Enveloping the landscape in a frost-tinged cloak, winter in the Peak District is a truly magical time. Here are just some of the things you can look forward to.
One of the best times of year to enjoy a luxury retreat, you can look forward to a full calendar of things to see and do in the Peak District this winter. To mark the start of festive celebrations, we’ve put together a list of the top winter events in the region – from chuntering through frozen landscapes by vintage rail to exploring Christmas markets with mulled wine in hand.
Chatsworth Christmas Markets
4th - 26th November 2023
Whether you’re looking to get a head start on your Christmas shopping or simply want to enjoy the festive atmosphere of this gorgeous stately home, a trip to Chatsworth should not be missed for its annual Christmas markets. Filled with over 100 market stalls selling all sorts of lovely Christmas gifts and decorations, you are sure to find lots of presents and stocking fillers for yourself and your loved ones this November.
Themed Christmas Celebrations at Chatsworth
4th November 2023 - 7th January 2024
Christmas at Chatsworth invites all to discover the magic of Christmas with themed celebrations each year that extend beyond its markets. From early November onwards, both the house and grounds are transformed in a festive flurry, illuminated by Christmas lights, peppered with Christmas trees decorated with delicate ornaments, and brought to life with unique, themed celebrations. Suitable for all the family, there’s a wondrous array of truly enchanting discoveries to be made and fun to be had this Christmas at Chatsworth.
Haddon Hall Mercatum Christmas Markets, Bakewell
16th November - 29th December 2023
Throughout the winter, Haddon Hall’s Mercatum Artisan Markets and Christmas celebrations afford an array of things to see, do and buy. Held within the 900-year-old hall and grounds of Haddon’s Medieval manor, its artisan markets feature an ensemble of handpicked makers and producers offering an exceptional retail experience; meanwhile its Christmas events and candlelit dinners and tours add an extra dimension to festivities. Taking place across select dates in November and December this year, this widely-anticipated Christmas event in the Peak District is by ticket only.
Thornbridge Estate Christmas Market
17th - 19th November 2023
Nestled within 100 acres of private parkland, Thornbridge Hall is a Grade II listed stately home in the Peak District hills. With fourteen acres of formal gardens and grand, characterful interiors, this 900-year-old home sets a spellbinding backdrop to festive Christmas markets. Held over the weekend of 16th to 19th November this year, an array of markets will be arranged around the Hall’s Carriage House and courtyard, selling all kinds of winter wonders.
Castleton Christmas Lights Switch On
18th November 2023
What better way to herald the start of the festive season than with Christmas lights? Kicking off celebrations in style, the picturesque village of Castleton holds their lights switch on event every November. Head on over, festooned in thick woolly layers, and watch as the streets are set aglow with the lights of countless multi-coloured bulbs. This event starts at 4.30pm so arrive early to bag the best spot.
Bakewell Christmas Market
18th - 19th November 2023
If the aroma of spice-infused air gets your heart trilling with excitement, you’ll want to pop Bakewell Christmas Market on your list of winter events in the Peak District. Held across Market Street, Granby Road and Riverside Crescent, this weekend-long event promises around 100 stalls and gazebos with sellers from the local area and across the Peak District. With plenty of mulled wine to keep you warm and lots of entertainment, it’s one for all the family.
Christmas at Alton Towers, Alton
24th November 2023 - 7th January 2024
For an unforgettable experience for the young in years and the young at heart, make your way over to Alton Towers in November and December. Boasting family-friendly rides and attractions, live entertainment, Christmas markets and an award-winning illuminated trail, Lightopia, the hours will easily fly by here as you and your favourite people immerse yourselves in a fantastical Christmas wonderland.
Matlock Victorian Christmas Market
1st - 3rd December 2023
Every year, Matlock’s town centre sets the stage for a fantastic Victorian Christmas market held in Hall Leys Park. Venture over to find more than 170 stalls, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities, highlighted by the town’s lights switch-on on Saturday and fireworks on Sunday. Bathed in the light of the town’s famous illuminations, this winter weekend is a multi-generational treat affording timeless fun for everyone.
Buxton Christmas Market
9th December 2023
A traditional Christmas market (that happens to be the highest in England) with lots of stalls piled high with food, drink and gifts, Buxton Christmas Market beckons for wondrous festivities. Don your layers and wrap up in your cosiest scarf, ready to explore its Christmas offerings in the crisp winter air. Whether you’re looking to find the perfect present for a special someone or are simply ready to savour the atmosphere, there’s ample to look forward to here.
Skiing and Snowboarding at Swadlincote Snowsports Centre
Various dates from November to December 2023
Alpine Christmases make for the quintessential snow-capped scenes seen printed on Christmas cards throughout the world. If you’d like to bring the slopes to you this year, head over to Swadlincote Snowsports Centre and enjoy open practice sessions and guided lessons on ski and snowboard. With bookings available throughout the winter, you can practice your skills and hone your technique on glistening perma-snow.
Christmas Carol Concerts in Peak Cavern, Castleton
Every Saturday and Sunday in December 2023
A timeless Christmas tradition, Christmas carols provide the soundtrack of Yuletide celebrations for many. For family favourites and festive fun, Peak Cavern invites you to attend their Christmas carol concert, held in the depths of the cavern. Upon arrival, you will be served with mulled wine and mince pies, before being shown to your seat. During the concert, a brass band will perform show-stopping and singalong numbers.
Santa's Grotto at Poole's Cavern, Buxton Country Park
Various dates in December 2023
For a truly atmospheric experience this winter, venture into the millions-of-years-old limestone caverns in Poole and get ready to meet Santa in style. In the heart of the Peak District, these stalactite-strung caves make for an incredible setting, made all the more special with gleaming Christmas lights and bauble-clad trees. Perfect for younger generations, this is ideal for little ones eager to meet Father Christmas himself.
Peak Rail Santa and Steam Special, Matlock
Various dates in December 2023
Should you fancy getting a little loco this Christmas, gather up the family and embark on the Peak Rail’s Santa and steam special railway journey. On board, you will be treated to live entertainment, foodie treats and even a visit from Santa, all the while stunning Peak District rolls by your window outside. To make your journey even more special, you can book private compartments for up to six people too.
Feeling inspired? Take a look at more fabulous events and festivals and peruse our luxury cottages in the Peak District and Derbyshire.
