The Polar Express
This year, we hopped on board The Polar Express for a hugely entertaining and immersive experience. I popped along to Primark for some value matching pyjamas for Odhran and Reuben, and we travelled to Euston Station, where there was carol singing on the platform before we boarded. The night before, we'd watched the movie to get us in the mood, and as the conductor marched through the carriage singing, the boys' mouths were agape. Hot chocolate was served with song and dance, and Santa paid a visit to bestowed the first gift of Christmas. Fans of the movie will love this experience, but you don't have to travel to London, as it takes place at different stations throughout the UK.
Santa Specials
For a more laid back Christmas train ride experience, Kent & East Sussex Railway brings relax Santa magic. We visited last year, and my husband took a couple of what have become my absolute favourite photos of Christmas days out with the kids. The Santa looked real, and the gifts he gave were great. But there was also the opportunity to take a snap on the platform next to the steam engine, and the 'snow' really added to picture. Of all the snaps we've taken on festive family days out, Santa Specials at Kent & East Sussex Railway delivered the most framers.
Winter's Tail at Chessington World of Adventures
For a couple of years in a row, I visited Winter's Tail at Chessington with my sons. We loved the trail to visit Santa, the chance to sing and dance along to festive turns in the silent disco as we waited in line, and the fantastic workshop, where we picked up our special gift. This year, we've sadly been unable to attend, but my colleague Sian went along with her two young children, Eva and George, and they loved it as much as we did. This year, Winter's Tail is bigger and better than ever! A new Elf welcome show sees the Christmas Village's resident little helpers, Jingle and Joy, spread magic and mischief in a special mini stage show. There's a new Letter to Father Christmas experience, and Cookie Corner allows guests to indulge in a festive treat. This is on top of the rides, SEA LIFE, the panto, and traditional carollers, makes Chessington the perfect place to celebrate Christmas with kids.
Hogwarts in the Snow
Every year, celebrities flock to Warner Bros. Studio Tour with their kids to experience Christmas in the wizarding world. This year welcomed everyone from Joe Swash and Ferne McCann to Tom and Giovanna Fletcher. Last year, I visited with my son Odhran, and he has been asking to go back. He's not even a Harry Potter fan! But he loves movies and had a great time exploring the costumes, sets and props. We both had fun riding a broom against the green screen. The Great Hall and the Forbidden Forest were a highlight of our visit. But even the bus journey to the venue felt like an adventure. The Making of Harry Potter studio tour is a family day out to add to the bucket list, but Christmas is one of best times to visit.
Lapland UK
We have not yet visited Lapland UK, but with 4.5 stars out of more than 1,600 Google reviews, I think it's safe to say that this attraction is something special. It's certainly one of the most hyped Christmas experiences across the country. Step through a magical doorway to discover Father Christmas' mythical homeland. This experience promises to deliver the scale and detail of a film production, with immersive theatre to build a storytelling world where memories are created to last a lifetime.
Blenheim Palace
This year, we hope to visit Blenheim Palace to celebrate Christmas. We're keen to discover the magic of one of the best UK light trails (another light trail that has been getting rave reviews is at Windsor Great Park) and we're excited to step inside The Palace of Oz, where the Palace is decorated and inspired by the magical tale of wizardry, witches and sparkling shoes. We've visited Blenheim Palace during the summer, and since consider it one of the best family days out in the UK. But during our visit, we heard a couple of people talking about how spectacular Blenheim Palace looks at Christmas time. There's also the Christmas markets, with wooden chalets in the Great Court until Sunday 21st December, offering everything from inspired Christmas gift ideas to tasty treats. We look forward to grabbing a hot chocolate or toasted marshmallows as we wonder around.
Drayton Manor
This year, Drayton Manor theme park launched its brand-new 'Christmas Miracle on the Lake' end-of-day spectacular, featuring beautiful animations and more than 65 water jets, all set to much-loved Christmas classics. Open on selected dates from now until 4 January, visitors can get stuck in with pranks and workshops at the all-new Elftoria experience, as well as meet Santa and Mrs Claus in the charming Castle Grotto, plus enjoy a packed schedule of entertainment and shows. Those visiting on weekends throughout December can also enjoy the park’s major rides. Favourites such as Gold Rush, Maelstrom and The Wave are open throughout the festive period, giving thrill-seekers the chance to add an extra dash of adrenaline to their Christmas visit. The entire park has been transformed into a wintery wonderland, decked out with more than 1,100 snow-dusted trees, 250,000 twinkling lights, and a brand-new light trail through the zoo. We've previously visited and stayed at Drayton Manor and found it to be a wonderful weekend family break, but the festive seasonal offerings promise to make your visit even more special.