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 a dash of Christmas magic at 4 Kingdoms Adventure Park. Embark on a thrilling journey to the North Pole, meeting elves, reindeer, and of course jolly Santa himself. Walk, wonder, and play through fantastical locations and rooms, before boarding the train for a scenic ride back laden with goodies and filled with Christmas cheer!

Alternatively, spend your morning or afternoon escaping the everyday by taking in a Christmas show. There’s a packed Christmas programme including laughs for all the family at this year's Anvil Arts pantomime, Sleeping Beauty. With stunning sets, top musical hits, fantastic costumes and exciting special effects to keep audiences both young and old entertained or head on an immersive theatre experience with ScratchBuilt Productions in association with Proteus who present The Christmas Elf Inspector.

You’ll find activities to enjoy at Basingstoke Leisure Park including a festive trail, bowling at Hollywood Bowl, swimming at Basingstoke Aquadrome, an indoor flight experience at iFLY 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, lose yourself in the enchanting world of Alice in Wonderland with a themed trail, puzzles and festive activities at The Vyne National Trust house and gardens.

Before heading home, enjoy 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 to Crabtree Plantation.

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

For more ideas, see our guide to Christmas in Basingstoke and Deane.