FESTIVE FUN

Howden Christmas Racing Weekend Ascot 50+ things to do in Berkshire this December

Roll up, roll up! Ascot’s fabulously exhilarating Howden Christmas Racing Weekend takes place Fri 20 & Sat 21 December this year and is set to be one whopper of a festive shindig – wrapping up a whole year of remarkable racing in one neat little bow. Perfect for families, racing devotees, and everything in between.

Whatever you were planning to do on Sat 7 December, cancel it. Between 11am and 4pm, step into Maidenhead’s answer to the North Pole at the Waterside Quarter for Christmas at the Quarter which will knock out present buying, Christmas crafting, and a visit from Santa in one merry blow. Oh, and did I mention? It’s completely free to attend. In case you need any more convincing (impossible) check out why we’ll be heading there here.

It’s back! Reading’s Winter Wonderland will be popping up in Hills Meadow Car Park. Expect more festive fun than a Mariah Carey video. There’s an ice rink, fun fair, Aprés bar, Santa’s grotto, German sausage and lots and lots of mulled wine. It’s free to enter, but you can buy tickets now for Santa’s Grotto, Ice Skating and an unlimited ride pass. On now – 5 Jan.

Windsor Castle Christmas 50+ things to do in Berkshire this December

Start the festive season off in proper style. If it’s good enough for His Maj the King, it’s good enough for us. From now – 6 Jan, the halls of Windsor Castle will be decked with twinkling lights, garlands, real Christmas trees (a 20ft whooper from Great Windsor Park), and baubles aplenty. See Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House with new decorations, including mini Christmas trees and a garland decorating the staircase. There will be craft activities and workshops for the kids to get stuck into, plus an insight in how Christmas was celebrated in Victorian times. Magic.

Staying in Windsor, don’t miss Windsor on Ice (now – 29 Dec). I mean is it really Christmas if you haven’t stacked it in front of a group of laughing teens at the rink? There will be other fairground faves including the Dodgems and Santa’s Sleigh roller coaster (rumour has it he’ll be popping up too), and food outlets will be serving up all the festive delights.

Carols on the Hill is another big festive tradition in Windsor, with it taking place on 13 Dec this year. It dates back all the way to December 1949 when a Christmas tree was erected and illuminated for the first time near Queen Victoria’s Statue. Now carollers gather around the tree to sing hymns and carols to spread cheer to all.

LEGOLAND Windsor Christmas things to do berkshire november

Expect festive fun by the sleigh load at LEGOLAND Windsor this year. There’s festive scenes to discover as well as activities, live entertainment, and plenty of character to meet (Santaaaaaaa!). Christmas spirit guaranteed. From £29pp.

Lots of festive cheer to be spread at Berkshire’s local National Trust hotties. Christmas at Basildon Park kicks off now – 5 Jan with trees, garlands, and twinkling fairy lights, all inspired by classic Christmas films. Similar vibes at Cliveden (now – 5 Jan) where there is the addition of a scenic winter trail.

Sleigh over to The Lexicon in Bracknell for more festive fun than you can swing a bough of holly at. There’s a reindeer trail on until early Jan, festive live music on the weekends, a Santa’s grotto, plus a fabulous outdoor Christmas market.

With the permission of the King (or orf with your head) the world’s most recognised castle provides the backdrop for Windsor’s daily spectacular of illuminations. Standing over 50ft high, Garter Tower is projected with images of the stained glass architecture and motifs from St George’s Chapel dating back to the 15th century and images provided by local schools in Windsor. On now – 5 Jan.

In its 12th year of magic, catch one of Windsor and Eton’s Living Advent Calendar performances at various locations across the town (1 – 24 Dec). At 6.15pm promptly every evening there will be a minimum 15-minute Christmas-themed performance which could include songs, carols, music, poetry and even workshops. Plus there will be a nibble or two to enjoy as well. Check out all the locations here.

I’m struggling to think of something more Christmassy than Festivo at St George’s Chapel, Windsor (9 & 12 Dec). Let your ears be filled with magic in the jaw-dropping surrounds of Windsor Castle as the Choir of St George’s Chapel, joined by musicians from the Band of the Grenadier Guards, bring a festive concert of seasonal music, interspersed with devotional readings and well-known carols for all to join in. Fa la la love it!

LIGHT TRAILS

windsor illuminations things to do november berkshire

Hold onto your Santa hats because Windsor Great Park Illuminated returns for another year (now – 4 Jan) – set to be even more dazzling than before with brand new installation and a sprinkling of returning favourites. A woodland awash with colour, dancing fairies and a flood lit fountain – in a word: Magical. Mulled wine and toasted marshmallows around a roaring fire is the cherry on top. Tickets from: adults £22.55, kids £14.85, family £67.12.

Light up the night! Norden Farm’s annual Lantern Parade is back, seeing a joyful gathering of local people showcasing weird and wonderful lantern creations set to fabulous live music. This years theme is Our Animal Neighbours. It takes place 7 Dec, beginning at Maidenhead Town Hall at 4.30pm before proceeding through the town. The Town Crier, Chris Brown (not the singer), and special guests will kick off the celebrations. Don’t miss it!

If you live around the Newbury area, chances are you’ll know about the extremely popular Festival of Light (15 Dec) that parades through the streets of the town every year. Join in the procession, soak up the atmosphere and watch the hundreds of twinkling lanterns as live music provides the soundtrack. Make sure to bring your own lantern too. Don’t know where to start? There’s lots of free workshops going on in the run up. Community camaraderie at its finest. Parade begins at 4.30pm and is totally free.

In Reading, don’t miss the town become bejewelled with lights in the annual lantern parade (7 Dec). Last year saw 1500 people take part, and this year should be no different. Start at Blue Collar Corner before making your way down Broad Street towards Town Hall Square for a musical finale. Throughout December, a number of events will be happening in central Reading including candy cane stilt walkers, festive character visits, and story time, so keep your eyes peeled here for more info.

Neverland Illuminova Wellington Country Park

It’s back baby! An illuminated kingdom awaits you this Winter with even more Neverland to discover including awakened woodlands and an extended trail. Enter at dusk and enjoy an illuminated quest with your friends and family at Neverland Illuminova (now – 24 Dec). This is a sensory experience with colour and sound creating a symphony of light. Grab a bite at their new food area, Basecamp, too. There’s hot and cold snacks and tasty grub including the festive deluxe burger. Tickets adults £28, kids £24.

See the full guide to light trails in Berks and beyond here.

PANTOS

Ha, ha! It’s only just Mister Tumble, aka Justin Fletcher! A demigod on the panto circuit, Mr T is back at The Hexagon in Reading for a brand-spanking new production of Cinderella (7 Dec – 5 Jan), and to provide some much-needed festive relief. Multi-award-winning panto dame, Paul Morse, will also be in tow. Expect hilarious gags for all the family that just never ever get old. Plus, new for this year and for the first time ever, the panto is going digital with spellbinding moving backdrops. Magic.

We’re dreaming of it, but in fact, it’s actually happening over at boutique theatre the Mill at Sonning. A White Christmas blows in until 25 Jan, based on the Paramount Pictures film. The heartwarming show follows two World War II veterans as they team up with a sister act to save a local inn and discover the true meaning of Christmas. Every ticket includes a two course meal too. Delish.

50+ things to do in Berkshire this December watermill theatre — The Watermill Theatre. Credit – Mark Senior

Who doesn’t love the tale of the wooden puppet who dreams of becoming a real boy? It’s one that really does just pull on your heart strings. Sorry, I had to. The stunning production of Pinocchio is Norden Farm’s official Christmas show for 2024. Expect the theatre company’s hallmark hilarity, skilled puppetry, original music, fantastic staging, outstanding performers and extraordinary physical tricks. Suitable for 3+. On now – 28 Dec.

More where that come from at the gorgeous Watermill Theatre who are also putting on a family classic rendition of the most famous puppet the world has ever known. I’ve been and it is pure magic (read the review here). See it between now – 5 Jan.

Bonkers panto fun with all the thrills, frills, and feels. The panto productions at South Hill Park are always fantastic and this year they are showcasing the swashbuckling tale of Robin Hood & The Magic Arrow following their award-winning production of Sleeping Beauty last year. It was a smash-hit by the way (check out our review here). It will be fun, fun, fun and leave you tail-spinning with laughter. On now – 5 Jan.

Village idiot Cuthbert wear Orange top and pants with a purple bow in Beautu and the Beast panto at the Corn Exchange Newbury

Newbury panto patrons and comedy writing duo Plested Brown and Wilsher are back with a show that promises plenty of magic and sparkle, fun and, of course, lots of laughter. This year, it’s Dick Whittington which also feature Harry Potter star Chris Rankin who played Ron Weasley’s swotty older brother Percy in the wizarding franchise. Magic. Can Dick conquer the evil King Rat? Well, that’s not a sentence you hear often. You’ll just have to head to Newbury between now – 5 Jan to find out.

If you can’t get enough of Dick (oi naughty, mind out the gutter please!) you can head to Theatre Royal Windsor to see the nation’s favourite fox is back at it for another round of Christmas cackles. They are also doing Dick Whittington (now – 18 Jan) starring panto bigwigs Kevin Cruise, dame Steven Blakeley, and Hilary O’Neil. Boom, Boom!

You know it’s going to be magic when Hans Christian Andersen is involved. This festive season, Reading Rep are adapting the frosty tale of The Snow Queen in an exhilarating adventure where she wrestles with bandits, befriends reindeers and comes face to face with her greatest fears. Just your regular Christmas then. On now – 31 Dec with tickets starting at £5.

See the full list of pantos happening this festive season here.

FATHER CHRISTMAS

Follow the lights to Beale Park and be greeted by magical elves and the big man himself (1 – 31 December). Not only will you get the chance to meet him in the fairytale grotto, but his lovely reindeers will also be in tow, ready and willing to be fed before their night of gift delivering across the world. Santa meet and greets are £10pp.

Santa is setting up a grotto at Daniel Department Store in Windsor (now – 24 Dec) and it is said to be the Royal town’s most enchanting event ever. Have a natter with Mr Claus and afterwards the kids will take home a lovely gift to remember their magical encounter. £15pp.

Find the festive fun at Dobbies in Hare Hatch (now – 24 Dec). It’s by far their most popular event and it shows. Lots of the dates for their Santa’s Grotto have already sold out so get in there quick. On the day, you will be guided through the enchanted forest, meeting various other characters on the way before arriving at the wildlife forest clearing where little ones will make a special item to take home. This year there’s even a Little Seedlings train-themed journey, before Santa gives them a magical pressie too. Tickets £12.99 and you can pre-select the toy. Why not take your pooch to meet the big man? They do that, plus a quiet grotto for kids with additional needs.

Can you hear his sleigh bells? Step back into Christmases past at the Reading Museum’s Father Christmas’ Victorian Winter Grotto on 14 Dec. Kids will get the chance to write a letter to the big man before receiving a very special gift.

Pinkies up for a spot of afternoon tea with the beloved Elsa and Anna who will be magically transporting guests to the Kingdom of Arendelle (8 December). With lots of fun activities to keep the kids full of beans, later on Santa will also join in the fun and be handing out gifts to all the good little boys and girls. There’s a miracle sisters alternative on 22 Dec, plus The Mermaid Princess & American Captain drop by on 23 Dec.

See the full guide on where to meet Santa in Berks here.

MARKETS AND FAIRS

Berkshire Christmas Markets 50+ things to do in Berkshire this December

Late night shenanigans over in Caversham for the Cavmas Christmas Market and Late Night Shopping Event (6 December). An evening filled to the brim with wreath making, delicious hot food, cocktails and beers, Santa’s Grotto, a food bank donation stand and many shops open until the early hours await in this community event intent on spreading Christmas cheer. It’s open from 5pm onwards. Get your epic Christmas jumper on and get merry!

Party like it’s the 50s on 1 Dec! At the Christmas Fair at Shaw House, mooch around over 70 stalls to the soundtrack of vintage tunes from Gramofun and local choir, Sing for Fun and let festive magic fill your ears. There will be hot food, mulled wine, Newbury’s Living Advent Calendar and an outdoor trail for children too. Now that’s Crimbo done right!

Shopping and a pint? Dreamy. Renegade Brewery are playing host to local producers galore in their heated tent, alongside all the homemade mince pies, mulled wine, live music, and festive vibes you could ask for. We likey. On 7 Dec. If not, head over to the Winter Night Market and Christmas Fair (6 & 7 Dec) at Norden Farm in Maidenhead where there will be refreshments, music, and more artisan gifts than you can swing a bauble at.

Can you hear that? It’s the sound of three days of festive fun featuring 60 artisan stalls from local designers, creators, makers and bakers selling all the best seasonal and locally produced wares. Oh, and there will be children’s entertainment, activities, hot food, and jingle bells too. Obvs. Newbury Christmas Market Weekend is on 13 – 15 Dec.

Check out the ultimate guide to Christmas markets and fairs in Berks here.

NEW YEAR

Seasonality, Maidenhead new years eve near me

Our favourite neighbourhood eatery Seasonality in Maidenhead is partaking in some naughty new year revelling with a glittery eight course supper club to help you ring in 2025. A showstopping assortment from Langoustine & Fish to Venison and Pistachio Tart are on the menu, wrapping up at 11pm – just in time for you to catch Jools on the box. £125pp.

More boozy fun to be had at Hurley House who will be opening way past their bedtime for a special four-course feast and a disco with poseur tables and a DJ. Sip and dance the night away. I mean, that’s the only way to do New Year, right? Complementary canapés to be served after the clock strikes 12 too.

Back to school! Relive the days of awkward crushes and whipping out the macarena like your life depended on it. Double-Barrelled Brewery’s throwing a school disco themed bash for new year. All the boogie bangers, plus great beer, street food, games, and prizes for the best fancy dress. £5pp. Over 18s only.

Check out our full New Year’s Eve party guide here.

WORKSHOPS

I don’t know about you but making gingerbread is a resolute festive tradition in my house. If you want to know how to do it properly, head to Malverleys near Newbury on Sun 15 December for their Gingerbread House Workshop with certified pro Jens Ferdinand. As a leading pastry chef with 20 years of experience, Jens will show you how to assemble and decorate a festive gingerbread house using pre-baked gingerbread tiles and royal icing. Hours to make, seconds to demolish.

Wow your guests this year after attending the festive tablescaping workshop at Muddy faves FARE Eatery in Wokingham. Local florist Funky Flowers will be in tow to teach attendees how to craft four stylish table napkin rings and a stunning festive centrepiece using a mix of fresh evergreens, dried fruits, and bright berries. You’ll get to take it home too. On 12 Dec for £50pp.

Alongside their regular wine and cheese nights, Stanlake Park are throwing a Mulled Wine Cooking Demo & Tasting on 5 Dec, as well as a Xmas Calligraphy Workshop (13 December) – both designed to get you feeling festive. Mulled wine included in both. Obvs.

Wish on a star over at The Base in Greenham. Between 1 – 6 Dec they are running workshops on how to make your very own willow star, complete with fairy lights. If you don’t fancy that, there’s Macrame Christmas Decorations (7 Dec), Festive Candle Making (8 Dec), Bauble Painting (8 Dec), Festive Lino Printing (10 Dec), and Make a Willow Reindeer (17 Dec).

CAROL CONCERTS & MUSIC

Christmas by candlelight reading 50+ things to do in Berkshire this December

Loaaaads of magical carol concerts taking place across the county this month. Check out the full list happening in Reading here. But the biggie Christmas by Candlelight at Reading Minster will happen on 9 December with an incredible West End Cast and live band performing classic Christmas Hits as you have never heard them before. All the faves and more. Now it’s certainly beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

For something totally off the wall, how about Carols with the Cows at Waltham Place near Maidenhead? It’s on 19 Dec and sounds pretty amooosing. Sorry, couldn’t help it. There’s a Christmas shop too.

Start them early on the classic tunes. The Festive Bach to Baby Family concert comes to Reading on 20 Dec with some seriously feisty melodies the little ones will go Gaga for. It’s happening at Reading Minister so a postcard perfect setting for it too.

Twirling their way over to Cobbs Farm Shop on Fri 6 December, the Spitfire Sisters will be wowing the crowd with their vocal recreation of vintage sounds of the ’30s and ’40s. It’s £45pp including a Christmas platter and a mulled wine.

I mean, is it really Christmas without Michael Bublé crooning to Baby Please Come Home? Join him, hm hm, I mean his look-a-like at De Vere Wokefield Estate in Mortimer for a Michael Bublé Tribute Party Night (20 Dec) that’s full of festive cheer. You’ll get a delicious three course festive meal before you hit the decks until the early hours.

FOOD & DRINK

50+ things to do in Berkshire this December silchester farm christmas — Silchester Farm

It’s also not Christmas if you haven’t stuffed yourself with obscene amounts of food. Start how you mean to go on at fancy farm to fork restaurant Malverleys who are hosting a collaborative supper club with All Angels wine on 12 Dec. Damson in Winterbourne are hosting a Chilean Wine Evening on 19 Dec consisting of a five course tasting menu with five wines. Trust me, the food is next level.

Over at The Vineyard, there’s two sumptuous dinners to sink your teeth into. Start with the Winter Wine Bash on 8 Dec made up of five wines and five small plates before popping the cork at Lunch With … Taittinger on 9 Dec. The very definition of eat, drink and be merry. Just down the road, The Retreat at Elcot have a Charity Winter Black Tie Ball on 7 Dec that includes dinner, cocktails, wine, and dancing for £140pp. More where that came from at Milaanj at The Beehive in White Waltham where they will be throwing a Christmas Party on 18 Dec with live music and a very special tasting menu.

Pass the wine! Don’t miss Goat on the Roof’s special Christmas Jumper Wine Tasting Party on 19 December. There will be at least six wines to tickle your fancy plus a prize for Best Christmas jumper (or outfit, for the more daring), a round of Wine Bingo – aka, Wingo! – also with a prize, and a Lindt Ball for everyone. If that isn’t worth coming out for I don’t know what is.

The trendy Silchester Farm will always get you in the festive mood. Catch their Festive Farmers Feast on 10, 17 & 19 Dec, there’s a Christmas Market on 14 Dec, plus Breakfast with Santa on the 7 December.

COMEDY

You’re having a laugh! A smash hit on the TV – Roast Battle UK is officially back at Double-Barrelled Brewery in Reading (12 December). In an epic showdown, two comedians will go head to head in a battle of wit and put-downs, where only one can come out on top. Each comedian gets 5 jokes to roast their opponent with the winner decided by a guest panel of audacious judges. Line-up to be announced. £10pp.

Also in Reading, the family-friendly Wifi Wars is returning with a Xmas Special of the live comedy game show. It’s hosted by comedian Steve McNeil and aided by Guinness World-Record-Breaking tech whizz, the award-winning Rob Sedgebeer in a test of people’s game, puzzle and quiz winning skills. On Sat 14 Dec at South Street.

Don’t miss stand-up comedian Robin Morgan take the stage at Norden Farm on 5 Dec. His previous shows have dealt with a proposal, marriage, kids and a vasectomy, which begs the question: what’s next on the list?

EXHIBITIONS

reading museum exhibition whats on november

Every picture tells a story and Reading Museum’s latest arty exhibition certainly does. Beeline to the Sir John Madejski Art Gallery to feast your eyes on exciting contemporary paintings, photographs, prints and sculptures such as pieces by Pablo Picasso and Cornelia Parker. Art Stories is on now until 22 Feb 2025.

Fan of Stan? The new exhibition at the Stanley Spencer Gallery in Cookham High Street is here. This time it’s Seeing the Unseen: Reality and Imagination in the Art of Stanley Spencer. On now until 30 Mar, the collection explores the autobiographical, personal and strangely mysterious, and sometimes beyond comprehension of an unseeing eye which is present in Stanley’s work. Tickets from £3.50.

Deck the halls! 50+ things to do in Berkshire this December

You may also like