Let it glow: 10 Christmas days out near Manchester

Christmas at Chatsworth: The Enchanted Garden celebrates the beauty of the natural world in midwinter. Discover an immersive light trail and the farmyard all done up for Christmas with family crafts and cute animals.

Cockfield Farm Park’s festive plans include a Grinch meet and greet, breakfast with Santa, an elf village and a chance to meet real reindeer.

The after-dark illuminated trail at Dunham Massey transforms the National Trust grounds into a winter spectacular.

Tickets are on sale for East Lancashire Railway’s Santa Specials. Bury Bolton Street Station is decked with a talking Christmas tree and singing polar bears. Board a steam train to Rawtenstall and back on an 80-minute round trip. Santa will visit every carriage on the journey bringing gifts and goodwill.

Freight Island becomes Winter Island in its annual seasonal glow-up. Don’t miss the twinkling lights of Twilight Tales, the North Pole Playground and the unbeatable festive atmosphere.

Combine a Christmas theme park day out with Land of Lights. Discover huge lanterns, light installations and lit-up dinosaurs. Very festive.

Enchanted at Knowsley Safari is back for 2025. Shimmering lights, animals that come alive (and alight) after dark, crackling firepits and marshmallows are just some of the treats in store.

For the first time in years, Manchester Christmas Markets is making a return to Albert Square, albeit in a reduced form. Not to worry. Manchester’s Christmas markets can also be found all over the city. Locations include St Ann’s Square, Cathedral Gardens and King Street.

Glow at RHS Bridgewater returns for 2025 with a new installation in its walled garden. Winter landscapes shimmer with lights and seasonal soundscapes.

Tatton Park’s grand mansion is decorated for Christmas bringing to life scenes from seasonal stories. Rooms turn the page on stories such as The Snow Queen and A Christmas Carol. It’s a nostalgic festive experience. A glittering yuletide trail also takes place in the gardens. Little ones might prefer to meet Santa down at the farm.