Things to do this Christmas: Days Out, Christmas Lights and more

The Enchanted Garden at Chatsworth

8 November – 4 January 2025
This year, Chatsworth House and Garden transforms into The Enchanted Garden. Inside, towering trees, woodland textures and glowing silhouettes bring the natural world indoors. Outside, follow a mesmerising light and sound trail through familiar landmarks like the Cascade, Maze and Ring Pond – reimagined with art, animation and atmosphere.

Christmas Party Night – 29 November 2025
Celebrate in style in the grand Carriage House with a glass of fizz, a delicious three-course dinner and festive entertainment.

Advance booking essential for both events!

A Festival of Christmas Trees in Chesterfield

15 - 30 November 2025
The Crooked Spire glows once more as local groups, schools and businesses decorate trees for this beloved community tradition. Step inside and enjoy the creativity, warmth and festive spirit that fills the church, with unique trees that offer a twist on every Christmas tradition.

Hardwick Hall's Wintertide

17 November – 4 January 2025
Enter a world of mischief and magic as the Lord of Misrule returns to Hardwick Hall. Wander through festive stories brought to life in the Hall and gardens and experience the mansion after dark – a true winter delight. Warm up with mulled wine and see Hardwick sparkle in a whole new light.

Ashbourne Illuminated Tractor Parade

13 December 2025 (TBC)
For all tractor fans this great tradition is a must see, Thornley Tractors annual illuminated tractor run around Ashbourne and the surrounding villages.

Bolsover Castle

Carols and Bolsover Castle 11 & 18 December 2025
Sing along to your favourite carols in one of Derbyshire’s most atmospheric historic venues – a true celebration of Christmas tradition. Book now!

Bolsover Angels Festival 14 - 20 December 2025 Their very first Angel Festival with bring a sprinkle of magic to the beautiful town of Bolsover. Angels of all shapes and sizes will appear across Bolsover – brightening shop windows, lining the high street, and taking pride of place in a special exhibition at Hilltop Methodist Church.

Christmas at Calke Abbey

28 November – 23 December 2025
Wander through twinkling tunnels of light, explore festive fairs at the Riding School, and enjoy seasonal surprises across the estate. With free entry, Calke Abbey’s illuminated trails and music will leave you truly enchanted.

Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink in Derby

 29 November – 31 December 2025
Grab your skates and glide into the festive spirit at Derby’s open-air ice rink. Whether you’re taking to the ice or watching with a mulled wine from the nearby Nordic Bar, it’s the perfect winter day out. Book now!

Treak Cliff Cavern Carols by Candlelight

Weekends in December 2025
Head underground for an unforgettable festive experience. The Witch’s Cave is transformed with twinkling candles and fairy lights as carols echo through the cavern. Enjoy mulled wine and mince pies afterwards and browse beautiful Blue John jewellery in the gift shop. Book now!

Buxton Crescent Hotel

Celebrate Christmas in elegant style at the Buxton Crescent. Enjoy festive afternoon teas, sparkling party nights, and magical family experiences in this stunning heritage hotel. Indulge in a delicious three-course menu and dance the night away surrounded by festive finery. Book your event to be sure you have a spot!

Christmas Guided Tour at Renishaw Hall

4 - 7 December & 11-14 December 2025 Take a guided tour to uncover the fascinating history of this beautiful estate, and soak up the seasonal charm in its grand surroundings. Embark on a historical journey as you are taken from room to room by our guides, with expert knowledge of the hall and Sitwell family. Book now!

Ashbourne Christmas Lantern Spectacular

5 December 2025
Watch the streets of Ashbourne glow as candle-lit paper and willow lanterns light the way for this enchanting annual event. Enjoy street entertainment, festive surprises and a Christmas Craft Fair in the Town Hall Ballroom, featuring local artisans selling thoughtful gifts.

Lights of Abraham

21 November – 30 December 2025
See the Heights in a whole new light with this stunning illuminated experience. Wander along the festoon-lit riverside walkway, then take a moonlit cable car ride over glowing landscapes for a truly unforgettable view. Book online in advance.

Christmas with The Great British Car Journey

On 28 November 2025 start the festive season right at Carols with Cars, wander the museum with beautiful festive sounds from the amazing Belper choir. The following day enjoy Breakfast with Santa on 29 November 2025, including a yummy breakfast of your choice, meet Santa visiting all the way from the North Pole and leave with a special gift to take home with you!

Gather your group for ‘Operation Save the Festive Sleigh’ Trail at Ilam Park

1 December - 4 January 2025 Father Christmas is in a festive fix - he’s locked his magical Reindeer Flying Food in a chest and forgotten the code! Now it’s up to you or your team, to crack the clues hidden around the site. Solve puzzles, gather the secret numbers, and race back to the Welcome Team to unlock the chest. Trail sheets can be bought for a suggested donation of £2 from the Welcome Hut or Bookshop.

Image Credit/ National Trust Images Annapurna Mellor

Aladdin, The Elves and the Shoemaker, A Christmas Carol and much more on at Buxton Opera House

There are many festive productions taking place across the festive period at Buxton Opera House, the Pavillion Arts Centre and other locations! Embark on a journey with Ebenezer Scrooge or welcome Christmas at their Candlelight Concert and so much more. Make it tradition and visit one of their shows with your loved ones and support local community casts! Book now!

Castleton Christmas Tree Festival

16 November - 15 December 2025 The iconic village of Castleton sparkles with hundreds of beautifully decorated trees – so magical it’s even featured on BBC’s Countryfile! Wander the streets and visit the church, decorated beautifully, the perfect event to welcome you into the Christmas period.

Traditional Christmas Tree Sales at Longshaw Estate

Sat 22 November – Sun 21 December 2025, between 9.30am and 3.45pm daily

Premium grade, sustainably sourced, Christmas trees are selected with care by the team’s expert rangers.  There’s a mixture of species, including varieties which don’t drop their needles. Every tree sold supports vital Peak District conservation work. You can also visit the festive grotto with handmade decorations for sale. Coming early in the season is advised so you can have the pick of the best.

Image Credit/ National Trust Images Rebecca Hughes

Christmas at Cromford Mills

Christmas markets run every weekend through December. Children old and young can visit Father Christmas during weekends from 29 November - 14 December 2025. Book now to meet Santa and join in with the festive activities and their enchanting Christmas Trail through the historic Cromford Mills!

Christmas House tours at Thornbridge

10 November – 20 December 2025
Explore the lovely Thornbridge Hall with a guided tour through the festively adorned halls. Discover 15ft Christmas trees, explore the music room, family sitting room, and kitchen set for a festive feast. Enjoy a mince pie and mulled wine in the House Bar! Book now!

A Once Upon a Time Christmas at The Children’s Country House at Sudbury

Friday to Monday from 21 November, daily from 19 December to 5 January 2025 (2:30 closure on 24 Dec, closed on 25 and 26 December). Makers Street Market, Enchanted Evenings: 21-23 November | 12, 13, 19, 20 December 2025 (open until 6pm)

This Christmas, discover the magic of Pinocchio as The Children’s Country House at Sudbury transforms into the setting of the much-loved tale. Festive cheer fills every corner, with sparkling Christmas trees, twinkling garden lights, and a museum packed with seasonal activities for all ages. Families can also enjoy a special Pinocchio-themed trail through the Hall. Sudbury welcomes the Makers Street Market, featuring artisan gifts, homemade treats, vintage treasures, and unique homeware. Experience the Hall after dark for an Enchanted Evening, when it stays open until 6pm and comes to life with a magical glow, ready for Christmas!

Image Credit/ National Trust Images Annapurna Mellor

Markeaton Park Family Festivities

6 - 7 December 2025 Join in the fun at Markeaton Park’s Festive Weekend. Enjoy crafts, stalls and the Elf Trail, where you can follow clues to discover charming wooden elf houses hidden throughout the park. Free to enjoy – just download your trail map and start exploring!

Foremark and Staunton Harold

Escape the festive rush and rediscover stillness in the tranquil landscapes of Foremark and Staunton Harold. At Staunton Harold, take a gentle stroll through winter woodlands and pause by the great Christmas tree – a symbol of togetherness, where visitors can decorate and hang wooden decorations to share a seasonal message or wish. Nearby, the sweeping trails at Foremark offer space to stretch your legs and savour the beauty of nature in its quietest season.

Image Credit/ National Trust Images Annapurna Mellor

Festive Pottery Painting and Glazing at World of Wedgewood

During weekends, school holidays, and Fridays the World of Wedgewood open up their pottery studio so you can make memories and keepsakes during this wonderful time of year! Choose from various shapes and sizes to paint, including hanging decorations, festive characters and more. Don't miss out Book now!

Kedleston Hall

Saturday 29 November to Sunday 4 January (closed 25 December) Visitors are invited to experience a truly magical Christmas at this historic country house, nestled amid the beauty of Derbyshire countryside. Discover decorated Christmas trees and festive displays in the Hall that bring warmth and elegance to its interiors. Outside, families can enjoy a free Advent Trail – explore the 24 festive boxes hidden along the grounds. After strolling through the estate, visitors can savour seasonal treats in the Great Kitchen Restaurant – warming winter-spiced drinks and mince pies!

Image Credit/ National Trust Images Annapurna Mellor

Poole’s Cavern at Christmas

Events running between 29 - 19 December 2025 (check their website for specific event dates!) Many festive events are taking place at Poole's Cavern from workshops to magical christmas light walk-throughs. Meet Santa in his underground grotto or bring your four-legged friend along for a Santa Paws experience! Experience a memorable day out beneath the hills of Buxton, perfect for families and animal lovers alike. Book your visit now!

Christmas Workshops

• Festive Printmaking at Chatsworth House - 8 November 2025
• Season Decorations Workshop with Stevie Davies Glass at Creative Melbourne Gallery - 8 November 2025
• Advent Calendar Workshop at Chatsworth House - 14 November 2025
• Forest Workshop Christmas Door Swag at Forest Distillery - 27 November 2025
• Christmas Gilding Workshop at Peak Village - 20 December 2025
• Christmas Table Arrangement at World of Wedgewood - 21 December 2025

Festive Wreath Making

• Carsington Water - 30 November 2025
• Thornbridge Hall - 4 December 2025
• Longshaw Estate - 6, 12, 13 December 2025
• World of Wedgewood - 29, 30 November, 7 December 2025

Christmas Light 'Switch On' Shows

• Matlock Christmas Parade and Light Switch - 23 November 2025
• Cheadle Christmas Lights Switch On - 22 November 2025
• Bolsover Christmas Light Switch On - 21 November 2025
• Ashbourne Christmas Light Switch On - 15 November 2025
• Chesterfield Christmas Light Switch On and Market - 23 November 2025
• Biddulph Christmas Light Switch On - 29 November 2025
• Swadlincote Lights Before Christmas - 29 November 2025
• Derby Christmas Light Switch On - 27 November 2025
• Castleton Light Switch On - 15 November 2025