Let the charm of the New Forest capture cherished Christmas moments this year. Whether you are planning a family day out or a special occasion for a loved one. Not only can you step into your very own Narnia-like landscape, you will also find some great seasonal events taking place in the lead up to the big day.
Top Christmas events in the New Forest for all the family
Create festive memories together with some of these amazing Christmas events happening at some of our family attractions.
From 29 November, Beaulieu’s Palace House will undergo a transformation for their ‘Palace House Christmas’ experience. Take a magical journey through the story of pantomime with theatrical soundscapes, multicoloured projections and decorations galore (running until 4 January).
See the landscape at Marwell Zoo in a different light with the return of Glow Marwell (28 November – 3 January). This after-dark experience takes you through an enchanting light trail with opportunities to book ad-ons such as the Santa’s Grotto and the Virtual Reality Winter Wildlife show, held in the Giraffe House.
Spend a magical time at Paultons Park this year for their Celebration of Christmas event. Catch Christmas shows on the big stage, meet the big man himself (pre-booking only) and experience the thrills of the park’s rides with a festive twist. Little ones will love seeing the transformation in Peppa Pig World – with colourful decorations and opportunities to meet some of your favourite characters.
Head to Lyndhurst for a day filled with festive cheer at the annual Christmas Fun Day (6 December). Meet Santa, browse the Christmas market and High Street shops for gifts. Enjoy live music from pubs and shops throughout the village and tuck into delicious festive treats, then gather by the Christmas tree outside the Mailmans Arms at 5pm to welcome Santa.
Families can enjoy festive fun at Furzey Gardens this winter with The Furzey Express trail, running from 22 November to 23 December. Children will make their own woodland conductor outfit before helping Bramble the fox recover lost cargo on a magical garden adventure. Trail costs £7 per child, plus garden entry. Pre-booked tickets only at weekends
Ever-beautiful, Exbury Gardens takes on a festive twist with an illuminated steam train ride around the gardens after dark (29-30 November and 6-7 December). The gardens will also be hosting a Festive Express Railway Service, Christmas donkey rides and chances to meet Father Christmas. Please note, all events must be pre-booked.
Longdown Activity Farm will also be opening its barn doors on selected dates in December for lots of farming fun and the chance to ‘Let it Go’ and meet the Ice Queen and Ice Princess (selected dates). Added to this, enjoy festive scenes and sparkling lights and meet with Mr Claus himself.
Enjoy Christmas Wreath Making at Careys Manor Hotel (27 November). Whether you’re a seasoned wreath maker or are trying something new – the scent of pine and cinnamon, the soft rustle of foliage, the joy of shaping something with your own hands; it’s a tradition that will stay with you long after this session.
Festive Foodie Treats
If you love to try fresh, seasonal produce and are a bit of a foodie at heart then you’ll need to get Eats ‘n’ Treats (16 November) in your calendar. Not only will you be able to purchase from a number of local food and drink producers but there will also be great Christmas shopping ideas and some arts and craft fun for little ones.
If you fancy a little pre-Christmas indulgence, book yourself onto one of our luxury hotels’ afternoon teas. The Montagu Arms’ Christmas Festive Afternoon teas are a delight and include seasonal highlights such as warm cranberry and cinnamon scones. Whereas at Careys Manor Hotel, you can try your very own Christmas pudding choux bun or stem ginger and white chocolate Christmas tree – yum!
Step into a forest of lights at Sandy Balls
Step into a forest of lights at Sandy Balls holiday village as part of this year’s Winterfest season. With festive entertainment and a visit by Santa Claus himself, join in with lots of seasonal fun on a short break here this winter.
Shop for special New Forest treats
If you are looking for something a little different to get a loved one this Christmas then head along to one of the New Forest’s Christmas markets or gift fairs, many of which have activities to keep younger visitors entertained too.
Added to this, add the Christmas Gift Fairs at the Beaulieu Inn (30 November), Rhinefield House Hotel (3 December) and Burley Manor (11 December) to your diaries. These are great opportunities to buy from local artisans, support our local businesses and have a wonderful festive experience at the same time.
Find out more about Christmas in the New Forest
From a wealth of seasonal events to cosy Christmas stays. Discover more of what makes the New Forest extra special this Christmas on our Christmas pages.
