If you’re searching for magical things to do at Christmas near Gloucestershire, Alderford Lake in Shropshire is a sparkling festive destination waiting to be discovered. Just over an hour from Cheltenham, Gloucester, and Stroud, this winter wonderland is the perfect place for families, couples, and groups of friends to celebrate the season.
From sailing across a twinkling lake to meet Santa, to gliding on a real ice rink and raising a glass in a frozen woodland bar, Alderford offers three unique festive experiences – all in one enchanting location.
Families from across Gloucestershire make the trip to Alderford Lake for its one-of-a-kind Santa Experience. Step aboard a magical boat and drift across the water, lit with twinkling lights, on your way to Santa’s hidden island.
Cheerful elves welcome you with warm s’mores and festive storytelling before little ones join in toy-making fun at the workshop. The adventure ends with a private meeting with Father Christmas in his cosy grotto – a memory children will treasure forever.
It’s more than just a Santa’s grotto; it’s a Christmas journey unlike anything else near Gloucestershire.
Few things capture the joy of Christmas like lacing up your skates. Alderford’s real undercover ice rink means you can enjoy the magic in rain, shine, or even snow. Soft lights and festive music set the mood while families, couples, and groups take to the ice together.
With skate hire included and skating aids for children, the rink is designed for all ages and abilities.
Whether you’re planning a festive family day out from Gloucester or a romantic date night from the Cotswolds, skating at Alderford promises unforgettable memories.
After skating, continue your Christmas adventure in a setting you won’t find anywhere else nearby – the Woodland Ice Bar. Built entirely from ice and chilled to -12°C, this extraordinary bar is the first of its kind in Shropshire and a short trip from Gloucestershire.
Each 20-minute session includes two drinks, a tall chilled beverage and a shot served in an ice glass. With both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, it’s a unique experience that’s perfect for couples, groups, and friends wanting something a little different this Christmas.
With so much to do at Alderford Lake, many visitors from Gloucestershire choose to make a full day or even a weekend of it.
Spend the day enjoying Santa’s Island, ice skating, and the Ice Bar, then retreat to a cosy Cotswolds inn or countryside hotel nearby.
Check out our guide to the Best Places to Stay in Shropshire for inspiration and make your festive visit extra special.
Whether you’re searching for Christmas activities near Gloucester, festive days out close to Cheltenham, or unique things to do at Christmas in the Cotswolds, Alderford Lake is a destination worth the short trip.
| Starting Point | Distance | Approx. Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Gloucester | 70 miles | 1 hr 35 mins |
| Cheltenham | 75 miles | 1 hr 40 mins |
| Stroud | 80 miles | 1 hr 45 mins |
| Tewkesbury | 65 miles | 1 hr 30 mins |
| Cirencester | 85 miles | 1 hr 50 mins |
| Forest Of Dean | 65 miles | 1 hr 30 mins |
Yes! The Santa experience is designed for the whole family. Younger children love the elves’ stories, helping in the toy workshop, and of course meeting Father Christmas himself in his grotto.
Definitely. Couples often visit for the ice rink and Ice Bar, while families and groups of friends make a full festive day of it. There’s something magical for all ages, not just the little ones.
Yes, advance booking is essential as Christmas events at Alderford are extremely popular, especially Santa’s Island. Tickets often sell out quickly, so booking early is the best way to secure your visit.
