Christmas in Cambridge – Magical things to do 2024
Cambridge Winter Wonderland
From November 14th to January 5th, immerse yourself in a delightful experience filled with enjoyment, culinary treats, and festive celebrations suitable for the entire family, featuring:
- Christmas Market – Discover a magical array of distinctive gifts, seasonal delicacies, and holiday beverages.
- Ice Skating – Glide gracefully across our picturesque rink, ideal for a winter outing with friends and family.
- Christmas Tree Maze – Stroll through this captivating maze and embrace the joyous holiday atmosphere.
- Big Wheel – Enjoy breathtaking views of Cambridge from a remarkable height!
- Alpine Lodge – Indulge in mulled wine or festive cocktails within our inviting, ski-themed lodge.
- Heated Domes – Unwind and savor a distinctive dining experience in our exclusive, heated domes.
- Apres Terrace – Relish the festive ambiance with curling lanes and comfortable ski gondolas for an ideal après-ski experience.
Find out more: https://www.christmasincambridge.co.uk/
Pantomime
Christmas in Cambridge wouldn’t be the same without a trip to the Pantomime. This year Cinderella is running at the Cambridge Arts Theatre from Thursday 28th December to Sunday 5th January. It’s a great panto full of fun for all the family including jokes, laughter, and singing.
Additionally, The Nutcracker will return to the Corn Exchange, from the 27th December – 30th December 2024. This classical ballet will be accompanied by a live orchestra for a spectacular experience.
There are also smaller venues with great reputations that are worth checking out. The University’s Amateur Dramatic Club puts on performances at the ADC Theatre (also home to the Cambridge Footlights). This year they have a production of Snow White running.
Christmas Lights
Christmas in Cambridge is always an array of sparkling, twinkling lights. The lights normally go on around November time and the main market square and side streets (including Rose Crescent, Green Street, and Magdelene Bridge) are lit up, creating a wonderful atmosphere. There are also numerous places further
afield where you can see some wonderful light displays and shows.
Anglesey Abbey
Anglesey Abbey is a National Trust Property that is a short drive out of Cambridge and is located near the Village of Quy. This magical trail takes you on a wonderful walking tour of the grounds this year featuring Wild in Art’s Bear Hunt, which is inspired by the childrens story We’re Going on a Bear Hunt.
Be prepared for lots of wow moments as you walk through the winter garden and further afield to the Main House.
Afterwards, you can treat yourself to a tasty hot chocolate from one of the street stalls or take time out to visit the house which has been beautifully decorated for the Festive Season. To book your tickets visit the website.
Wimpole Hall
Wimpole Hall is another National Trust Property that hosts its light show. The new illuminations trail consists of millions of twinkling lights and seasonal sounds. The Mansion House is decorated for Christmas and there’s plenty of festive food and drinks on offer. To book your tickets visit the website
Cambridge University Botanical Gardens
Botanical Gardens are beautiful whatever the season, on a cold crisp winter’s day it’s truly stunning and a great place to capture photos. This December the Garden will be holding its winter lights trail. Visitors will take a stroll around an enchanted Garden, through magical scenes that enhance the natural landscape. If that all sounds too chilly you can warm up in the glasshouse, or pop into the café for a warming drink or snack.
Winter Football Match
If you are a sports fan, the Cambridge United stadium traditionally hosts a game on Boxing Day. Why not book tickets and make it a yearly family treat? It’s a great way to get a bit of fresh air after the celebrations of Christmas Day.
Christmas in Cambridge: Ice Skating
If skating is your thing there is an ice rink located at Newmarket Road next to the Park and Ride. There’s plenty of opportunity to become the next Torvill and Dean or you can book to watch some ice hockey which regularly takes place at the rink. To find out more visit their website
Grande Arcade
The Grande Arcade always has a variety of activities going on at Christmas in Cambridge. For little ones, you can
join Mrs Claus’s storytelling session. Every Weekend from December until Christmas, Mrs. Claus will be telling Christmas tales in Grand Arcade.
To find out more and book your spot visit. There’s also a special post box located in the near near Polarn O.Pyrety post your special letter and hear a magical surprise.
This year the Arcade is also home to a Yuletide Yeti- keep a look out for him on the Ground Floor.
Lastly, you can visit the Caroling Reindeer. Come and say hello to this cute reindeer on the first floor and he will sing you a carol.
Christmas in Cambridge: Punting
Punting isn’t just for the Summer why not take a magical punt along the River Cam. Snuggle up with some blankets and a hot chocolate. To really make the most of your winter punting experience, book for the annual Cambridge Christmas event, Christmas Carols on the River.
Christmas Carols
If you’re a fan of carol services, you won’t want to miss the renowned Carol Service at King’s College. The Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols takes place on Christmas Eve in the stunning King’s College Chapel.
This beautiful service was first introduced in 1918 to offer a more creative way to worship. It made its broadcasting debut in 1928 and now reaches millions around the world.
While there’s a ballot system for tickets, don’t worry if you can’t get one.
There are many alternatives, such as the Carols at the Cambridge United Abbey Stadium on Wednesday, December 11th, starting at 6:30 PM, with tickets priced at just £5.
Additionally, you can join us for a delightful afternoon of carols and readings at St John’s College Chapel on Sunday, December 8th. This festive event aims to raise funds to support cancer survivors this Christmas.
Festive Afternoon tea
If afternoon tea is more your thing, there are a few places where you can treat yourself
Parkers Tavern has a delightful festive afternoon tea package. Treats to devour include a a pistachio Christmas tree with a mince pie filling and Mandarin & Champagne cheesecake.
Brown’s restaurants also offer a festive afternoon tea in what used to be the historic old 19th Century Addenbrooke’s Hospital, now lovingly converted into a bright, airy and modern brasserie and bar, with a delightful outdoor courtyard.
Further into town is The Ivy another gem for afternoon tea and cocktails.
Slightly out of town is the beautiful Madingley Hall where you can have a festive afternoon tea in The Saloon Bar. The Hall is also home to some glorious gardens, which are a lovely location for an afternoon stroll.
Whatever you plan to do there is always something going at Christmas in Cambridge and even in the depths of Winter, there’s something to get you into the seasonal spirit. Read our Winter wallks for more places to visit over the Winter.
Christ’s College Accommodation
If you are looking for somewhere to stay this festive period we have B&B availability from the 10th – the 19th of December 2024
Christ’s College is the perfect location to stay in whilst visiting Cambridge at Christmas. The College is close to the Grande Arcade, as well as being a short stroll from the historic market square, Kings College Chapel, Fitzwilliam Museum, and the River Cam.
Our Cambridge accommodation rooms are modern, and many have an en-suite bathroom. As a guest of the College, you are welcome to explore the beautiful grounds which are steeped in history. We also have a punting package available, a great way to experience Cambridge whatever the weather.
We hold a 4-star Visit England Campus Award. so you can be sure of a warm welcome.
