Chatsworth House Wonderland

Every year the Derbyshire stately home themes its Christmas decor, with 2014's inspiration taken from children's literary classic Alice in Wonderland. Be prepared to head down the rabbit hole and through the looking glass into the vivid and fantastical world of Lewis Carroll's beloved book.

Oxford Street lights

Now in its 55th year, the 2014 London light display features 1,778 baubles and 750,000 LED energy-efficient bulbs, which stretch along the length of the shopping hub. Plus, it's free...

Ride into the past

Beaulieu is probably more famous for its motor museum than Christmas merrymaking, but you can also take a trip back in time here to celebrate the season in the style of our Victorian ancestors. Children can don a variety of period costumes and sing carols around a grand piano, or go for a walk outside to marvel at one of the largest outdoor Christmas trees in the New Forest.

Hogwarts in the Snow

Harry Potter has become a festive film staple on our small screens in recent years. Now, until the 1st February 2015, you can join other fans at the Christmas makeover of the hit Warner Brothers studio tour in Leavesden. Hogwarts in the Snow sees the castle covered in a blanket of snow, as well as the iconic Great Hall decorated for the season using the actual golden partridges, baubles and props seen in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.

Get your skates on

Take to the ice - either at your local rink or any number of city centre seasonal ones - to truly get in the festive spirit. For something a little special, try any of the ones recommended on the discerning Condé Nast Traveller website, including Hyde Park and Hampton Court Palace.

Birmingham's Frankfurt Market

Until the 22nd December you can sample the pretzels, schnitzels, bratwursts and knoblauchbrot of the largest authentic German market outside of Germany or Austria - in Birmingham. The city's Frankfurt Christmas Market and Craft Market has been running for over a decade and boasts over 180 stalls.

Eden Project Winter Festival

If Cornwall's Eden Project wasn't spectacular enough by day, now you can enjoy the gardens under starlight for an extra sparkly Christmastime. Festive treats also include live music performed by regional choirs, an outdoor ice rink and a meet-and-greet with Santa and his reindeer.

P-p-p-pick up a penguin

Those kings of Christmas advertising, John Lewis, have half the nation a little in love with penguins at the moment. Indulge Monty-mania by meeting an entire colony of them at zoos around the country. Many of them, including Chester Zoo and Longleat Safari Park even offer the chance to participate at feeding time.