We’re so lucky to have so many exciting Christmas events in the North West that are local to us. We’ve been to some fantastic festive days out over the years. After a disappointing 2020 where most of us couldn’t do much of anything, it’s exciting to see there are so many brilliant Christmas days out for 2021.
Here are the best Christmas days out in the North West 2021.
The popular lanterns at Chester Zoo are back for 2021, from Friday 12th November to Thursday 23th December. This is an evening event where the zoo is transformed into a spectacular wonderland, full of spark, lights and illumination. To find out more check out the Chester Zoo website.
Click here to read our full review of the Chester Zoo Lanterns.
The Enchanted Christmas Lights return to Knowsley Safari from 20th November 2021 until 30th December. This is another nighttime adventure that the kids will love. The Foot Safari is transformed into an exciting Christmas lights trail complete with music, illuminations and toasted marshmallows! There are also rides for the children for an additional fee. To find out more see the Knowsley Safari website.
Click here to read our full review of Enchanted Knowsley Safari Christmas Lights.
In the magical setting of Delamere Forest, there’s a brand new after-dark illuminated trail to enjoy. This Christmas, twinkling lights and seasonal sounds bring festive fun to Delamere Forest. Running from Friday 26th November until Thursday 23rd December, the event promises to be a wonderfully festive experience for all the family. For more information and to book, see the Forestry England website.
Silcock’s Winter Wonderland Manchester returns after a 4-year gap, bringing the magic of Christmas back to Manchester. Located at EventCity next to the Intu Trafford Centre, the event is running from Saturday 4th December 2021 to Sunday 2nd January 2022. As the UK’s largest indoor Christmas theme park, it promises to be the perfect festive family adventure, with over 50 family rides and attractions all under one roof. There is also a dazzling array of shows including TV stars Daisy and Ollie and a spectacular Christmas Circus, all with daily performances. All rides and attractions are included in the ticket price.
For more information and to book, please see the Winter Wonderland Manchester website.
Running from the 27th November up until Christmas Eve, Blackburn is THE place to see the real Santa. Climb aboard the Santaland Express and be transported through time and space to meet Santa inside his festive grotto. Buy your tickets (a bargain at just £9.95 per child) and await your magical journey. Meet Santa’s elves on the platform before taking your seats within the carriage. After seeing the world pass by out of the window, arrive at Santaland, ready to meet the big man himself. A magical experience and our favourite place to visit Santa.
To find out more see The Mall Blackburn website.
Click here to see my full review of the Santaland Express at The Mall Blackburn.
For a truly festive treat, why not treat the family to tickets to The Snowman Tour. Carrot Productions are bringing us a special opportunity to see the beloved film on a big screen, complete with a live orchestra. There are various dates and locations throughout the North West, including Liverpool and Chester. For more information click here.
We had an amazing time a couple of years ago at East Lancashire Railway’s Halloween Train so I can only imagine how magical their Santa Specials will be. Running from 27th November up until Christmas Eve, it’s the perfect festive treat for all the family.
Upon arrival, admire the beautifully decorated Bury Bolton Street Station before taking a steam train ride to Rawtenstall and back through the Irwell Valley. The journey lasts approximately 80 minutes as you immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere and meet Santa and his elves. Each child receives a gift, an activity pack along with a mince pie and a festive tipple for grown-ups.
For more information see the East Lancashire Railway website.
The award-winning Lightopia is back and ready to light up Heaton Park this Christmas brighter than ever with brand new installations and routes. We visited last year and had an amazing time. There’s stunning interactive exhibits, immersive light installations, and magical illuminated trails.
For more information and to book, please see the Lightopia Festival.
The after-dark illuminated trail through festive gardens returns for its fifth year at Dunham Massey. Running from the 19th November until 2nd January 2022, Dunham offers tunnels of light, dancing waterside reflections and beautifully lit up trees. For more information and to check ticket availability please see the Dunham Massey website.
Click here to read our full review of Christmas at Dunham Massey: Illuminated Trail.
There are so many exciting festive days out in the North West 2021. We have a few of them booked in for this year and we can’t wait! Are you going along to any Christmas days out this year? Let us know in the comments!
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