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Christmas attractions
Christmas attractions

Things to do near Ashford International & Spa this Christmas

Head to the historic county of Kent and celebrate Christmas in its full shimmering glory.

From the glittering Christmas displays around you to the heartwarming nights with loved ones, we all have different reasons why we love the festive season.  

This year, you can make your Christmas extra shimmery with a stay at the Ashford International Hotel & Spa, located close to London, the Kent coast and the Channel Tunnel. Unwind in one of our 179 spacious rooms, relax in the spa and enjoy festive fun near our hotel. 

To help make the planning a bit easier, here’s a handful on festive things to do in the local area.

Steam Railway Santa Special

30 minute drive

Hop on board the beautifully restored Kent and East Sussex Steam Railway for a ‘Santa Special’ trip. Keen steam enthusiasts and excited Santa-seekers will travel through the fabulous frosty countryside, with plenty of Christmas cheer and treats and surprises for all. The Railway is within easy reach of Ashford and your festive experience starts at the station’s Winter Wonderland.

<strong>Steam Railway Santa Special</strong>

Kent Christmas Markets

Ashford is no exception to the wonderful range of Christmas markets hosted by our towns and villages country-wide. Great local produce, wines, ciders, juices, and present ideas for even the trickiest to buy for people can all be found here. If you have time, why not visit the Christmas Market in nearby Tenterden too?  

<strong>Kent Christmas Markets</strong>

Christmas at Bedgebury

45 minute drive

Over a million twinkling lights and seasonal sounds will fill the air with festive fun at the Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest. Walk the after-dark trail and discover a sparkling flock of jolly robins, giant luminous seed pods floating high into the night sky, sparkling tunnels of light and much more! It's set to be a magical wintery woodland walk, fun for all the family.

<strong>Christmas at Bedgebury</strong>

The Nutcracker at Malthouse Theatre

38 minute drive

In December, the Let’s All Dance ballet company presents family festive favourite, The Nutcracker. 

Join Clara and her Nutcracker Prince as they travel through magical lands, and meet the Mouse King, Snow Queen and Sugar Plum Fairy in the beautiful Land of Sweets. Keep an eye out for tickets, grab your seat and watch an amazing show full of music, dance and storytelling.

<strong>The Nutcracker at Malthouse Theatre</strong>