This time of year, we’re particularly giddy about finding cosy spots for a day out, festivities and all. One such spot near Manchester is Castleton in the Peak District, dwarfed by the beautiful Mam Tor and wrapped in the scenic Hope Valley.
Castleton is famed for its lovely village feel, but even more so for its twinkling Christmas lights and festive decorations that come out in full force every year, transforming it into a full-on Christmas town. If you’re feeling the festivities and fancy a gorgeous day out, we’ve got everything you need to know.
When is the Castleton Christmas lights switch-on?
Every November, the turning on of the lights—November 15 this year—serves as a cherished tradition, joyfully announcing the start of the Christmas season for locals and visitors alike. The lights remain dazzling until the New Year, allowing those who miss the early run-up to enjoy them throughout the ‘Twixmas‘ week.
What Christmas activities are there in Castleton?
December in Castleton is specially geared toward families and children to celebrate Christmas. Throughout the month, kids can visit a Santa’s Grotto every weekend and enjoy rides with a second Father Christmas parading through the village in a horse-drawn cart.
To support visitors’ festive shopping needs, many local shops extend their hours and participate actively in the Christmas spirit by running competitions and themed community events. The Castleton Visitor Centre typically kicks off the festivities early with quizzes, themed activity weeks (including crafting and games), often coordinating its own competitions with those run by local shops and eateries.
Castleton caves at Christmas
During the festive season, Castleton’s show caves transform into a unique and stunning Christmas spectacle. Experience the tremendously popular and heart-warming carols by candlelight traditionally held in Treak Cliff Cavern.
Alternatively, Peak Cavern hosts several evening carol concerts throughout the month, featuring a brass band and completing the festive mood with complimentary mulled wine and mince pies upon arrival. You can secure your tickets for Treak Cliff Cavern’s concerts here.
Castleton village vibes
Whether you’ve been in the caves, up Mam Tor or just come to see the lights, Castleton offers gorgeously wholesome village vibes, with beautiful stone terraces and quaint cafes, shops and pubs. Rich in cosy corners and spots to warm up, Castleton provides a wonderful day out all year round, but with the lights, trees and plenty of spots for mulled wine and a mince pie, you just can’t beat it during the festive season.
Castleton really is the perfect spot for a Christmas day out with the family, if not for the stunning cave activities, for the beautiful village and all the effort put in to make it such a cosy wonderland at Christmas time.
