Celebrate the Magic of Christmas in Kent
As the nights draw in and twinkling lights begin to appear across towns and villages, Kent transforms into a festive wonderland just waiting to be explored. Whether you are hunting for the perfect gift at a local Christmas market, wrapping up for a winter walk, or following a sparkling trail with the family, there is something for everyone to enjoy this season.
We have gathered all the best ways to get outdoors and feel festive from cosy strolls and illuminated trails to seasonal challenges and events. Grab your scarf, fill your flask, and discover the joy of Christmas in Kent.
Christmas Markets
Kent’s Christmas markets are a beloved seasonal tradition, and 2025 is already shaping up to be full of festive cheer. Whether you are looking for twinkling lights, artisan gifts, or a cosy cup of mulled wine, Kent’s Christmas markets offer something for everyone.
Christmas Light Trails
Discover Christmas light trails in Kent as castles, gardens, and woodlands come alive with festive illuminations and family-friendly winter walks. From illuminated woodland paths to historic estates glowing with seasonal cheer, these events offer unforgettable moments for families, couples, and friends.
Where to Find Christmas Light Trails in Kent – Explore Outdoor Festive EventsDiscover Kent’s best Christmas light trails, festive walks, and outdoor winter events. Explore illuminated woodland paths, castle gardens, and family-friendly seasonal experiences. Find confirmed 2025…Save Where to Find Christmas Light Trails in Kent – Explore Outdoor Festive Events to favouritesWonderful Winter Walks
There’s no better time to wrap up warm and get outside and exploring Kent, than during winter! Explore your area by going outside and celebrating the best of Kent’s winter walks in the beautiful Garden of England.
Christmas Events
Christmas at Hever Castle – Land of Oz Theme
Follow the yellow brick road through beautifully decorated grounds inspired by The Wizard of Oz, with dazzling lights and Tudor-style Christmas décor.
📅 Dates: 21 November – 2 January
🎟️ Ticket Price: From £22.65 (adult), £13.60 (child), £1 (under 5s)
🔗 Visit Hever Castle’s website
Santa Specials – Kent & East Sussex Railway
Ride a festive steam train from Tenterden Station, meet Santa, and enjoy treats and gifts for children.
📅 Dates: 29 November – 24 December
🎟️ Ticket Price: From £25 (child), £22 (adult)
🔗 Visit KESR’s website
Santa Specials – Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway
Hop aboard a heritage steam train from New Romney to Santa’s Grotto in Hythe for a magical Christmas journey. Children receive age-appropriate gifts, enjoy festive refreshments, and can explore the Model Railway Exhibition before departure. New for this year: “Santa’s Quiet Hour” – a calmer, sensory-friendly experience for children with additional needs.
📅 Dates: 29 November – 24 December
🎟️ Ticket Price: £29.50 per person (includes train ride, grotto visit, gift, and refreshments)
🔗 Visit RH&DR’s Website
Bluewater Winterland & Ice Rink
Located near The Village, this festive attraction includes rides, games, food stalls, and a covered ice rink.
📅 Dates: 8 November – 11 January
🎟️ Ticket Price: Ice rink from £14.50 (adult), £12.50 (child); Winterland entry is free
🔗 Visit Winterland Bluewater’s Website
Christmas at Dobbies Ashford – Santa’s Grotto & Festive Fun
Step into a magical North Pole adventure at Dobbies Ashford, where children can ice fish with penguins, play snowball games, and meet Santa in his grotto. Plus, enjoy festive breakfasts, wreath workshops, and even a visit for your dog at Santa Paws!
📅 Dates: 23 November – 24 December
🎟️ Ticket Price: From £14 per child (Santa’s Grotto), other events vary (e.g. Santa’s Breakfast from £18 child / £9 adult, Wreath Workshop £55)
🔗 Visit Dobbies’ Website
Christmas at Chartwell – Churchill’s Animals
Enjoy festive trails, carols, crafts, and a beautifully decorated house at Winston Churchill’s former home.
📅 Dates: Mid-November – early January
🎟️ Ticket Price: Included with National Trust admission (from £14 adult, £7 child)
🔗 Visit National Trust’s Website
Christmas at Scotney Castle – Cover to Cover
A story-themed Christmas with festive lunches, light displays, and a North Pole letter-writing station.
📅 Dates: From 22 November
🎟️ Ticket Price: Included with National Trust admission
🔗 Visit National Trust’s Website
Christmas at Knole – Beatrix Potter Theme
Decorated courtyards, a giant wreath, and festive scenes inspired by Beatrix Potter.
📅 Dates: Late November – December
🎟️ Ticket Price: Included with National Trust admission
🔗 Visit National Trust’s Website
Christmas in Royal Tunbridge Wells
Enjoy twinkling lights, the Joy to the Wells Parade, Santa Train rides, and ice skating at Calverley Grounds. The Polar Express returns to Spa Valley Railway, and Santa’s Grotto is open at Royal Victoria Place.
📅 Dates: Late November – December
🎟️ Ticket Price: Varies by attraction (Santa Train from £15, Ice Skating from £12)
🔗 Visit Kent’s Christmas Guide
Santa’s Grotto – Betteshanger Country Park, Deal
Meet Father Christmas and his elves in a snowy North Pole-themed grotto. Includes a dog-friendly trail and Santa Paws photo ops.
📅 Dates: 25 November – 24 December
🎟️ Ticket Price: £15 (child), £4 (adult)
🔗 Visit Betteshanger Country Park
The Polar Express – Spa Valley Railway, Tunbridge Wells
Step aboard a magical steam train for an immersive theatrical journey inspired by the beloved Christmas story. Enjoy hot chocolate, cookies, dancing chefs, and a visit from Santa himself—all while dressed in your pyjamas!
📅 Dates: 8 November – 30 December
🎟️ Ticket Price: From £24.95 per person (varies by date and time)
🔗 Visit Spa Valley Railway’s Website
A Truly Magical Christmas – Rare Breeds Centre, Ashford
Experience festive enchantment on the farm with Santa’s Grotto, twinkling lights, craft activities, reindeer trails, and seasonal treats. Meet Father Christmas and his elves in a glittering grotto, enjoy interactive performances, and explore a beautifully decorated winter wonderland. SEN-friendly sessions available for a calmer experience.
📅 Dates: Weekends from 22 November – 24 December (plus 22–24 December weekdays)
🎟️ Ticket Price: Child £20, Adult £15.75, Senior £12 (includes full farm access)
🔗 Visit Rare Breeds Centre’s Website
The Harbour Grotto – Folkestone Harbour
A magical maritime-themed grotto set inside the historic Customs House, offering a unique twist on the traditional Santa experience. Created by local artist Sally Hogarth, this immersive installation explores global Christmas customs and the rich history of Folkestone Harbour. Part of the Festive Marketplace, with free festive films and seasonal treats nearby.
📅 Dates: 5 – 24 December
🎟️ Ticket Price: From £7 per person (booking required)
🔗 Visit Folkestone Harbour’s Website
The Elf Express – Quex Adventure Farm Park, Birchington
Board the Elf Express for a magical tractor ride through the Elf Woods and Candy Cane Lane, meet playful elves, greet real reindeer, and enjoy a personal visit with Santa. This immersive festive experience includes interactive performances, sparkling lights, ice skating, goat walking, and even Santa Paws for your furry friends. New for 2025: The BIG Elf Spectacular – a live show in the Tipi packed with elf mischief and festive fun!
📅 Dates: 6 – 24 December
🎟️ Ticket Price: From £10 to £40.95 (Gold Pass for family of 4: £95)
🔗 Visit The Elf Express Website
Christmas at Salomons Estate – Santa’s Grotto & Festive Dining
Celebrate the season in style at Salomons Estate in Royal Tunbridge Wells. Enjoy a magical Santa’s Grotto experience with festive crafts and joyful activities led by Santa’s elves, indulge in a luxurious Christmas Day lunch, or treat yourself to a sparkling festive afternoon tea. Don’t miss the Jingle Bell Ball party nights or the free Festive Fairy Trail through the estate’s winter gardens.
📅 Dates:
- Santa’s Grotto: 6 – 24 December
- Christmas Day Lunch: 25 December
- Afternoon Tea: Selected dates in December
🎟️ Ticket Price: - Grotto: £30 per child (adults free)
- Lunch: £109 adult, £49.50 child
- Afternoon Tea: £30–£35
🔗 Visit Salomons Estate’s Website