Buckinghamshire has been named the top location for a Christmas day out after research revealed it offers the most Christmas themed activities in December 2025.
The research, carried out by Outdoor Toys, looked at the number of family Christmas activities in counties across the UK, counting the number of grottos, light trails, pantomimes, markets, and more. Buckinghamshire topped the table with a whopping 369 Christmas activities available in total, including a choice of 33 Santa’s grotto events. For those thinking of visiting the county in December, the local council has even put together an interactive map showing the locations of its many festive themed activities.
The county beat Cheshire into second place, which has 254 activities on offer, and in third place is Cornwall, which offered 208 festive things-to-do across the county.
If you haven’t yet booked your Santa visit, there are lots to choose from in Buckinghamshire. One unique option is to visit Kew Little Pigs Farm, a miniature pig farm that’s hosting a grotto where you can meet Santa as well as their cute porcine creatures. Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway will also be hosting Santa Steam Specials on its 200-year old line. Passengers will be entertained by a team of elves on-board as they travel towards Santa’s grotto to meet the man in red.
Bletchley Park will host a Vintage Santa’s Grotto inside its Victorian Mansion, which is the perfect cosy backdrop for meeting Father Christmas. You can also take part in Codebreakers at Christmas, where you have to use your codebreaking skills to help wartime characters on a top-secret mission.
Many of the county’s historic buildings will be lit up for Christmas, with festive light trails to explore. French Renaissance style château Waddesdon Manor, which is known for its beautiful landscaped gardens, is currently hosting Christmas at Waddesdon. You can take a tour of this grand home decked in festive decor, before heading for the colourful Outdoor Light Trail and Illuminations. On selected dates until December 14, there’s also a Christmas fair, and some dates will offer late night openings for those who want an evening out.
It wouldn’t be Christmas without a trip to the panto, and festive shows include Jack & the Beanstalk Panto at Aylesbury Waterside Theatre. This year, the show stars former Eastender Nigel Harman, and promises incredible 3D effects. The theatre’s festive line-up will also include A Christmas Carol, and That 80s Christmas Rock Show, where you can enjoy songs from the colourful decade.
For last minute gifts and fun festive shopping, there are several Christmas markets to discover across Buckinghamshire. Danesfield House Christmas Fair takes place on December 13 in the stately home turned hotel. Taking place in the Grand Hall, it will have a variety of stalls selling gifts and handmade items, as well as a bar selling mulled wine and festive snacks.
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