Merlin Entertainments has announced its comprehensive schedule of Christmas events for the 2026 festive season across its major UK attractions. The lineup includes Santa sleepovers, ice rinks, elf shows, and grottos at Alton Towers, Chessington World of Adventures, Legoland Windsor, and Warwick Castle. Most events run on selected dates from late November through to early January 2027.
Santa Sleepovers Return to Alton Towers Resort
Alton Towers Resort will host its popular Santa Sleepovers on select dates between November 27 and December 23, 2026. Families checking into the resort's hotel can embark on a tour to the North Pole, visit Santa's grotto, and receive a special gift. The break also includes access to CBeebies Land and Splash Landings Water Park, a festive meal, and the annual Christmas pantomime. Prices start from £96 per person, bookable through the Alton Towers website.
Chessington World of Adventures: Christmas Village and Pantomime
From November 21 to December 24, 2026, Chessington World of Adventures offers both day visits and short breaks. Families can explore the Christmas Village, guided by elves to Father Christmas's grotto, enjoy carol singers, classic pantomime, and selected theme park rides. Day tickets start from £32 per person when prebooked online, while short breaks begin at £62 per person based on a family of four.
LEGOLAND Windsor Resort: Elf Academy and Festive Shows
LEGOLAND Windsor's Christmas activities run from November 21, 2026, to January 2, 2027. Highlights include the elf training academy show, the Festival of Flurries show, and the Nutcracker's Marching Band. Children can meet Father Christmas in his grotto. Theme park entry starts from £34 per person online; meeting Father Christmas costs £27.50 per child (£22 for annual passholders). Short breaks from £70 per person include an overnight stay in a Lego-themed room, a gift per child, and breakfast.
Warwick Castle: Ice Rink, Light Trail, and Stories with Santa
Warwick Castle presents Christmas at the Castle from November 21, 2026, to January 3, 2027. The Stories with Santa experience, starting at £29 per person, lets children meet Father Christmas and Mrs. Claus for storytime and a gift. The ice rink (tickets from £8) and light trail (from £17 per person) return, featuring twinkling trees and projections. A winter food village and pantomime are also available. Overnight Santa Sleepovers start from £70 per person.
Merlin Annual Passes Include Christmas Access
Merlin Annual Pass holders can use their passes for Christmas events at participating attractions. Passes start from £139 per year for essential (339 days entry to over 20 UK attractions), £239 for gold (includes free parking and discounts), and £299 for platinum. Payments can be made monthly.
While July may seem early to plan for Christmas, Merlin's announcement provides families ample time to book the most magical festive experiences across the UK.
