Free and Affordable Places to Visit with Children Across the UK This Christmas (Updated for 2025)

Christmas is a magical time for families, but with the continued cost-of-living challenges across the UK, it’s more important than ever to find festive days out that don’t strain the budget. Thankfully, there are lots of free and low-cost options nationwide. Here is an updated guide for 2025 featuring both classic favourites and new budget-friendly finds.

 

 

 

Nationwide Free / Cost-Effective Options

Santa’s Grottos at Local Garden Centres (Best for 3–8 Years)

Garden centres across the UK continue to offer affordable — and in some cases free — Santa’s Grotto experiences. Many now operate on a donation or pay-what-you-can basis, making them ideal for families looking for a budget-friendly Santa visit.

• Highlights for Children: Meet-and-greet with Santa without premium ticket prices.
• Cost: Free or donation-based.

Free City Light Trails (All Ages)

Many UK towns and cities now offer free festive light trails as part of their Christmas celebrations, including Birmingham, Leeds, Manchester, Bristol, and Liverpool. These trails often feature interactive displays, music, and illuminated sculptures.

• Highlights for Children: Outdoor adventure, bright light installations, and family-friendly routes.
• Cost: Completely free.

 

 

England

 

1. Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park, London (All Ages)

 

Winter Wonderland remains a festive favourite. While rides and attractions can add up, the event still offers free entry during off-peak hours (plus a booking fee), allowing families to enjoy markets, lights, Santa Land, and performances with minimal spending.

• Highlights for Kids: Santa Land (free entry), giant decorations, music, and festive atmosphere.
• Cost: Free entry off-peak / charged entry during peak times; pay-as-you-go rides.

 

 

2. Regent Street, Covent Garden & Carnaby Christmas Lights (All Ages)

 

London’s Christmas light displays continue to be free and spectacular. For 2025, Covent Garden has expanded its interactive features and Carnaby Street’s lights now include family-friendly themes inspired by nature and space.

• Highlights for Children: Dazzling lights, street performers, giant decorations.
• Cost: Free.

 

3. National Trust Christmas Events (All Ages)

National Trust sites across England host affordable festive trails, winter scavenger hunts, decorated houses, and family craft sessions. Some locations offer free entry days in December or discounted rates for families on low incomes.

• Highlights for Children: Outdoor trails, treasure hunts, decorated rooms.
• Cost: Free for members; low-cost for non-members.

 

4. Manchester Christmas Parade & Markets (All Ages) 

Manchester’s annual Christmas Parade is completely free, featuring giant puppets, music, dancers, and festive floats. The markets remain one of the UK’s most affordable, with budget street food and free entertainment.

• Highlights: Parade performances, festive stalls, Santa meet-and-greet spots.
• Cost: Free to attend.

 

5. Hull “Enchanting Light Trail” (All Ages)

Hull has launched a fully free light trail through Queen’s Gardens and the Marina, offering glowing sculptures and interactive displays perfect for children.

• Highlights: Outdoor trail, glowing installations, safe for prams.
• Cost: Free.

 

 

Scotland

1. Edinburgh’s Christmas (All Ages)

 

 

Edinburgh’s Christmas continues to offer both free and low-cost activities, including a festive market, light projections, and family shows. The Princes Street Gardens light display is free and especially popular with younger children.

• Highlights: Light projections, markets, affordable rides.
• Cost: Free to explore; low-cost activities available.

 

2. Glasgow’s George Square Christmas (All Ages)

George Square remains a free festive hub with lights, carols, and family entertainment. The 2025 display includes new interactive lantern installations.

• Highlights: Street performers, carols, giant lantern displays.
• Cost: Free.

3. Dundee Waterfront Winter Trail (All Ages) – NEW for 2025

The Dundee waterfront now hosts a free family-friendly winter trail with illuminated sculptures and digital projections.

• Highlights: Interactive lights, seafront walk, accessible route.
• Cost: Free.

 

 

Wales

1. Cardiff Winter Wonderland (All Ages)

Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland still offers free entry, with families welcome to walk around and enjoy lights and music. Skating and rides are paid extras, but prices remain competitive compared with other UK cities.

• Highlights: Ice rink, funfair rides, festive lights.
• Cost: Free entry; paid attractions.

2. Llandudno Christmas Fayre (All Ages)

The Llandudno Fayre remains one of Wales’ most affordable Christmas markets, with free entry and regular family entertainment.

• Highlights: Crafts, street shows, local stalls.
• Cost: Free entry.

3. Swansea Waterfront Winter Lights (All Ages)

Swansea now features a free festive light trail along the waterfront, with glowing sculptures and music.

• Highlights: Family light walk, sea-front views, relaxed atmosphere.
• Cost: Free.

 

 

Northern Ireland

 

 

1. Belfast Christmas Market (All Ages)

Belfast’s iconic Christmas market remains free to enter and is one of the most family-friendly festive experiences in the UK. Food stalls, live entertainment, and seasonal crafts make it ideal for a budget day out.

• Highlights: Food stalls, festive gifts, family entertainment.
• Cost: Free entry.

2. Colin Glen Forest Park Winter Wonderland (Best for 4–10 Years)

Colin Glen offers an affordable family winter experience with light trails, craft workshops, and outdoor adventures. Their 2025 programme includes more free sessions for families on low incomes.

• Highlights: Outdoor activities, trails, crafts.
• Cost: Low-cost with some free events.

3. Derry/Londonderry “Illuminated City Trail” (All Ages) 

Derry’s new winter light trail has quickly become a local favourite. Stretching through the city centre, it’s completely free and packed with glowing sculptures and festive music.

• Highlights: Light displays, city walk, family-friendly route.
• Cost: Free.

 

 

In Summary

 

Across the UK, families can still enjoy magical Christmas experiences without spending much. From free city light trails in England and Wales to festive markets in Scotland and Northern Ireland, there are plenty of low-cost ways to make memories this festive season. With more councils investing in free community events for 2025, it’s easier than ever to enjoy Christmas on a budget while keeping the whole family entertained.