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A festive family getaway in Basingstoke and Deane

Look no further than Basingstoke and Deane to make festive memories with the family to last a lifetime, we’ve pulled together a sample itinerary for a weekend sprinkled with seasonal magic.

Day one

Start your day with an award-winning immersive experience full of Christmas magic at 4 Kingdoms Adventure Park. Take off from 4 Kingdoms in Santa’s Spaceship and to journey to the North Pole where you’ll meet an array of fun, friendly characters from elves to talking bears; and not forgetting the main man, Santa! Enjoy a snowball fight at the Ice Castle, watch a special performance from one of the North pole’s top performers at the Glacier Theatre and visit The Imaginerium, where all the toys are created. 

Alternatively, spend your morning or afternoon escaping the every day by taking in a Christmas show.  There’s a packed Christmas programme at Anvil Arts including laughs for all the family at this year's pantomime or step into a magical world at Proteus Theatre this Christmas for an immersive festive theatre experience for all ages with puppetry, music and wonder. Perfect for younger audiences and their grown-ups to create unforgettable memories.

You’ll find activities to enjoy at Basingstoke Leisure Park including bowling at Hollywood Bowl, swimming at Basingstoke Aquadrome, an indoor flight experience at iFLY Basingstoke or take in a movie at Odeon Cinema. If you head to Basingstoke town centre, you will find lots of options to fuel the family in Festival Place and things to do flip-out trampoline park, Vue Cinema, Dice Tower gaming café and all the shops to finish off any Christmas shopping or ideas for last-minute Christmas gifts!

After a busy day filled with Christmas cheer, head to your family friendly accommodation, all located close to Basingstoke town centre for convenience. Choose from the modern Village Hotel, Premier Inn, Red Lion or the Holiday Inn.

Day two

Wake up refreshed and ready to enjoy a chilled Sunday in Basingstoke and Deane. Take the family for a trip down memory lane at Milestones Museum, Hampshire’s museum of living history. Explore the fascinating exhibits, from vintage toys to historic vehicles and immerse yourselves in the festive atmosphere. For a truly unique Christmas experience, embark on a journey of The Vyne, National Trust house and gardens. Sparkling trees laden with baubles will illuminate magical displays over the festive season.  

Before heading home, refuel with a final festive treat such as a steaming hot chocolate or mince pie from Milestones Museum Rooftop Café or The Vyne cosy brewhouse tearoom. If you have any spare time, make the most of the great outdoors and green space close to Basingstoke town centre. Take a leisurely stroll to Eastrop Park, War Memorial Park or an adventure at Crabtree Plantation.

Remember to check the Love Basingstoke what’s on for specific Christmas activities and shows during your visit.