Christmas 2026 days out in London and Hertfordshire: what to book now
It might still feel like autumn, but the most magical Christmas days out sell out weeks ahead, especially December weekends. Here’s our guide to the best festive days out across London and Hertfordshire for Christmas 2026, with dates, prices and when to book.
Light trails
Christmas at Kew, Richmond
13 November 2026 to 3 January 2027
The famous after-dark trail through Kew Gardens, with glowing tunnels, illuminated trees and seasonal treats along the way. Children’s tickets start from £20, and under 4s go free. December dates sell out first, so if you’re set on a date close to Christmas, book now. Find out more and book.
Christmas Lights Trail, Welwyn Garden City
15 November 2026 to 6 January 2027
A free light trail around Welwyn Garden City town centre, and a lovely after-school wander when it gets dark early. No booking needed. More details.
Big festive days out
Hogwarts in the Snow, Warner Bros. Studio Tour, Leavesden
14 November 2026 to 17 January 2027
The Great Hall set for a Christmas feast and the sets dusted with snow. It’s one of the first festive days out to sell out, so if you have a Harry Potter fan in the family, book as early as you can. Book tickets.
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
19 November 2026 to 3 January 2027
Rides, ice skating, Christmas markets and Santa Land. Pre-book a time slot, and go on a weekday afternoon if you can for smaller crowds. Book tickets.
Oh yes it is: panto season
Cinderella, Lyric Hammersmith
14 November 2026 to 3 January 2027
A much-loved London family panto, full of songs, sparkle and audience shouting. Book tickets.
A Christmas Carol: A Pantomime, Watford Palace Theatre
29 November 2026 to 3 January 2027
Watford’s panto tradition with a Dickens twist, and a brilliant first panto for little ones in Hertfordshire. Book tickets.
Booking tips
- Book the big ones first. Kew, Hogwarts in the Snow and December panto weekends are the first to go.
- Go early in the season. Late November and early December dates are usually quieter, and sometimes cheaper, than the week before Christmas.
- Look for relaxed performances. Many theatres run relaxed panto shows, with softer lighting and sound, which are ideal for younger children or those who find big crowds hard.
- Check the small print. Before you pay, look at age limits, family ticket options and what happens if you need to change your date.
- Plan for the cold. Light trails are evening events, so pack hats, gloves, a flask of hot chocolate and a torch for the walk back to the car.
Coming soon
Ashridge House Illuminated in Berkhamsted and the Christmas light trail at Kenwood in Hampstead usually run every year, and we’ll add them to our What’s On guide as soon as their 2026 dates are announced.
Before Christmas comes Bonfire weekend on 7 and 8 November. See our guide to the best family firework displays.
