The Cotswolds transforms into a festive wonderland each December, offering an incredible array of Christmas events in the Cotswolds for families, couples, and friends. From twinkling light trails and ice rinks to festive markets, immersive experiences, and seasonal workshops, the region is brimming with things to do at Christmas in the Cotswolds. Whether you want to glide across an ice rink, sip mulled wine at a vineyard, enjoy a festive jazz evening, or take part in hands-on seasonal workshops, the Cotswolds provides unforgettable holiday experiences full of charm, magic, and seasonal cheer.
Batsford Arboretum – The Big Batsford Elf Hunt
Dates: 29 November – 4 January (closed 25 Dec)
Children can search for Santa’s mischievous elves hiding around the arboretum, completing a fun map to win a prize. A family-friendly event perfect for those looking for interactive Christmas events in the Cotswolds.
Whatley Manor – Christmas Wreath Making & Festive Films
Dates: Wreath-making - 28 & 29 November, 5 & 13 December 2025. Festive Films - various dates 28 November - 21 December 2025
Enjoy Christmas events at Whatley Manor this festive season. Create bespoke festive wreaths with expert tuition, enjoy a two-course lunch, and take home your creation or take a pause from the gift-wrapping and immerse yourself in the holiday cheer with a classic Christmas film and dining experience.
Blenheim Palace – Great Skate, Observation Wheel & Illuminated Trail
Dates: 14 November 2025 – 3 January 2026
Ice skate on the covered rink in the Great Court, enjoy the Observation Wheel for seasonal views, and explore the Illuminated Trail after dark. Indoor Palace of Oz experiences bring festive fantasy to life, making Blenheim one of the top Christmas events in the Cotswolds.
Old Bell Hotel, Malmesbury – Festive Workshops & Fun
Dates: Various dates
From cocktail masterclasses to gingerbread decorating workshops and festive quizzes, the Old Bell offers fun for all ages. A perfect mix of indoor and family-friendly things to do at Christmas in the Cotswolds.
Thyme – Festive Cookery Classes
Dates: Various dates in November and December 2025
Thyme offers a variety of festive cookery classes, from mince pie workshops to sweet treat sessions and festive brunches. Learn new recipes, create seasonal gifts, and enjoy a hands-on culinary adventure — ideal for families, friends, or solo festive fun.
Old Swan & Minster Mill – Christmas Eve Jazz
Date: 24 December 2025
Celebrate Christmas Eve with the soulful sounds of jazz by the fire. Sip Champagne and enjoy a three-course festive feast in the warm and cosy atmosphere of Minster Mill — a perfect evening for couples or small groups seeking a stylish seasonal outing.
The Folk of Gloucester – Jemmy Wood’s Christmas Carol
Dates: Friday 19 & Saturday 20 December 2025
Step into Gloucester’s own take on Dickens’ classic with “Jemmy Wood’s Christmas Carol,” a hilarious new play from Spaniel in the Works Theatre Company at The Folk of Gloucester. Inspired by the city’s infamous miser — the real-life figure who inspired Ebenezer Scrooge — this lively performance reimagines the Christmas tale through a local lens.
Friday’s matinee includes a free bowl of home-made soup or light lunch, while Saturday’s performance comes with a hot drink and mince pie — adding an extra touch of warmth to this festive theatrical treat.
Woodchester Valley Vineyard – Grand Christmas Tasting
Date: 14 December 2025
Indulge in the ultimate festive wine experience with a tutored tasting of Woodchester Valley’s award-winning Cotswolds wines. Meet the winemakers, enjoy a grazing platter of meats, cheeses, and nibbles (including vegetarian and vegan options), and soak in the vineyard’s stunning winter views beside a cosy fire.
Dyrham Park – Christmas Through the Ages
Dates: 21 November – 4 January (closed 24 & 25 Dec)
Travel through time at Dyrham Park, exploring Christmas decorations from Tudor times to the 21st century. Enjoy children’s and adult trails, choirs, wreath-making workshops, and seasonal festivities throughout the estate.
Westonbirt Arboretum – Christmas at Westonbirt
Dates: 21 November – 31 December 2025
Discover a reimagined festive light trail through Westonbirt’s spectacular trees. Highlights include the Laser Garden, Mycelium Network, Fireworks Trees, and Wicker Animals. Spot Father Christmas, enjoy hot chocolate and marshmallows, and make magical memories — a must-do for Christmas events in the Cotswolds.
New Brewery Arts, Cirencester – JOY!
Dates: 25 October 2025 – 3 January 2026
Discover JOY! — a vibrant celebration of craftsmanship and creativity at New Brewery Arts. Spread across the shop and gallery, this festive exhibition showcases the work of hundreds of UK makers, featuring everything from hand-thrown ceramics and woven textiles to jewellery, cards, and one-of-a-kind decorations.
Every item on display is available to purchase, making this the ultimate destination for meaningful Christmas gifts and beautifully made festive homewares. Whether you’re seeking a handcrafted ornament, a piece of artisan jewellery, or a statement textile for your home, JOY! brings together the very best of British craft this Christmas.
Gateway Ice Rink
Dates: 21 November 2025 – 18 January 2026
Get your skates on and glide into the festive season at the Gateway Ice Rink in Cirencester. This covered outdoor rink offers a magical winter experience for all ages, with themed sessions, family-friendly skate times, and even DJ nights on ice. After skating, warm up with a hot chocolate, mulled wine or tasty treat in the cosy café and bar. Perfect for a festive day out with friends, family or loved ones in the heart of the Cotswolds.
The Folk of Gloucester – Tim Edey’s Celtic Christmas
Dates: Thursday 4 December 2025
Experience an unforgettable evening of Celtic folk and roots music with Tim Edey, the multi-award-winning guitar and melodeon virtuoso. Having performed with legends such as The Chieftains, Christy Moore, Sharon Shannon, and Dougie Maclean, Tim brings his world-class talent and infectious energy to The Folk of Gloucester this festive season. His live solo shows are a stunning mix of instrumental brilliance, humour, and heart — the perfect musical celebration of Christmas with a Celtic twist.
Talking Wines – Christmas Wine Tasting
Date: 14 November 2025
Sample 50 festive wines with Talking Wines in a relaxed and informal setting at Roots + Seeds Café & Kitchen, Cirencester. Ticket holders can redeem the value against a 12-bottle purchase, perfect for wine lovers looking to explore the region’s best things to do at Christmas in the Cotswolds.
Fairytale Farm – Christmas Fairytale 2025
Dates: Weekends 22 Nov – 7 Dec; Daily 8–24 Dec
Step into Victorian London at Fairytale Farm in Chipping Norton. Wander festive streets lit with twinkling lights, meet Father Christmas in his cosy grotto, collect gifts from Tom’s Toy Shop, and enjoy dazzling illuminations, festive trails, and animal encounters. Advance booking required.
Giffords Circus – Christmas at Giffords
Dates: 27 November – 21 December 2025
Enjoy aerial acts, clowning, cyr wheel performances, and festive storytelling from Giffords Circus inside a transformed barn. Choose a performance-only ticket or enjoy a two-course Christmas feast with Circus Sauce. This is a unique and magical Christmas event in the Cotswolds.
Cheltenham Ice Rink – Winter Skating Fun
Dates: 21 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
Enjoy a covered indoor ice rink in Imperial Garden, Cheltenham. Suitable for all ages, the rink hosts themed sessions, sensory-friendly slots, and fun appearances like Ice Princesses and Superheroes. Spectators can enjoy festive treats while watching loved ones skate.
The Baker’s Arms – Pub Quiz & Festive Carols
Dates: Pub Quiz - 14 December 2025, Carols & Mince Pies - 22 December 2025
Test your festive knowledge at a Christmas-themed pub quiz on 14 December, or enjoy carol singing with the Highworth Silver Band on 22 December at The Baker's Arms. Sip mulled wine, nibble mince pies, and celebrate the season in a charming village pub atmosphere — one of the most traditional things to do at Christmas in the Cotswolds.
The Christmas Meeting – Cheltenham Racecourse
Dates: 12–13 December 2025
Experience festive racing excitement with two days of high-quality action at Cheltenham Racecourse. Saturday’s Christmas Extravaganza features family fun, Santa’s Grotto, and thrilling races. Under-18s enter free, making this one of the most exciting things to do at Christmas in the Cotswolds for families.
The Wychwood Inn – Festive Wine Tasting with Neil Gladding
Date: Thursday 27 November 2025, 7 pm
Join The Wychwood Inn for an evening of festive indulgence with Neil Gladding of the Oxford Wine Company. Sample a curated selection of wines from around the world, from sparkling Prosecco to rich Port, as Neil shares his expert guidance in a relaxed and welcoming setting.
Hosted in the inn’s beautiful private dining room, tickets (£35) include a selection of cheeses to enjoy throughout the tasting. Perfect for wine lovers of all levels—by the end of the evening, you might just feel like a connoisseur. Spaces are limited, so book early on 01993 831185.
Why the Cotswolds is the Ultimate Christmas Destination
From immersive farm adventures, festive circuses, and wreath-making workshops to ice skating, vineyard tastings, and dazzling light trails, the Cotswolds offers an unmatched variety of Christmas events in the Cotswolds. Families, couples, and friends can explore magical experiences, celebrate holiday traditions, and create cherished memories. No matter your age or interests, these festive activities showcase the very best things to do at Christmas in the Cotswolds, ensuring a season full of wonder, warmth, and festive spirit.