5th
Sep
New Lanark World Heritage Site, Scotland – Step into the magic of the festive season at New Lanark, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, transformed into a winter wonderland for Christmas. From Saturday, 29th November until Christmas Eve, the festive village is bursting with holiday cheer and delightful experiences for the whole family. This Christmas season, New Lanark has an enchanting lineup to make your festive celebrations truly unforgettable.
New Lanark’s magical location, resembling a giant toy factory silently nestled at the foot of the Clyde valley, creates the perfect backdrop for a magical family day out and Christmas festivities this season, offering something for all ages. Visitors will feel as though they’ve been transported to a bygone era, with a variety of festive activities included in the experience.
The Christmas Experience 2025 promises sparkle, laughter, and unforgettable memories for children aged 1–8 and their families, running on selected dates from Saturday 29th November through Wednesday 24th December 2025.
From magical encounters with Santa to a hilarious pantomime, enjoy the Annie McLeod Dark Ride experience that has been re-imagined for the Christmas Season, films, and fairground fun, New Lanark is the perfect destination to capture the spirit of Christmas.
Get ready to laugh and cheer with Arkeen Theatre Company's production of Alice in Scottieland, a 45-minute pantomime performance full of festive fun. Your ticket includes; a Visit with Santa, meet Santa in his beautifully decorated grotto and receive a special gift, enjoy the ‘Spirit of Christmas Ride’ embarking on a captivating journey through the magical history of Christmas on this enchanting ride. There will be Christmas Films in the cosy cinema showing beloved Christmas classics, screening throughout the day. There will also be a Soft Play Area, perfect for little adventurers, offering lots of festive fun and challenges and an Outdoor Fun Fair, with traditional rides and festive fun for all the family (small extra charge applies).
For those with sensory needs, New Lanark will host a Quiet Session on Saturday 29th November from 11am. During this time, visitor numbers will be limited to provide a calmer environment. The pantomime will take place at 11:00 am, and guests can explore the rest of the site at their leisure until 1:00 pm. Meanwhile, the Café & Mill Shop will both be open throughout the event, offering refreshments and Christmas shopping for all your holiday needs, before exploring the historic buildings and the beautiful rooftop garden, adding to the charm of this unique Christmas experience.
Why not make a trip of it and wake up in this beautiful World Heritage Site, staying overnight at The Mill Hotel, which has all your catering needs wrapped up with festive lunches and dinners served throughout December.
"Christmas at New Lanark is one of the highlights of the year for families across Scotland," said John Stirrat, Head of Operations at New Lanark. "From Santa’s grotto to the laughter of the pantomime and the joy of festive rides, it’s an unforgettable experience designed especially for young children and their families."
Christmas Tickets & Opening Times:
Evening Events: Pantomime & Singalong Nights
For families looking for festive fun after dark, New Lanark is also hosting special evening performances of Alice in Scottieland on Friday 12th and Friday 19th December 2025. Each night begins at 7.30pm (doors open 6.45pm) and includes the pantomime performance, a meet-and-greet with the cast, and a lively Christmas singalong. A tuck shop serving refreshments will be available.
Booking Information
Tickets for both the Christmas Experience and Pantomime & Singalong Evenings are available exclusively online at www.newlanark.org. Families are encouraged to book dining in advance during the festive season.
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