Christmas in Hampshire | Things To Do 2025
*This article is in the process of being updated – many attractions haven’t announced their activities for this year yet so I’ve kept last year’s events on for some attractions until I can update them.
Prices correct at the time of writing. Click through to each venue for up to date pricing and information.
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Christmas is just around the corner and there are so many festive activities and magical Christmas events coming up that I thought I’d share them with you. They’re great for inspiration if you have a free weekend, a few hours spare after school or are looking for ways to fill up the Christmas holidays.
So here are some ideas of things to do over the festive season taking place across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight:
Meeting Father Christmas in Hampshire
I know one of the main things people want to know at this time of year is where to see Father Christmas so I’ve put together a post that tells you just that. Keep reading for all the Christmas days out that aren’t just Santa events and activities! If you’re specifically looking for Father Christmas, this post might be helpful.
Days Out in Hampshire
If you’re simply looking for a day out to enjoy over the festive period then we have a lot of inspiration for you and these posts should be helpful:
If you’re happy to go a little further afield then these posts may be helpful too:
- Family Days Out in the South East
- Educational Days Out in the South East
- Educational Days Out in London
- Things to Do on a Family Trip to London
- Things to do in London on a Rainy Day
But, carry on reading for special Christmas themed days out and activity ideas across Hampshire over the festive season.
Christmas Afternoon Tea
If you fancy going for afternoon tea as a festive treat there are plenty of places to choose from and these guides may help you find somewhere perfect!
- The Best Places to Have Afternoon Tea in Hampshire
- 14 Options for Children’s Afternoon Tea in Hampshire
There are also a few really lovely Christmas themed afternoon tea options around:
Tylney Hall Hotel & Gardens – Friday 28th November – Tuesday 23rd December 2025 – From £43.50 per person
Kick the festive season off with a seasonal afternoon tea, served in the cosy lounge with a roaring log fire and close friends or family for company. Including a selection of fresh finger sandwiches, scones and pastries.
New Place Hotel – Daily in December 2025 – From £21.95 per person
Treat yourself to a scrumptious Afternoon Tea this festive season, there will also be Christmas crackers.
Careys Manor Hotel – Daily from Saturday 29th November 2025 to Sunday 4th January 2026 – From £28 per person
A selection of seasonal finger sandwiches, cranberry and orange scones plus a variety of sweet treats.
Christmas Tree Farm Hampshire
A great festive activity is going to choose a Christmas tree and it’s lovely being able to go and pick one freshly cut from a Christmas tree farm.
Here are some of the options in Hampshire:
- Wylds Farm Christmas Trees – 29th November to 19th December 2025
- Temple Valley Christmas Trees – 23rd November to 20th December 2024
- Burcot Farm Christmas Trees – From 22nd November 2025
You can read about more places to get Christmas trees in Hampshire here.
Christmas Events in Hampshire
Wherever you are in Hampshire, there are so many festive events to keep the whole family entertained. Here are a few ideas from across the county suitable for all ages.
Here are a couple of specific posts that you might find useful:
Days Out with Christmas Activities in Hampshire
Milestones Museum – Basingstoke Leisure Park, Churchill Way West, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG22 6PG
A classic Christmas at Milestones – 30 Nov 2024 – 23 Dec 2024
Experience a family Christmas to remember this year at Milestones! The period streets will be decorated for the season and the giant Christmas tree will give a warm, festive welcome. Families can take part in a spotter trail around the museum, enjoy tasty treats and take in the atmosphere of a perfect Christmas.
D Day Museum and Overlord Embroidery – Clarence Esplanade, Portsmouth, Hampshire PO5 3NT
Festive Theme Marvellous Models – 30th November 2025
Discover the impressive display of hand-made military warships, aircraft and vehicles brought to live and intricately crafted by the South Coast Modellers.
The Brickworks Museum – Swanwick Lane, Lower Swanwick, Hampshire SO31 7HB
Christmas Steam up at The Brickworks – 23rd November 2025
The Museum’s Christmas steam event – see the site shining in the glow of Christmas lights and decorations to begin the festive period; shop at the craft market and find out about Christmas’ past in the Victorian cottage display.
Children’s Christmas Special – 30th November and 7th December 2025
The smallest but sweetest event of the year is dedicated to everyone who truly believes in magic! Father Christmas will be at the Brickworks along with the decorated museum with a Christmas tree theme with lots of kids craft activities too.
Aldershot Military Museum – Queens Avenue, Aldershot, Hampshire GU11 2LG
All I Want for Christmas Family Activity Trail – 29th November 2024 – 5th January 2025
Celebrate the festive season with a free activity trail around the museum based on favourite Christmas gifts and wishes throughout history. Learn about traditional gifts from the past, and reflect on your own wishes for Christmas.
Curtis Museum – High Street, Alton, Hampshire GU34 1B
Festive Trail – 14th December 2024 – 5th January 2025
Drop in to the museum and follow this fun seasonal stocking trail!
Whitchurch Silk Mill – 28 Winchester Street, Whitchurch, Hampshire RG28 7AL
Elf on a Shelf Trail – 6th December 2025
Make your way along the trail and find activities for the whole family. Take part in the 10 elf-themed activities around the site and collect your chocolatey reward.
Tudor House & Garden – Bugle St, Southampton SO14 2AD
Christmas Lantern Walking Tour – 21st December 2024
Step into Christmas past for a festive walking tour with your guide Andy Skinner. How did Jane Austen celebrate Christmas, what festive songs herald from our fine city and why was the Christmas of 1945 one to forget? Unlocking the secrets of Southampton’s merry history, this lantern-lit tour will explore the Old Town, including delving into some of hidden medieval vaults under the ground!
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard – Victory Gate, HM Naval Base, Portsmouth, Hampshire PO1 3LJ
‘Twas the Night Before Tudor Christmas – Storytelling at the Mary Rose Museum – 6th and 7th December 2025
This December, our costumed storytellers will transport you back to a seasonal 16th century with a reworking of a festive classic with a Tudor twist!
A Christmas Ship – December 6th and 7th 2025
Join the crew of HMS Warrior as they prepare for Christmas 1863. Enjoy traditional Victorian live entertainment and help members of the crew decorate the gun deck, practice their carol singing and make charismas homemade crafts to take home for your loved ones.
Christmas Carols with the Royal Marines Band – 6th December 2025
Visit Portsmouth Historic Dockyard with special guests, the band and choir from the Royal Marines School of Music, for a very special festive treat that everybody can take part in and enjoy, no experience necessary!
Itchen Valley Country Park – Allington Lane, West End, Southampton, Hampshire SO30 3HQ
Lanterns and Festive Songs – Sunday 15th December 2024
Join this festive outdoor event, create a seasonal lantern for the parade, and enjoy a festive singalong of popular Christmas songs accompanied by Joyful Sounds Choir and Otterbourne Brass Band.
Finkley Down Farm Park – North Way, Andover, Hampshire SP11 6NF
Christmas At Finkley – Sat 29th Nov – Wed 24th Dec 2025
Have a fun and festive time this Christmas at Finkley, packed with many magical moments!
Longdown Activity Farm – Deerleap Lane, Ashurst, Southampton, Hampshire SO40 7EH
Longdown Farm Christmas Barn – Saturday 6th December & Sunday 7th December, then daily from
Monday 12th to Tuesday 23rd December 2025.
Enter a magical world of twinkling trees, snow, sparkling lights and festive decorations to meet Father Christmas who will be waiting to talk to the children and to give them a jolly wave and an extra special “Ho-ho-ho!”
Butser Ancient Farm – Chalton Lane, Chalton, Waterlooville, Hampshire PO8 0BG
Tales of Winter Magic – family afternoon storytelling – 6th December 2024
Visit the great roundhouse for a festive fireside afternoon of Winter storytelling with Red Phoenix, a magical and enthralling storyteller. The perfect way to start your festive season together!
Tales of Winter Magic – evening storytelling and Mummers’ play – 6th December 2024
Visit the great roundhouse for a festive fireside evening of Winter storytelling with Red Phoenix, a magical and enthralling storyteller. After the storytelling we will have a cheeky visit from The Prize Old Mummers.
Midwinter’s Magical Quest – Yules of Yesteryear – 7th and 8th December 2024 | 14th and 15th December 2024 | 21st and 22nd December 2024
Explore the ancient buildings brought to life by festive crafts and activities this Christmas, and discover festive traditions from a time before commercial holidays!
Osborne House – York Avenue, East Cowes, Isle of Wight PO32 6JT
Festive Fun at Osborne – Weekends from 29th November to Sunday 21st Dec 2025
Join the Victorian butlers at Osborne this Christmas season for a barrel of laughs and festive fun! Enjoy lively stories, entertaining plays, and hands-on activities, including the chance to create your very own traditional Christmas cracker to take home. Little ones can also take part in a Christmas quest.
Paulton’s Park – Romsey, Hampshire, SO51 6AL
A Celebration of Christmas at Paultons Park – Throughout December 2025
Step into a magical winter wonderland as Paultons Park is transformed for the festive season! There is plenty to get you into the Christmas spirit with Magical Illuminations across the Park, Peppa and George in their seasonal outfits and a Christmas show featuring Father Christmas!
Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway – Exbury, Southampton, Hampshire SO45 1AZ
Christmas at Exbury – Selected dates from 29th November to 7th December 2025
Everything you need to know about getting in the festive spirit at Exbury this Christmas. Father Christmas, the Christmas Fair, Donkey rides, the Festive Express and so much more!
Children’s Christmas Activities in Hampshire
Aldershot Military Museum – Queens Avenue, Aldershot, Hampshire GU11 2LG
Deck the Halls: Home Made Christmas Decorating Crafting – 29th November 2024 – 5th January 2025
Craft your own unique Christmas decorations with all materials and instructions provided for some Christmas classics. From paper chains to garlands, deck your halls with a homemade Christmas!
Curtis Museum – High Street, Alton, Hampshire GU34 1B
Toy Making Workshop – 21st December 2024 – Ages 6+ – £20 per adult and £18 per child
Take part in a toy-making workshop at the Curtis Museum and make your own wooden wheeled toy and learn some woodwork skills at the same time! The ideal gift for friends or family of all ages.
Queen Elizabeth Country Park – Gravel Hill, Horndean, Hampshire PO8 0QE
Mosaic Christmas Tree Decorations – 13th December 2025 – £15 per person
Come and join in a fun-filled morning of creativity at this Christmas Tree Mosaic Workshop
The Arc – Jewry Street, Winchester, Hampshire SO23 8SB
Build & decorate a wooden Rudolph – 22nd December 2025 – £12 per child – Age 6+
This festive and fun-filled art workshop is perfect for children of all ages. In this holiday-themed session, kids create colourful Christmas tree designs using a fizzy paint mixture made from baking soda, vinegar, and water colours.
Make your own pom pom Christmas Pudding – 23rd December 2025 – £12 per child – Age 6+
Inspired by the current exhibition, The Arc are offering a range of after-school animal and conservation themed crafty workshops for all children to enjoy, meet new friends, learn something new and take home a creation of their very own.
Bauble decorating – 24th December 2025 – £8 per child – Age 4+
This delightful and creative festive workshop is perfect for children and families. In this activity, participants design and paint their own personalised Christmas bauble to celebrate the year.
Adult Christmas Events in Hampshire
West End Centre – 48 Queens Road, Aldershot, Hampshire GU11 3JD
Fused Glass Christmas Decoration – 15th November 2025 – £50 per person
In the workshop, you will be provided with an A5 size piece of clear glass which you will be able to build a picture on of your choice, or you can cut it up to make smaller pieces. Perfect to keep as a treat for yourself or as a gift for someone else.
Pottery Christmas Workshop – 15th November 2025 – £35 per person
Ready to get your hands dirty and create something beautiful? Whether you’re a complete novice or just looking to refresh your skills, this workshop will teach you the basics of working with clay, with two projects to inspire you: creating ceramic jewellery or tealight/candleholders.
Origami Paper Stars Christmas Decorations – 25th November 2025 – £12 per person
Explore simple folding techniques to create festive paper stars from saved or sentimental papers.
Silver Jewellery Christmas Gift – 29th November 2025 – £65 per person
Design and make your own silver jewellery item to wear home or give as a gift (Christmas is coming!). Start with some supplied templates for necklaces or rings, but you can then adapt and personalise your piece your own way. You will be introduced to Piercing (sawing) and Gas Torch work, the two must haves for the creation of jewellery.
The Vyne – Vyne Rd, Sherborne St John, Basingstoke RG24 9HL
Christmas Lunch in the Brewhouse – 24 Nov to 17 Dec 2025
2 courses, hot drink and mince pie £25 per person
3 courses, hot drink and mince pie £30 per person
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard – Victory Gate, HM Naval Base, Portsmouth, Hampshire PO1 3LJ
Garland/Wreath Making Workshop – 6th December 2025 – £60 per person
During the Tudor period, Yuletide was a time of rest where communities came together. In a time before Christmas trees, homes were decorated with mistletoe, holly, yew and laurel to celebrate the season. A log was decorated with ribbons and laid on the hearth, kept alight throughout the 12 days of Christmas in the hopes of good luck for the year to follow.
Drawing inspiration from these customs you will be able to make your own garland or wreath working with evergreens and seasonal items. All equipment and materials will be supplied along with tutelage every step of the way. Explore the galleries, discovering everyday Tudor life to spark creativity and gain inspiration. Then, begin your workshop with a glass of prosecco (or a soft alternative) before a short introduction to Tudor Christmas traditions and your wreath/garland making session.
The Brickworks Museum – Swanwick Lane, Lower Swanwick, Hampshire SO31 7HB
Festive Wreath Making Workshop – 30th November 2024 – £55 per person
All materials and refreshments will be provided to make an eco friendly 40cms door wreath with a moss base from scratch.
Itchen Valley Country Park – Allington Lane, West End, Southampton, Hampshire SO30 3HQ
Festive Willow Stars – 16th November 2025 – £35
In this friendly, hands-on workshop, you’ll learn to weave two beautiful willow stars using traditional techniques and locally sourced willow. Your stars will make charming decorations for your Christmas tree, windows, or festive table and they also make thoughtful handmade gifts for loved ones.
Craft & Natter – Pompom Wreath – 18th November 2025 – £12
You will be making a variety of pompoms to stick onto a card wreath. Bring your own choice of coloured wool to create a festive display.
Seasonal Willow Wreath Workshop – 23rd November 2025 – £25
The wreath will be formed out of buff willow and adorned with found cones, seeds and dried flowers. Start pressing your garden flowers and grasses now!
Craft & Natter – Table Decoration – 9th December 2025 – £12
You will be making a festive table decoration using found pine cones and natural materials.
Butser Ancient Farm – Chalton Lane, Chalton, Waterlooville, Hampshire PO8 0BG
Tree Ornament Workshop – Various dates, 7th to 13th December 2025 – £40
Connect with an endangered craft deeply rooted to rural life, from one of the last remaining tutors in the South of England. Learn to plait straw to create a range of corn dollies for your festive tree or as lovely gifts. A soothing and relaxing activity, this workshop offers a calming escape from the bustle of modern Christmas, and is beginner friendly.
Winchester Science Centre & Planetarium – Telegraph Way, Winchester, Hampshire SO21 1HZ
Science Lates: Christmas Cracker – Friday 13th December 2024
Looking for a work Christmas party idea? A unique festive date night? Or just something different to do with friends over the holiday period? The adults only Science Lates: Christmas Cracker is just for you! Visit this festive season and delve into the science behind one of the most-loved family holidays.
Whitchurch Silk Mill – 28 Winchester Street, Whitchurch, Hampshire RG28 7AL
Pins & Needles: Make Papercraft Christmas Cards – 5th December 2024 – £12.50 per person
In this relaxed workshop, all materials are provided. You will make your own Christmas Cards using a variety of card stock, embellishments, and fabrics to personalise your cards for friends and family.
St Barbe Museum & Art Gallery – St Barbe, New St, Lymington SO41 9BH
Christmas Calligraphy: An Introduction – 6th November 2025 – £45 per person
Always wanted to learn calligraphy? Then join artist Alison Roberts for a calm, creative session perfect for complete beginners. Learn to use a dip pen and nib, how to form letters and to add beautiful touches to cards and gifts. All equipment provided as well as a course booklet to help you practice at home. Relax, unwind, and discover the joy of modern calligraphy.
Fused Glass Tree Decorations – 28th November 2025 – £55 per person
Glass Fusion Christmas Workshop – come along and create some festive decorations from colourful art glass – tree hangers (Christmas trees, snowmen, Santa or decorated hearts), or tealights.
Christmas Wreath Making – 2nd December 2025 – £45 per person
Add a touch of seasonal warmth to your front door by creating your very own Christmas wreath. You’ll be guided through the process by the fabulous Elaine from Floral Fleurtations.
SeaCity Museum – Havelock Road, Southampton, Hampshire SO14 7FY
Hand Painted Ukrainian Christmas Decorations with Viktoriia Bezugla – 30th November 2025 – £25 per person
At this workshop you will work with wooden forms, already primed with acrylic, and adorn them with decorative patterns inspired by Petrykivka painting, utilising gouache or acrylic paints. Each decoration is unique, so you will not find two identical pieces. As Viktoriia says, ‘The artist imbues each creation with a piece of their soul. Petrykivka painting make for decorations that embody Ukrainian character!’
Hand Painted Christmas Decorations with Elisa Orchard – 6th December 2025 – £25 per person
Join artist Elisa Orchard at this ever popular Christmas workshop. Take inspiration from nature, from Elisa’s work and from your imagination to create a selection of charming wooden decorations to hang on your tree or give as a gift.
Christmas Wreathmaking with Victoria Goss – 6th and 7th December 2025 – £40 per person
Join local floristry artist Victoria Goss to create a stunning Christmas wreath for your door. Use a wide range of beautiful natural materials with expert guidance and support throughout. All materials are provided and suitable for all levels of experience. Festive refreshments will also be provided!
Tudor House & Garden – Bugle St, Southampton SO14 2AD
Collage Christmas Cards with Alex Sutherland – 23rd November 2025 – £25 per person
A great opportunity to make some unique Christmas decorations. Join New Forest ceramic artist Amy Morris to decorate and glaze a beautiful range of her pre-fired ceramic blanks ready for Christmas.
Queen Elizabeth Country Park – Gravel Hill, Horndean, Hampshire PO8 0QE
Candle Making Experience – 15th November 2025 – £19.50 per person
Join Hampshire Wick in this hands on workshop where you will make your own luxury scented soy wax candle.
Festive Mosaic Wreath Workshop – 22nd November 2025 – £45 per person
Step into the spirit of the season and enjoy a relaxing, creative escape in this mosaic workshop, where you’ll craft your very own bespoke Christmas wreath that’s perfect for adding a personal touch to your home or gifting to someone special.
Festive Mosaic Christmas Decorations – 13th December 2025 – £15 per person
Join us for a magical, hands-on mosaic Christmas decoration workshop that’s bursting with festive cheer! Perfect for all ages (from 3+), this joyful experience is a wonderful way to kick off the season with your loved ones.
National Trust Days Out with Activities
The Vyne – Vyne Rd, Sherborne St John, Basingstoke RG24 9HL
Christmas at The Vyne – 22 Nov 2025 to 5 Jan 2026
Get ready for a magical adventure through best-loved fairy tales in The Vyne’s house and gardens. With plenty of glittering trees and immersive displays, prepare to embark on your very own quest through fairy tales on the ground floor of the house.
Mottisfont – Romsey, Hampshire SO51 0LP
A Cinderella Christmas at Mottisfont – 22 November 2025 to 4 January 2026
This Christmas, Mottisfont sets the stage for a festive pantomime twist on the classic tale of Cinderella as the house is transformed with theatrical flair and seasonal sparkle.
Hinton Ampner National Trust – near Alresford, Hampshire SO24 0LA
A Pantomime Christmas at Hinton Ampner – 15 November 2025 to 4 January 2026
Visit Hinton Ampner this Christmas and discover your most loved pantomimes. Twinkling fairylights and decorations galore will shimmer their magic across our beautiful house and set your heart aglow with festive joy.
Theatre Shows
Going to the theatre is a great activity that the whole family will enjoy and Hampshire has a lot of great theatres to really make the most of. Here are the family shows on over the Christmas period:
The Arc – Jewry Street, Winchester, Hampshire SO23 8SB
- Hundred Watt Club – 18th December 2025
- Barnstormers Christmas Comedy Special – 19th December 2025
- Pinocchio – 20th December 2025
- Oldilocks and the 3 Bears – 22nd December 2025
Queen Elizabeth Country Park – Gravel Hill, Horndean, Hampshire PO8 0QE
- A Christmas Carol – 30th November 2024
Theatre Royal Winchester – Jewry St, Winchester SO23 8SB
- A Christmas Carol: A radio play live on stage – 16th November 2025
- Puss in Boots – 29th November 2025 to 4th January 2026
- Santa’s Christmas Party – 22nd December 2025
Kings Theatre – 24 Albert Rd, Southsea, Portsmouth, Southsea PO5 2QJ
- Aladdin – 5th to 31st December 2025
- That’ll Be Christmas – 8th December 2025
- Christmas With Anton Du Beke – 15th December 2025
- A Fairytale for Christmas – 22nd December 2025
Princes Hall – Princes Way, Aldershot GU11 1NX
- Nutcracker – 1st November 2025
- Jack and the Beanstalk – 5th December 2025 to 4th January 2026
The Anvil – Churchill Way, Basingstoke RG21 7QR
- The Nutcracker – 2nd November 2025
- A Fairytale for Christmas – 30th November 2025
- Step Into Christmas – 2nd December 2025
- Tales From Acorn Wood at Christmas – 3rd to 7th December 2025
- Aladdin – 11th December 2025 to 4th January 2026
- A Christmas Carol Ballet – 11th December 2025
- A Christmas Carol – 12th and 13th December 2025
- The Albion Christmas Band – 16th December 2025
- The Crooners Christmas Special – 17th December 2025
- Oh What a Night: ‘Tis the Seasons – 18th December 2025
- Tennessee Country Christmas – 20th December 2025
Mayflower Theatre – 22-26 Commercial Rd, Southampton SO15 1GE
- A Fairytale for Christmas – 23rd November 2025
- English National Ballet: The Sleeping Beauty – 26th to 29th November 2025
- Step Into Christmas – 30th November 2025
- Stick Man – 2nd to 6th December 2025
- Counting Down to Christmas – 5th to 24th December 2025
- The Pantomime Adventures of Peter Pan – 13th December 2025 to 4th January 2026
- Love Soul Choir: Winter Show – 13th December 2025
- A Christmas Carol – 21st to 30th December 2025
The Point – Leigh Rd, Eastleigh SO50 9DE
- Nick Cope’s Festive Family show – 30th November 2025
- Let’s All Dance: The Nutcracker – 6th and 7th December 2025
- TINK! A Festive Neverland Fairytale – 13th to 28th December 2025
- Sleeping Beauty – 8th to 11th January 2026
- Cinderella: A Traditional Family Pantomime – 8th to 11th January 2026
- Dick Whittington – 22nd to 24th January 2026
New Theatre Royal – 20-24 Guildhall Walk, Portsmouth PO1 2DD
- Imperial Ballet: Nutcracker – 15th November 2025
- Snow White – 12th December 2025 to 4th January 2026
I hope that’s given you some inspiration of things to do in Hampshire over the festive season. I’ll add more Hampshire Christmas events as I become aware of them and if I’ve missed your favourite event please do get in touch and let me know. I’m sure there will be more winter wonderlands announced nearer the time. I hope you have a lovely Christmas!
If you’re looking for other festive activities and inspiration, these posts may help:
