It’s time to get excited – it’s nearly Christmas! Whether it’s a Christmas market you’re after, somewhere festive to walk or some Christmas food and drink, there’s a lot of Christmas events in Derbyshire this year.
To help you make the most of this festive season, I’ve put together this list of Christmas things to do in Derbyshire 2024.
Christmas markets in Derbyshire
A festive atmosphere, a chance to pick up some fabulous Christmas gifts, and delicious food and drink. Yes, I’m talking about Christmas markets. Here’s where you’ll be able to wander the stalls with a mulled wine to your heart’s content in Derbyshire this year.
Summary – Christmas markets in Derbyshire
- Chatsworth Christmas Market
- Mercatum Christmas Artisan Market at Haddon Hall
- Matlock Christmas Market
- Belper Winter Food and Gift Fair
- Christmas market at The West Mill
- Fabulous Places Christmas Market, Shottle Hall
- Bakewell Christmas Market
- Eyam Makers Market
- Stretton Hall Farm Christmas Market
Chatsworth Christmas Market
Address: Chatsworth, Derbyshire DE45 1PP
Dates: 8th November – 14th December 2025, 10am – 5.30pm (6pm Fridays to Sundays)
The Chatsworth Christmas market is one of my favourite Christmas events in Derbyshire. There are over 100 stalls with Christmas gifts, decorations, live music and outdoor bars serving mulled wine.
The Chatsworth Christmas Market is free to attend, however, car parking charges do apply and these are quite hefty so try to take public transport if possible. Christmas Market tickets are included when you buy tickets for the house.
Well behaved dogs on leads are welcome.
Mercatum Christmas Artisan Market at Haddon Hall
Address: Haddon Hall, Bakewell, Derbyshire DE45 1LA
Dates: Wednesday to Sunday 12th November – 14th December 2025
This seasonal artisan market will showcase 180 carefully curated makers and artisans within the courtyard, gardens, rooms, and galleries of Haddon Hall. Brimming with Christmas gifts and artisanal food, it’s the perfect place to start feeling festive.
This is one of my favourite Christmas markets in Derbyshire, it’s always a really magical day.
Matlock Christmas Market
Address: Hall Leys Park, Matlock DE4 3SX
Dates: 5th – 7th December, 20th & 21st December 2025, 9am – 7pm
Tickets: No need to book, free entry
There are two Christmas markets in Matlock during December – the Victorian Christmas Market and the Matlock Christmas Market. There’s not much difference between the two, so it doesn’t really matter which you choose to visit.
They’re not the best Christmas markets ever but they do feel really festive and so I love to visit. This year the Matlock Christmas market takes place on the 20th and 21st December and features a family fairground, festive food and drink, and craft stalls.
There will be also be an ice skating rink for adults and children.
The Matlock Victorian Christmas Market is 5th – 7th December and features festive performances, fun fair rides, and lots of culinary delights. Dogs are welcome at both markets.
As well as this, the Christmas lights in Matlock are really nice and it’s a lovely town for a Christmassy wander, if you want to do something a bit more chill. Walk through the park to see the lights in all their glory, grab a coffee from one of the independent cafes, and browse for Christmas presents in the quirky shops that Matlock is known for.
It’s a couple of miles walk (half an hour) from Matlock to its neighbour Matlock Bath, which is also nice for a Christmas walk. Grab a gingerbread latte or a hot chocolate from Butterfingers on Dale Road to walk with. I’ve done this on Christmas Eve before and it’s the perfect low key festive activity.
Belper Winter Food and Gift Fair
Address: King Street, Belper DE56 4EU
Dates: 16th November 2025
Tickets: No need to book, free entry
Belper’s Winter Food and Gift Fair brings festivity and fun to the town. There will be around 50 stalls in total with a wide range of food and drink to try including mulled wine and cider, German bratwurst, and burgers.
Stocking fillers and gifts will be available to buy from local arts and craft stalls. The market will take place in King Street, Campbell Street, and Strutt Street.
Christmas market at The West Mill
Address: West Mill Exclusive Use Wedding Venue, Haslams Lane, Darley Abbey DE22 1DZ
Dates: 7th December, 10.30am – 4pm
The West Mill Exclusive Use Wedding Venue will be hosting a Christmas market featuring independent businesses and artisan stalls. There’ll be festive food and drink, Santa’s grotto for the kids, and live music.
Fabulous Places Christmas Market, Shottle Hall
Address: Shottle Hall, White Lane, Shottle, Derbyshire DE56 2EB
Dates: 21st – 23rd November 2025
Fabulous Places curates seasonal events full of small businesses in stunning venues throughout Derbyshire. With seasonal products including plants and flowers, interior decoration, Christmas decor and gifts, fragrance, handmade jewellery, and artisan food, this market is extra special.
I went to the Fabulous Places pop-up market at Peak Village and it was a really gorgeous shopping experience.
Bakewell Christmas Market
Address: Bakewell town centre
Dates: 15th & 16th November 2025
Tickets: No need to book, free entry
Held in Bakewell’s beautiful town centre, the Christmas Market is free to attend. There will be over 100 different stalls including crafts, gifts, and clothing from Monday market traders and local businesses from Derbyshire and the Peak District.
There’ll be some delicious food and drink offerings plus local brass and silver bands, choirs and a DJ. Look out for street entertainment and James McKay and his owls.
Eyam Makers Market
Address: Eyam Market Hall, Main Road, Eyam S32 5QW
Dates: 22nd – 30th November 2025
Tickets: No need to book, free entry
The Eyam Makers Market will take place daily at Eyam Market Hall. Enjoy relaxed shopping in an historical setting with local and handmade gifts on offer.
Stretton Hall Farm Christmas Market
Address: Stretton Hall Farm, Newmarket Lane, Clay Cross S45 9AP
Dates: 3rd & 4th December, 5pm – 7pm
Tickets: No need to book, free entry
Visit Stretton Hall Farm Christmas Market for artisan stalls, mulled wine, hot chocolate station, and live music. There will also be festive activities for children.
Check out more Christmas markets in the UK here.
Christmas wreath making workshops in Derbyshire
Get creative with your besties, or treat someone to a festive gift with a wreath making workshop. Here’s where you can create those beautiful doorway decorations in Derbyshire this year.
Summary – Christmas wreath making workshops in Derbyshire
- Christmas wreath making workshop at Laurenne Hopkins Flowers
- Wreath making at Oakhill Cromford
- Wreath making at The Old Smithy Beeley
- Wreath making workshop at Bottle & Thyme, Chesterfield
- Wreath workshop at Armistead’s Bar, Chesterfield
Christmas wreath making workshop at Laurenne Hopkins Flowers
Address: 26 Oxcroft Estate, Oxcroft S80 4NA
Dates: Various dates throughout November and December
Get into the festive spirit with your friends at a Christmas wreath making workshop at the gorgeous Laurenne Hopkins Flowers. The flower farm is located between Bolsover and Clowne and is run by the lovely Laurenne and her family.
On the farm they grow and source beautiful seasonal flowers which you will use to make a Christmas wreath. The theme this year is “Candy Cane Lane” so enjoy munching sweet treats to a soundtrack of festive tunes and a background of twinkling lights.
Christmas bakes and mince pies will be on hand if you’re peckish as well as a hot chocolate bar, mulled wine, soft drinks, tea and coffee.
You’ll make a 12 inch wreath with evergreen foliage grown on the farm, natural decorations, dried flowers, and ribbon. Tickets cost £67.50 each and you also get a cute little gift to take away with you.
I actually had my wedding flowers from Laurenne so I’m a massive an of hers!
Wreath making at Oakhill Cromford
Address: Intake Lane, Cromford, Matlock DE4 3RH
Dates: 21st, 22nd, 26th, and 29th November, morning and afternoon sessions
Tickets: Call 01629 822211 to book your place.
Oakhill Cromford are offering a wreath making sessions in their gorgeous hotel throughout November. Tickets are £70 per person and include a yummy two-course lunch in the restaurant.
I’ve stayed here and eaten in the restaurant a few times and the food is always delicious so I can imagine that this will be a great event.
Wreath making at The Old Smithy Beeley
Address: Chapel Hill, Beeley, Matlock DE4 2NR
Dates: 4th December, 7pm
Tickets: Message The Old Smithy Beeley on Instagram to book
Visit The Old Smithy Beeley for a festive evening of creativity fuelled by mulled wine and mince pies. All materials are provided and tickets cost £35 per person.
Wreath making workshop at Bottle & Thyme, Chesterfield
Address: Unit 3 Elder Way, Chesterfield S40 1UN
Dates: 30th November 2025, 2-4pm and 6-8pm
This wreath-making workshop is run by the talented Ink & Earth and tickets cost £67 per person. Enjoy festive canapes and English sparkling wine on arrival.
Wreath workshop at Armistead’s Bar, Chesterfield
Address: 22-24 Corporation Street, Chesterfield S41 7TP
Dates: 13th and 27th November 2025, 6.30pm
Tickets: Send a DM to Armistead’s Bar on Instagram or enquire at the bar
Enjoy a cosy and creative evening making your own beautiful Christmas wreath using locally sourced foliage. Tickets are £40 per person and include a glass of wine, delicious festive bakes, and all materials.
Where to see Santa in Derbyshire
This festive season, families across Derbyshire can look forward to plenty of magical opportunities to meet Santa. From cosy grottos tucked inside garden centres to enchanting winter wonderlands at local attractions, children will be able to share their Christmas wishes and enjoy a memorable experience with the big man in red.
Whether you’re after a traditional visit with gifts, a festive train ride, or something a little more unique, there are lots of places across the county bringing the spirit of Christmas to life.
Summary – where to see Santa in Derbyshire
- Breakfast with Santa at the Hunloke Arms
- Santa Specials at Peak Rail
- Santa’s Enchanted Christmas at Bluebell Dairy
- Afternoon tea with Santa at The Maynard
Breakfast with Santa at the Hunloke Arms
Address: Derby Road, Wingerworth, Chesterfield S42 6NB
Dates: Weekends throughout December, and the week before Christmas Day, 8.30am – 10.30am
Head to the Hunloke Arms in Wingerworth to enjoy breakfast with the big man.
It’s a real treat for the little ones with children getting a visit with Santa and a Santa box to take home. Breakfast includes a glass of juice, a freshly baked pastry, your choice of main course (full English, eggs benedict, waffles, etc), and unlimited tea and coffee.
Santa Specials at Peak Rail
Address: Rowsley South Station, off, Harrison Way, Darley Dale, Matlock DE4 2LF
Dates: Weekends in December and the week before Christmas Day
Come and meet the big guy himself with one of Peak Rail’s Santa Specials! Santa will be on board a heritage steam train setting off from Rowsley South Station this December.
A variety of professional entertainers will be on board for the journey which takes just over an hour, and Santa and his helpers will meet everyone in their seats with a gift for all children. Children get a drink and a snack and adults can enjoy a glass of wine and a mince pie.
There are four departure times available. Tickets cost between £40 for a table of two and £130 for a compartment of six.
Santa’s Enchanted Christmas at Bluebell Dairy
Address: Locko Rd, Derby DE21 7AR
Dates: Selected dates from 29th November to 24th December 2025
Visit Bluebell Dairy for festive fun. Watch Santa descend from a giant chimney and meet real reindeer nestled in their cosy barn.
Children can choose a toy from the magical chimney and build their own bear in the North Pole’s Bear Workshop, as well as make reindeer food and watch interactive live shows.
When you need refreshments, head over to the Alpine Bar for homemade hot chocolates made from the farm’s own cow’s milk.
Tickets include access to the farm and start from £23.50 for adults and £39.50 for children.
Afternoon tea with Santa at The Maynard, Grindleford
Address: Main Road, Grindleford, Hope Valley S32 2HE
Dates: 13th and 20th December, 12.30pm and 2.30pm
Indulge in a delicious afternoon tea before a visit from Santa. The kids can enjoy a range of festive activities before taking a magical photo and receiving a gift from Santa – all with the help of the elves, Tinsel and Sprout!
Christmas carol events in Derbyshire
Here are a few of the Christmas carol events taking place around Derbyshire this festive season. Whether you love the sound of traditional voices raised in harmony, packed tuneful concerts in churches, or outdoor gatherings under twinkling lights, there’s something to fill every heart with Christmas cheer.
Get ready for joyful music, and plenty of seasonal sparkle as communities come together to sing and celebrate.
Summary – Christmas carol events in Derbyshire
- Carols by Candlelight at Treak Cliff Cavern, Castleton
Christmas Carol Concerts at Treak Cliff Cavern, Castleton
Address: Buxton Road, Castleton, S33 8WP
Dates: Weekend in December, 2pm
Wrap up warm and head down to the atmospheric venue of the Witch’s Cave at Treak Cliff Cavern for mulled wine, mince pies, and a variety of modern Christmas songs accompanied by a piano accordion. The atmosphere here is really magical as it’s lit by thousands of fairy lights and candles with a background of shimmering Blue John.
Singing lasts around an hour with mulled wine and mince pies served afterwards.
Be sure to sing along!
Christmas lights in Derbyshire
Here are just a few of the spectacular Christmas lights displays lighting up Derbyshire this year. Whether you prefer quaint village streets twinkling with festive charm or dazzling installations at gardens and historic estates, you’ll find magic around every corner.
Bundle up, grab a hot drink, and soak up the glow of fairy lights paving the way to warm winter memories.
Summary – Christmas lights in Derbyshire
- Castleton Christmas Lights
- Chesterfield Christmas Lights Switch On
Castleton Christmas Lights
Castleton is one of my favourite villages in the Peak District, it’s so beautiful. At Christmas the village transforms into a winter wonderland with lights, decorations and Christmas trees.
Start with a walk into the Peaks, followed by a stroll round the village (and maybe a mulled wine and a mince pie in one of the pubs!) for an active festive activity. The lights are usually turned on in November.
Chesterfield Christmas Lights Switch On
Address: Town Hall, Rose Hill, Chesterfield
Date: 23rd November 2025, 12pm – 6pm
Tickets: No need to book, free entry
Chesterfield will be filled with festive cheer and vibrant entertainment. There will be a market alongside the switch on.
Christmas Tree Festivals in Derbyshire
Here are just a few of the beautiful Christmas tree festivals happening across Derbyshire this season. From elaborately decorated trees in historic churches to community halls filled with creative displays, these festivals bring together local talent and festive spirit.
Take a walk among the twinkling lights, enjoy festive refreshments, and pick out your favourite tree—perfect for families, friends, or anyone wanting to soak up the magic of Christmas in a joyful way.
Summary – Christmas tree festivals in Derbyshire
- Festival of Christmas Trees, Chesterfield
- Bakewell Christmas Tree Festival
Festival of Christmas Trees, Chesterfield
Address: The Crooked Spire Church, Church Way, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S40 1XJ
Date: 15th November – 30th November 2025
Tickets: No need to book, free entry
The iconic Crooked Spire Church in Chesterfield is home to the magical Festival of Christmas Trees. There will be over 100 Christmas trees in the largest church in Derbyshire, all decorated by local people, groups, businesses, and shops.
Admission is free but any donations would be gratefully accepted.
Bakewell Christmas Tree Festival
Address: All Saints Parish Church, South Church Street, Bakewell DE45 1FB
Date: 12th – 21st December 2025
Tickets: No need to book, free entry
The annual Bakewell Christmas Tree Festival is a wonderful event celebrating the local community. Enjoy the beautiful Christmas trees on display, each decorated by local schools, charities, businesses, and community groups.
Light refreshments are available and there is a choir singing seasonal songs on 13th December. Admission is free but donations are welcome.
Apres ski bars in Derbyshire
Who needs to jet off to the ski slopes? There are apres-ski bars popping up all over Derbyshire this festive season.
Tipis and fire pits create a cosy alpine feel and you can indulge in a mulled wine, an aperol spritz, or even a cheese fondue. They capture the spirit of a ski season without needing to get out your suitcase – perfect for chilly winter nights with friends and family.
Summary – apres ski bars in Derbyshire
- The Apres Bar at Bank House Hathersage
- Apres Ski at Designate, Matlock
The Apres Bar at Bank House Hathersage
Address: Bank House, Main Road, Hathersage, Hope Valley S32 1BB
Dates: From 31st October 2025
Tickets: You can book a table or just turn up.
If you’re missing ski season this year, there’s no need to worry because Bank House Hathersage has got you covered with their Apres Bar. Enjoy a delicious meal or some drinks in their magical winter tipi, next to the cosy woodburner.
Apres Ski at Designate @ The Gate, Matlock
Address: 72 Smedley Street East, Matlock DE4 3FQ
Dates: Saturdays throughout December
Winter drinks and festive fun is on offer every Saturday throughout December at Designate @ The Gate in Matlock. Festive one pots and hot cobs are on offer too, if you’re peckish.
Christmas at Chatsworth House & Gardens
Address: Chatsworth, Derbyshire DE45 1PP
Dates: 8th November 2025 – 4th January 2026
One of my favourite ways to get into the festive spirit is to go to one of the Christmas events at Chatsworth.
This year’s theme for the popular Christmas at Chatsworth event is The Enchanted Garden, created in honour of the beauty and resilience of the natural world at Chatsworth. Renowned artists and animators have collaborated to create an immersive, multi-sensory experience as 20 spaces are transformed with light, sound, and shadow play.
You’ll see huge Christmas trees, mistletoe, copper toadstools, oak leaf archways, enchanted fairies, and woodland creatures. In the garden there’s a light trail through some of the Chatsworth’s best features.
Tickets also include entry to the Christmas market.
Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink, Derby
Address: Derby Market Place
Dates: 29th November – 31st December
Is there anything more festive than ice skating? Channel your inner Torvill and Dean and grab your skates to get in the Christmas mood.
Warm up with a cheeky hot chocolate or mulled wine afterwards from the Nordic bar next door. If you don’t fancy getting on the ice yourself, there is a viewing platform with twinkling lights and a festive playlist for spectators.
Bolsover Lantern Parade and Winter Festival
Address: Bolsover town centre
Dates: 29th November 2025
Tickets: No need to book, free entry
The Bolsover Lantern Parade and Christmas Festival takes place in the town centre with stalls at Cavendish Walk, the Assembly Rooms, and Bolsover Castle. It’s free to attend and attractions include fairground rides, real reindeers, musical entertainment, brass band, carol singing, artisan market stalls, and festive food and drink.
The lantern parade starts at 4pm and is one of the biggest and longest-running light processions in the UK. The parade starts at the castle and travels through the town, finishing at the Cenotaph where there will be Christmas carols.
Christmas at Denby Pottery Village
Address: Denby Pottery Village, Derby Road, Derby DE5 8NX
Dates: 4th – 23rd December
Tickets: Some events are ticketed
Denby Pottery Village in Derby has a whole host of Christmas events taking place throughout December including a Christmas market, a magical Santa experience and a wreath making workshop.
The Christmas market is on 4th – 7th December and 11th – 14th December. It is free to enter, and has over 30 stalls including artisan food and drinks, and handcrafted gifts.
If you’re feeling crafty there’s a wreath workshop on various dates where you can hand wire and arrange seasonal foliage and natural materials to create a beautiful Christmas wreath. Enjoy a cuppa and a cake in Bourne’s Coffee Shop & Bistro before you decorate your own winter wreath or make the experience even more special by upgrading to afternoon tea.
If your children want to meet Santa, you can book a magical Santa experience. Visit Santa in his cosy cabin, receive an Elf Observation Report, and hand pick a gift.
Christmas at Thornbridge
Address: Ashford in the Water, Bakewell DE45 1NZ
Dates: From 10th November 2025
There’s plenty going on this Christmas at the Thornbridge Estate, including:
- Christmas house tours
- Christmas Shopping Village
- Festive afternoon tea
- Festive workshops
Christmas house tours
Dates: 10th November – 20th December 2025
Discover the magic of Christmas with the Never Ordinary House Tours at Thornbridge Hall. Take a 50 minute guided tour through the halls, all decorated in their Christmas finery. You’ll see the family sitting room and kitchen, and the music room and marvel at the huge Christmas tree. Tickets are £20.96 and include a mince pie crumble slice, mulled wine, and entry to the garden.
Christmas shopping village
Dates: 5th – 7th and 12th – 14th December 2025, 10am – 4pm
Get your Christmas shopping sorted with stalls from local makers, bakers, creatives, and traders. Pick up unique gifts, indulge in a mulled wine (or two!), and enjoy the festive music.
Festive afternoon tea
Dates: 10th November – 30th December 2025
Enjoy a festive afternoon tea with Christmas-themed sandwiches, cakes, and treats, washed down with tea or coffee. Why not treat yourself and add on a glass of prosecco, too?
Festive workshops
Get crafty and take part in a festive activity this Christmas. Workshops include:
- Papercraft – Christmas Tags – 11th November
- Willow Dear – 12th November
- Alcohol ink Christmas Cards – 13th November
- Embroidery Christmas cards and gift tags – 14th November
- Weaving with Nature – 17th November
- Christmas Wreath – 27th & 29th November, 4th, 6th, 12th & 14th December
- Christmas Robin Wire Weaving – 5th & 19th November
- Christmas Sleigh Wire Weaving – 5th & 19th November
- Drop spindle – 1st December
- Raffia Coiled Basketry – 15th December
Drive round decorations
Did your parents used to drive round to show you over the top Christmas decorations when you were kids? Mine too!
Why not take a drive round to see if you can spot the best decs? My favourites can be seen at a house on Parkway in Darley Dale and this was one of the houses that we used to visit when I was little so they have been doing it for years!
Try North View in Bolsover, Walton Crescent in Boythorpe, Holymoor Road in Holymoorside, Broom Drive in Grassmoor, South Street in Swanwick, Chesterfield Road in Tibshelf, North Street in Holmgate and Carrwood Road in Renishaw for some epic displays. Or just start driving and see what you can find!
There are usually some magical Christmas displays by shops, pubs and hotels. Some of the photos in this blog post were taken at Wildes Inn in Chesterfield which had a beautiful Christmas archway and two stunning Christmas trees inside.
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