Trains, Shows and Family Fun
Whatever the reason we guarantee that Oxfordshire will have something for everyone this festive season
There is something truly special about experiencing Christmas in Oxfordshire. And what could be more Christmassy than a train ride with Santa or maybe a theatre show.
With the festive season quickly approaching, it is time to start planning your Christmas in Oxfordshire, and below you will find our guide to some magical Christmas experiences.
Christmas steam trains & trails
Magical Christmas trails are always a great way to get everyone into the festive spirit, with fun steam train rides also proving to be very popular. Here in Oxfordshire, there are a variety of great Christmas trails and train rides to experience, with the following being just a few examples.
Departing from Princes Risborough, Santa will welcome everyone onboard before travelling to the North Pole Station where guests can enjoy refreshments and a visit to Santa’s workshop to collect their special present. The magical steam train ride is guaranteed to be fun, with Santa and his elves visiting children in their carriages throughout the train journey.
Climb aboard this vintage train and relax in your private compartment as you embark on a journey to meet Santa and his reindeer at the beautifully decorated Victorian train station. With gifts for children, family entertainment and a full museum to explore, this is an event for the whole family to enjoy.
Santa has lost his reindeer and they are scattered throughout the beautiful Waterperry Gardens. Young children will love to explore the trail and find Rudolph and his friends before collecting their special Christmas gift at the end, in this magical experience that runs until 23rd December.
Your magical journey will begin with THE POLAR EXPRESS™ arriving at Cholsey and Wallingford Railway to begin your special adventure to the North Pole and back again. You’ll meet all the beloved characters from the iconic film, including the Conductor, some very talented chefs, a man no-one seems to be able to see except you, and of course, Mr Claus himself. The whole family (dressed in your pyjamas for the full Polar Express experience) will experience a theatrical extravaganza on board a steam train as you head to the North Pole.
Christmas shows
If you are looking for a special event to attend this Christmas, these performances are sure to be remembered for years to come. We have selected just a few examples of popular favourites which the whole family are sure to enjoy.
The Robin Hood Panto will run at the Oxford Playhouse from 27th November until 9th January, with Robin Hood and his band of merry men taking centre stage with songs, laughter, and dancing in this fun Christmas panto.
Experience the award winning Wantage brass band with a Christmas concert of popular songs from The Snowman, alongside other festive favourites. The projection of the popular 1982 film alongside the brilliant music is sure to be a spectacular festive event not to be missed on Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th December.
The magical Cinderella Panto at the Kenton Theatre is a story full of magic, wonder and fun, making it the perfect Christmas performance. The renowned Bear in the Air Productions always produce a great performance, and you can be sure that the whole family will be full of festive cheer after this Panto which opens on Saturday 11th December.
The international award-winning chamber choir, New Dublin Voices alongside conductor Bernie Sherlock, will present a brilliant carols service at Christ Church Cathedral on Saturday 11th December. With a mix of old favourites and those with a modern twist, the acoustics of this beautiful cathedral are sure to create a spellbinding evening.
Christmas family fun days
For many families with young children, Christmas is not complete without a magical trip to see Santa and his elves. The following are our pick of the most festive grottos which offer a beautiful experience for children of every age.
This magical and immersive event runs between 4th and 21st December and will see children take a journey through the Fairytale Castle to visit the Toymaker in his log cabin before visiting Santa who awaits within the Secret Forest in his charming grotto. Next, enjoy the festive-themed hunt, mulled wine, mince pies and the amazing Christmas lights.
Create reindeer food, write a letter to Santa and take a visit to the Christmas Grotto to soak in the festive atmosphere, before being taken to visit the man himself and his elves. This is a great place to visit for younger children, as the Magic Garden soft play will be open for your entire visit
Not only is the festive Santa’s Grotto amazing, but the Castle offers Guided Tours with fully costumed guides under the magical lantern lights. This is a great experience for families with children of all ages, with visits to Santa, printed photos, ornament decorating and festive food included.
Make Christmas extra special for your little ones by booking Tea with Santa, with a visit from our white-bearded wonder himself.
Join us for a magical festive experience where grown-ups and children alike will be fully immersed into a Christmassy wonderland to enjoy festive treats with Santa’s elves
Santa will be visiting Thame and setting up a sparkly grotto at the back of Thame Town Hall, ready to meet any children who want to come and pay him a visit. So whether you’ve been naughty or nice, pop down to let him know what you would like for Christmas, listen to some lovely Christmas music while you wait, and receive a small present.
Wishing you a fabulous Christmas
We hope you have enjoyed our list of some of the best things to do in Oxfordshire during the festive season. As always, the best way to experience both the historic city of Oxford and the many beautiful towns and villages is to go out and explore, and we promise you will find something great to do!
