Christmas Family Activities 2025

There are so many lovely things going on locally around Christmas time, that we thought we’d put them in one handy guide to Christmas events. From festive light trails to Christmas wreath making, it’s all here… and of course the big man himself!

Details of all the events can also be found in our What’s On guide. For the Christmas lights switch-on events and Christmas fairs & markets, please see our separate guide to Christmas Fairs, Lights & Markets.

Chiswick House & Gardens W4

21st November – 4th January: The Twelfth Night of Christmas.

• The historic rooms of Chiswick House will be transformed into an imagined Georgian world of yuletide opulence and fantasy, joining Duchess Georgiana of Devonshire for this Twelfth Night-inspired journey. Visitors will be given the unique opportunity to step inside and experience a fantastical festive journey inspired by the beloved 1780 carol ‘Twelve Days of Christmas’ and the era in which it was written. This unique experience will showcase the interior of Chiswick House as it was originally intended – built for entertaining; a place of revelry and Georgian celebrity culture, where excess and extravagance were the hallmarks of good taste. Audiences will explore a sequence of opulent themed rooms, peep chambers and festive tableaux, ending in a visual banquet in the lower tribune. Dramatic installations, bespoke sculptures, fabulous costumes and floristry will punctuate this joyous Christmas experience.. For younger visitors (from 29th November), Father Christmas awaits in his charming 18th-century grotto, ready to share a festive story and a gift. Booking required.

Ham House & Garden TW10

29th November – 4th January: Stars Of Wonder.

• Get into the festive spirit with Ham House sumptuously decorated with stars for Christmas, inspired by its celestial globe which returned from conservation this year. Take in twinkling candlelight and fairy lights, Christmas trees and aromatic greenery as you discover the stunning Stuart interiors. A sugar banquet as well as star decorations made by volunteers will also be on display. Family-friendly activities inside the house (12.00-4.00pm) include: a spotter trail around the rooms as you take in Christmas trees and decorations; a festive reading nook in the Back Parlour and more activities below stairs; dressing up; write a letter to the North Pole; take home a memento with a free print from the CEWE photo station; hear merry songs as you explore the rooms and discover a sugar banquet display in the historic kitchen. You can also browse Christmas gifts in the shop (10.30am–3.30pm), and the Orangery Café will be serving light lunches, warming drinks and snacks (10.00am-4.00pm).  Normal admission applies.

Hampton Court Palace KT8

21st November – 4th January: Ice Rink.

• Experience a regal day out where elegance and history meet the electricity of ice skating. Be immersed in the magical scenes where Henry VIII once walked, surrounded by beautiful greenery, captivating fairy lights and a warm, festive experience. With fewer skaters, a brand new rink, and fresh and updated skates, the traditions of the Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink are enhanced, with every detail crafted for the perfect winter skate.  Booking required.

5th December – 4th January: Christmas Festivities.

• Step into the magic of Christmas, where you’ll see historic Tudor cookery, enjoy festive melodies from the past and hear Christmas themed talks given by the Palace Hosts. Discover Tudor Christmas cookery: in Henry VIII’s Kitchens you’ll discover beef roasting while you warm up by the fire, and a selection of other Court favourites. Hear festive music at the palace: keep your ears open for the sounds of live seasonal music filling the air and echoing through the historic halls. Talented musicians will be popping up in various locations, playing joyful tunes from across history – including some familiar favourites! A lively and entertaining Masters of Ceremonies will be on hand to guide you and spread some extra yuletide joy. Weekends only until 14th December, then every day from 20th December (excluding Christmas). Normal admission applies.

Hampton Hill Theatre TW12

13th – 24th December: Santa’s Grotto.

• Santa’s back with his merry brand of magic at Hampton Hill Theatre this Christmas! Yes, the elves have been hard at work designing his brand-new enchanted grotto and they can’t wait to give you a grand tour. With enchantment  and delight around every corner, plus a carefully selected gift for every child, it’s an essential festive treat for all the family. Santa sessions are booked in 5-minute slots but you’ve plenty of time to wander the grotto and take lots of photos! Booking required.

Kew Gardens TW9 

14th November – 4th January: Christmas At Kew.

• Experience the wonder of Christmas at Kew 2025, London’s most enchanting festive light trail – a botanical world of light, music and magic. This year’s trail showcases brand-new creations from world-renowned artists, lighting up Kew’s landscapes in dazzling colour. It’s the perfect Christmas event, whether you’re marking the start of the festive season with family or celebrating the New Year under the stars with friends. Expect unforgettable larger-than-life illuminations, shimmering tunnels of light and even a special visit from Father Christmas along the way. Indulge in delicious festive street food and warming winter treats. From savoury dishes and sweet treats to spiced winter warmers and hot chocolate along the trail and in the food court by the Temperate House. The Pavilion Bar & Grill will also be open for walk-ins, offering a special festive menu. Booking required.

London. Museum Of Water & Steam

13th, 14th, 20th & 21st December: Santa At The Museum.

• Santa is taking a break from his busy schedule to visit the Museum! Meeting in the Museum’s shop, you’ll follow Mrs. Claus to find Santa in the museum. During your time with Santa, you’ll sing a song or two, be able to take some pictures and receive a special present from Santa. Booking required (includes entry to the Museum).

London Wetland Centre SW13

6th – 21st December (weekends): Festive Family Fun Days.

• Step into the magic of Christmas with weekends filled with festive cheer and heart-warming activities for the whole family. Enjoy toasting gooey marshmallows around the fire; decorating your own gingerbread creations; magical storytelling sessions; festive face painting; otter enrichment making; and creative arts and crafts to make your own festive keepsakes. So wrap up warm, take your loved ones, and make lasting memories in the heart of nature this Christmas season. Normal admission applies plus some activities incur an additional cost.

6th – 4th January (weekends plus other dates): Give A Gift To Nature.

• Celebrate the season of giving as you craft beautiful gifts for both loved ones and nature. Children can create heartfelt thank-you cards using seeded paper; a gift that not only says “thank you” but also grows into a meadow of wildflowers, spreading joy long after the holidays. You can also help wildlife this Christmas by making pinecone bird feeders, providing a little festive cheer for our feathered friends. Normal admission applies.

Osterley Park & House TW7

22nd October – 4th January: Marigold Festival.

• The Marigold Festival runs from Diwali, the five day festival of light, and continues through to Christmas. Osterley will be transformed with marigolds, a celebratory flower in South Asia and across the world that will adorn the property. Diwali, which for some also coincides with harvest and new year celebrations, is a festival of new beginnings and the triumph of good over evil, and light over darkness. The Marigold Festival at Osterley is a celebration for everyone to enjoy and participate in. In collaboration with the PRSSV Institute of Performing Arts and Heritage, Osterley will be exploring classical Indian music in the Yellow Breakfast Room, where music was traditionally played in Osterley House. The Entrance Hall will be decorated with a community-designed Rangoli pattern to mirror architect Robert Adam’s floor design, and projected light will bring the space to life. Normal admission applies.

Squires Garden Centre TW2

6th – 24th December (selected dates): Santa’s Grotto.

• Step into an enchanting grotto and be welcomed by one of Santa’s jolly elves before meeting the man himself. Children can enjoy a lovely chat with Santa – it’s the perfect moment to ask those all-important questions! Every child will receive a wrapped gift to take home along with a special ‘I’ve Seen Santa’ badge to wear with pride. There will also be a quiet grotto specially adapted for children with additional needs, offering a more relaxed space (see website for times). £1 from every ticket will be donated to Homelink. Booking required.

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