If there was a season where Cambridge felt truly magical it would have to be Christmas.
With the stunning backdrop of Cambridge, the lights, and the scent of mulled wine in the air, it’s one city that will make you feel truly festive.
As there is so much to do in Cambridge and the surrounding areas we wanted to give you as much guidance as possible so you can plan a Christmas trip that will stay in your memory forever.
Whether you’re here for a long weekend, or a long-term stay, we’ve listed all the events and activities you can do to help you get into the Christmas spirit.
Christmas Carols on the River
There’s nothing like Christmas Carols to get you in the mood for Christmas, and in a truly Cambridge way, this special event is combined with punting.
On Sunday the 5th of December the choir of St John the Evangelist Church will be singing everyone’s favourite Christmas Carols whilst being chauffeured on a punt along the River Cam.
This is one special event where you can join in, with limited spots on punts to glide alongside them with warm blankets and Christmas lights.
However, if it’s slightly too cold for you to enjoy a spot of punting, you can also watch the choir singing from the edge of the river with a hot chocolate in hand.
Date & Time: Sunday 5th December 2021 / 2pm
Ely Christmas Food Fair
Ely Cathedral is just a short drive from Cambridge city centre and each year hosts a stunning Christmas market that includes gifts and delicious food.
If you love to explore the tasty delights of a food fair and conduct a spot of shopping with local artisanal suppliers, then this is for you.
Date & Time: November 18th – November 20th 2021
Wimpole Estate Illumination Trail
Explore the magical illumination trail of Wimpole Estate.
Just a short drive from Cambridge city centre, Wimpole Estate is a National Trust property that brings an awe-inspiring light display to its grounds and forest each Christmas.
With lights, lasers, and even sound effects, it fills the air with festive magic that will instantly make you feel like a child again.
You will need to book tickets in advance for this, as there are limited spaces for each entry time.
Date & Time: Available to see from 26th November – 2nd January
Audley End Christmas Spectacular
Meeting Santa is the ultimate Christmas activity, so if you have little ones this is simply an activity that cannot be missed.
Audley End is a miniature railway station just a short drive outside of Cambridge, and each year hosts a spectacular Christmas day for children to experience all the wonders of Santa and his elves.
On the day, your children can meet Santa and receive a gift, as well as help the elves make reindeer food and hear a story from Holly the Christmas fairy.
Trust us, your children will never forget this Christmas experience.
Ensure to book in advance.
Date & Time: Available to book from 20th November – 24th December
Cambridge Christmas Fair at Parker’s Piece
The Christmas Fair in Cambridge will be on Parker’s Piece common in 2021 with a truly incredible array of activities and market stalls.
In 2021, it has been confirmed that there will even be an ice rink to enjoy.
‘The North Pole’ as it has been named, will be a Christmas extravaganza in the centre of Cambridge for all to enjoy.
With food stalls, a funfair, ice rink and gift stalls, there is something for everyone to feel the magic of Christmas.
Date & Time: Visit from November 19th 2021 – January 3rd 2022
There are so many opportunities to get out and about in Cambridge in the Winter months. If you are staying in one of our serviced apartments in Cambridge then take a look at our visitor information in our blog for ideas on what to do and where to go.
