Christmas markets, lights switch-ons, Santa's grottos, pantomimes, carol concerts and festive days out, gathered in one place. From town-centre switch-ons and craft fairs to winter light trails and steam-train Santa specials, here's what's on near you this Christmas, with dates, times and prices so you can plan the season.
The listings
1
· 10:00 – 17:00
Christmas in Surrey
Christmas in Surrey transforms Sandown Park Racecourse into a curated festive exhibition of design, gifts and seasonal wonder. Over four days (21 to 24 November) visitors browse artisan makers, enjoy a decorated grotto with Santa and elves, face painting and family entertainment, and soak up Christmas atmosphere under one roof — a polished winter day out in Esher.
2
· 10:00 – 17:00
Hampton Court Palace Festive Fayre
Do your Christmas shopping in Henry VIII's palace. The Festive Fayre fills Hampton Court's historic setting with stalls of artisan gifts, decorations, festive food and drink over two December weekends.
Browse handmade crafts, pick up seasonal treats and warm up with something mulled as you wander, with the Tudor palace and its riverside gardens as a stunning backdrop. It makes a lovely day out combined with a visit to the palace itself.
Runs 10am to 5pm on 4 to 6 and 11 to 13 December. Ticketed, so book in advance.
3
· 11:30 – 16:30
Ascot Christmas Racing Weekend
Ascot's Christmas Racing Weekend is one of the highlights of the winter jumps calendar, bringing top-class steeplechasing and hurdling to the famous Berkshire track just before the festive break.
Saturday's card features the Grade 1 Long Walk Hurdle, a real test of staying power that attracts the best long-distance hurdlers in training. Add mulled wine, festive menus and a cheerful pre-Christmas crowd, and it's a brilliant day out with friends, family or colleagues.
Racing takes place on Friday 18 and Saturday 19 December. Book ahead for restaurants and premium enclosures.