🎄Cotswolds Christmas Guide 2025: Best Festive Events, Markets & Light Trails 🎄

Cirencester Christmas Market 2025 with festive stalls, shoppers, twinkling lights, and the historic parish church in the back

Chipping Campden Christmas Market 2025 with festive stalls, Christmas tree, and golden-stone buildings decorated with lights.

✨ Travel in Style - Let Us Take You to Christmas in the Cotswolds 2025

🚙 Private Christmas Tours - The Cotswolds Tour Company

At the top of your festive bucket list, why not let Cotswolds Day Tours take you there? Our expert guides will bring you to the very best Christmas markets, light trails, cosy pubs, and historic attractions across the Cotswolds — all in comfort and style.

🎄18 Things to Visit in the Cotswolds Christmas 2025 🎄

The Cotswolds transforms into a winter wonderland during the festive season, with twinkling lights, historic charm, and a packed calendar of Christmas events. From dazzling light trails to cozy carol concerts, this 2025 guide blends must-see highlights with extra festive attractions, foodie experiences, and cultural gems. Perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers, here’s your ultimate list of 18 things to do in the Cotswolds at Christmas.

✨ Blenheim Palace Christmas (14 Nov 2025–3 Jan 2026)

Step into a world of festive wonder at Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the UK’s most spectacular Christmas destinations. Inside, the state rooms will be transformed with a Wizard of Oz theme, bringing the story to life through dazzling décor and immersive displays.

Outside, the Christmas Market in the Great Court features more than 70 artisan stalls selling gifts, crafts, and seasonal food. New for 2025, visitors can also glide across the covered Great Skate ice rink, perfect for families, couples, and groups.

As night falls, the palace grounds host the famous Illuminated Light Trail — a 1.8-mile journey of glowing sculptures, lasers, and twinkling tunnels, complete with mulled wine, hot chocolate, and mince pies.

✨ Why go? Blenheim is the must-see Christmas event in the Cotswolds, combining history, light shows, shopping, and seasonal fun.

📸 Top tip: Book tickets well in advance for timed entry — weekend slots always sell out first.

People walking through a glowing Christmas light tunnel at Blenheim Palace in the Cotswolds.

🎁 Sudeley Castle Spectacle of Light (22 Nov–30 Dec 2025)

Discover the magic of Christmas at the Spectacle of Light in the historic grounds of Sudeley Castle, once home to Queen Katherine Parr. This year’s trail follows a Wizard of Oz theme, guiding visitors along pathways filled with dazzling illuminations.

Highlights include sparkling water features, flickering chandeliers suspended in the trees, and the dramatic Garden of Fire display. Along the way, warm up with mulled wine, hot chocolate, and festive street food from local vendors.

✨ Why go? It’s a family-friendly light trail with history, storytelling, and seasonal atmosphere all in one.

📸 Top tip: Book tickets early for discounted prices (before 21 Nov) and bring your four-legged friends — dogs on leads are welcome.

Sudeley Castle Spectacle of Light with illuminated gardens, glowing trees, and festive light displays at Christmas 2025 in th

Sudeley Castle Spectacle of Light 2025 with illuminated pathways, colourful displays, and glowing castle gardens in the Cotsw

🌟Cotswold Farm Park Enchanted Light Trail (22 Nov–31 Dec 2025)

Owned by farmer and TV presenter Adam Henson, Cotswold Farm Park near Chipping Norton transforms after dark into a family-friendly illuminated adventure. Wander along a magical light trail featuring dazzling installations crafted by local artists, while little ones delight in feeding the animals their evening snacks.

Warm up by the fire pits with toasted marshmallows, enjoy seasonal refreshments, and soak up the cosy atmosphere. The trail is also dog-friendly (pups on leads are welcome), making it a perfect outing for the whole family.

✨ Why go? It’s a relaxed, hands-on alternative to the grander light shows — combining festive sparkle with a true farmyard experience.

📸 Top tip: Book early for discounted tickets and quieter slots closer to opening night.

Blenheim Palace Christmas Light Trail 2025 with glowing archways and festive illuminated displays in the palace gardens.

🛍️ Daylesford Christmas Fair & Workshops (6–9 Nov 2025)

Kick off the festive season at Daylesford Organic Farm, one of the Cotswolds’ most iconic destinations. The annual Christmas Fair brings together more than 200 artisan stalls selling gifts, decorations, and seasonal food and drink.

Beyond shopping, visitors can take part in hands-on workshops — from wreath-making and festive cookery classes to elegant table décor sessions using foraged materials from the farm’s organic gardens. For something extra special, join a guided tour of Daylesford’s cutting garden, a serene experience that connects you with the farm’s sustainable ethos.

✨ Why go? It’s the perfect blend of luxury shopping, artisan crafts, and immersive workshops, making it ideal for early festive inspiration.

📸 Top tip: Pre-book workshops early as spaces are limited and sell out quickly.

Daylesford Organic Farm at Christmas 2025 with festive decorations, artisan market stalls, and seasonal dining in the Cotswol

🌿 Wreath-Making Workshops at Dyrham Park & Newark Park (Various Dates, Nov–Dec 2025)

Get hands-on with Christmas creativity at two stunning National Trust properties in the Cotswolds. At Dyrham Park and Newark Park, expert florists guide you through crafting your own eco-friendly Christmas wreath using natural foliage and seasonal greenery.

Some workshops even include a festive afternoon tea, making the experience as indulgent as it is creative. Surrounded by the history and charm of these beautiful estates, it’s the perfect way to add a personal touch to your Christmas celebrations.

✨ Why go? Combine heritage, craftsmanship, and festive flair in a unique Cotswolds setting.

📸 Top tip: Workshops are popular and spaces are limited — book early to secure your place.

Festive wreath-making workshop at a historic Cotswolds venue in Christmas 2025 with natural foliage, ribbons, and seasonal de

🎶 Christmas Carols at Great Tew Church (Dates TBC)

Experience the timeless charm of Christmas in the picturesque village of Great Tew. Inside its historic stone church, candlelight sets the scene for an evening of traditional carols, where visitors can sing along or simply soak up the music.

With its intimate scale and welcoming community, Great Tew offers one of the most heartwarming festive atmospheres in the Cotswolds.

✨ Why go? It’s a chance to enjoy Christmas traditions in one of the region’s prettiest villages, away from the crowds.

📸 Top tip: Dates for 2025 are yet to be confirmed — check local parish listings before your visit.

Christmas choir singing carols by candlelight in a historic Cotswolds church, Great Tew during the 2025 festive season.

🎶 Carol Singing at Cirencester Parish Church (Various Dates, Dec 2025)

Step inside Cirencester Parish Church, one of the largest and most beautiful parish churches in England, for a truly memorable Christmas experience. Throughout December, the church hosts festive services and concerts, filling its soaring Gothic interior with the sound of traditional carols and choir performances.

Outside, the town comes alive with seasonal cheer — especially during the Advent Market (30 Nov–1 Dec), where stalls fill the market square and live carol singers create a joyful backdrop.

✨ Why go? Cirencester blends historic grandeur with community spirit, making it one of the best places in the Cotswolds to hear carols at Christmas.

📸 Top tip: Arrive early for concerts, as this popular venue draws large festive crowds.

Cirencester Parish Church at Christmas 2025 with festive lights, historic Gothic architecture, and seasonal decorations in th

⛸️ Cheltenham Ice Rink (29 Nov 2025–4 Jan 2026)

Add a touch of festive fun to your trip with a spin on the Cheltenham Ice Rink, set in the elegant Imperial Gardens. This undercover rink, inspired by the town’s 19th-century Winter Gardens, makes skating possible whatever the weather.

Skaters can enjoy the backdrop of Regency architecture, while festive music sets the mood. After your session, warm up with hot drinks and seasonal treats at the nearby bar and food stalls.

✨ Why go? It’s a lively, family-friendly attraction in the heart of Cheltenham — perfect for combining with the town’s Christmas market.

📸 Top tip: Pre-book tickets to guarantee your preferred time slot, especially at weekends and during the school holidays.

Cheltenham Christmas Ice Rink 2025 in Imperial Gardens with skaters, festive lights, and seasonal music in the Cotswolds.

🎭 Festive Pantos Across the Cotswolds (Nov 2025–Jan 2026)

Catch a classic British pantomime at venues like Barn Theatre in Cirencester (The Three Musketeers), Everyman Theatre in Cheltenham (Aladdin), or Roses Theatre in Tewkesbury (Cinderella). These lively shows are packed with humor and festive cheer for all ages.

Christmas pantomime performance in the Cotswolds 2025 with colourful costumes, festive stage set, and family audience enjoyin

✨ Painswick Rococo Garden – The Enchanted Garden by Night (30 Nov 2025–2 Jan 2026)

No British Christmas is complete without a lively pantomime, and the Cotswolds delivers in style. This season, enjoy family-friendly performances at some of the region’s favourite theatres:

Barn Theatre, Cirencester – The Three Musketeers
Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham – Aladdin
Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury – Cinderella

Packed with slapstick humour, catchy songs, and audience participation, these festive shows guarantee laughter and cheer for all ages.

✨ Why go? Pantomimes are a beloved Christmas tradition — perfect for families, groups, and anyone wanting to embrace the festive spirit.

📸 Top tip: Tickets often sell quickly for weekend performances, so book early to secure the best seats.

Painswick Rococo Garden Enchanted Christmas 2025 with illuminated sculptures, glowing trees, and festive light displays in th

🎄 Bourton-on-the-Water Christmas Tree in the River (Dec 2025)

Every December, Bourton-on-the-Water transforms into one of the most photographed festive spots in the Cotswolds. The iconic Christmas tree, twinkling with fairy lights, is placed right in the middle of the River Windrush, reflecting beautifully in the water. Stroll along the bridges, enjoy the village’s boutique shops and tearooms, and soak up the picture-perfect atmosphere.

✨ Why go? It’s a true Cotswolds Christmas tradition — unique, magical, and unforgettable.

📸 Top tip: Arrive just before dusk to capture the tree glowing against the winter twilight.

🎅 Santa’s Grotto at Cotswold Airport (25 Nov–24 Dec 2025) - The Flight Before Christmas

Take off into the magic of Christmas at the Flight Before Christmas experience at Cotswold Airport. Children can meet Father Christmas in a festive grotto, enjoy seasonal crafts, and listen to enchanting storytelling sessions. With twinkling lights and aviation fun, it’s a unique Christmas outing that families will never forget.

✨ Why go? It combines the wonder of aviation with festive traditions — making it one of the most imaginative grottos in the Cotswolds.

📸 Top tip: Book early as Santa’s slots often sell out before December.

The Flight Before Christmas event at Cotswold Airport 2025 with Santa’s grotto, festive crafts, and family activities.

🛍️ Cirencester Advent Market & Light Switch-On (30 Nov–1 Dec 2025)

Start the season in style at the Cirencester Advent Market, where more than 200 stalls fill the town with festive cheer. Browse artisan gifts, local food, and Christmas crafts while enjoying live music and street entertainment.

The highlight is the Christmas light switch-on at 4:25 PM on 30 November, followed by a spectacular silent firework display that dazzles without the noise. Throughout December, Cirencester also hosts additional Christmas gift markets, making it a great base for festive shopping.

✨ Why go? It’s one of the Cotswolds’ biggest and most atmospheric Christmas markets, blending community spirit with historic charm.

📸 Top tip: Arrive early to soak up the atmosphere and grab a good spot in the Market Square for the light switch-on.

Cirencester Christmas Market 2025 with festive stalls, twinkling lights, shoppers, and the historic market square decorated f

🎻 Christmas Concert at Berkeley Castle (5 & 7 Dec 2025)

Step inside the atmospheric Great Hall of Berkeley Castle for an evening of festive music. Guests are welcomed with mulled wine and mince pies by the fire, before enjoying an intimate classical concert performed by Orchestra Pro Anima. Surrounded by centuries of history and candlelit charm, it’s a Christmas experience that feels both grand and personal.

✨ Why go? It’s a rare chance to combine world-class live music with the historic beauty of one of England’s finest castles.

📸 Top tip: Arrive early to explore the castle grounds lit up for Christmas before the performance begins.

Christmas concert at Berkeley Castle 2025 with Orchestra Pro Anima performing classical music in the historic Great Hall, dec

🌲 Enchanted Christmas at Westonbirt Arboretum (28 Nov–31 Dec 2025)

Step into a winter wonderland at Westonbirt Arboretum’s Enchanted Christmas. Wander through a magical light trail where illuminated trees transform the forest into a festive spectacle. Along the way, spot Father Christmas and his elves, explore cosy Christmas villages, and enjoy seasonal food and drink.

✨ Why go? It’s one of the UK’s most famous arboretums, and its Christmas lights are a must for families and nature-lovers alike.

📸 Top tip: Wrap up warm and book tickets early — this event sells out every year.

🍷 Cosy Pubs with Firesides (Nov–Dec 2025)

No Cotswolds Christmas is complete without a stop at a cosy country pub, where roaring log fires and hearty seasonal menus create the perfect winter escape.

Top favourites include The Wild Rabbit in Kingham, celebrated for its chic rustic style, and The Bell at Charlbury, a classic coaching inn with centuries of history. Whether you’re after a festive pint, mulled wine, or a traditional Christmas roast, the Cotswolds’ pubs deliver warmth, charm, and character in abundance.

✨ Why go? The Cotswolds is renowned for its picture-perfect inns — and at Christmas, they’re at their most magical.

📸 Top tip: Reserve in advance, especially for weekend lunches and dinners in December, as tables book up quickly during the festive season.

The Bell pub in the Cotswolds decorated for Christmas 2025 with a roaring fire, festive lights, and a traditional holiday atm

🛍️ Chipping Campden Christmas Market (Dates TBC)

Wander the cobbled streets of Chipping Campden as they come alive with festive charm for the annual Christmas Market. Stalls showcase local crafts, artisan gifts, and seasonal food and drink, while the town’s historic architecture provides the perfect backdrop.

The highlight is the grand Christmas tree switch-on ceremony, complete with live carol singing and a welcoming community atmosphere.

✨ Why go? It’s a quintessential Cotswolds experience — small, charming, and packed with local spirit.

📸 Top tip: Combine your visit with a cosy pub meal or winter walk through the surrounding countryside for the ultimate festive day out.

Chipping Campden Christmas Market 2025 with festive stalls, twinkling lights, and shoppers in the historic Cotswolds high str

🦌 Meet the Reindeer at Cotswold Reindeer Herd (Bourton-on-the-Water)

Add a touch of Lapland magic to your Christmas in the Cotswolds with a visit to the Cotswold Reindeer Herd, located just outside Bourton-on-the-Water. This working farm is home to a friendly herd of reindeer that families can meet, feed, and learn about.

Children will love getting up close to these gentle animals while discovering more about their care and role in festive folklore. It’s a heartwarming experience that makes Christmas feel extra special.

✨ Why go? Meeting real reindeer is a rare and magical treat — perfect for creating unforgettable festive memories.

📸 Top tip: Check opening times in advance, as visits are often limited to weekends in the run-up to Christmas.

Children meeting and feeding real reindeer at the Cotswold Reindeer Herd in Bourton-on-the-Water during Christmas 2025.

🧑‍🎄 Santa’s Grottos & Steam Train Rides

Step back in time with a ride on the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway’s Santa Special, a nostalgic Christmas journey through the Cotswold countryside. Families are welcomed onboard by friendly elves before meeting Father Christmas in his grotto and receiving a festive gift.

The journey includes seasonal decorations, carols, and refreshments, creating a magical atmosphere for children and adults alike.

✨ Why go? It’s a traditional Christmas outing that combines the charm of vintage steam travel with the magic of Santa.

📸 Top tip: Seats sell out quickly — book as early as possible to secure your preferred date and carriage.

Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway Santa Special 2025 with a festive steam train decorated for Christmas and families

🎄 Christmas in the Cotswolds – What to Do & See

Name: Blenheim Palace Christmas
Start: 2025-11-14
End: 2026-01-03
Location: Blenheim Palace

Experience the magic of Christmas in the Cotswolds, where honey-stone villages glow with festive lights, carols fill the air, and markets brim with seasonal cheer. From grand estates like Blenheim Palace to charming village churches, the Cotswolds is the perfect winter escape.

✨ Christmas at Blenheim Palace

One of the highlights of a Cotswolds Christmas is Blenheim Palace’s festive programme. Each year, the UNESCO World Heritage Site transforms with:

🎄 The Illuminated Trail – a spectacular light walk through the gardens.
🏰 Themed Palace Rooms – past displays have included fairy tales and The Nutcracker.
🎁 Christmas Market – artisan stalls, food chalets, and festive drinks.

Booking early is essential, as this event draws visitors from across the UK.

🎁 Cotswolds Christmas Markets

The region’s villages and towns host charming Christmas markets throughout December. Highlights include:

Cheltenham Christmas Market – perfect for gifts and festive food.
Cirencester Advent Market – one of the Cotswolds’ most traditional.
Stow-on-the-Wold Market Square – a festive hub in a picture-perfect setting.
Woodstock & Chipping Norton markets – local crafts and mulled wine.

These markets are ideal stops on a bespoke Cotswolds Day Tour.

🎶 Carol Singing in the Cotswolds

No Cotswolds Christmas is complete without carols. Some special places include:

Great Tew Church – atmospheric candlelit carol services.
Broadway Village Green – community singing beneath the Christmas tree.
Cirencester Parish Church – one of England’s largest parish churches, with a full festive programme.

We can tailor your tour to include a carol service in a cosy local church.

🌟 Why Visit at Christmas?

🎄 Traditional Christmas charm in historic villages.
🏰 Festive experiences at Blenheim Palace and manor houses.
🎶 Carol singing in ancient churches.
🎁 Christmas markets with artisan crafts and local produce.
❄️ Winter walks in the rolling Cotswolds countryside.

🚙 Private Christmas Tours

Make your festive trip easy with a private SUV tour for 1–4 guests. Whether it’s exploring Christmas markets, visiting Blenheim, or enjoying carols at Great Tew Church, our family-run tours are fully customisable. Inclusive, LGBTQ+ friendly, and personal, we’ll help you experience the Cotswolds at its most magical.

🎁 Our Top Picks for Christmas in the Cotswolds 2025

✨ With so many festive things to do, here are our favourite recommendations tailored for every kind of visitor:

✨ Top 3 Must-Do Christmas Experiences in the Cotswolds 2025

If you’re short on time, these three are unmissable:

Blenheim Palace Christmas Light Show – Wander through dazzling themed rooms and follow the world-famous Illuminated Garden Trail.
Sudeley Castle Spectacle of Light – Step into a Wizard of Oz–themed wonderland of glowing gardens and festive treats.
Bourton-on-the-Water Christmas Tree in the River – Capture the postcard-perfect image of the tree sparkling in the middle of the River Windrush.

👨‍👩‍👧 For Families

Make magical Christmas memories together:

Cotswold Farm Park Enchanted Light Trail – child-friendly illuminations with animals.
Santa’s Grottos & Steam Train Rides – ride the nostalgic Santa Special.
Meet the Cotswold Reindeer Herd – magical moments feeding real reindeer.

💕 For Couples

Romantic settings for two:

Blenheim Palace Christmas – romantic palace rooms and evening light trails.
Broadway Tower Festive Lights – iconic views with mulled wine.
Cosy Pubs with Firesides – intimate dinners in charming inns.

🌹 For Lost Romantics

For those who love atmosphere, tradition, and timeless charm:

Christmas Carols at Great Tew Church – candlelight, music, and timeless tradition.
Cirencester Parish Church Carols – atmospheric and historic.
Winter Walks & Stargazing – frosty evenings under dark, starry skies.

🎄 For a Classic Christmas

The quintessential Cotswolds Christmas experience:

Cheltenham Christmas Market – festive stalls and seasonal street food.
Bourton-on-the-Water Christmas Tree in the River – iconic Cotswold tradition.
Gloucester Cathedral Christmas Services – grandeur and beauty in equal measure.

✨ Whichever path you choose, we can take you there. Let Cotswolds Day Tours create the perfect Christmas itinerary tailored to your style — whether it’s a family adventure, a romantic escape, or a classic festive day out.

👉 Plan Your Christmas Tour Now

Tips for Visiting the Cotswolds at Christmas

Book Early: Popular events like light trails and wreath-making workshops sell out quickly. Check official websites for 2025 dates and tickets.
Dress Warmly: Outdoor events can be chilly, so bring layers and waterproofs.
Travel Smart: Parking can be limited, especially on weekends. Consider public transport or carpooling for events like Blenheim Palace (parking £10–12).
Support Local: Many markets and fairs feature artisan goods—perfect for unique Christmas gifts.
Whether you’re skating under the stars, crafting wreaths, or singing carols in historic churches, the Cotswolds at Christmas offers something for everyone. Plan your festive escape now and make unforgettable memories in this enchanting region!