Top Christmas Attractions for 2022

The most magical season is nearly here. If you're excited about cold wintery nights, twinkling lights and a season of fun - then you're in good company! As we all gear up for the festive period, The Botanist team have been on the lookout for the best Christmas attractions for 2022. Take a look at our favourite picks in some of the UK’s top locations below... 

BATH 
Christmas Markets | 24th November - 11th December
The Ice Rink | 12th Nov - 3rd Jan 10.30am-10.00pm

Considered one of the UK's most picturesque cities, Bath transforms into a whimsical wonderland during the festive season. Find an array of treasures or last-minute gifts, hidden in the quaint Christmas markets that line the beautiful Georgian streets.All shopped out? No problem. The Bath Ice Rink is back and bigger than ever! Spend the day skating across the 1000-square-foot ice rink adorned with atmospheric lights and music. Whether you’re a novice or the next Torvill & Dean, this fun day out will get you in the Christmas spirit. After a spin on the ice, head to The Botanist Bath for a well-deserved feast from our festive menu. 

CARDIFF 
Christmas at Bute Park | 24th November - 1st January 

Christmas at Bute Park makes the darker evenings worthwhile. The award-winning light trail is back again after a sell-out debut last year. Bundle up and explore the spectacular course, from the exciting hypnotic laser journey to the epic orb of iridescent colour. New for 2022, the Lake of Light uses hypnotic lasers to create a mesmerising liquid sky. Also new for 2022, The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Cardiff is the perfect spot for a warming meal that guarantees to hit the spot. 

EXETER 
Exeter Carnival | 26th November

Visit Exeter this Christmas to explore a labyrinth of historic lanes glowing with lights and seasonal sights. 2022 will be particularly special as the city welcomes back the Exeter Carnival on the 26th of November. After a 24-year hiatus, this illuminating spectacle will light up the heart of the city centre. Join friends and family for a night of festivities including; light-up acts, floats and bands! Keep the party spirit going at The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Exeter, where our tantalising menu and an array of seasonal drinks will be waiting. 

MANCHESTER 
Backyard Cinema | 21 October - 23 December 2022 

Manchester comes alive during Christmas, as the famous markets draw visitors from far and wide. If the hustle and bustle isn’t your cup of tea, then we have the perfect activity for you. Backyard Cinema will make its first leap up North, crowning Depot Mayfield as the location for its first event outside London. The immersive cinema experts will transform the former Mayfield Train Station into a 330-capacity indoor cinema - that needs to be seen to be believed! 

Be prepared to navigate tunnels of trees and explore movie-grade sets before finding the Enchanted Forest - the home of the Lost Theatre. Once inside, giant custom-made bean bags provide the cosiest seating, ready for snuggling down while you watch a movie. Across the 10-week residency, audiences can enjoy cult classics E.T. and The Greatest Showman, brand new releases like ELVIS and well-loved Christmas classics; The Holiday, Elf and Love Actually. 

For when popcorn won’t do, be sure to visit The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Deansgate,where you can enjoy our delicious festive menu and perhaps a cocktail or two! 

READING
Christmas Specials at The Hexagon | November - December 

The Hexagon, found in the heart of Reading, regularly hosts an eclectic mix of entertainers and shows throughout the year. This 2022 festive season is no different, as the venue hosts a variety of shows to take your fancy. Enjoy the world-class voices of powerhouse duo Russell Watson & Aled Jones or a stand-up show from comedian Russell Kane. Christmas specials are also in full swing with the Rhythm of the Dance Christmas Show and the Super Family Pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk! 

If you’re heading to The Hexagon, why not visit The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Reading for some pre-theatre dining? Our Christmas menus offer something that everyone will enjoy. 

CHRISTMAS AT THE BOTANIST 
After a day of festivities, either shopping til you drop or enjoying the delights of a live performance, keep the fun going with a visit to The Botanist. Our restaurants across the country have transformed into seasonal wonderlands, providing the perfect backdrop to enjoy our delicious Christmas menus and festive tipples. Find your nearest Botanist here and enjoy Christmas, The Botanist way.