Things To Do In December In the UK 2026
Image Credit: Nick Fewings
In December, autumn turns to winter here in the UK. If you don't like Christmas, you'll be out of luck, as almost everything will be given a festive twist!
There's still lots to see and do, from kid-friendly festivals of science, art and museums. Plus it's the perfect time to get outdoor and see the last of the autumn leaves.
There is so much to do this December across the UK, whether you like adventure, the theatre, a movie or to get into the great outdoors there is something for everyone.
Yes it's Christmas, and you won't be able to move for festive events. Every shop, school and attraction will have had the decorations out since the moment the Halloween pumpkins came down.
While we're at it, let's not forget that there are non-Christian festivals at this time of year, such as Hannukah, Bodhi Day, Kwanzaa and the anti-consumerist made-up holiday Festivus.
Get Your Skates On. The UK's temporary Christmas Ice Skating Rinks are now open, and it's a great idea for the school holidays. Even if you don't want to go on the ice, many have a Christmas market that you can wander around and cafes, bars and more.
From the huge Winter Wonderland in London's Hyde Park to smaller pop up rinks across the country it's a great way to get some exercise. Many rinks offer lessons for beginners, skate aids for the little ones and sessions for wheelchair users too.
Warwick Christmas Lectures will be held from 2nd Dec to 3rd Dec 2026. Ally Caldecote and some favourite scientists from the University of Warwick who are leaving their labs to entertain, inspire and amaze audiences.
Bring your family and friends, pull on your festive jumper and join us for an evening of mind-boggling science and explosive experiments! Find out more at Warwick Christmas Lectures
Small Business Saturday UK takes place on 5th Dec 2026. A grassroots, non-commercial campaign highlighting small business success and encouraging people to support small businesses in their communities on the first Saturday in December.
Find out more at Small Business Saturday UK
Movie Time! As the end of the year approaches the movie industry is starting to release some of the biggest films of the year. Here is what's on at the cinema right now.
More Things To Do In December 2026
New Year's Eve on the 31st December is the final party of the year, and it is now traditional to let off fireworks, so there wil be lots of organised displays, which are much safer that letting off your own fireworks.
Scotland will of course outdo the rest of the UK with it's fantastic Hogmanay celebrations. The capital city Edinburgh has it's own Winter Festival of which Hogmanay is the highlight, but celebrations will reach every corner of the country.
Even More Ideas For Things To Do in December
- Visiting one of the Best Farm Parks in the UK is an all year round treat, and these farms are full of animals, many of which you can interact with. Lots of them will have special Christmas events too.
- Visit the Top Aquariums in the UK for an aquatic day out. See fish, sharks, eels, rays as well as otters and sealions at coastal locations. Here are the best the UK has to offer.
- If you are near London you can check out the Best West End Shows for Families 2026. See a favourite like Wicked, Matilda or the Lion King or a newer show such as Paddington the Musical .
Here's what's coming up in the next few months in the UK.