PEPPA PIG SPACE ADVENTURE

Designed for preschoolers and early-years children, Peppa Pig Space Adventure blends storytelling and play in a calm, welcoming environment ‘where families can explore together’. The experience is a walk-through adventure rather than a stage show, with each space inspired by Peppa’s world.

NEC, Birmingham, until Sunday 8 November

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HALLOWEEN NIGHTS

Black Country Living Museum is promising a frightfully fun October as its popular Halloween Nights return across four evenings. The after-dark events will see the museum’s historic streets transformed with spooky entertainment, trick-or-treating and ghostly encounters for families to enjoy. 

Visitors can meet mischievous characters, explore haunted corners of the site, and soak up the atmospheric after-hours setting. 

New attractions include supernatural-themed experiences inspired by the museum’s 1940s to 1960s high street, and eerie tales from the region’s industrial past.

Black Country Living Museum, Dudley, Saturday 24 & Thursday 29 - Sat 31 October

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HALF-TERM AT THINKTANK

Thinktank has packed its October half-term programme with a mix of science, creativity and spooky family fun. 

Young visitors can explore the world of technology at the Lego Coding & AI Workshop, enjoy hands-on activities including Wizard Bubble Shields and camera-less photography sessions with artist Tom Godwin, and meet the Science Magician for a magical blend of tricks and scientific discovery.

The museum’s Magic Mayhem Science Show also returns, featuring Halloween-themed demonstrations, interactive experiments,  and plenty of audience participation. 

For film fans, Thinktank’s popular Spooky Cinema season includes screenings of favourites such as Hocus Pocus and E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial, alongside sci-fi classics Blade Runner: The Final Cut and Alien. 

Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum, until Sunday 1 November

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GHOSTS, PUMPKINS & TUDOR TALES

History and Halloween combine in this family-friendly autumn adventure at Sudeley Castle. Visitors can follow a pumpkin trail through the castle grounds and historic rooms while searching for hidden ghost statues inspired by the castle’s spooky legends. Those who spot every ghost will be rewarded with a sweet treat.

The event also features ghostly talks exploring Sudeley’s mysterious past, while special Tudor-themed encounters bring historic characters and folklore to life. Families can meet Tudor ghosts, hear tales from a Wise Woman and discover strange remedies and superstitions from bygone centuries. Additional owl experiences are also available, offering the chance to get up close to these magnificent birds in the atmospheric surroundings of the Castle Coach House.

Sudeley Castle, Winchcombe, until Sunday 1 November

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GHOST & SCREAM TRAINS

Halloween returns to Severn Valley Railway with two spine-tingling experiences to delight visitors looking for thrills on the tracks. Families can climb aboard the popular Ghost Train, where haunted stations, spooky characters and jump scares await on an atmospheric journey through the night. Young passengers will also receive a Halloween goodie bag as part of the experience. 

For those seeking something more terrifying, the adults-only Scream Train promises an even darker adventure. Brave souls aged 18 and over should brace themselves for immersive scares and frightening encounters.

And just to get visitors in the mood for the journeys ahead, there’s some eerie entertainment to experience at Kidderminster Station prior to departure. 

Severn Valley Railway, Kidderminster, until Saturday 31 October

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NEVERLAND

Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery’s Gas Hall has transformed into the magical world of Neverland for Christmas. The immersive festive experience, inspired by JM Barrie’s classic children’s story Peter Pan, features twinkling fairy lights, pirate ships, whimsical forests and familiar characters including Peter Pan, Wendy, Captain Hook, Tinkerbell and the alarm-clock-swallowing crocodile.

The Neverland experience is supporting a meaningful cause, with £1 from every ticket sold being donated to Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity, helping to support seriously ill children and their families.

Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, until Sunday 3 January

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CRAFTING, CAKES, AND CHRISTMAS AT THE NEC

Creative enthusiasts are invited to enjoy a packed day of inspiration, shopping and festive fun when four popular events come together under one roof at the NEC early this month.

One ticket gives visitors access to The Creative Craft Show, Sewing For Pleasure Winter, Simply Christmas and Cake & Bake International, creating what organisers describe as the biggest and best-value creative day out.

Shoppers can browse hundreds of exhibitors offering everything from craft supplies, fabrics and sewing essentials to handmade gifts, festive decorations, jewellery and home accessories. Demonstrations, workshops and expert advice, for anyone looking to learn new skills or find inspiration for their next project, also feature.

Cake lovers can marvel at spectacular edible creations - including a life-size display featuring the Prince and Princess of Wales - alongside thousands of competition entries. Baking stars Cherish Finden and Andrew Fuller, from Netflix's Is It Cake?, will also be in attendance. 

NEC, Birmingham, Thursday 5 - Sunday 8 November

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MIND BODY SPIRIT FESTIVAL

The Mind Body Spirit Festival is offering three days of wellbeing, spirituality and self-care at the NEC mid-month. 
Visitors can explore a packed programme of talks, workshops, classes and experiences designed to inspire healthier, more mindful living.
The festival features a bustling Wellbeing Market, free stages, expert speakers and wide-ranging opportunities to engage with holistic practices including yoga, meditation, energy healing and mindfulness. 
Attendees can also take part in interactive experiences, explore different therapies and connect with like-minded people from across the wellbeing community.

NEC, Birmingham, Friday13 - Sun 15 November

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PEAKY BLINDERS NIGHT

Step into the world of the Peaky Blinders this month as Black Country Living Museum hosts another of its popular nighttime events. 

From 7pm to 10.30pm, visitors to the venue can explore the historic streets and locations featured in the hit BBC television series. Expect live music, interactive performances and fun betting games, presented alongside a selection of Black Country food, including pork cobs, steak pie and traditional pub snacks. 
Guests are encouraged to dress in their finest 1920s-inspired outfits for the occasion.

Suitable for ages 16 and over.

Black Country Living Museum, Dudley, Saturday 14 November

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NETBALL AID

Sport, entertainment and fundraising come together in Birmingham this month as star-studded charity event Netball Aid makes a return. The popular get-together will see celebrities, former netball stars and special guests join forces for an afternoon of netball action, music and family-friendly activities and entertainment. The annually held event is raising vital funds and awareness for Shelter, the long-established homelessness charity which works to support people facing housing insecurity across the country.

Utilita Arena Birmingham, Sunday 15 November

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SPECTACLE OF LIGHT

Spectacle Of Light, one of the Cotswolds’ most popular Christmas attractions, makes a welcome return this month, transforming the grounds of Sudeley Castle into a magical Alice In Wonderland-inspired adventure. 

Now in its 11th year, the illuminated trail comes complete with dazzling displays, immersive storytelling and a host of new installations designed to bring Lewis Carroll’s much-loved story to life. Visitors will follow the White Rabbit through the gardens, along the way encountering familiar characters including the Mad Hatter, Cheshire Cat, Tweedledum & Tweedledee, and the Queen of Hearts. Spectacular projections onto the castle façade, a giant chessboard and the mysterious Smoking Keyhole also feature, with festive food & drink available throughout the experience.

Sudeley Castle, Winchcombe, Friday 20 November - Wednesday 30 December

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THE NATIONAL FESTIVAL OF RAILWAY MODELLING

Widely regarded as the UK’s largest model railway exibition, The National Festival Of Railway Modelling is a two-day event bringing together over 120 manufacturers, retailers, clubs and societies from across the country and more than 60 expertly crafted layouts. 

Visitors can access live demonstrations, expert talks and practical modelling advice at the World of Railways Stage, while family-friendly attractions include the Marble Express Train Game and a free ride-on train.

NEC, Birmingham, Saturday 21 & Sunday 22 November

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THE POLAR EXPRESS TRAIN RIDE

THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride returns to Birmingham for Christmas 2026 with a brand-new show, inviting families to step into the magic of the much-loved festive story.

Departing from Birmingham Moor Street Station, the immersive theatrical experience brings to life the world of the 2004 film  aboard a heritage steam train. Passengers can enjoy live performances, festive music and storytelling, as familiar characters help recreate the enchanting adventure.

Guests are encouraged to wear their favourite pyjamas and dressing gowns as they settle in for a journey that comes complete with singing chefs, hot chocolate and a cookie. Santa Claus will also make a special appearance, presenting every guest with the treasured First Gift of Christmas - a silver sleigh bell.

Birmingham Moor Street Station, Sun 22, Sat 28 & Sun 29 November, Sat 5 & Sun 6, Sat 12 & Sun 13, Fri 18 - Tues 23 December

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FESTIVE GOOD FOOD SHOW

The countdown to Christmas gets a delicious kick-start when the Festive Good Food Show returns to the NEC this month. 

Bringing together top chefs, food experts, artisan producers and household brands, the four-day event promises plenty of inspiration for festive entertaining, seasonal recipes and Christmas shopping.
Visitors can check out live cooking demonstrations by well-known culinary stars including John Torode and James Martin (pictured), pick up tips and tricks for Christmas feasts, and enjoy tastings, workshops and interactive experiences. 

More than 350 independent food & drink producers will be showcasing their products, offering everything from gourmet treats and festive ingredients to unique gifts and kitchen essentials.

NEC, Birmingham, Thursday 26 - Sunday 29 November

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WINTER LIGHT EXPERIENCE

A brand-new Christmas-season attraction, Winter Light Experience features more than 30 illuminated installations and takes visitors on a magical journey across part of the iconic Brabazon golf course. 

The after-dark trail follows a festive storyline in which Santa has made an unexpected landing. Visitors can follow the lights, uncover clues and help restore Christmas magic as they travel the route. Festive food & drink, fire pits for toasting marshmallows and a fully licensed après bar within a free-to-access Christmas courtyard are also available to enjoy. Sensory-friendly and dog-friendly sessions will take place on selected dates.

The Belfry Hotel & Resort, Sutton Coldfield, Friday 27 November - Saturday 2 January

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CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL

Worcester Cathedral’s historic cloisters and Chapter House are once again playing host to hundreds of individually decorated Christmas trees created by local schools, charities, businesses and community groups.

Visitors can explore the displays and discover the stories behind the decorations, with Dedication Trees offering an opportunity to remember loved ones or celebrate someone special. The festival will also introduce new Community Trees, wooden trees made by Men’s Shed Worcester, which have been decorated by individuals, families, schools and other groups.

Worcester Cathedral, Friday 27 November - Tuesday 5 January

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SANTA STEAM SPECIALS

All aboard Severn Valley Railway’s Santa’s Steam Specials, running on selected dates from the end of the month.

The family-focused experience combines a heritage steam-train journey - from Kidderminster to Arley Station - with a brand-new musical adventure entitled The Recipe For Christmas. Every child will receive a special gift to take home, while selected departures also offer visitors the opportunity to explore Bewdley during the return journey.

Relaxed performances, designed for visitors who prefer a calmer environment, will be available at 10am on Sundays in December.

Severn Valley Railway, Kidderminster, Sat 28 & Sun 29 November, Sat 5 & Sun 6, Sat 12 & Sun 13, Sat 19 & Sun 20 and Thurs 24 December

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TELFORD FESTIVE GARDENS

Step into a winter wonderland as the Chelsea and Maxell Gardens are once again transformed by a dazzling Christmas light trail. 

Visitors can follow the illuminated route through a series of festive scenes, with music, storytelling and plenty of Christmas cheer adding to the experience. Along the way, keep an eye out for mischievous elves, frosty characters and even Santa himself.

The family fun continues beyond the trail, courtesy of seasonal entertainment, a selection of food and the chance to enjoy a warming mug of hot chocolate.

Chelsea & Maxell Gardens, Telford Town Park, Shropshire, Friday 11 - Sunday 13 and Thursday 17 - Monday 21 December

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THE CHRISTMAS LIGHT SHOW

Lichfield Cathedral’s much-loved Christmas Light Show returns this December with an all-new theme inspired by the Nativity story. Created by renowned animation team Illuminos, Follow The Star will feature stunning displays on the Bishop’s Palace and the Cathedral’s famous West Front, as well as, for the first time, projections inside the cathedral itself.

Alongside the illuminations, guests can check out the Christmas Tree Festival and crib, enjoy performances by local choirs, browse the gift shop and keep themselves warm with seasonal refreshments in the recently opened SALT café. Proceeds from ticket sales will support the ongoing work of Lichfield Cathedral.

Lichfield Cathedral, Staffordshire, Tuesday 15 - Monday 21 December