Festive Fun on the Mainland

Southampton Christmas Market

The Countdown to Christmas is ON! Sail over to Southampton city centre from Friday 15 – Sunday 17 November to kick off the festive season with a weekend full of magic! With three days of non-stop fun, there’s something for everyone. Expect roaming festive characters, live music, family-friendly activities, surprise special guests, and SO much more to get you and your loved ones into the holiday spirit. Head to the main stage on Friday 15 for the big switch-on!

From 15 November to 5 January, the city centre will be transformed into a Bavarian winter wonderland complete with live entertainment, as Southampton Christmas Market comes to town. Experience all the fun of the fair with new, bigger rides taking you to dizzying heights, browse artisan crafts and gifts, sample delicious street food, and be dazzled by an incredible laser show. Little ones can let off steam in the Christmas Fun House and meet the main man himself in Santa’s Workshop by the Bargate, while grown-ups can kick back with a warming mulled wine or stein of beer. With things to do for all ages, the market is a must-visit for getting into the festive spirit. Keep the kids (or yourselves!) entertained with a skating session at Westquay on Ice between 22 November & 5 January, soaking up the wintry setting and twinkling fairy lights. 

Soton Makers Market

Get started with your Christmas shopping on 23 November with the return of the Soton Makers Market at Southampton City Art Gallery. Whether it's striking textiles and accessories to handmade children’s toys and decorations, unearth truly distinctive finds created by local artists and creatives. Don’t forget to visit the latest exhibitions within the art gallery – all of which is free to explore. 

Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market

Just a short drive or train ride away from Southampton you’ll find Winchester, and its beautiful cathedral market. Wander rows of wooden chalets offering traditional treats like sweet roasted chestnuts, as well as beautifully created one-off arts and crafts - ideal unique gifts for loved ones. The market is free to enter and open daily from 22 November to 22 December. Take some time to explore the former capital city of England, with its fascinating landmarks and a bustling high street. 

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

Treat yourself and your loved ones with a visit to Winter Wonderland, the UK’s most famous festive attraction this Christmas. Explore 150+ attractions including the iconic Bar Ice, thrilling rides, Magical Ice Kingdom, circus performances, and much, much more! Foodies will also be delighted by over 40 stalls and bars serving delicious drinks and street food. Train travel is made easy when you purchase through-tickets from our West Cowes ticket office, getting you across the Solent and up to London in a breeze. 

Mayflower Theatre

Take to your seats for some spectacular shows this festive season, starting with Elf the Musical from 3-7 December, featuring special effects, an indoor blizzard and audience snow fight! BGT-winning dance troupe Diversity will once again tread the boards of Mayflower Theatre in a panto performance of Jack and the Beanstalk between 14 December & 5 January, bringing laughs, music, incredible dance routines, and plenty of audience participation.

MAST Mayflower Studios

At MAST is a stage production of Eric Carle’s much-loved children’s books in The Very Hungry Caterpillar Christmas Show from 4-14 December, followed by a youth production of Christmas day classic The Wind in the Willows from 22 – 31 December, with the option to upgrade your visit to include Ratty’s Festive Picnic! 

Showcase Cinema

You can catch hot new film releases from the comfort of your leather recliner at Showcase Cinema de Lux in Westquay South, such as Wicked (22 November), Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim (13 December), Sonic the Hedgehog 3, or Mufasa: The Lion King (both 20 December). 

Westquay Shopping Centre

Just a short walk from our terminal - or a quick free trip on the Quayconnect bus - Westquay is a one-stop-shop for all of your Christmas needs, with retailers such as Hotel Chocolat selling tempting treats, Lush Cosmetics for a smorgasbord of smellies, John Lewis with luxury gifts and gadgets, and high-street labels such as Zara and H&M for the perfect party outfit. On Above Bar precinct you'll also find Primark, Urban Outfitters, Doc Marten, Size? and more!

GLOW Marwell

Experience the zoo after dark at GLOW Marwell between 29 November and 30 December, with a series of immersive illuminations providing the perfect backdrop for all your seasonal snaps. Their dazzling displays will be brighter than ever before, using over 500,000 lights in an array of colours to create awe-inspiring walk-through installations. Winter warmers such as mulled wine will also be on offer, as well as a festive menu featuring giant stuffed Yorkshire puddings and illuminated candy floss! 

Steam Illuminations

Book your seats aboard The Watercress Line in Alton for an unforgettable adventure through the South Downs on an illuminated steam train! Marvel at the locomotives adorned with thousands of vibrant lights for Christmas, setting the night sky ablaze with a mesmerising display of colour and steam. Enjoy festive music and entertainment hosted by Britain’s Got Talent’s incredible Voiceover Man.

Light Up Hillier Gardens

Discover enchanting illuminations at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens in Romsey, just outside Southampton. 180 acres of stunning gardens will be transformed by displays of light and sound, making for a memorable evening for every member of the family. Find pop-up bars and stalls serving up hog roast, Yorkshire pudding wraps, Bratwurst sausages, crêpes, churros and more.