From nostalgic fun to heartwarming ceremony, Christmas is a time for all kinds of festivities
The Christmas season sees England decking the halls with boughs of holly, lighting the streets and generally making merry. From the serene beauty of traditional carols to dazzling modern displays, it’s the most wonderful time of the year to visit. And even if you can’t rely on the weather, you can be sure of a warm welcome, guaranteed to get you in the festive spirit.
CAROLS FROM KING’S
Every Christmas, the historic King’s College Chapel in Cambridge becomes the centre of a much-loved tradition: the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols. This event, which began in 1918, is an annual celebration of the nativity story, told through music and scripture, broadcast to millions around the world.
The setting of King’s College Chapel, with its grand Gothic architecture and awe-inspiring fan-vaulted ceiling, provides the perfect backdrop for this spiritual celebration. As the soft glow of candles illuminates the chapel’s stained-glass windows, this becomes one of the most evocative images of the Christmas season.
The highlight of the event is undoubtedly the King’s College Choir, renowned for their impeccable harmonies. Comprising young choristers from the college school and male undergraduates, the concert delivers a repertoire ranging from ancient hymns to modern compositions. The traditional solo performance of ‘Once in Royal David’s City’ by a solo boy chorister is a particularly moving moment that has become a hallmark of the service.
The programme is structured around nine readings from the Bible, each telling a part of the Christmas story. Interspersed with carols and hymns, the service creates a rich and meaningful experience that resonates with people of all ages. There’s a ballot for in-person tickets which allows a lucky audience to attend the concert in the chapel, but whether attending in person or watching the Christmas Eve broadcast, Carols at King’s College is a long-standing Christmas tradition.
REGENT STREET CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
While Cambridge offers quiet reflection for the Christmas traditionalists, London bursts into festive life with the switch-on of Regent Street’s Christmas Lights. This annual display transforms one of the capital’s busiest shopping streets into a fabulous spectacle of illumination.

The Regent Street lights display dates back to 1954, making it one of the longest-running Christmas traditions in London. Over the years, the displays have grown more ambitious, incorporating cutting-edge technology and intricate designs. Each year’s theme brings something new, ensuring the lights remain a highlight of London’s Christmas calendar.
The Big Switch-On event is filled with live performances, celebrity appearances, and the dramatic moment when the lights are illuminated for the first time. This ceremony, usually held in mid-November, marks the start of Christmas in London and attracts thousands of people eager to witness the display as it lights up.
The 2023 display featured a canopy of shimmering angels suspended above the street. Crafted with thousands of LED lights, the ethereal atmosphere enchanted visitors to the area. Whether shopping for gifts, soaking up the Christmas vibe or simply admiring the artistry, Regent Street provides an unforgettable London experience.
WINTER WONDERLAND IN HYDE PARK
For a family-friendly Christmas extravaganza, Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park is London’s ultimate destination. This sprawling festive fairground, open from mid-November to early January, offers something for everyone, from thrilling rides to cosy market stalls.

The highlight of Winter Wonderland is its spectacular ice rink, the largest outdoor rink in the UK. Surrounded by sparkling lights and live music, skating here is a magical experience. There are rides, including ferris wheel and giant swings, while younger visitors will love Santa Land, complete with a grotto.
Winter Wonderland also boasts a traditional German-style Christmas market, with handcrafted gifts, ornaments, and seasonal treats. Foodies will enjoy the wide range of festive fare, from bratwurst and mulled wine to churros and hot chocolate. With live shows, circus performances, and even an ice-sculpture trail, Winter Wonderland is a huge annual celebration that offers hours of entertainment.
YORK CHRISTMAS MARKET

While Bath’s Christmas market (see p15) is perhaps the biggest, for an equally traditional festive city experience, the York Christmas Market is a must-visit. In Yorkshire’s beautiful capital, there are Roman ruins and stunning York Minster which are well worth a visit at any time of year. But at Christmas time, York’s market, also known as St Nicholas Fair, features over 75 alpine chalets offering a wide range of artisan goods, from handmade jewellery and candles to unique decorations and locally produced foods. Each stall showcases the craftsmanship and creativity of local vendors, making it a great place to find one-of-a-kind gifts.
For an enchanting English Christmas experience, get stuck into seasonal treats like mince pies, roasted chestnuts, and mulled wine while enjoying live music and carol singing. The festive atmosphere is enhanced by the city’s illuminated streets and towering Christmas tree.

STOURHEAD GARDEN LIGHTS
Heading to Wiltshire in the West Country, the annual Stourhead Garden Light Trail offers an immersive journey through illuminated winter landscapes. In the impressive gardens of Stourhead House, run by the National Trust.

The trail features a series of interactive installations, from glowing sculptures to shimmering pathways. With playful displays as well as romantic ambiance, highlights include the grand cascade, lit with vibrant hues and the tunnel of light, where thousands of twinkling bulbs create a magical passage.