The UK’s most Christmassy county packed with hundreds of grottos, markets and festive light trails
- UK Hidden Gems
- Dec 23, 2025
- 2 min read
This place has been named the best place for a Christmas day out after research found it offers the highest number of festive activities in December 2025.
The study, carried out by Outdoor Toys, looked at how many family friendly Christmas events each UK county offers.
This included counting grottos, light trails, pantomimes, markets and more.
It came out on top with an impressive 369 Christmas activities, including 33 different Santa’s grotto events.
To help visitors plan ahead, the local council has even created an interactive map showing where all the festive fun is happening.
Buckinghamshire finished ahead of Cheshire, which came second with 254 activities, while Cornwall took third place with 208 festive events spread across the county.
If you are still planning a visit to see Santa, Buckinghamshire has plenty of choices. One unusual option is Kew Little Pigs Farm, where families can visit Santa while also meeting the farm’s miniature pigs.
Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway is also running Santa Steam Specials along its historic 200 year old railway line, with elves entertaining passengers on the journey to Santa’s grotto.
Bletchley Park is hosting a Vintage Santa’s Grotto inside its Victorian Mansion, offering a warm and cosy setting to meet Father Christmas.
Visitors can also enjoy Codebreakers at Christmas, a fun activity where families use clues and puzzles to help wartime characters on a secret mission.
Many of Buckinghamshire’s historic sites are lighting up for the festive season with magical light trails. Waddesdon Manor, a French Renaissance style château famous for its gardens, is hosting Christmas at Waddesdon.
Guests can explore the house dressed in festive decorations before enjoying the colourful outdoor light trail and illuminations.
On selected dates until December 14, there is also a Christmas fair, with some evenings offering late night openings.
A Christmas season would not be complete without a pantomime, and Buckinghamshire has plenty on offer.
Jack and the Beanstalk is showing at Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, starring former EastEnders actor Nigel Harman and featuring impressive 3D effects.
The festive programme also includes A Christmas Carol and That 80s Christmas Rock Show, packed with hit songs from the decade.
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