The holiday season is a magical time of year, and Oxfordshire transforms into a winter wonderland filled with festive cheer and excitement. For families with kids, the county offers a plethora of enchanting attractions that will make this Christmas truly unforgettable. From sparkling lights to Santa encounters, here are the top ten must-visit kid-friendly Christmas attractions in Oxfordshire.
Blenheim Palace Illuminated Light Trail:
Step into a mesmerising world of light and colour at Blenheim Palace’s Illuminated Light Trail. Wander through the enchanting gardens adorned with dazzling lights, witness captivating light displays, and marvel at the majestic palace bathed in a magical glow. It’s a sensory experience that kids of all ages will love.
Oxford Christmas Market:
Get into the festive spirit at the Oxford Christmas Market, where charming wooden chalets line the streets offering an array of handmade gifts, delicious treats, and warm beverages. Let your kids indulge in gingerbread cookies and hot cocoa while exploring the stalls.
Santa’s Steam Special at the Didcot Railway Centre:
All aboard the Santa’s Steam Special! Hop on a vintage steam train at the Didcot Railway Centre and journey through the picturesque Oxfordshire countryside. Kids will be delighted to meet Santa himself and receive a special gift during this nostalgic ride.
Millets Farm Centre’s Christmas Experience:
At Millets Farm Centre, the Christmas Experience offers a variety of activities, including meeting Santa, decorating gingerbread cookies, and exploring the Elf Village. Don’t forget to visit the reindeer and take a magical trip on the Santa Express tractor ride.
Cotswold Wildlife Park’s Christmas Wonderland:
Experience the magic of Christmas with a visit to the Cotswold Wildlife Park’s Christmas Wonderland. Explore the beautifully lit park, take part in festive crafts, and encounter real reindeer while learning about these magnificent creatures.
Waterperry Gardens’ Christmas Lights Festival:
Waterperry Gardens transforms into a twinkling wonderland during the Christmas Lights Festival. Stroll through the illuminated gardens, enjoy live music performances, and warm up with seasonal refreshments in this charming setting.
Oxford Ice Rink:
Strap on your skates and glide into the holiday spirit at the Oxford Ice Rink. This open-air ice rink offers a festive atmosphere where kids and families can enjoy skating under the stars, surrounded by Oxford’s historic architecture.
Storytime with Mrs. Claus at Bicester Village:
Bicester Village brings a touch of Christmas enchantment with Storytime with Mrs. Claus. Kids can gather around as Mrs. Claus reads magical holiday tales, spreading warmth and cheer.
Cutteslowe Park Miniature Railway’s Santa Specials:
Little train enthusiasts will be thrilled with the Santa Specials at Cutteslowe Park Miniature Railway. Enjoy a ride on the miniature railway, meet Santa in his grotto, and create everlasting memories.
Witney Wonderland:
Wrap up your Christmas adventures with a trip to Witney Wonderland. This event features an ice rink, a festive market, a Santa’s grotto, and even a snow play area, guaranteeing hours of joy for kids and their families.
Oxfordshire is a treasure trove of Christmas magic for kids and families alike. From enchanted light trails to magical encounters with Santa, each attraction offers a unique and memorable experience. This holiday season, make Oxfordshire your destination for creating cherished moments and spreading holiday cheer with your little ones.
