If you’re searching for Christmas events near Wrexham, Alderford in Shropshire is a magical festive retreat just a short drive away. Whether you’re planning a family day out, a seasonal date night, or festive fun with friends, this enchanting lakeside destination is packed with winter experiences you won’t find anywhere else nearby.
Set sail on a sparkling boat journey to Santa’s Island, glide across a real undercover ice rink, and step inside the breathtaking Woodland Ice Bar. And new for this year, you can enjoy a cosy Christmas Drive-In Cinema, showing festive favourites from the comfort of your car.
With four magical attractions in one beautifully decorated setting, Alderford is the perfect place for Wrexham families, couples, and Christmas lovers wanting something truly special – and wonderfully close to home.
Families from Wrexham love taking a short festive trip to Alderford Lake for a one-of-a-kind Santa Experience. Board the sparkling Christmas boat and drift across the lake, lit with twinkling lights, on your way to Santa’s hidden island.
Cheerful elves greet visitors with warm s’mores and festive stories, while children get hands-on in the toy workshop before the highlight – a private visit with Father Christmas in his cosy grotto.
More than a traditional grotto, this is a full festive adventure designed to delight the whole family and create lasting memories close to Wrexham.


Families, couples, and groups from Wrexham can enjoy festive fun at Alderford’s undercover real ice rink. Skating is suitable for all ages and abilities, with skate hire included and aids available for little ones.
Glide beneath sparkling lights and festive music in a magical lakeside setting, rain or shine.
Whether you’re planning a family outing, a romantic date, or a fun festive gathering with friends, the rink offers unforgettable Christmas memories just a short trip from Wrexham.
After skating or visiting Santa, step into Shropshire’s first-ever Woodland Ice Bar, just a short drive from Wrexham.
Chilled to -12°C and carved entirely from ice, this one-of-a-kind bar offers a unique festive experience.
Each 20-minute session includes two drinks, one tall beverage and one shot served in an ice glass, with alcoholic and non-alcoholic options.
Wrap up warm with your own gloves, coats, and hats, and enjoy the magical atmosphere of this icy retreat close to Wrexham.


Looking for festive things to do near Wrexham this Christmas? Head to Alderford and enjoy our Drive-In Cinema, where the spirit of the season comes to life through classic Christmas movies.
Whether you love heart-warming tales or family favourites, you can enjoy them all from the comfort of your car.
It’s the perfect night out for couples, families, and groups looking to celebrate Christmas close to Wrexham.
Coming from Wrexham? Alderford Lake is just a short drive away, making it an easy and convenient destination for Christmas adventures. Whether you’re in Wrexham, Ruabon, Chirk, or the surrounding towns, you’ll be enjoying Christmas festivities by the lake in no time.
| Starting Point | Approx. Distance | Approx. Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Wrexham | 18 miles | 30 mins |
| Ruabon | 12 miles | 20 mins |
| Rhosllanerchrugog | 14 miles | 25 mins |
| Chirk | 11 miles | 20 mins |
| Gresford | 20 miles | 35 mins |
| Coedpoeth | 24 miles | 41 mins |
Visitors from Wrexham can meet real reindeers at Alderford Lake, where Henry and Hector greet families each day during the Christmas season. They’re included with all festive activity tickets.
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.