Christmas in Gloucestershire is set to be spectacular in 2025, with so many festive things to do for the whole family – and all the over-indulgence you could hope for.
SoGlos’s handpicked selection of Christmas events in Gloucestershire will help you make the most of the festive season in the county, from Christmas light trails and where to meet Santa to the very best pantomimes in the region. Oh yes it will!
Christmas events in Cheltenham
Swing into Christmas festive concert at Cheltenham Town Hall
What's on?
Have yourself a fun festive start to the season at the unmissable Swing into Christmas concert at Cheltenham Town Hall, as it returns on Sunday 14 December 2025.
Why go?
Down for the Count’s sell-out shows feature a 30-piece ensemble of award-winning vocalists and instrumentalists, with its extra special Christmas performance bringing the Swing Era to life with festive favourites from the likes of Nat King Cole, Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald and Frank Sinatra, among many other 20th-century greats.
SoGlos loves
Hear all-time classic Christmas numbers such as 'The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting)', 'It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas' and 'Winter Wonderland' alongside faithful recreations and original arrangements of hits like ‘S Wonderful', 'That's Life' and 'New York New York'
Many new songs have been selected for this year's show, all performed in Down for the Count's inimitable big-band-with-strings style!
When is it?
The concert starts at 7pm on Sunday 14 December 2025, with doors opening for access to the bar approximately one hour before.
How much does it cost?
Tickets cost from £33 for adults and from £20 for students and under-18s. Please note that a booking fee of £2.50 applies to each order.
How do I book?
Visit cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk.
Christmas launch party at The Brewery Quarter
What's on?
The Brewery Quarter's Christmas Launch Party promises to paint the town gold, with performances from a KPop sensation, the chance to meet Santa and lots more free family fun!
Why go?
There's a packed lineup of live entertainment, with performances from The Grinch and Cindy Lou; Tweedy and his pals from the Everyman Theatre pantomime; Variations Dance Academy; SingSpace Musical Theatre Choir; Stagecoach Choir; and Lakeside Young Voices Choir, followed by the UK's only unofficial tribute to KPop Demon Hunters – Huntrix Tribute – headlining on Saturday night.
Father Christmas will be in attendance to meet families several times throughout the day, there'll be guaranteed snow showers, plus there's a silent disco for all ages, so the whole family can throw some shapes.
And the best part? The event is completely free to attend.
SoGlos loves...
In honour of its KPop headliner, the theme for this year's event is 'It's gonna be GOLDEN!' – with visitors encouraged to get all dressed up in their glitziest gold outfits as they celebrate the start of the festive season in Cheltenham.
When is it?
From 2pm to 8pm on Saturday 22 November 2025.
How much does it cost?
Entry to the Christmas Launch Party is free.
How do I book?
No need to book for the party, just turn up between 2pm and 8pm, but The Brewery Quarter encourages visitors to book in advance for restaurant tables as it's bound to be busy.
To book a table, visit thebreweryquarter.com.
Christmas events from The Cheltenham Trust
What's on?
The Cheltenham Trust has sackfuls of festive fun going on across Cheltenham Town Hall, Pittville Pump Room, The Wilson Art Gallery & Museum and Leisure at Cheltenham this November and December 2025.
Why go?
The festive season officially gets started with the Christmas lights switch on at Pittville Pump Room on Saturday 22 November 2025, where there'll be live music, family entertainment and the chance to see Santa.
Film-loving families have two Christmas concerts to choose from, with The Music of Harry Potter on Thursday 4 December and The Gruffalo and the Snowman in Concert on Tuesday 23 December 2025.
On Saturday 13 December 2025, The Wilson is hosting a Crafty Christmas Party where kids can make their own Christmas decorations and get glitter tattoos; and Leisure at Cheltenham hosts Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree where little ones can let loose with soft play, bouncy castles, music and dancing.
Then at Pittville Pump Room, there's Princess Afternoon Tea on Sunday 7 and 14 December, where guests can meet and greet their favourite princesses over tea and cake; and Santa's Tea Party on Sunday 21 December 2025, where guests can enjoy a festive buffet and photo opportunities with Father Christmas, plus a goody bag to take home.
SoGlos loves
It's not just young families that get to have all the festive fun this season, with loads of events going on just for grown-ups, too – including a headline set from DJ Chris Moyles at Cheltenham Town Hall, promising a night of 90s floorfillers at Deck the Hall.
There's also everything from themed comedy dinner and dining nights to an adults-only pantomime, so you're spoiled for choice for festive nights out with family, friends and colleagues.
When is it?
The Cheltenham Trust's exciting events run all season long, from Saturday 22 November 2025 until Tuesday 23 December 2025.
For all the dates, see Christmas events from The Cheltenham Trust.
How much does it cost?
Ticket prices start from £10 each.
The Christmas lights switch on at Pittville Pump Room is free to attend.
How do I book?
Visit cheltenhamtrust.org.uk.
Robin Hood and his Merry Men pantomime at the Everyman Theatre
What's on?
Promising an unmissable pantomime adventure this festive period, Gloucestershire's very own hometown hero Tweedy is back on stage at Cheltenham's Everyman Theatre from Friday 28 November 2025 to Sunday 11 January 2026.
Why go?
Step into a world of wonder and enchantment as Tweedy the Clown, Kane Verrall and Kevin Brewis return to star in this year's panto, Robin Hood and his Merry Men, where they embark on a fun-filled adventure jam-packed with laughter and heartwarming moments that will captivate audiences of all ages.
Watch as Robin Hood and his faithful band of outlaws, Little John, Will Scarlet and Friar ‘Tweedy’ Tuck outwit the dastardly sheriff of Gloucestershire with a sprinkle of pantomime magic, a dash of comedy and a big dose of audience participation.
With a sprinkling of the Everyman Theatre’s must-see magic, Robin Hood and his Merry Men promises to be one of the highlights of Christmas 2025 for Gloucestershire families and theatre-lovers alike – with a whopping 65 opportunities to see the county's favourite clown on stage!
SoGlos loves
As well as the annual panto, families visiting the Everyman Theatre this Christmas can also enjoy a magical show in the intimate setting of The Irving Studio Theatre, when A Dickens Christmas comes to the stage - with the visually enchanting production weaving together many of Charles Dickens' most cherished winter tales.
When is it?
Performances of Robin Hood and his Merry Men start at various times between 11am and 7pm from Friday 28 November 2025 to Sunday 11 January 2026.
How much does it cost?
Ticket prices start from £10.50 per person.
How do I book?
Visit everymantheatre.org.uk call 01242 572573.
Santa: The Visit at Cheltenham Racecourse
What's on?
The festive season is always special at Cheltenham Racecourse and this year is even more so, with the big man himself making an appearance at the Home of Jump Racing in Santa: The Visit.
This unique live event takes place at The Centaur and invites merrymakers young and old to help Santa – and his group of elite elves – in his pursuit to lift Christmas spirit levels and save the big day.
Why go?
Witness a full musical theatre production, packed with fun, music, dance and heaps of Christmas silliness, with opportunities for children in the audience to get involved and ensure Santa's Christmas Eve gift-giving mission can go off without a hitch!
There will be food and drink options available to purchase while at the venue. Please note that food and drink bought outside the venue will not be permitted.
SoGlos loves
This isn't your regular Santa meet and greet event – this one-of-a-kind event is directed and choreographed by none other than Strictly Come Dancing star Craig Revel Horwood!
Everyone's favourite discerning judge is bringing his years of experience in the West End, TV and film to Cheltenham for a magical yuletide event to remember.
When is it?
Santa: The Visit takes place from Friday 19 until Wednesday 24 December 2025, with performance times varying from 11am, 2.30pm and 6.30pm.
How much does it cost?
Tickets for Santa: The Visit start at £11.96 per adult over 16 years old, with prices rising to £41.05 depending on where seats are located within the venue.
Children go free when attending with a paying adult and there's a discount for group bookings of over 10 people.
How do I book?
Visit at santathevisit.com.
Christmas events in the Cotswolds
Christmas activities at Batsford Arboretum
What's on?
Father Christmas and his cheeky elves are returning to Batsford Arboretum this winter, bringing a festive family trail and opportunities to meet Santa to the attraction near Moreton-in-Marsh.
Why go?
A must-do in the run-up to Christmas, children can meet Santa Claus at Batsford's magical grotto, smiling for an 'elfie' with him and receiving a personalised gift to take home — with meet-and-greets taking place in small groups of up to six children.
The annual Big Batsford Elf Hunt is back for the season, too, with mischievous elves hiding all around the arboretum and the chance to win a prize if you can find them all!
SoGlos loves
With 60 acres of natural winter wonderland to explore, it’s not just the kids who will enjoy a day out at Batsford this Christmas either.
The garden centre is packed with present ideas — not to mention real Christmas trees for sale — and there's bound to be some freshly baked festive treats in the Garden Terrace Cafe, too.
When is it?
Visit Santa's Grotto on Saturday 6, Sunday 7, Saturday 13, Sunday 14, Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 December 2025, with 30-minute slots available to book from 10am to 3pm.
Meanwhile, The Big Batsford Elf Hunt is on daily from Saturday 29 November 2025 to Sunday 4 January 2026.
How much does it cost?
The Big Batsford Elf Hunt costs £3 per participating child, in addition to Batsford Arboretum's standard admission fees.
Tickets to Santa's grotto cost £10 per child.
How do I book?
Visit batsarb.co.uk/santas-grotto to book tickets to meet Santa.
There's no need to book ahead for The Big Batsford Elf Hunt but tickets to Batsford Arboretum can be booked online at batsarb.co.uk/tickets.
The Dial House Christmas Market in Bourton-on-the-Water
What's on?
The Dial House hotel's popular Christmas Market is bringing a feast of festive magic to Bourton-on-the-Water this November 2025. Visitors can expect a visit from Santa, a mischievous appearance from The Grinch and plenty of live entertainment to keep the holiday cheer flowing. ⠀
Why go?
Visitors can browse twinkling artisan stalls and follow the scent of freshly cooked treats from the food court.
Stalls include thoughtful gifts like fused glass necklaces, children's hair bows, handmade soaps, dog treats and accessories, ladies fashion, hand poured botanical wax melts as well as gift packs from Jeremy Clarkson's Hawkstone Brewery.
There's live music from Encore Musicians, who'll be playing Christmas tunes – and little ones will love meeting friendly reindeer from the Cotswold Reindeer Herd, too!
SoGlos loves
The Dial House is a stunning hotel in an envious location in the heart of beautiful Bourton-on-the-Water. As an added attraction to the Christmas Market, Bourton's Christmas Tree, perched prettily in the River Windrush, will sparkle to life at the village's festive lights switch-on.
When is it?
The Christmas Market is on Friday 28 November 2025, from 4pm to 9pm.
How much does it cost?
It's free to join in the fun!
How do I book?
No pre-booking is required – just turn up!
Christmas events at Cotswolds Designer Outlet
What's on?
Cotswolds Designer Outlet has loads of festive family fun going on throughout December 2025, from Christmas markets to craft workshops – plus some very special visits from Santa's elves!
Why go?
Providing free family entertainment while you shop, Santa's elves are visiting Cotswolds Designer Outlet this December 2025 to collect children's Christmas wishes and give shoppers the chance to play games and win some fantastic prizes.
There's a free Christmas trail for children to follow, with a chocolate treat at the end for those who complete it; a writing hut where little ones can pen their letters to Father Christmas, with festive green post boxes around the centre to send them off to the North Pole; and there's a seasonal floral selfie station where you can snap the perfect festive family photo.
Crafters won't want to miss the wreath-making workshop with Tewkesbury florist, Bramble & Bloom, where they can make their very own Christmas wreath to take home.
And there's even a personalised bauble bar, with a free bauble for anyone spending over £150 in the centre while stocks last.
SoGlos loves
As well as shopping for designer and high street bargains this Christmas 2025, Cotswolds Designer Outlet is also hosting festive fairs in the lead-up to the big day, offering shoppers the chance to pick up unique and handmade gifts from local crafters and makers.
The Tewkesbury Town Band is also swinging by, performing rousing renditions of festive classics to spread Christmas cheer for all to hear.
When is it?
The free children's Christmas trail is open from Saturday 6 December until Christmas – and the roaming elves can be found on Saturday 6, Saturday 13, Sunday 14, Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 December 2025.
The personalised bauble bar is open on Saturday 6, Sunday 7, Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 December 2025.
Wreath-making workshops and the Tewkesbury Town Band's performance both take place on Saturday 6 December 2025.
Festive fairs take place from 11am until 2pm on Sunday 7, Sunday 14 and Sunday 21 December 2025; and from 6pm to 8pm on Thursday 18 December 2025.
How much does it cost?
The Christmas wreath-making workshop costs £38 per person; other events are free to attend.
How do I book?
To book a place on the wreath-making workshop, visit cotswoldsdesigneroutlet.com.For all other events, just pop in during Cotswolds Designer Outlet's standard opening hours.
Christmas events in the Forest of Dean
The Christmas Stick Man Trail at Beechenhurst
What's on?
Giving its series of character-filled activity trails a Christmas makeover, Forestry England is inviting families out for a frosty walk in the woods this festive season, with plenty to occupy the little ones on its Christmas Stick Man Trail at Beechenhurst.
Why go?
Out on the family walking trails at Beechenhurst in the heart of the Forest of Dean, this year's interactive festive trail follows Stick Man, star of the beloved children's books created by Julia Donaldson and Axel Schafer and its popular short film adaption.
Families can join Stick Man on his journey to help Santa deliver the final present in time for Christmas, with lots of fun stick-based activities, tree-mendous facts and opportunities to learn about forest wildlife.
There are also activity packs – which include an envelope to colour in, an activity leaflet, a 'magic' reveal lens to uncover hidden letters, a festive sticker sheet, Stick Man keyring and a pencil – available to buy from Beechenhurst Cafe or the on-site information hatch.
SoGlos loves...
A wintry walk in the Forest of Dean is perfect for getting the whole family outdoors around Christmas – and Forestry England's popular activity trails are a great way to entertain the little ones in the lead up to the big day!
Warming up afterwards is covered too, as Beechenhurst Cafe serves a great range of hot and cold drinks, cakes and food all day.
When?
The Christmas Stick Man Trail launches on Wednesday 5 November 2025, running until January 2026.
How much?
It's free to take part in the trail and no booking is required, with activity packs costing £4.
For more information about things to do at Beechenhurst, visit forestryengland.uk/beechenhurst.
Christmas events in Gloucester
Christmas markets and outdoor ice rink at Gloucester Quays
What's on?
Gloucester Quays transforms the docks into a winter wonderland this November and December 2025, when the Christmas markets and outdoor ice rink return.
Why go?
Providing a wonderful opportunity to sip on mulled wine and browse for unique, handmade gifts out in the crisp winter air, Gloucester Quays Christmas markets bring 120 of the south west's best traders to town.
From handmade gifts and decorations to artisan food for the festive table and local tipples to toast the season, there's plenty to choose from – and tasty street food to tuck into, too.
Then for an extra helping of festive fun, the outdoor ice rink opens on Thursday 20 November 2025, providing a scenic spot to glide around the ice, taking in the festive atmosphere and twinkling Christmas lights.
SoGlos loves
Gloucester Quays has got Christmas shopping sorted, with up to 70 per cent off big high street and designer names, spanning fashion, beauty and homeware.
Plus, there's special festive menus at its many restaurants so visitors can warm up with a delicious dinner after a fun day of shopping and skating.
When is it?
Gloucester Quays Christmas markets are on every weekend from Saturday 8 November until Sunday 21 December 2025, opening from 10am to 6pm Saturday and 10am to 5pm Sunday.
Then the ice rink is open from Thursday 20 November 2025 until Sunday 4 January 2026.
How much does it cost?
Gloucester Quays Christmas markets are free to visit.
Ice rink tickets cost from £14 for adults; from £12.50 for juniors aged 11 to 16; from £11 for children aged three to 10; and from £11 for a wheelchair user and their carer.
Family tickets cost from £45, childrens' skate aids cost £4.50 to rent and a cloakroom is available for £2.
How do I book?
No need to book in advance for the Christmas markets, just pop by during opening hours.
To book tickets for the ice rink, visit gloucesterquays.co.uk.
Advent and Christmas at Gloucester Cathedral
What's on?
Gloucester Cathedral is inviting everyone to 'discover tidings of comfort and joy' this Christmas, with a packed programme across the festive season, spanning traditional church services, live music and the always-popular Cathedral Christmas Experience at Night.
Why go?
Gloucester Cathedral really comes alive at Christmas, as the historic building is filled with beautiful music, twinkling lights and Christmas cheer.
Families can follow the Good Tidings Family Trail to help the angels spread their message of joy; meet St Nicholas and receive a special gift to take home; sing along with the choir to their favourite festive carols; and stay up past bedtime to take in the magic of the Cathedral's Christmas lights after dark, followed by a warming mulled wine or hot chocolate from the Monk's Kitchen. There are also special Christmas Experience at Night Unwrapped experiences, which include a Library or Tower tour, too.
SoGlos loves
Encouraging the community to embrace the season of giving, Gloucester Cathedral is collecting donations for Gloucester Foodbank from Saturday 29 November until Thursday 18 December 2025.
Helping local families in need this festive season, there are a variety of items requested – with a full list available at gloucestercathedral.org.uk.
When is it?
Advent and Christmas at Gloucester Cathedral begins with the Advent carol service on Sunday 30 November 2025.
The Good Tidings Family Trail is open from Friday 5 December 2025 until Sunday 4 January 2026.
Cathedral Christmas Experience at Night takes place on selected dates from Friday 5 December until Saturday 20 December 2025.
Carols on the Hour is on Saturday 6 December with carol services take place on Sunday 21, Monday 22, Tuesday 23 and Wednesday 24 December 2025.
St Nicholas is at the Cathedral on Saturday 13 and Saturday 20 December 2025 from 10am to 4pm.
How much does it cost?
Carol services and Carols on the Hour are free to attend and don't require pre-booking, but seating is on a first come, first served basis, so it's advisable to arrive early.
The Good Tidings Family Trail and Meet St Nicholas events are also free, but donations are gratefully received.
Cathedral Christmas Experience at Night costs £8.50 for adults and £5 for children; Library Unwrapped experiences cost £15 for adults and £8 for children; and Tower Unwrapped experiences cost £20 for adults and £10 for children.
How do I book?
For more information see Advent and Christmas at Gloucester Cathedral, or to book tickets, visit gloucestercathedral.org.uk.
Cocoa and cake with Claus at National Waterways Museum Gloucester
What's on?
Father Christmas is dropping in to the Claus Cafe at National Waterways Museum Gloucester this December 2025.
He'll be sharing a selection of cakes and drinks with youngsters, having a chat, posing for photos and giving away a special gift.
Why go?
A ticket includes a selection of cakes and drinks for all the family, a gift, a 30-minute gathering with Santa along with other families and free entry to the museum to enjoy drop-in Christmas craft activities.
SoGlos loves
The museum is a beautiful backdrop to enjoy a relaxed and friendly catch up with Claus. It's a real festive treat and a super event that brings a sprinkling of seasonal magic to the heart of Gloucester Docks.
When is it?
Santa will be waiting to have a natter on Saturday 6 December 2025 at 11am and 1pm.
He'll be returning on Saturday 13 December 2025 at 11am and 1pm – and more dates will be added closer to Christmas.
How much does it cost?
It costs £14 per child and £6 per adult with a 10 per cent discount for annual pass holders.
How do I book?
To book tickets, visit waterways-glos-tickets.
Christmas events at the Fairview Gardener
What's on?
Visit Santa in his enchanting Christmas grotto or take part in a festive carol service at The Fairview Gardener in Gloucester on various dates from Saturday 29 November until Sunday 21 December 2025.
Why go?
Get into the Christmas spirit at The Fairview Gardener this winter, as it presents two truly magical experiences for families to celebrate the season.
Children can meet Santa inside his cosy grotto and take part in festive crafts and activities, with a yuletide gift waiting for every lucky visitor.
And bringing even more holiday spirit, wrap up warm for a feel-good sing-along as St Andrews Church brings a Christmas carol service to The Fairview Gardener for one night of traditional festive tunes.
SoGlos loves
As well as fun-filled events, the independent garden centre has a wide variety of real Christmas trees in stock, so you can round-off your festive day out with the perfect tree to take home and decorate.
When is it?
Kicking off on Saturday 29 November 2025, Santa’s cosy grotto is open every Saturday and Sunday up to Sunday 21 December 2025, from 11.30am until 3.30pm.
Then carols at The Fairview Gardener take place on Thursday 18 December 2025 at 6.30pm.
How much does it cost?
Santa’s grotto costs £8 per child.
How do I book?
There's no need to book for the grotto – just turn up on the days that Santa is in-store.
For more information, visit facebook.com/thefairviewgardener or call The Fairview Gardener on 01452 750436.
Christmas events in Stroud
Christmas events at The Sub Rooms
What's on?
Grab your nearest and dearest for a Christmas cracker of a time at The Sub Rooms in Stroud, hosting a series of festive events running throughout December 2025.
Why go?
During the winter season, The Sub Rooms will be hosting a series of events with a festive twist, offering families, friends and colleagues the chance to celebrate the yuletide period in style.
For Christmassy creatives, grab a brush and paint a beautiful Christmas Tree for your home during The Paint Club's workshop at The Sub Rooms. No experience is required and everything you need to paint with is provided – after two-hours of expert tuition, leave with a masterpiece of your very own.
And while not strictly Christmas-themed, The Subs hosts a selection of shows in December, spanning Curtis Stigers; a celebration of 20 Years of Serial Killaz; the legendary Tony Christie; Steeleye Span; and even an adults-only panto...
SoGlos loves
It wouldn't be Christmas without a panto and this year, children and fairy tale fans are in for a treat as a festive production of Sleeping Beauty: The Pantomime of your Dreams is headed to The Sub Rooms – and there are nearly 30 opportunities to see the show!
When is it?
Dates vary across events at The Sub Rooms.
How much does it cost?
Prices vary across events at The Sub Rooms.
How do I book?
Visit thesubrooms.co.uk or call 01453 796880.
Enchanted Garden by Night at Painswick Rococo Garden
What's on?
Discover the magic of Gloucestershire's flamboyant pleasure garden, Painswick Rococo Garden, with its popular Enchanted Garden by Night trail returning for the festive season.
The UK's only complete surviving rococo garden from the early 1700s, the grounds will be lit in a magical display of Christmas wonder.
Why go?
Meet friends under the stars or create a new Christmas family tradition as you step into the glow of the garden as night falls – making sure to spot the woodland animals that can be found playing in the lights, too!
Enchanting scenes await at every turn along the trail, from elegantly lit follies to a hidden wooden village, with lots of playful surprises along the way.
And for those who require a more sensitive sensory experience, the Rococo Garden is offering special sessions with a reduced number of guests, meaning the trail will be calm with no loud noises.
SoGlos loves
Warm up frosty fingers with a cup of spiced mulled wine or hot chocolate at the on-site cafe, alongside festive foodie favourites for a bit of post- or pre- wander fuel.
Then get a spot of Christmas shopping done, too, at the gift shop full of locally sourced gifts and goodies crafted with produce from the garden.
And if you're still looking for the perfect Christmas tree to adorn the living room, the Garden's Exedra Nursery is jam-packed with terrific trees ready to be picked out and taken home.
When is it?
The Enchanted Garden by Night trail at Painswick Rococo Garden runs on selected dates from Friday 28 November until Monday 29 December, excluding Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
Time slots are available to book from 4pm until 7pm and it's recommended that you allow for at least a two-hour visit.
Sensory sessions take place on Friday 28 November and Thursday 18 and Monday 29 December 2025, from 4pm.
How much does it cost?
Tickets to the Enchanted Garden by Night cost £18 per adult; £9 for children aged four to 16-years-old; and free for those under four.
Plus, families can save with group tickets costing £50 for two adults and two children.
How do I book?
Visit rococogarden.org.uk.
Breakfast with Santa at Slimbridge Wetland Centre
What's on?
Slimbridge Wetland Centre’s annual Santa experience adds a delicious twist to the traditional meet-and-greet, with most ticket options including not just a gift, but a full English breakfast, too!
Why go?
Santa’s enchanting wetland grotto returns this year, as he settles into Slimbridge to meet children in the lead-up to Christmas – and rest assured, he’s bringing plenty of gifts for everyone!
After visiting Father Christmas, guests can make their way to the Kingfisher Kitchen to enjoy a hearty full English breakfast, perfect for fueling a day of exploring Slimbridge’s wintry wetland wonderland.
And to make visits even more magical, there's also a range of festive activities on offer, from Christmas crafts to stopping by Slimbridge’s post office to send your letter to the North Pole.
SoGlos loves
From spotting the resident otters Sam and Tilly to meeting colourful amphibians in Toad Hall, there are all kinds of fascinating exhibits to discover, post-Santa meet-up.
Seasonal highlights include watching wild bird feeds from the Peng Observatory and experiencing life as an explorer in the Arctic Adventure!
When is it?
Santa is at Slimbridge on Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 December; then from Saturday 20 to Tuesday 23 December 2025.
Time slots to meet him are available at 10am, 10.30am, 11am, 11.45am, 12.15pm, 1.45pm and 2.15pm.
How much does it cost?
Tickets including a visit to Santa's grotto, gift and full English breakfast cost £13.50 for juniors (aged three to 17) and £7 for under-threes. Toddlers under three can meet Santa for free if they don't receive a gift or have breakfast.
Adult tickets, which also include breakfast plus bottomless tea and filter coffee, cost £17.50 – and every adult joining for breakfast must purchase a ticket for Breakfast with Santa.
Admission to Slimbridge Wetland Centre is not included and must be purchased separately, costing from £17.06 for adults, £11.25 for juniors and free of charge for children under three.
How do I book?
Visit wwt.org.uk/slimbridge/breakfast-with-santa to book tickets.
Christmas events in Tewkesbury
Jack and the Beanstalk pantomime at The Roses Theatre
What's on?
The Panto is back at The Roses Theatre in Tewkesbury this Christmas – oh yes it is! And audiences can expect giant-sized fun when Jack and the Beanstalk hits the stage.
Why go?
With last year's pantomime being The Roses Theatre's best-selling show ever, it's promising Jack and the Beanstalk will be even bigger still – fitting for a story featuring a giant!
Dylan Duffield, who plays Jack, is a trained tumbler, so audiences can expect action packed stunts from the leading man, with big laughs and even bigger songs from last year's breakout star, drag queen Bonnie Banks, as well as returning favourites Abena Adoba as Jill and Michael Neri as the loveable clown, Simon – and a chorus of talented youngsters selected via X Factor-style auditions.
Described as a 'thoroughly modern panto', audiences can expect chaos from freak weather events and a Donald Trump-inspired mayor, glitzy song-and-dance numbers and plenty of audience interaction in what promises to be one of the highlights of the festive season in Gloucestershire.
SoGlos loves
As a theatre at the heart of the community, The Roses helps to make the arts accessible to all – and it's annual pantomime is no different.
As well as the all-singing, all-dancing performances throughout the festive season, there is a sensory and dementia-friendly performance on Sunday 14 December 2025 at 11am; and a BSL-signed performance on Tuesday 30 December 2025 at 4pm, so every member of the family can enjoy the magic.
When is it?
Jack and the Beanstalk is on stage at The Roses Theatre from Saturday 29 November 2025 until Saturday 3 January 2026, with morning, matinee and evening performances available.
How much does it cost?
Tickets cost from £20 to £32 each, with discounts available for families and large groups.
How do I book?
Visit rosestheatre.org.
