Family events coming up
134 fireworks displays, Christmas events, light trails, festivals and more. Dates and prices change, so check the event's own website before you go.
- Turner Prize 2026 exhibition
26 Sep 2026 – 29 Mar 2027
MIMA, Centre Square, Middlesbrough, Teesside · Free
Free exhibition of the four shortlisted artists for Britain's best-known art prize, the first time it has come to Teesside. The winner is announced on 10 December 2026. MIMA also runs free family activities.
Open in the planner · Event website - Pumpkin patch at Holmside Park
2 Oct 2026 – 31 Oct 2026
Holmside Park, Edmondsley DH7 6EY, County Durham · Child £15
Child £15, toddler £9, carer £8 (from the listing); includes 20+ activities.
Open in the planner · Event website - Baydale Farm pumpkin patch
3 Oct 2026 – 31 Oct 2026 · Half term 10am-4pm
Baydale Farm, Coniscliffe Road, Darlington DL3 8TA, County Durham · Free
Free entry for everyone; pumpkins from £2, paid at the end.
Open in the planner · Event website - The Enchanted Forest
8 Oct 2026 – 8 Nov 2026
Faskally Wood, Pitlochry, Perthshire · See event website
Off-peak (Mon-Thu) is cheapest. Running now until 8 November.
Open in the planner · Event website - Indoor pumpkin patch at Whitehouse Farm
10 Oct 2026 – 31 Oct 2026
Whitehouse Farm Centre, near Morpeth, Northumberland · Adult £16.95 · Child £16.95
Pick a pumpkin from the indoor patch as part of a farm day. From £16.95.
Open in the planner · Event website - The Pumpkin Garden at The Alnwick Garden
10 Oct 2026 – 1 Nov 2026 · Half term 10am-4pm
The Alnwick Garden, Alnwick, Northumberland · See event website
Included with Garden entry, and children 0-16 go free (up to four per booking). Scavenger hunt and harvest games in half term. Add Lilidorei on a combined ticket.
Open in the planner · Event website - Pumpkin picking at Hall Hill Farm
17 Oct 2026 – 1 Nov 2026
Hall Hill Farm, Lanchester DH7 0TA, County Durham · Adult £13.50 · Child £12.50 · Family £48
Pumpkin picking during a normal farm visit (farm entry from £12.50).
Open in the planner · Event website - Halloween half term at Belsay
24 Oct 2026 – 1 Nov 2026 · 10am-4pm
Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens, Northumberland · See event website
The Great Pumpkin Party: storytelling, spooky games, a themed trail and a daily fancy-dress competition. Included with normal entry (15% off if you book ahead); English Heritage members free.
Open in the planner · Event website - Land of Lights: Wonderwild (Gulliver's World)
24 Oct 2026 – 30 Jan 2027
Gulliver's World, Warrington, Cheshire · Adult £20 · Child £20
From £20.
Open in the planner · Event website - Pumpkin picking at Tweddle Farm
24 Oct 2026 – 30 Oct 2026 · 10am-5pm (last entry about 3pm)
Tweddle Farm, Blackhall Colliery TS27 4BT, County Durham · See event website
Weekends 10-25 Oct plus half term 26-30 Oct. Ticket includes farm entry; tractor and barrel rides free; add pumpkins at booking.
Open in the planner · Event website - Family Fright Fest, Lintz Hall Farm
30 Oct 2026 – 31 Oct 2026 · 11am-4pm
Lintz Hall Farm, near Burnopfield NE16 6AS, County Durham · Adult £14
Family-friendly Halloween fun day (the farm's scary Psycho Path is a separate, over-14s event). Tickets from £14 on Fatsoma.
Open in the planner · Event website - Blyth Annual Fireworks
31 Oct 2026 · Gates 4pm; fireworks 7pm
Mermaid Car Park area, Blyth, Northumberland · See event website
Halloween-night display on the seafront.
Open in the planner · Event website - Kynren Pyromusical
31 Oct 2026 · Show 7pm
Kynren show arena, Bishop Auckland, County Durham · See event website
Ticketed fireworks set to music at the Kynren arena. Check prices on the Auckland Project site.
Open in the planner · Event website - Firework Extravaganza at Beamish Hall
1 Nov 2026 – 4 Nov 2026 · Opens 6pm
Beamish Hall, Stanley, County Durham · See event website
Open in the planner · Event website - Fireworks by the River, Durham
1 Nov 2026 · Opens 5pm
Durham city riverside, County Durham · See event website
Open in the planner · Event website - Gateshead RFC Fireworks
1 Nov 2026 · Gates 4.30pm; fireworks 6.30pm
Gateshead Rugby Club, Low Fell, Tyne and Wear · Adult £7 · Family £25
Group ticket £25 for four. Free parking at The Dryden Centre. No sparklers.
Open in the planner · Event website - Morpeth Rugby Club Fireworks
1 Nov 2026 · From 5pm
Morpeth Rugby Club, Northumberland · See event website
Open in the planner · Event website - North Tyneside Fireworks Display
1 Nov 2026 · 6pm-7.30pm; fireworks from 7pm (about 15 minutes)
The Links, Whitley Bay, Tyne and Wear · Free
Free council display on the seafront Links. Arrive early to park, or come by Metro to Whitley Bay.
Open in the planner · Event website - Seaham Fireworks
1 Nov 2026 · 5pm-9pm
Seafront, Seaham, County Durham · Free
Free seaside display.
Open in the planner · Event website - South Tyneside Fireworks
1 Nov 2026 · Two displays: 6pm and 8pm
South Shields seafront, Sea Road NE33 2LD, Tyne and Wear · Free
Free council display fired from behind the skate park by Ocean Beach Pleasure Park. Good viewing from the Lawe Top, South Marine Park and The Leas. No sparklers; not suitable for dogs.
Open in the planner · Event website - Stockton Fireworks
1 Nov 2026
Riverside and Waterfront urban park, Stockton, Teesside · Free
Council fireworks along the River Tees. Times are announced nearer the day.
Open in the planner · Event website - Blue Flames Annual Fireworks
5 Nov 2026 · Gates 5.30pm; display 7.30pm
Blue Flames Sporting Club, Benton, Tyne and Wear · See event website
Open in the planner · Event website - Embleton Fireworks
5 Nov 2026 · From 6.30pm
Field behind the playpark, Embleton, Northumberland · Free
Open in the planner · Event website - Spennymoor Firework Display
5 Nov 2026 · 6pm-8pm
Spennymoor, County Durham · See event website
Open in the planner · Event website - The Big Blaze, Lintz Hall Farm
5 Nov 2026 – 7 Nov 2026 · 4pm-11pm
Lintz Hall Farm, near Rowlands Gill, County Durham · Adult £11 · Family £26
Open in the planner · Event website - Barmoor Fireworks, Ryton
6 Nov 2026 · Funfair from 4pm; fireworks 7pm
Barmoor Field, Ryton, Tyne and Wear · Free
Free entry, donations welcome; fairground and food stalls.
Open in the planner · Event website - Barnard Castle Bonfire Night
6 Nov 2026 · Opens 5.30pm
Upper Demesnes, opposite the Bowes Museum, County Durham · See event website
Open in the planner · Event website - Brandon Fantastic Fireworks and Bonfire
6 Nov 2026 · 4pm-9pm
Brandon Sports Club, County Durham · See event website
Open in the planner · Event website - Floodlit Firework and Funfair Racenight
6 Nov 2026 · Afternoon and evening racing with a fireworks finale
Newcastle Racecourse, Gosforth Park, Tyne and Wear · Adult £21 · Family £30
Funfair and food before the display; hospitality packages too.
Open in the planner · Event website - Newton Aycliffe Firework Display
6 Nov 2026 · Opens 5pm
Newton Aycliffe, County Durham · Free
Free but you need a wristband, collected from Oakleaf Sports Complex.
Open in the planner · Event website - Rutherford AFC Bonfire and Fireworks
6 Nov 2026 · Gates 6pm; fireworks about 8.30pm
Beggarswood Park, Lobley Hill, Gateshead, Tyne and Wear · Adult £12 · Child £9
Greatest Showman theme. Parking £5. No sparklers. Booking fee extra.
Open in the planner · Event website - Alnwick Round Table Fireworks
7 Nov 2026 · From 6.30pm
Alnwick Town Football Club, Northumberland · See event website
Open in the planner · Event website - Blaydon RFC Bonfire and Firework Extravaganza
7 Nov 2026 · Gates 4pm; bonfire 6.15pm; fireworks 7.15pm
Blaydon RFC, Swalwell, Tyne and Wear · Adult £9.42 · Child £5.74 · Family £25.17
Advance tickets only (not sold at the gate). Parking £5 cash. Family tickets from £13.09.
Open in the planner · Event website - Festival of Fireworks, Chester-le-Street
7 Nov 2026 · Opens 7.30pm
Banks Homes Riverside, Chester-le-Street, County Durham · See event website
Open in the planner · Event website - Festival of Light: Legendary Worlds
7 Nov 2026 – 10 Jan 2027
Longleat, Warminster, Wiltshire · Adult £34.95 · Child £34.95
1,000+ lanterns on a 2.6km route (Atlantis, Round Table, Zodiac). Day, non-safari and twilight tickets; Santa Train add-on.
Open in the planner · Event website - Gateshead Stadium Firework Frenzy
7 Nov 2026 · 5pm-9pm; fireworks 8.30pm
Gateshead International Stadium, Tyne and Wear · Adult £6 · Child £6
Sold out online when checked; maybe £10 on the gate. No on-site parking.
Open in the planner · Event website - Gosforth Fireworks Extravaganza
7 Nov 2026 · Gates 5pm; fireworks about 7pm
Gosforth Sports Association, Broadway West, Tyne and Wear · Adult £8.50 · Child £6.50 · Family £25
Open in the planner · Event website - Hexham Bonfire and Fireworks
7 Nov 2026 · 7pm
The Sele, Hexham, Northumberland · Free
Free; volunteers collect donations for next year's display and local charities.
Open in the planner · Event website - Newbiggin Fireworks
7 Nov 2026
Newbiggin-by-the-Sea seafront, Northumberland · See event website
Seaside display with local food vendors and entertainment. Times to be announced.
Open in the planner · Event website - Newcastle's Outdoor Ice Rink
7 Nov 2026 – 3 Jan 2027 · Hour-long sessions (about 45 minutes on the ice)
Times Square, Life Science Centre, Newcastle, Tyne and Wear · Adult £15.75 · Child £14.50 · Family £49.50
Opening weekend (7-8 Nov) £10 per person. Book online; peak December slots go fast.
Open in the planner · Event website - Stanley Fireworks
7 Nov 2026 · Opens 5pm
Stanley, County Durham · See event website
Open in the planner · Event website - THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride, Churnet Valley Railway
7 Nov 2026 – 23 Dec 2026
Churnet Valley Railway, Cheddleton, Staffordshire · Adult £28.95 · Child £28.95
From £28.95. Hot chocolate, a cookie, the story read aloud and a bell from Santa for each child. Prices vary by date and class; the most popular dates sell out early.
Open in the planner · Event website - THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride, Spa Valley Railway
7 Nov 2026 – 30 Dec 2026
Tunbridge Wells West station, Kent · See event website
Hot chocolate, a cookie, the story read aloud and a bell from Santa for each child. Prices vary by date and class; the most popular dates sell out early.
Open in the planner · Event website - Tynemouth Cricket Club Fireworks
7 Nov 2026 · Gates 5pm; fireworks from 7pm
Tynemouth Cricket Club, Tyne and Wear · Adult £7 · Child £4 · Family £20
Group ticket £20.
Open in the planner · Event website - Walking with The Snowman at Belsay
7 Nov 2026 – 10 Jan 2027 · 10am-4pm
Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens, Northumberland · See event website
Trail of twelve giant artist-designed Snowman sculptures; collect the letters to spell a Christmas word. Included with normal entry.
Open in the planner · Event website - Land of Lights at Gulliver's Valley
8 Nov 2026 – 23 Jan 2027
Gulliver's Valley, Rotherham, South Yorkshire · See event website
Open in the planner · Event website - Peterlee and Horden RFC Fireworks Night
8 Nov 2026 · Opens 4.30pm
Peterlee & Horden RFC, County Durham · See event website
Open in the planner · Event website - Scarborough Lights
11 Nov 2026 – 20 Dec 2026
Scarborough, North Yorkshire · See event website
Open in the planner · Event website - Newcastle Christmas Lights Switch-On
12 Nov 2026
Newcastle city centre, Tyne and Wear · Free
Free evening event; the Christmas market follows from 19 November.
Open in the planner · Event website - Christmas at Blenheim Palace
13 Nov 2026 – 3 Jan 2027 · Usually 10am-8pm
Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, Oxfordshire · Adult £25 · Child £18
Cinderella palace experience and illuminated light trail (separate or combined tickets); ice rink and wheel extra.
Open in the planner · Event website - Christmas at Kew
13 Nov 2026 – 3 Jan 2027 · 4.20pm-10pm (timed entry)
Kew Gardens, Richmond, Greater London · Adult £25.23 · Child £20
The UK's original big light trail; weekends and the week before Christmas sell out first.
Open in the planner · Event website - Giant Lanterns at Edinburgh Zoo
13 Nov 2026 – 21 Feb 2027
Edinburgh Zoo, Edinburgh · Adult £14
From £14.
Open in the planner · Event website - Lanterns and Light at Chester Zoo
13 Nov 2026 – 3 Jan 2027
Chester Zoo, Cheshire · Adult £19.50 · Child £12
Adults £19.50-£27.50, children £12-£19.50 depending on date. Timed entry.
Open in the planner · Event website - THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride, Wensleydale Railway
13 Nov 2026 – 23 Dec 2026
Leeming Bar station, Wensleydale Railway, North Yorkshire · See event website
Hot chocolate, a cookie, the story read aloud and a bell from Santa for each child. Prices vary by date and class; the most popular dates sell out early.
Open in the planner · Event website - A Christmas Carousel at Bamburgh Castle
14 Nov 2026 – 3 Jan 2027 · 10am-4pm (closed 25-26 Dec)
Bamburgh Castle, Northumberland · See event website
Christmas installation in the State Rooms, included in general admission (adult £21, child £10 from 14 Nov).
Open in the planner · Event website - Edinburgh's Christmas
14 Nov 2026 – 3 Jan 2027 · Usually 10am-10pm; closed 25 Dec
Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh, Edinburgh · Free
Free market in East Princes Street Gardens and funfair in West Princes Street Gardens; Big Wheel and Starflyer are paid.
Open in the planner · Event website - Kielder Winter Wonderland
14 Nov 2026 – 23 Dec 2026
Kielder Forest, Northumberland · See event website
Forest walk to meet Father Christmas and Mrs Claus with elves and woodland characters; accessible Snowman route and a relaxed day. Dates for 2026 not yet announced; shown from the usual pattern, so check before planning.
Open in the planner · Event website - Lights of Lowther
14 Nov 2026 – 30 Dec 2026
Lowther Castle, Penrith, Cumbria · Adult £20 · Child £15 · Family £65
Open in the planner · Event website - Raby Castle at Christmas
14 Nov 2026 – 3 Jan 2027
Raby Castle, Staindrop, County Durham · Adult £25 · Family £70
Winter Family Explorer £70 online (2+2) covers the castle at Christmas, Enchanted Forest daytime trail, deer park and gardens. Early-bird code RCC10.
Open in the planner · Event website - The Plotters' Forest Enchanted Christmas Trail
14 Nov 2026 – 3 Jan 2027
Raby Castle, Staindrop, County Durham · Child £14
From £14 per child; day and evening prices.
Open in the planner · Event website - Winter Illuminations: Polar Bear Express
14 Nov 2026 – 9 Jan 2027
Yorkshire Wildlife Park, Doncaster, South Yorkshire · See event website
Open in the planner · Event website - Yuletide at Tatton Park
14 Nov 2026 – 23 Dec 2026
Tatton Park, Knutsford, Cheshire · Adult £19.50 · Child £11.50
Open in the planner · Event website - Darlington Christmas Lights Switch-On
15 Nov 2026 · From 4pm; lights on about 5:30pm, then fireworks
Darlington town centre, County Durham · Free
Open in the planner · Event website - Christmas Village, Old Eldon Square
19 Nov 2026 – 23 Dec 2026
Old Eldon Square, Newcastle, Tyne and Wear · See event website
Santa Stories, Mrs Claus' Bakery, Rockin' Reindeer stage shows, a vintage carousel and a Ferris wheel. Book at christmasvillagenewcastle.co.uk.
Open in the planner · Event website - Christmas at Bute Park
19 Nov 2026 – 31 Dec 2026 · 4.15pm-8.30pm
Bute Park, Cardiff CF10 3DX, Cardiff · Adult £19.50 · Child £13.50
Wales's largest light trail, with street food and a heated cabin.
Open in the planner · Event website - Christmas at the Botanics
19 Nov 2026 – 30 Dec 2026
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, Edinburgh · Adult £26
From £26.
Open in the planner · Event website - Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
19 Nov 2026 – 3 Jan 2027 · Usually 10am-10pm (some later openings); closed Christmas Day
Hyde Park, London, Greater London · Adult £1 · Child £1
Entry tickets from £1 off-peak to about £8 peak; rides, ice rink and shows cost extra. Spend £25 online for free entry.
Open in the planner · Event website - Newcastle Christmas Market
19 Nov 2026 – 23 Dec 2026
Grey's Monument and Grey Street, Newcastle, Tyne and Wear · Free
Free to wander; Christmas Village at Old Eldon Square.
Open in the planner · Event website - Northern Lights at Heaton Park
19 Nov 2026 – 31 Dec 2026
Heaton Park, Manchester, Greater Manchester · Adult £17 · Child £12
Early-bird adult from £17, child from £12.
Open in the planner · Event website - Rapunzel (Gala Durham)
19 Nov 2026 – 31 Dec 2026
Gala Theatre, Durham, County Durham · See event website
Panto runs most days with matinees and evenings; relaxed and signed performances are often available, so check the theatre.
Open in the planner · Event website - Sunderland Christmas Light Switch-On
19 Nov 2026
Keel Square, Sunderland, Tyne and Wear · Free
Free, no booking. Line-up and times to be announced.
Open in the planner · Event website - AGLOW Light Trail at Auckland Palace
20 Nov 2026 – 3 Jan 2027
Auckland Palace, Bishop Auckland, County Durham · Adult £23.50
Prices from £23.50 (check child prices).
Open in the planner · Event website - Bedgebury Pinetum Light Trail
20 Nov 2026 – 31 Dec 2026
Bedgebury Pinetum, Goudhurst, Kent · Adult £27.50 · Child £19
Open in the planner · Event website - Christmas at Dunham Massey
20 Nov 2026 – 2 Jan 2027
Dunham Massey, Altrincham, Greater Manchester · Adult £19.50 · Child £13
Off-peak adult £19.50, child 3-16 £13 (standard £28 / £19). Parking £8.
Open in the planner · Event website - Enchanted at Knowsley Safari
20 Nov 2026 – 23 Dec 2026
Knowsley Safari, Prescot, Merseyside · Adult £9.95 · Child £9.95
£9.95-£25 depending on date; toddlers (1-2) £3; under-1s free.
Open in the planner · Event website - Father Christmas at Lilidorei
20 Nov 2026 – 24 Dec 2026
Lilidorei, The Alnwick Garden, Northumberland · See event website
Private meeting with Father Christmas and a gift. Evening slots include the Winter Lights trail.
Open in the planner · Event website - Northern Lights Leeds
20 Nov 2026 – 31 Dec 2026
Temple Newsam, Leeds, West Yorkshire · See event website
Open in the planner · Event website - Sleeping Beauty (Customs House panto)
20 Nov 2026 – 2 Jan 2027
The Customs House, South Shields, Tyne and Wear · See event website
Panto runs most days with matinees and evenings; relaxed and signed performances are often available, so check the theatre.
Open in the planner · Event website - Trentham Gardens Light Trail
20 Nov 2026 – 3 Jan 2027
Trentham Estate, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire · Adult £17 · Child £12.50
Open in the planner · Event website - Winter Lights at The Alnwick Garden and Lilidorei
20 Nov 2026 – 3 Jan 2027
The Alnwick Garden, Alnwick, Northumberland · See event website
Two attractions, one ticket. Saver, standard and premium dates. Father Christmas at Lilidorei is booked separately (day or evening).
Open in the planner · Event website - Winter at Sizergh
20 Nov 2026 – 24 Dec 2026
Sizergh, Kendal, Cumbria · Adult £13 · Child £9.75
National Trust members £6.50.
Open in the planner · Event website - Wynyard Hall Christmas Fayre
20 Nov 2026 – 22 Nov 2026 · Fri-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 10am-4pm (entry slots 10am and 1pm)
Wynyard Hall, near Billingham, Teesside · Adult £8 · Child £7
Big indoor Christmas shopping fair in a stately home. Advance tickets only (none on the door) and numbers are limited.
Open in the planner · Event website - Christmas Craft Fair at Belsay
21 Nov 2026 – 22 Nov 2026 · 10am-4pm
Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens, Northumberland · See event website
Included with normal entry; English Heritage members free.
Open in the planner · Event website - Christmas at Beamish
21 Nov 2026 – 31 Dec 2026 · 10am-4pm; closed 25-26 Dec
Beamish, The Living Museum of the North, County Durham · See event website
Free with a Beamish Unlimited Pass. Father Christmas grotto at Rowley Station and Breakfast with Father Christmas cost extra and sell out.
Open in the planner · Event website - Christmas at Cragside: A Journey Through Fairyland
21 Nov 2026 – 31 Dec 2026
Cragside, Rothbury, Northumberland · See event website
Open in the planner · Event website - Christmas at Gibside
21 Nov 2026 – 3 Jan 2027
Gibside, Rowlands Gill, Tyne and Wear · See event website
National Trust members free for normal entry; some activities extra.
Open in the planner · Event website - Christmas at Wallington
21 Nov 2026 – 31 Dec 2026
Wallington, Cambo, Northumberland · See event website
20ft tree in the Central Hall, reindeer and sleigh, and Father Christmas on selected days.
Open in the planner · Event website - Father Christmas at Raby Castle
21 Nov 2026 – 24 Dec 2026
Raby Castle, Staindrop, County Durham · Family £32
From £32 for one adult and one child.
Open in the planner · Event website - Santa's Enchanted Elf Journey, Whitehouse Farm
21 Nov 2026 – 24 Dec 2026
Whitehouse Farm Centre, near Morpeth, Northumberland · See event website
Popular walk-through elf journey to Santa that sells out fast. Dates for 2026 not yet announced; shown from the usual pattern, so check before planning.
Open in the planner · Event website - THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride, Birmingham Moor Street
22 Nov 2026 – 23 Dec 2026
Birmingham Moor Street station, West Midlands · See event website
Standard and premium tickets. Hot chocolate, a cookie, the story read aloud and a bell from Santa for each child. Prices vary by date and class; the most popular dates sell out early.
Open in the planner · Event website - Alnwick Castle Christmas Fair
24 Nov 2026 – 25 Nov 2026
Guest Hall, Alnwick Castle NE66 1NQ, Northumberland · See event website
Tickets for each day through Tickettailor. The market day is the family-friendly one.
Open in the planner · Event website - Jack and the Beanstalk (Theatre Royal panto)
24 Nov 2026 – 17 Jan 2027
Theatre Royal, Grey Street, Newcastle, Tyne and Wear · See event website
Danny Adams and Joe McElderry star. The region's biggest panto: weekend and Christmas-week seats go first. Panto runs most days with matinees and evenings; relaxed and signed performances are often available, so check the theatre.
Open in the planner · Event website - Glow at RHS Harlow Carr
26 Nov 2026 – 30 Dec 2026
RHS Garden Harlow Carr, Harrogate, North Yorkshire · See event website
Open in the planner · Event website - Hillier Gardens Light Trail
26 Nov 2026 – 1 Jan 2027
Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey, Hampshire · Adult £22 · Child £14
Open in the planner · Event website - Northern Lights Newcastle
26 Nov 2026 – 31 Dec 2026
Leazes Park, Newcastle, Tyne and Wear · Adult £12 · Child £12
Peak £14-£21, off-peak £12-£17 per ticket plus fee; kids-go-free off-peak offer with early-bird adults. Neuro-inclusive evenings.
Open in the planner · Event website - Beauty and the Beast (Empire Consett)
27 Nov 2026 – 31 Dec 2026
Empire Theatre, Consett, County Durham · See event website
Panto runs most days with matinees and evenings; relaxed and signed performances are often available, so check the theatre.
Open in the planner · Event website - Lightwaves, MediaCity
27 Nov 2026 – 13 Dec 2026 · 5pm-10pm
MediaCityUK, Salford Quays, Greater Manchester · Free
Open in the planner · Event website - Noel at Liverpool Cathedral
27 Nov 2026 – 5 Dec 2026
Liverpool Cathedral, Merseyside · Adult £10.50 · Child £8.50 · Family £29.50
Open in the planner · Event website - Raby Castle Christmas Market
27 Nov 2026 – 29 Nov 2026
Raby Castle, Staindrop, County Durham · Adult £2.50
£2.50 in advance or £5 on the day.
Open in the planner · Event website - THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride, South Devon Railway
27 Nov 2026 – 23 Dec 2026
Buckfastleigh station, Devon · See event website
Hot chocolate, a cookie, the story read aloud and a bell from Santa for each child. Prices vary by date and class; the most popular dates sell out early.
Open in the planner · Event website - Wild Lights at Bristol Zoo Project
27 Nov 2026 – 23 Dec 2026
Bristol Zoo Project, Blackhorse Hill, Bristol · Adult £20.50 · Child £15.99
Open in the planner · Event website - Christmas at Abbotsford
28 Nov 2026 – 24 Dec 2026
Abbotsford, Melrose, Scottish Borders · See event website
Sir Walter Scott's house dressed for an 1820s Christmas, a book-tree, Santa's cottage grotto, Breakfast with Santa and Mrs Claus storytelling. Dates for 2026 not yet announced; shown from the usual pattern, so check before planning.
Open in the planner · Event website - Christmas at Seaton Delaval Hall
28 Nov 2026 – 3 Jan 2027
Seaton Delaval Hall NE26 4QR, Northumberland · Adult £15 · Child £7.50 · Family £37.50
Theatre shows on Saturdays, choirs, family crafts (Fri-Sat) and late openings on 10-11 Dec. No booking needed; National Trust members free.
Open in the planner · Event website - Ford & Etal Christmas Market
28 Nov 2026 – 29 Nov 2026 · 10am-4pm
Ford, Etal and Heatherslaw TD12 4TJ, Northumberland · See event website
Stalls spread across three villages, including inside Ford Castle (normally closed). Vintage buses link the sites; tickets on the day or online.
Open in the planner · Event website - North Pole Express, Tanfield Railway
28 Nov 2026 – 24 Dec 2026 · Hourly departures 10.25am-4.25pm; about 2 hours in total
East Tanfield Station, DH9 9UY, County Durham · Adult £24 · Child £24
Steam train to Father Christmas's grotto, gift for each child, refreshments and an elf show. Sold out when checked; watch for returns. Train is unheated, so wrap up.
Open in the planner · Event website - Santa Express, Weardale Railway
28 Nov 2026 – 24 Dec 2026
Weardale Railway, County Durham · Adult £33 · Child £33
Gold fares from £33, VIP from £43; costumed elves and a visit from Santa. Christmas Eve is the busiest.
Open in the planner · Event website - Traquair Christmas Opening
28 Nov 2026 – 29 Nov 2026 · 10am-4pm
Traquair House, Innerleithen EH44 6PW, Scottish Borders · See event website
Scotland's oldest inhabited house decorated for Christmas, with a bookable Santa's grotto, puppet shows, carols and gift stalls. Dates for 2026 not yet announced; shown from the usual pattern, so check before planning.
Open in the planner · Event website - THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride, Edinburgh Waverley
29 Nov 2026 – 23 Dec 2026
Edinburgh Waverley station (Platform 2), Edinburgh · See event website
Hot chocolate, a cookie, the story read aloud and a bell from Santa for each child. Prices vary by date and class; the most popular dates sell out early.
Open in the planner · Event website - Father Christmas: Tales and Treats at Ushaw
1 Dec 2026 – 24 Dec 2026
Ushaw Historic House, Durham DH7 7DW, County Durham · See event website
Meet Father Christmas in the decorated Parlour. Dates for 2026 not yet announced; shown from the usual pattern, so check before planning.
Open in the planner · Event website - Santa at Paxton House
1 Dec 2026 – 24 Dec 2026
Paxton House, near Berwick, Scottish Borders · See event website
Book a slot to visit Santa; a community carol service and behind-the-scenes Christmas tours run too. Dates for 2026 not yet announced; shown from the usual pattern, so check before planning.
Open in the planner · Event website - Santa's Grotto at Bowhill
1 Dec 2026 – 24 Dec 2026
Bowhill House, near Selkirk, Scottish Borders · See event website
Ten-minute visits to Santa in the Victorian Kitchen with a wrapped gift, plus Breakfast with Santa. Dates for 2026 not yet announced; shown from the usual pattern, so check before planning.
Open in the planner · Event website - Stockton Sparkles
1 Dec 2026 – 20 Dec 2026
Stockton High Street, Teesside · Free
Free Christmas market weekend with a lantern parade and Santa. Dates for 2026 not yet announced; shown from the usual pattern, so check before planning.
Open in the planner · Event website - Sleeping Beauty (Forum Theatre)
2 Dec 2026 – 3 Jan 2027
Forum Theatre, Billingham, Teesside · See event website
Panto runs most days with matinees and evenings; relaxed and signed performances are often available, so check the theatre.
Open in the planner · Event website - The Snow Queen (Northern Stage)
3 Dec 2026 – 2 Jan 2027
Northern Stage, Barras Bridge, Newcastle, Tyne and Wear · See event website
Northern Stage's big Christmas show, by Laura Lindow. A smaller Stage 3 show, The Christmas Sorting Office, suits younger children.
Open in the planner · Event website - Winterlight: The Tudor Glow
3 Dec 2026 – 23 Dec 2026
Burton Constable Hall, Skirlaugh, East Yorkshire · See event website
Open in the planner · Event website - Aladdin (Tyne Theatre panto)
4 Dec 2026 – 3 Jan 2027
Tyne Theatre & Opera House, Westgate Road, Newcastle, Tyne and Wear · See event website
Panto runs most days with matinees and evenings; relaxed and signed performances are often available, so check the theatre.
Open in the planner · Event website - Durham Christmas Festival
4 Dec 2026 – 6 Dec 2026 · Fri-Sat 9am-5:30pm, Sun 9am-4:30pm
Palace Green, Durham, County Durham · See event website
120+ craft and food stalls in a marquee between the Castle and Cathedral, with street food and live Christmas music. Book a (ticketless) entry slot online.
Open in the planner · Event website - Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs
4 Dec 2026 – 3 Jan 2027
Playhouse Whitley Bay, Tyne and Wear · See event website
Panto runs most days with matinees and evenings; relaxed and signed performances are often available, so check the theatre.
Open in the planner · Event website - Aladdin (Middlesbrough Theatre)
5 Dec 2026 – 31 Dec 2026
Middlesbrough Theatre, The Avenue, Teesside · Adult £26 · Child £25 · Family £96
Family of 3 £72, family of 4 £96 (booking fee included). Panto runs most days with matinees and evenings; relaxed and signed performances are often available, so check the theatre.
Open in the planner · Event website - Father Christmas at Belsay
5 Dec 2026 – 22 Dec 2026
Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens, Northumberland · Child £12
Storytelling and a meet-and-greet with a present for every child. Child £12 (members £9.50) plus site entry; one adult per child. Book ahead.
Open in the planner · Event website - THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride, London Euston
5 Dec 2026 – 23 Dec 2026
London Euston station, Greater London · See event website
Hot chocolate, a cookie, the story read aloud and a bell from Santa for each child. Prices vary by date and class; the most popular dates sell out early.
Open in the planner · Event website - Mr and Mrs Claus in the Yuletide Yurt, Raby
6 Dec 2026 – 20 Dec 2026
Raby Castle, Staindrop, County Durham · See event website
£27.50 for one adult and one child. Raby also runs a Santa-Paws dog photo day on 11 Dec (£7.50 per dog).
Open in the planner · Event website - Cinderella (Hartlepool Town Hall Theatre)
10 Dec 2026 – 27 Dec 2026
Hartlepool Town Hall Theatre, Teesside · Adult £16 · Child £14
From £16 adult and £14 child plus £1.50 booking fee per ticket (capped at £7.50). Panto runs most days with matinees and evenings; relaxed and signed performances are often available, so check the theatre.
Open in the planner · Event website - Beauty and the Beast (Darlington Hippodrome)
11 Dec 2026 – 3 Jan 2027
Darlington Hippodrome, Teesside · See event website
Matt Baker leads the cast. Panto runs most days with matinees and evenings; relaxed and signed performances are often available, so check the theatre.
Open in the planner · Event website - Peter Pan: The Return of Captain Hook
11 Dec 2026 – 3 Jan 2027
Sunderland Empire, High Street West, Tyne and Wear · See event website
Panto runs most days with matinees and evenings; relaxed and signed performances are often available, so check the theatre.
Open in the planner · Event website - The Winter Market at The Bowes Museum
11 Dec 2026 – 13 Dec 2026 · 10am-4pm
The Bowes Museum, Barnard Castle, County Durham · Adult £7.50 · Child £0
Adults £7.50 before 7 Dec, then £9. Under-18s, students and carers free.
Open in the planner · Event website - Hexham Christmas Markets
12 Dec 2026
Hexham Abbey, Abbey Flags and Market Place, Northumberland · Free
Dates for 2026 not yet announced; shown from the usual pattern, so check before planning.
Open in the planner · Event website - Christmas at The Glasshouse with Matt Baker
17 Dec 2026 · 7:30pm (about 2 hours)
The Glasshouse, Gateshead Quays, Tyne and Wear · Adult £5
Family Christmas concert; tickets £5-£62 with discounts for under-16s. Under-14s must be with an adult.
Open in the planner · Event website - Allendale Tar Bar'l
31 Dec 2026 · Crowds from 11pm; barrels lit about 11:30pm; bonfire at midnight
Allendale town centre, Northumberland · Free
Ancient New Year tradition: men in costume carry blazing tar barrels on their heads to light a bonfire. Late, crowded and fiery, so best for older children.
Open in the planner · Event website - Hogmanay Family Ceilidh, Melrose
31 Dec 2026
Corn Exchange, Melrose, Scottish Borders · See event website
Family ceilidh to see in the New Year (it ran with the band Jiggit last year). Dates for 2026 not yet announced; shown from the usual pattern, so check before planning.
Open in the planner · Event website - New Year's Eve fireworks, Newcastle and Gateshead Quayside
31 Dec 2026 · Usually an early family display at 6pm and a midnight display
Newcastle and Gateshead Quayside, Tyne and Wear · Free
Free. The early display is the one for children. 2026 plans are due at newcastleschristmas.com. A ticketed HowayManay party village runs on the Quayside.
Open in the planner · Event website - Sunderland New Year's Eve double fireworks
31 Dec 2026 · Last year: children's activities from 3pm, parade 5:45pm, family fireworks 6:30pm, midnight fireworks
Keel Square, Sunderland, Tyne and Wear · Free
Free family New Year's Eve with a fairground on High Street West. Dates for 2026 not yet announced; shown from the usual pattern, so check before planning.
Open in the planner · Event website - Snowdrop season at Howick Hall Gardens
1 Feb 2027 – 28 Feb 2027
Howick Hall Gardens, near Craster, Northumberland · See event website
Woodland carpeted with snowdrops, a pushchair-friendly trail, free children's trail sheets and the Earl Grey tea room. Dates for 2026 not yet announced; shown from the usual pattern, so check before planning.
Open in the planner · Event website - Chinese New Year in Newcastle
6 Feb 2027 – 28 Feb 2027
Chinatown, Stowell Street, Newcastle, Tyne and Wear · Free
Dragon and lion dance parade from Grey's Monument to the Chinese Arch, with food stalls and activities in Chinatown. Dates for 2026 not yet announced; shown from the usual pattern, so check before planning.
Open in the planner · Event website