It is that wonderful time of year again when we build up to Christmas. I absolutely love Christmas Time around Oxfordshire, especially the countdown to Christmas Day and the events that come along with it. Be that festive lights, family get-togethers or parties and day trips.
There is plenty to do at Christmas time around Oxfordshire and our local area to get you into the festive spirit. I have put together a handy little guide for you so that you can really make the most out of it and make this Christmas even more special.
Christmas Time Around Oxfordshire: Top Things to Do
Christmas at Blenheim
Blenheim at Christmas is beautiful and it is safe to say that the estate go all-out in ensuring that each visitor leaves with wonderful memories of their visit.
This year, they are as usual, decorating the palace along the theme of Neverland. Described as a mystical winter wonderland, it is filled with different Christmas sights and smells to accentuate the festive joy.
Outside of the Palace, you can also go on the after-dark illuminated trail around the garden. Complete with sparkling lights, a fire garden, festive tunnels and even warm evening treats, this is something you won’t want to miss. You will also find The Great Skate in the gardens this year.
Tickets are a little on the pricey side at £69.50 for a combined ticket/ This includes entrance to the Palace and to the Christmas Light Trail but not parking, which is another £10.
The Polar Express
The Polar Express is not running in 2024.
Each year at Cholsey station, you have the chance to take a magical ride on the Polar Express. Based upon the iconic film, each visitor will get to have a conversation with the famous conductor (not Tom Hanks, unfortunately!). You will also meet the talented chefs as they come around, delivering a mug of hot chocolate complete with a cookie. All of this happens whilst you are sat in your pyjamas for that authentic feel.
The train also stops enroute to pick up Santa Claus, who will give each visitor a special present. This is a silver bell from his sleigh and is sold as something for you to treasure. It promises to be a remarkable journey and tickets start at around £30.00 depending on the day. Easily one of the most unique things to do this Christmas time around Oxfordshire.
Oxford Christmas Markets
The famous Christmas Markets return to Oxford this year and guarantee to put you into a festive mood. With tonnes of unique brands selling intricately designed pieces to delicious food, there is truly something for everyone here.
The day is complete with live music from local brass bands and choirs, each with their own spin on Christmas music. Dive into this German tradition this year and perhaps add it in with a general trip to Oxford.
No tickets are necessary to visit the Oxford Christmas Markets, which are open from 12 noon to 8pm on Thursday and 10am – 5pm on Sunday. On Friday and Saturday, the Markets have an extended opening time from 10am to 8pm.
Candlelit Tour at Greys Court
Visit the Summer Home of the Grantham Family this Christmas at none other than Greys Court. From 23 November visitors can explore ‘Christmas at Grey’s Court’ and experience the cosy atmosphere of the house decked out in festive decorations.
The Tree Barn, Christmas Common
In a village called Christmas Common is the rite-of-passage for any local in the area this time of year. The Tree Barn is a stunningly cute and pretty Christmas wonderland, located in a (you guessed it) old barn!
As their name would suggest, they specialise in selling trees, but they also have some beautiful decorations for sale. I swear at this point; half of our home decorations are from this place!
Then, once your browsing is complete, why not pack the wellies and go for a country walk in the surrounding countryside?
The Tree Barn will open on 2nd November and will be open all week from 9am to 5:30pm, with late nights on Thursdays and Fridays to 7:30pm.
Rectory Farm, Oxford
Rectory Farm in Oxford host so many different activities throughout the year.
In October, they do pumpkin picking, but nearer the festive season they also host Santa’s Grotto. The cost for this experience is £9.50 per child. Accompanying adults do not need to book a ticket.
Oxford Castle & Prison
Whilst not the first place you think of when you think of Christmas, Oxford Castle and Prison hosts Santa each year for children to visit.
The event is split into two distinct areas. The South Pole is home to the elves and magical winter wonderland. The North Pole is where Santa waits, armed with pre-Christmas presents.
This event only runs from 09:00 – 10:30 each day, every 15 minutes, so places are extremely limited. You can however book online for the month ahead on the Oxford Castle and Prison website.
The Castle also offers lantern led tours during December, if that is more up your street!
Dick Whittington Pantomime, Chipping Norton
We all love a trip to the theatre and this year you can enjoy Jack and the Beanstalk at the Theatre, Chipping Norton (the national home of the traditional panto!) The Theatre promise the classic tale as you’ve never, ever seen it before – with Latin American music and dance, a riot of colour and non-stop, laugh out loud silliness.
Tickets start at just £19.50 and shows run all the way from 13 November until 12 January 2025. You can book your tickets online through their Box Office.
Christmas Markets, Waddesdon Manor
Nestled just outside Aylesbury in Buckingham, Waddesdon Manor always puts on an impressive Christmas-themed show each year.
For £35.50 and £16.50 for an adult or child respectively (this decreases drastically if you are a National Trust member), you have access to the historic house and magnificent gardens which are stunning this time of year. You also will have access to the Christmas Markets.
If you wanted indulge a little bit more, why not try their Christmas afternoon tea or light winter lunch? Make sure that you book in advance though to avoid disappointment.
Santa’s Grotto, Millets Farm
Santa is a busy man this year and also finds himself at Millets Farm Centre for a festive family event. For £27.50 for 1 Adult and 1 Child, you can embark on a journey around the North Pole.
You will meet various characters, including Snowball Sammy who will speak to you about polar bears, Santa himself who will provide a present for each child and Mrs. Christmas, who will help you decorate your very own gingerbread man.
Cover image source: JiahuiH | Flickr.com
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Thank you for reading and I hope I have inspired you with a few ideas for Christmas time in Oxfordshire! If you have any questions about the items on my list or the area in general, please do get in touch in the comments below.
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Happy exploring,
Love Victoria X
