: Secret Garden Play, 75 Poplar Road, Bristol, BS30 5JS.
When: Christmas dates and session times to be confirmed.
Price: Child £19.50; Babies under one go free with a paying sibling. No charge for adults, with up to two adults included per booking. Child ticket prices to be confirmed.
Details: Enjoy a 90-minute festive play session for children up to and including age six. Little ones can explore three Christmas-themed roleplay shops, meet Santa for a special storytime, sit in his sleigh for a photograph and receive a gift. There’s also reindeer food making and a snow machine surprise to finish the session!
The outdoor play garden has plenty of covered areas for all-weather fun. Remember to dress for wet play and bring spare clothes. There’s limited on-site parking, with nearby street parking available.
Where: Foxholes Lane, Tockington, Bristol, BS32 4PG
When: Saturday 19th – Thursday 24th December 2026 | Multiple SessionsÂ
Price: Child: £24.95 Adult: £20.95; Members 10% off – Pre-booking essential.
Make Christmas magical this year with an exciting and delicious Breakfast or Brunch with Santa. Go along to the cosy barn for a scrumptious meal 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 28th November – Monday 28th December 2026 | From 4:30pm-7:15pm *Please note when selecting a session time, that is only allocated for entry. You can stay until the park closes at 8pm.
Price: Adults £20.50, Child £13.75 (2 – 15 yrs), concessions available. Booking ahead is advised.
Returning for its 5th year, this festive Illumination Trail offers a magical sensory experience that lights the beautiful Country Park.
Wander through glowing walkways, marvel at sparkling installations, and soak up the festive cheer in the Christmas Village as the Country Park and Estate are transformed into an enchanting after-dark experience to remember. Free parking is included for all visitors.
Make an evening of it in their Christmas Village, where the whole family can share in the festive fun. Toast your marshmallows (included in price) over the fire pits, get creative with free activities in the Crafty Cabin, purchase a warm glass of mulled wine or hot chocolate, and enjoy the deliciouss apple crumble.
The festive market stalls will be brimming with seasonal treasures – perfect for finding a little gift or treat for someone special.
- Dogs on a lead are more than welcome to join you on this magical trail.
FOR MORE ILLUMINATED TRAILS, READ: Christmas Light Trails in Somerset and Bristol, 2026
Where: Broadmead, Bristol BS1 3DX
When: Friday 6th November – Wednesday 23rd December 2026.
- Market Stalls open 10 am – 7.00 pm (6pm on 23rd Dec)
- Food stalls and bars open 10 am – 10 pm
Located in the heart of Bristol City Centre, the Christmas market is home to over 35 unique stalls, as well as entertainment and visits from Santa and his elves. Grab yourself a warming hot chocolate or mulled wine and wander through the market soaking up the festive atmosphere. Admire the  impressive 30ft Christmas tree, adorned with a spectacular display of sparkling lights and decorations.
Discover live music and enjoy delicious drinks in the warm Jäger Barn Bar or book one of the private Gondolas to escape the bustle of the Market for a while.Â
FOR MORE CHRISTMAS MARKETS, READ: Christmas Markets in Somerset, 2026
Family Christmas Attractions near Bristol 2026
There are many brilliant festive events in Somerset within an easy drive of Bristol. Check out what’s on in Somerset this Christmas for 2026.
Where: Cheddar Gorge and Caves, The Cliffs, Cheddar, BS27 3QF
When: Weekends from Saturday 21st November. Then, daily from Saturday 19th to Thursday 24th December 2026.
- 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: £6.49 Child with gift (0-10yrs), £4.49 person with no gift (Any), PLUS normal admission price: £23.30/Adult (16yrs+); £17.50/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.
Where: Mendip Activity Centre, Lyncombe Drive, Churchill, BS25 5PQÂ
When: From Friday 6th November 2026 to Sunday 3rd January 2027.
Price: From £13.75/person (£110/8 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: Wookey Hole, Wells, Somerset BA5 1BB
When: Open weekends from 21st November and daily from 19th to 24th December 2026, 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 – Step aboard the Wookey Express, travelling through a breathtaking, snow-covered world brought vividly to life with immersive 4D effects, motion and magical visuals.
Where: Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm Clevedon Road, Wraxall, North Somerset, BS48 1PG
When: Selected dates between Saturday 28th November – Tuesday 22nd December 2026, 10.30am – 3.30pm. Tickets to meet Santa are only pre-bookable online in advance.
Price: Meet Santa for just £13.95 per child (+ Standard Day Admission). Under 2’s £11.95/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.Â
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 21st and Sunday 22nd November 2026, 11am – 5.00pm.
Read here for more Christmas Markets in Somerset and Bristol 2026.
Plus, there’s a Christmas Tree sale at their Farm Shop.
Where: Pixash Lane, Bath Road, Keynsham, BS31 1TPÂ
When: 5th, 6th, 12th, 13th, 18th, 19th, 20th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd, 24th December 2026, 10am – 5.30pm.
Price: Adults £25.99, Children 35.99, + Booking fee, Babe in arms (No gift) FREE
There is so much to enjoy this year at Avon Valley’s Christmas event in Somerset.
NEW for 2026 – Book a timed visit to Father Christmas in his Grotto for a group story and family photograph before visiting his magical Toy Factory to choose your very own gift to take home.
Enjoy a specially curated day complete with an theatrical show and many themed activities and entertainment areas to enjoy.
- Santa’s Toy Factory
- Stardust’s Singing Stables Show
- Making Reindeer Food
- Mrs Claus Gingerbread Parlour
- Santa’s Post Room
- The Elf Express Mini Railway
- That’s A Wrap Show
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.Â
Where: Marine Parade, Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, BS23 1ALÂ
When: Select dates from Saturday 5th December until Christmas Eve, 24th December 2026. Time slots between 10 am – 4.00 pm.
- Grinch Grotto Takeover: 5th, 6th, 12th, 13th, 19th, and 20th December 2026.
- Breakfast with The Grinch: 19th, 21st, and 22d December 2026.
- Santa Paws / Grinch Paws (For Dogs): 27th and 28th November 2026.
Price:
- Standard Child Ticket: £19.95 (Includes the interactive grotto experience, an enchanted elevator ride, and a wrapped gift);
- Standard Adult Ticket: £2.50 (Required for supervising adults);
- Infants under 12 months: Free if they are just tag-alongs; however, if you want them to receive a gift from Santa, you must purchase a standard £19.95 child ticket.
. + £7.50/£10.00/£15.00 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.
Where: Smallway, Congresbury, North Somerset, BS49 5AA
When: Saturday 5th, Sunday 6th, Saturday 12th, Sunday 13th, Saturday 19th – Thursday 24th December 2026.
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.Â
Price: £18.50/person.
Where: Now at, Holburne Museum, Bath, BA2 4DB
When: Friday 27th November – Wednesday 23rd December 2026 on selected dates and times.Â
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.
FOR A MORE COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON IN SOMERSET THIS CHRISTMAS, READ: Family Days Out at Christmas in Somerset, 2026.
Best Christmas Events in Wiltshire and Gloucestershire 2026 (Worth travelling for)
Where: Warminster, Wiltshire, BA12 7NW
When: Selected dates from Saturday 7th November 2026 to Sunday 17th January 2027.
Price: See website for details (various ticket options available).
Make it a Christmas to remember at The Festival of Light 2026: 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: Winchcombe, Gloucestershire, GL54 5LP
When: Friday 20th November – Wednesday 30th December 2026.
Price: Advance Adult/£21.60/£25.20, Advance Child 3-15/£13.50/£14.40, Advance Family 2+2 – £59.40/£68.40. Tickets are Full price from 20th November onwards.
- From 4.45 pm onwards.
Explore the magical after-dark experience at Sudeley Castle and follow the new illuminated trail around the beautiful fairy-tale castle grounds.
Discover the Court of King Arthur and the Magic of Merlin as you experience this wondrous after-dark adventure around Sudeley’s magical castle grounds.
Meet mythical characters from the Arthurian legend such as Guinevere, Lancelot and the magician, Merlin.
Discover the hidden location of Arthur’s great sword, Excalibur, could it be in the stone on in the lake?
Take away hot food, drinks and doughnuts are available to buy. Sip festive warmers of spiced mulled wine and sprinkled hot chocolate as you join the magical trail.
Registered assistance dogs only.
Where: Guiting Power, Cheltenham, Gloucester, GL54 5FL
When:
- Friday 27 – Sunday 29 November 2026
- Friday 4 – Sunday 6 December 2026
- Friday 11 – Sunday 13 December 2026
- Every day, Thursday 17 – Wednesday 23 December 2026
2026 Christmas Experience Ticket Price: £64.95/Toddler/Child/Young person; Member Christmas Experience price £59.95; Baby (0&1) Meet Father Christmas £26.95;
- 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.
For more fun days out nearby, read our Things to do in The Cotswolds with kids.
Where: Whitehall Garden Centre, Corsham Road, Lacock, Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN15 2LZ
Magic of Christmas Weekend
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 7th and Sunday 8th November 2026.
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:
Christmas Toy Day (Free) – Saturday 14th Nov 2026
- Storytime With Santa – 28th & 29th November, 5th, 6th, 12th 13th, 19th – 24th December 2026 – £22.99/Child
Where: WWT Slimbridge, Bowditch, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, GL2 7BT
When: Every Saturday and Sunday in December until Christmas, plus Monday 21st, Tuesday 22nd and Wednesday 23rd December 2026.
Price: Check online
Santas Grotto:
Times: Slots available every half an hour from 9:45am to 2:15pm. Â
Tickets: £15 per child — not included with admission or membership.
Storytime, trail and crafts
Tickets: included with admission or WWT membership.
Festive indoor marketplace
Tickets: Included with admission or WWTÂ membership.Â
Where: Bitton Station, Bath Rd, South Gloucestershire, BS30 6HD
When:Â 22nd, 28th, 29th November 2026, and 5th, 6th, 12th, 13th, 19th – 24th December 2026 – Five trains per day. Book in advance, online or via the booking office on 0117 932 5538.
Price: From £18/person to £43.00 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.
Premium Santa Experiences are back for 2026! Upgrade 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: Southwick Country Park, Trowbridge, Wiltshire, BA14 9QD
When: 28th and 29th November, then 5th, 6th, 12th 13th and 19th – 23rd December 2026.
Times: 9.30am – 10.30am and 10.45am – 11.45am.
Price: Tickets to meet Santa are £21.95 and include
- Santa Meet and Greet
- Wrapped Present
- Â Child Day Tickets are included in the price.
Children must be supervised at all times. Each participating or supervising adult will need to purchase a Day Ticket for park entry. Tickets include breakfast, consisting of pancakes, or a bacon or sausage bap for a child.
Where: Tortworth, Wotton Under Edge, Gloucestershire, GL12 8HH
When: 6th,13th and 20th December 2026.
- Dining time 12.30 pm – 4 pm
Price: Adults £45.00, Children (age 4 – 12) £45.00
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.
Christmas Events at the National Trust: In Bristol, Somerset and surrounding area
Where: Wraxall, North Somerset, BS48 1PA
Festive Friends TrailÂ
When: Saturday 19th December 2026 to Sunday 3rd January 2027.Â
- Daily between 10:30am and 3:00pm (last entry 3 pm)
Price: Usual admission fee to enter the estate (free for NT members). You can purchase a trail map for £3.50.
This Christmas, Tyntesfield, invites you to set out on a festive adventure with all your favourite Christmas characters.
Play hoopla with Rudolph, go bowling with Frosty, and strike a musical chord with Rockin’ Robin.
Follow the trail around the estate, get stuck into the games and challenges along the way, and collect a prize at the end.
Other festive events at Tyntesfield include Festive Wreath making, family reindeer making and Chapel concerts.
Where: Dyrham, near Bath, South Gloucestershire, SN14 8HY
When: Friday 20th November 2026 to Sunday 3rd January 2027.
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: Montacute, Somerset, TA15 6XP
When: Friday 27th November 2026 – Sunday 3rd January 2027.
Price: Normal admission price (NT members free)
Step inside the house to discover crackling fires, an Elizabethan Christmas feast and a magnificent 16ft Christmas tree in the Great Hall. Add a wish to the wishing tree, enjoy festive games and warming drinks in the Stables, browse the second-hand bookshop for gifts, write to Father Christmas and explore the beautiful winter gardens and parkland.
Where: Ozleworth, Â Wotton-under-Edge, Gloucestershire, GL12 7PZ
When: 28th and 29th November; 5th, 6th, 12th, 13th and 14th December 2026
- Time-slots 11.00 am – 3.30 pm.
Price: £12/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).
Read more Seasonal Guides
For firework displays and bonfire night events in Somerset and Bristol, check out:
The Best Firework Displays and Bonfire Night Events in Somerset and Bristol 2026
Firework Displays and Bonfire Night Events in Bristol and South Gloucestershire 2026
If you’re looking ahead to Christmas events in Somerset and Bristol, check out:
The Best Christmas Light Trails in Somerset and Bristol 2026
Family Days Out at Christmas in Somerset 2026
FREE Christmas Events in Somerset and Bristol, 2026
Christmas Markets in Somerset 2026
Festive Ice Skating in Somerset 2026
The Best Family Theatre and Pantomimes in Somerset and Bristol
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Disclaimer: Please note, every effort has been made to ensure that all information is correct at the time of publishing this post, but please check the venues website before travelling, as events may be amended or cancelled at short notice. Many of these events need pre-booking. If you have any more suggestions for family-friendly Christmas events in Bristol, we’d love to hear from you.
