From light trails to theatre shows and seasonal stately homes, discover five must-do festive days out

From getting crafty at wreath making workshops and exploring seasonal markets to enjoying stunning light trails, festive concerts and theatre shows, there are a wealth of ways to get out and enjoy this special time of year.

What’s more, while you’re enjoying these magical experiences, you can save some money too. New Amex® Cashback Everyday Credit Cardmembers can earn 5%* cashback on anything you buy – that’s the UK’s highest rate. Plus, there’s no annual fee. So you can make this holiday season even more special with Amex®Cashback.

Here are five festive ways to celebrate in style.

Some of the UK’s most famous gardens are beautifully illuminated at this time of year, with botanical worlds transformed by striking light installations. Kew Gardens is lit up with over a million lights, with many of its plants and trees drenched in jewel colours, and the iconic glass Palm House lit up in stunning style. Stourhead in Wiltshire is known for its spectacular gardens, which become even more magical with a mile-long illuminated trail featuring vibrant displays of colour, and lights dancing across the lake. While in Durham Massey in Cheshire, two giant glowing deer will welcome you into a light trail around the gardens, moat and park. On the Scottish Borders, Monteviot House & Gardens transforms into a festive wonderland with light installations highlighting the natural beauty of the gardens and woodland. Festive light trails are always very popular so be sure to book ahead.

Nothing will get you into the festive spirit quicker than browsing a seasonal market – preferably while clutching a warming cup of mulled wine or marshmallow-sprinkled hot chocolate. The UK has no shortage of them to choose from, but some are in especially stunning locations. Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market is, as the name suggests, set against the impressive backdrop of the city’s cathedral, and is inspired by traditional German markets. Besides being charming to explore, the wooden chalets also offer the chance to find handcrafted and locally sourced gifts. In Halifax, you can browse over 50 stalls selling stylish homeware, jewellery, crafts, tasty treats and more, in the spectacular Piece Hall, which also boasts a Victorian carousel and festive entertainment throughout. The town of Oban in Scotland has been voted one of the most festive in the UK, and hosts a volunteer-run winter festival each year, which includes a whole range of different markets showcasing local and handmade goods. In Yorkshire, both Harrogate and York have atmospheric markets. And for something grander, the spectacular Holkham Hall and Estate in Norfolk hosts a free-to-visit annual food and gift market in its impressive grounds.

You might think your festive decorations are impressive – but wait until you see how some of the country’s most historic homes deck their very grand halls out. For sheer spectacle, you can’t beat Blenheim Palace or Chatsworth House, both of which go all out at this time of year. At Chatsworth, rooms will be decorated with both the sounds and scents of the season to make it an immersive experience. At Dyrham Park, near Bath, rooms are decorated in the style of different eras, from Tudor times to the 20th century. At Holst Victorian House in Cheltenham, you can experience how the Victorians would have decorated their homes and celebrated the season, while at Chastleton House in Oxfordshire, you’ll be transported back to the 1960s, with rooms decorated to reflect the festivities enjoyed by last owners Barbara and Alan Clutton-Brock.

Whether you’re into live music, dance or theatre, catching a seasonal show is the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit. In London, the iconic Royal Albert Hall has a whole season of festive entertainment, from gospel choir and big band performances to familiar names like Jamie Cullum and Katherine Jenkins. There are performances of A Christmas Carol all round the country, including a production starring Christopher Eccleston at The Old Vic and a musical version at Salford’s Lowry. Meanwhile, Fairytale of New York, an Irish-inspired concert featuring singers, musicians and dancers performing festive favourites (including, of course, The Pogues’ classic The Fairytale of New York) is touring venues around the UK.

There’s nothing more satisfying than giving a gift or adorning your home with something you’ve crafted yourself. And festive craft classes don’t just offer the chance to make a special gift, decoration or keepsake – they’re also a great opportunity to spend quality time with a loved one. Wreath making is especially popular, as you can take home a bespoke adornment for your front door that will last for years to come, and you can find workshops all over the country. Daylesford offer lots of wreath making workshops, both at their main Cotswold location, and in London too. Richmond’s Petersham Nurseries also has extremely popular classes, while in Yorkshire, milliner Jenny Roberts offers a seasonal wreath making workshop at her studio in Harrogate. Pine sprigs at the ready!

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Amex® Cashback Everyday Credit Card. Rep 30.7% APR variable. 18+. Subject to approval. Information correct as of 26th of November 2024. Terms and minimum spend apply. Purchase Protection up to £2,500 per item. Refund Protection up to £200 per item. Applies to eligible products only. Enrolment required. Travel Accident Insurance on eligible purchases. Limitations & exclusions apply. The main Cardmember is liable for spend made by supplementary Cardmembers.