Magical Christmas markets and light shows in Cardiff, Edinburgh, Newcastle and across the UK

WE’RE in the final frantic sprint towards Christmas and we’re all feeling the festive spirit. 

You’re not? Right, what you need is a sprinkle of magic fairy dust, a walk in a winter wonderland. 

There are Christmas, Nordic and Alpine-themed events all over the country, so grab your best woolly hat and mittens and head for a tinsel town near you. 

Here’s a selection of the best.

Christmas Lights

Cardiff – christmasatbutepark.com
Now – December 31

Make for the picturesque Bute Park and arboretum, in the shadow of the city’s historic castle, and weave your way through an enchanted trail of illumination crafted by world-leading lighting designers.

Then overdo it at the food and drink stalls. (Adults from £23.50)

Edinburgh’s Christmas

Edinburgh – edwinterfest.com
Now – January 4

Edinburgh’s city centre is transformed into a world of festive fun with traditional Christmas markets, fairground rides, live outdoor events and a feast of food and drink. 

Take a spin on the skating rink, get lost in the illuminated Christmas tree maze or just chill in the Polar Ice Bar.

Alternatively, head up the rock after dark for the Castle of Light’s impressive displays, interactive installations and music. (Prices vary)

Winter Lights, The Alnwick Garden 

Alnwick, Northumberland – alnwickgarden.com
Now – January 5

Be of good cheer in this immersive experience of light and sound, set in the contemporary gardens of Alnwick Castle and the Lilidorei elf village.

All accompanied by a special Christmas soundtrack. (Adults from £15.50)

Northern Lights Newcastle

Leazes Park, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne – northernlightsnewcastle.com
Now – December 31

Take a sensational sensory stroll through an enchanted world of illumination, complete with lasers, in Newcastle’s oldest city park. 

Grab a mulled wine or a hot chocolate, snack on superior street food and shout “Ho ho ho!” at each other. (Adults from £21.50)

Christmas at Dunham Massey

Altrincham, Cheshire – nationaltrust.org.uk

Now – January 1

Christmas comes to the National Trust’s Dunham Massey gardens, moat and park. 

Beams of light play among ancient trees and dance on the moat, while there are twinkly installations all along the winding paths. 

Grab some spiced snacks from the food stalls and feel a warm glow. (Adults from £24)

Winter Funland

Birmingham NEC/Trafford Park, Manchester – winterfunland.com/birmingham and winterfunland.com/manchester

Birmingham: December 7 – January 1; Manchester: December 14-26

Two fabulous extravaganzas, both packed full of festive fun and home to the UK’s largest indoor Christmas funfair (Birmingham).

As well as enjoying unlimited rides, you can skate around a huge ice rink, cheer on a spectacular show in the 1,200-seater circus tent and feast at dozens of food stalls. (Adults from £25)

Christmas at Kew

Kew Gardens, London – kew.org

Now – January 5

London’s famous botanic gardens have been transformed into a little corner of Lapland. 

A mile-long world of discovery, it features over 20 dazzling installations including glittering tunnels, vibrant lakeside reflections, and trees festooned with glitzy lights.

Be impressed by the fire garden’s warm glow and stunning illuminations. 

And there’s more than enough hot choccy and toasted marshmallows to go round at the food stalls. (Adults from £25.50)