Christmas Returns to Scotland's UNESCO World Heritage Site

Families looking for a magical Christmas day out can once again celebrate the festive season at New Lanark as the UNESCO World Heritage Site launches its Christmas Experience for 2026.

Running on selected dates from 28 November to 24 December, the event transforms the historic village into a festive destination where families can enjoy a visit with Santa, The Wiz That Woz pantomime, the Spirit of Christmas Ride and indoor soft play, all included in a single ticket.

Set within the historic mill village on the banks of the River Clyde, the experience offers families the opportunity to celebrate Christmas within one of Scotland's six UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a festive setting unlike any other festive attraction in the country.

Designed for families with children aged one to eight, the Christmas Experience offers festive entertainment throughout the day, with activities running between 10am and 5pm.

Every child visiting the Christmas Experience will enjoy a personal visit with Santa Claus in his festive grotto and receive a special soft toy gift to take home. Families can then enjoy this year's pantomime, The Wiz That Woz, a lively Scottish twist on a much-loved classic packed with laughter, colourful characters and audience participation.

Visitors can also climb aboard the much-loved Spirit of Christmas Ride, where Holly and her friends take families on a magical festive journey, before little ones enjoy even more fun in the indoor soft play area.

New Lanark's dedicated Quiet Session will return on 28 November, offering a calmer and more relaxed experience for children and families who may benefit from a lower-sensory environment.

For many families across Scotland, a visit to New Lanark has become a treasured festive tradition, combining seasonal entertainment, family activities and a unique historic setting.

"There is something truly special about Christmas at New Lanark," said a spokesperson for New Lanark.

"Families tell us year after year that visiting New Lanark has become part of their Christmas celebrations. What makes the experience special is being able to spend quality time together, whether that's meeting Santa, enjoying the pantomime or exploring the village in its festive setting. We are delighted to welcome visitors back for Christmas 2026."

Alongside the festive attractions, families can enjoy seasonal treats, warming drinks and family meals across New Lanark's café and restaurant, making it easy to enjoy a complete festive day out.

With many dates proving popular each year, families are encouraged to book early, particularly for weekends closer to Christmas.

Tickets for Christmas at New Lanark 2026 are on sale now, with full details and booking information available on the New Lanark website.

 

Christmas at New Lanark 2026

Location: New Lanark, Lanark, South Lanarkshire

Selected dates: 28 November to 24 December 2026

Included in every ticket:

• Visit with Santa and a special soft toy gift
• The Wiz That Woz pantomime
• Spirit of Christmas Ride
• Indoor soft play

Opening hours: 10am to 5pm

Suitable for: Families with children aged 1 to 8

Tickets: On sale now

Quiet Session: 28 November 2026