What To Do In And Around Liverpool At Christmas

A time of the year where most people have a number of traditions – particularly in the month of December. Those who are really into the holiday season like to make the most of the festive spirit and for some, even late November is when they start to get into it.

Couples especially love weekend breaks – particularly to cities around Europe that really embrace the festive season, with Christmas markets, lights and decorations often being the main attractions. And, if they’re lucky (or not), snow!

While places such as Prague and Munich obviously dominate most British people’s thinking, there is a city much closer to home that does Christmas well.

Liverpool; a city steeped in history has a lot of charm to offer during December and as such, there are plenty of things to do in and around the city. If you’re visiting, then there are plenty of hotels to stay at.

Each of which embrace Christmas, offer comfortable rooms – even a king size bed if you’re lucky for a relaxing rest at the end of a long day taking in the city at Christmas!

Be Illuminated By The Light Before Christmas

If you’ve never been to Liverpool Cathedral, then December is certainly a great time to go. From the end of November for a week, you can see ‘The Light Before Christmas’, which is a dazzling light and sound experience creating an intoxicating atmosphere when combined with the stunning architecture you’re surrounded by.

An enchanting place to take the kids, who will get to see the Christmas Nativity from a truly unique and captivating perspective.

Meander Around Royal Albert Dock

At Christmas time (“…we let light in and we banish shade” – haha), yeah – anyway, the Royal Albert Dock is simply stunning with its display of decorations and lights and makes for a perfect (and cost-effective) activity to do as a couple.

Grab a hot chocolate or mulled wine to keep you warm as you wander around all of the Christmas stalls, where you will literally feel like you have been transported into a Hallmark movie, with Christmas music for company. Once you’ve seen enough, there are plenty of nice restaurants and bars in the area to continue your evening!

Lanterns And Light At Chester Zoo

Admittedly not in Liverpool, but only about a 40 minute drive is the quaint city of Chester and if you have kids, the Lanterns And Light event at Chester Zoo is not to be missed.

ONE MORE SLEEP UNTIL LANTERNS AND LIGHT! 🏮

Here’s a FIRST LOOK at our magical new light trail ahead of its grand opening tomorrow 👀

Get ready for more mesmerising colour-changing displays and stunning spectacles that will make this an unforgettable night! 😍 pic.twitter.com/0blZlL0TBH

— Chester Zoo (@chesterzoo) November 16, 2023

An ideal late afternoon Saturday activity, this has a magical Christmas Lantern and Light Trail, where your children can become immersed in the fairytale feeling of Christmas. Once you are finished, head back into Liverpool and enjoy a mince pie on the docks!

Church Wirral Farm For The Santa Experience

Another great experience for the kids, this 60 minute experience includes a tractor ride around the farm, which has essentially been transformed into a ‘Winter Wonderland’, complete with reindeer! Let’s also not forget, you can also visit the big man himself, though, don’t forget to book!

Liverpool Christmas Ice Festival

If you’re feeling really energetic, the Liverpool Christmas Ice Festival offers an ice rink and a Christmas Market with all of the thrills you can expect to find. From Bratwurst to beer and mince pies to mulled wine, plus lights and festive music, if you’re not up to hitting the ice, you can take in the atmosphere as the big day draws near!