Christmas Places in Maidenhead

Few places do a Christmas lights switch-on quite like Windsor, where the festive celebrations take place on Castle Hill beneath the walls of Windsor Castle. From 1pm, enjoy carol-singing choirs, fairground rides and market stalls selling gifts and seasonal treats, before the cast of the Theatre Royal pantomime flicks the switch and the town lights up. The atmosphere is wonderfully festive, with the castle as the most spectacular of backdrops. Free to attend. Arrive early for a good spot, as it gets busy.

Marlow's elegant High Street sparkles into the festive season at the town's Christmas light switch-on, a cheerful midweek evening that brings the community out. Come along to see the lights come on along the High Street, then browse Marlow's independent boutiques or warm up in one of its many pubs and restaurants. It's a lovely, relaxed way to start Christmas in one of Buckinghamshire's prettiest towns. Free to attend, from 6pm to 8pm.

Theatre Royal Windsor's pantomime is one of the longest-running in the country, and this year it's Jack and the Beanstalk, the tale of a poor lad, a handful of magic beans and a giant up in the clouds. Expect a towering beanstalk, a fabulous Dame, a booming giant to boo and plenty of songs, slapstick and audience participation. Staged in the theatre's intimate Victorian auditorium opposite Windsor Castle, it's a festive family tradition for many. The run stretches from late November well into January, but popular dates sell fast, so book early.

LEGOLAND Windsor goes festive for Christmas, with seasonal rides, magical shows and family experiences that turn the park into an immersive winter wonderland. Alongside many of the park's favourite attractions, there's a real festive atmosphere throughout, making it a magical day out, especially for younger children. Christmas at LEGOLAND runs on selected dates from late November to early January. Book tickets online in advance for the best prices.

Maidenhead welcomes the festive season with a full day of celebrations in the town centre, combining a festive market with the big Christmas lights switch-on. From 11am, browse stalls of gifts, crafts and seasonal food and drink, enjoy entertainment through the afternoon, and gather for the countdown just before 6pm as the lights come on. Weather permitting, the evening finishes with fireworks. Free to attend and great for families, it runs until 7pm.

Get your Christmas shopping sorted in one cosy place at the Windsor Christmas Shopping Fair, held in a heated marquee at Royal Windsor Racecourse. Around 150 exhibitors bring a wonderful mix of gifts, crafts, fashion, homeware and festive food and drink, with plenty of independent makers among them. It's a relaxed weekend browse with a real seasonal buzz. Open 10am to 4pm on Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 November. Entry is £6, and under-18s go free.