From guided tours to light trails, here are 11 group-friendly activities across the UK, to get your group in the festive mood.
1. Royal Botanic Gardens Kew
From colourful tunnels and soundscapes to light installations and twinkling trees, Kew in Richmond (pictured above) is bringing its annual festive light trails back this winter. The experience will run between 13th November and 3rd January.
Group tickets are available now with access to the traditional fairground, festive street food market and a special appearance by Father Christmas.
2. Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens
The annual Leonardslee Lights is officially back this Christmas. Wander through the woodland gardens, guided by its immersive light trail. Visitors can expect new, large-scale displays and live entertainment throughout. Leonardslee Village has also been expanded this year, making it the perfect spot to warm up with some festive bites, or even a cup of much-needed mulled wine.
Groups of 15 or more are offered discounted entry to the light trail through The Group Lights + Dinner + Drink package.
3. Longleat
Hark, hark, The Festival of Light is back. Longleat’s annual festive event will run between 7th November and 10th January, and this year’s theme is Legendary Worlds.
From the lost city of Atlantis and mythical beasts to Greek mythology and magical creatures, there are more than 1,000 lanterns portraying each display. Groups can also visit the Christmas tree show, market stalls and seasonal food. Access is included in the Group Day Tickets.
4. Bamburgh Castle
Combine the timeless wonder of Bamburgh castle with the charm of your favourite seasonal songs. Between 14th November until 3rd January, each state room will be individually designed by Charlotte Lloyd Webber, inspired by classic tunes. From Carol of Bells to Walking in a Winter Wonderland, there will be immersive sound and theatrics throughout.
Pre-booked groups are offered discounted rates and free coach parking.
5. Beamish, The Living Museum of the North
Picture Christmas in the 1750’s, or the 1850’s, even the 1950’s. The festive period has evolved over the centuries, but now you can live it. From festive treats to traditional carols, groups can experience the festive spirit from the Georgian era through to the 1950’s.
Groups can enjoy the decorated grounds, live music and meet Father Christmas. Discounted day admission is available for pre-booked groups of 15 or more.
6. Blenheim Palace
Blenheim Palace is fit for a princess, and this year that dream will become a reality. The enchanting Cinderella-themed celebration invites visitors to admire the decorated state rooms, before stepping into the gardens for a colourful display. Its light trail is complete with vibrant fountains, twinkling trees and its Cathedral of Light.
Blenheim’s addition of an ice-skating rink, observation wheel and its own Christmas market has brought a flourish of fairytale magic for visitors. Running between 13th November and 3rd January, tickets are now available.
7. Scrooge’s London
Step into Dickens’ festive world on a 90-minute guided walking tour of London, exploring the streets and landmarks that may have inspired A Christmas Carol. Although Dickens never identifies the exact location of Scrooge and Marley’s austere offices, the story offers plenty of clues.
The tour starts at Monument Station and ends at Bank Junction. Private tours for groups of up to 30 are available on Saturdays and Sundays throughout November and December.
8. National Memorial Arboretum
This year marks 25 years of the National Memorial Arboretum, and what better way to celebrate than spreading festive cheer during a visit.
Groups can expect an illuminated light trail, interactive experiences as well as moments of remembrance and reflection. Special rates are available for groups of ten or more.
9. The Royal Mint Experience
Christmas has become synonymous with good food – roast turkey, pigs in blankets and of course, the Christmas pudding. And this year, the team at The Royal Mint Experience in Wales have got your festive dining plans covered.
Group visits start with a seasonal afternoon tea, with an assortment of hot tea, finger sandwiches and pastries. After a spot of indulgence, members will be taken behind the scenes for a guided tour, bringing more than 1,100 years of coin history to life.
10. Leeds Castle
Wallace & Gromit: A Crackling Christmas Caper is a family friendly festive adventure to add to your calendars this year. Visitors will be led through the castle and grounds, while Wallace and Gromit attempt to investigate a murder mystery. Expect a ‘whodunnit’ full of surprises.
Groups can book special after-dark events, including the Christmas Lights trail and festive dining experience. But be sure not to miss, their Christmas Masquerade Ball!
11. Rochester Dickensian Christmas Festival
Taking place on 5th and 6th December, in the historic town of Rochester, is the Dickensian Christmas Festival. Visitors can expect street entertainment, parades and guaranteed snow while captivated by Dickens’ characters. There will be a variety of entertainment including hands-on Dickensian-themed workshops, a Christmas market and a Bavarian food village.
Groups arriving by coach are advised to book ahead to secure parking.
Find more inspiration for 2026, see our Christmas Guide which was published in the August edition of Group Leisure & Travel magazine here.
