Classic December Days Out For A Memorable Festive Season

It’s almost December and it would be a shame not to immerse yourself in the festive spirit at one of the many special events taking place around the country. It’s the perfect time to arrange a coach hire for a group outing and enjoy the seasonal delights at one of these quintessential Christmas events.

Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park, London

The Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park in London is in full swing, with the UK’s biggest outdoor ice rink, funfair rides and carnival games to entertain the whole family. There’s also a Christmas market selling gifts and seasonal food and drink, so you can enjoy a glass of mulled wine or a cup of hot chocolate as you soak up the atmosphere. 

The funfair features thrilling high-adrenaline rides such as The Hangover, an 85m tall drop-tower that provides spectacular views across the capital city. There’s also the Superstrake Troika where the whole family can ride a sleigh under twinkling lights, and new addition the Time Machine Coaster, a steampunk inspired adventure through time. 

Dedicated thrill-seekers can purchase a Five Peaks Pass, which provides fast-track access to five of the most high-flying rides, including The Hangover, the Aeronaut Starflyer, Airborne, Blizzard, and Munich Looping.  Besides all this, there’s Zippos Christmas Circus, Ice Sculpting Workshops and much more. 

Durham City Christmas Festival 6 – 8 December

At the other end of the country, the Durham Christmas Festival is held in and around the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Christmas Market features a giant marquee on Palace Green with over 170 stalls selling traditional seasonal fare. There’s also a beautiful Children’s Lantern Parade that takes place on the afternoon of Saturday 7 December.

All coach parties must be pre-registered and there is a maximum capacity of 24 coaches per day. The coach hire package includes a meet and greet service by the festival team, guaranteed city centre parking, a festival leaflet and lunch and an entry wristband for the driver to the Craft and Producers’ Marquee. 

Chester Christmas Market, 15 November – 22 December

The historic city of Chester holds a magical Christmas Market with over 70 stalls situated in the square around the town hall. Coaches can park in the Little Roodee coach and car park, which is just a few minutes’ walk to the city centre. There’s a fun Santa Dash through the city, plus a Christmas Tree Festival and Santa’s Grotto.

When you have gathered your fill of gifts and produce at the market, round off your visit with a trip to The Lanterns at Chester Zoo. This imaginative display features the life-size animal lanterns trail, a spectacle that will be sure to delight the whole family. 

It’s an immersive experience backed by a sound show and lightscape display, with tasty treats to buy at various locations around the zoo. 

Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market, 15 November to 15 December

The Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market is the talk of Devon, with over a hundred chalets selling West Country produce, hand made gifts, and global street food. There’s also a range of Christmas events and services at the Cathedral, plus family entertainment, performances and exhibitions.

There are discounted rates for group tours with knowledgeable and entertaining guides. Coach parties are welcome, with drop off and pick up points at South Street and parking available at the Haven Banks Car Park. 

Burning the Clocks, Brighton & Hove, East Sussex, 21 December

Mark the Winter Solstice on 21 December at the Burning the Clocks Parade in Brighton. The festival is in its 30th year, and is a refreshing alternative to the usual seasonal celebrations. About 2,000 people take part in the parade across the city of Brighton and Hove with paper and willow lanterns as they make their way to the beachfront.

The procession ends with a spectacular bonfire and fireworks display on the seafront, as the lanterns blaze on the bonfire to herald the turning of the year slowly towards longer and lighter days. 

This year’s theme is inspired by Carl Sagan’s words: “​Everyone you love, everyone you know, everyone you ever heard of, every human being who ever was, lived out their lives, on a mote of dust suspended in a sunbeam.”

It’s a free unticketed event, but to participate in the parade you’ll need to purchase a Lantern Pack in exchange for wristband entry for four people.