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
· 16:00 – 21:30
Christmas at Westonbirt
Each winter the trees of Westonbirt, The National Arboretum are transformed into a magical illuminated trail, one of the most atmospheric festive walks in the country. Wander beneath glowing canopies and through light installations among some of the world's finest trees. Entry is in timed slots every 15 minutes from 4pm to 8pm, and booking in advance is cheaper and recommended for evenings and weekends.
2
· 09:30 – 16:30
Wetland Wonderland at WWT Slimbridge
Wetland Wonderland is a charming new Christmas tradition at WWT Slimbridge. Listen to Waterlily the elf's story in her enchanting library, then hunt for the characters around the wetlands with your Little Book of Joy, and make a willow star tree-topper in Cuddle the elf's workshop. Warm up afterwards at the indoor festive market with hot food, artisan stalls and choir music in the Swan Cafe. It's included in admission and free for WWT members.
3
· 14:00 – 15:15
Clare Teal: A Festive Fiesta at Berkeley Castle
Award-winning jazz singer and broadcaster Clare Teal brings her much-loved Festive Fiesta to Berkeley Castle for two exclusive shows. Expect swing, sublime ballads and winter warmers made famous by Peggy Lee, Doris Day, Bing Crosby, Nat King Cole and Ella Fitzgerald, all with a Christmas twist. Choose the 2pm afternoon show or the 6pm evening performance.
4
· 19:30 – 22:00
Cara Dillon: Upon A Winter's Night
Cara Dillon, one of the most beautiful voices in Irish folk, brings her festive show Upon A Winter's Night to the Sub Rooms. Expect traditional carols, winter songs and Irish ballads sung with breathtaking purity. A gorgeous way to welcome the Christmas season.
5
· 17:00 – 20:00
Orchestral Christmas Concert at Berkeley Castle
A Berkeley Castle tradition for more than 20 years: Orchestra Pro Anima, directed by Michael Bochmann, plays a candlelit programme in the Great Hall, twinkling with Christmas trees. The evening opens with a reception in the Long Drawing Room at 5pm, with wine and mince pies, before the 6pm concert of Mozart, Vivaldi, Corelli's Christmas Concerto, Beethoven, Mendelssohn and Borodin. A magical start to the festive season.
6
· 18:00 – 20:00
Beauty and the Beast: The Sub Rooms Family Pantomime
Stroud's own Christmas pantomime takes over the Sub Rooms with Beauty and the Beast, packed with songs, slapstick, a dashing hero and plenty of chances to boo and cheer. It's a proper community panto with a big heart, perfect for children and grown-ups alike. Performances run from 18 December to 3 January, with morning, afternoon and evening shows.