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
· 15:00 – 19:00
Hertford Christmas Gala & Lights Switch-On
Hertford's Christmas Gala fills the historic county-town centre with festive cheer, kicking off from 3pm with entertainment on stage from 4.30pm and building up to the big Christmas lights switch-on at 6pm.
It's free to attend, and the same weekend the Christmas market opens in the castle grounds just around the corner, so it's well worth making an evening of it with a browse and a warming drink.
2
· 15:30 – 20:00
Hertford Castle Christmas Market
The grounds of Hertford Castle, with the old gatehouse as a handsome backdrop, host a festive Christmas market over the weekend of the town's lights switch-on. Wander the stalls for gifts, crafts and seasonal food and drink in one of Hertfordshire's prettiest settings.
Open Friday 27 November 3.30pm–8pm, Saturday 28 November 11am–6pm and Sunday 29 November 11am–5pm. Pair it with the Christmas Gala in the town centre on the Friday evening.
3
· 10:30 – 17:00
A Palace Visit with Santa at Hatfield House
Meet Santa by the fireside in a 500-year-old palace! In the Old Palace at Hatfield, where the young Princess Elizabeth once studied, families can enjoy a magical, unhurried audience with Father Christmas in one of the most atmospheric grotto settings in the country.
Visits run on selected dates from 28 November to 23 December, in 30-minute slots between 10.30am and 5pm. Tickets are from £25 per child, including one accompanying adult and access to the Winter Woodland Walks. Slots fill quickly, so book early and arrive 15 minutes before your time.