Our top National Lottery funded locations to visit this Christmas
27th November 2023
With December in full swing, take a look at some of our top picks for the holiday season at National Lottery funded venues and locations across the UK.
![Christmas lights in Regent Street at peak time.](https://cdn.lotterygoodcauses.org.uk/uploads/images/_contentBlock/jamie-davies-a8x39Eo35bE-unsplash-1.jpg?v=1714490423)
London
This December, Hampton Court Palace is holding their Festive Fayre, transforming the grounds and courtyards into a stunning winter wonderland. The Fayre is being held from 1 - 3 and 8 - 10 December, don’t miss out, book your tickets now.
North East
Immerse yourself in Christmas traditions from the past at Beamish, The Living Museum of the North this holiday season. Santa himself will be making an appearance at their grotto and you’ll be able to explore the history of Christmas through time, from Georgian merriment to 1950s festive fun.
Get your tickets here.
North West
Unleash your wild side this festive season with the Lanterns and Light event at Chester Zoo. Combine the Christmas spirit with all the wildlife of the zoo, featuring light displays of all your favourite animals.
Get your tickets here.
Yorkshire and Humber
Don’t miss the chance to see Santa like never before - 140 meters underground! At The National Coal Mining Museum, visit Santa in a truly unforgettable fashion with this unique and festive grotto.
Get your tickets now.
![Santa reading a letter from a kid.](https://cdn.lotterygoodcauses.org.uk/uploads/images/_contentBlock/drz-__-YZZz0_MfHto-unsplash.jpg?v=1714490426)
East Midlands
Uncover the magic at Hardwick Hall this Christmas. Explore the festive displays showcasing the Elizabethan winter celebrations and see what else you can discover beneath the lanterns light.
Find out more about Christmas at Hardwick Hall on their website.
West Midlands
Spend Christmas in the Black Country this year with the Black Country Living Museum’s range of festive celebrations. Running until January 7, explore the Christmas traditions of past and present, with festive crafts, carols and stories to be shared with all the family.
Find out more.
South East
Break the norm, and the code this Christmas at Bletchley Park. Take a step back in time at the once top-secret home of the WW2 codebreakers, and uncover a vintage Christmas experience taking you back to the 1940s. With trails, puzzles, and even Santa’s reindeer making a visit; you won’t want to miss out this holiday season.
Book your place now.
South West
Why not have a green Christmas this festive season by celebrating under the Eden Project’s Biomes? With an awe-inspiring light display and immersive after-dark experience, plus much more for all the family - book your tickets now.
![People walking on a Christmas market in Manchester](https://cdn.lotterygoodcauses.org.uk/uploads/images/_contentBlock/rebecca-campbell-NXw8BUjFuFw-unsplash-1.jpg?v=1714490428)
Wales
Don’t miss the magical lights trail this Christmas season only at the National Botanic Garden of Wales. Get lost in the magical illuminated walk leading you around the stunning gardens and grounds. With interactive light play and toasted marshmallows on offer, you won’t want to miss out.
Book your tickets now.
Northern Ireland
Calling all Christmas helpers, Santa needs your help with an out-of-this-world adventure. This festive season, join Armagh Planetarium and their E.L.F. crew on Mission Santa in this unmissable theatrical show.
Get your tickets now.
Scotland
Get lost in a magical winter wonderland at the Botanics at Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh this Christmas. Discover the sparkling tunnels of light or grab a delicious festive treat. With even more magic to be found, don’t miss out, book your tickets here.
Thanks to funding from National Lottery players, all of the incredible locations in this list are able to continue providing fantastic experiences for everyone.