It might seem early, but for many, Christmas planning has already started. Especially where to have your Christmas Party, where to go for delicious Christmas food and where to take your kids to get them in the holiday spirit. It can be an overwhelming time for many so we thought we would try and alleviate some stress by recommending some of the best things to do in Cambridge at Christmas.
There is plenty to look forward to this festive season including the Christmas Illuminations at Wimpole Hall, team Christmas Parties at the Cambridge Brewhouse, and our very own Christmas Carols on the River.
Christmas parties in Cambridge 2023
Cambridge Brewhouse
The first on our list for team Christmas Parties is the Cambridge Brewhouse. Not only are they in a prime location within the city centre, they also offer a wide range of bespoke package options to suit every Christmas Party need. Their upstairs spaces, consisting of two large rooms, can be transformed into both a space for a friendly sit down dinner or a more lively canape affair. The exclusivity of private space doesn’t just stop indoors, at the back of the venue they have an intimate outdoor terrace, decked with greenery.
Cambridge Brewhouse, if the hint in the name wasn’t enough, is a microbrewery. They brew eight beers in house, with four taking their namesakes from the city of Cambridge itself.
For private parties, they have different drinks receptions to choose from, with either fizz on arrival or for those wanting a more traditional christmas beverage, a lightly spiced Mulled Wine greets guests as they walk in the door. Not only do they have a variety of drinks on offer, they also have plenty to choose from when it comes to their set menu.
Christmas Set Menu-
2 Courses- £25.50pp
3 Courses- £29.50pp
Winter punting
Next up we have the most traditional, relaxing activity Cambridge has to offer – Punting with us, Let’s Go Punting! Your trip to Cambridge isn’t complete without a chauffeured punting tour along the River Cam. What could be more relaxing than sitting back and enjoying a 50-minute tour, with a charming chauffeur to expertly glide you along the river. The tour runs through the stunning untouched backs of the Cambridge University colleges, revealing its historic beauty. Your chauffeur will not only do the hard work for you, but give a full history of the university and its old tales.
And if that alone is not enough to convince you, there are options to add on scavenger hunts, a walking tour, picnics, and best of all – bottles of bubbly! Picnic options include afternoon tea, a brunch box and a deli style grazing box – all can be paired with alcoholic and non-alcohol refreshments. This extra touch only adds to the VIP experience, while wrapped up under a blanket.
Varsity Hotel
Celebrate the magic of Christmas in style at The Varsity Hotel & Spa in Cambridge for your christmas party venue 2023. Perched atop this historic city, The varsity offers a mesmerising panoramic view over the skyline of Cambridge to soak up the festive spirit. They have created a mouthwatering Christmas menu featuring the freshest seasonal ingredients, ensuring a culinary experience to remember!
The whole experience is made that much better with Santa hats and Christmas crackers. Whether you’re planning a grand seated meal for up to 140 people, or a more intimate gathering, the spacious restaurant offers the perfect setting for christmas celebrations. For those travelling further afield, The Varsity offers luxurious accommodation to extend your celebration with a cosy stay!
Quy Mill Hotel
Another standout choice is to celebrate at Quy Mill Hotel & Spa. Their Christmas Party Nights are hosted in a beautifully adorned winter wonderland theme marquee, creating a memorable festive gathering with your loved ones or colleagues. You have the flexibility to choose from individual table reservations or reserving the entire marquee for a more private experience.
The evening begins with a welcome drink, followed by an extravagant 3-course meal. Then, get ready to dance the night away at the disco with their own DJ. You can even capture the fun moments in their photobooth to cherish the moments and make the evening truly unforgettable.
Offers start at £75pp.
Christmas Events for all the Family
Christmas at Wimpole
Experience the enchantment of Christmas at Wimpole 2023 in a whole new light – quite literally. As the sun sets, the historic estate transforms into a mesmerising Christmas illuminations trail. A stroll through the grounds under the stars will greet you with festive songs and twinkling lights everywhere. Keep an eye out for Father Christmas in Cambridge himself! The illumination trail features everything from high-flying feathers and an expansive sea of lights to a glowing tunnel of enchantment and modern christmas trees in vibrant colours. It’s sure to be a treat for your eyes and your senses.
During the day, embrace the festive spirit within the estate with its Christmas decorations. They will be offering seasonal favourites in the cafes, including Wimpole shortbread and mulled wine, as well as christmas carols from local choirs every weekend!
Wimpole’s Christmas light show will celebrate cherished traditions with new experiences for all to enjoy in the heart of Cambridge’s countryside.
A christmas Carol at Ely Cathedral
Second on the list, we have a Charles Dickens christmas masterpiece – ‘A Christmas Carol’. The Chapterhouse Theatre Company is putting on their own production at the iconic Ely Cathedral from December 8th-10th at 7:30pm.
This heartwarming story follows Ebeneezer Scrooge through his past, present and future, learning the true meaning of Christmas. It is a story that transcends generations, and captivates all audiences – especially for families!
The production will be a treat, with dazzling musical sequences and a set crafted to transport you to the streets of Scrooge’s 19th-century London. It’s an immersive experience, offering the opportunity to share this tale with your loved ones.
So save the date and bring your family to Ely Cathedral for a memorable evening! Let the classic tale get you into the Christmas spirit all in the beautiful setting of Cambridge.
Christmas Punt and Hunt
Make punting with the little ones a day to remember by joining us on our Christmas Punt and Hunt. Gather the family and embark on a 50-minute punting adventure along the picturesque college backs of the River Cam with a christmas-themed scavenger hunt during your tour for only £2.50 per child.
The booklet has been specially made for on-river enjoyment, featuring spot-the-difference challenges and Christmassy dot-to-dot puzzles. As you navigate the river with your chauffeur, they can solve puzzles using the sights from the tour to crack the code and claim a well-deserved price – a delicious festive sweet from the traditional and famous Hardy’s Sweet Shop.
The booklet doesn’t end there – it will take you through the city centre, so you can stroll through the Christmas lights and answer questions about Santa, Rudolph and Christmases past.
The activity booklets are available from the 4th – 31st December 2023. We recommend booking 1 booklet per child, ensuring all can enjoy all the onboard activities and receive their sweet treat. In addition, activity booklets are made for children aged 4-10, however this doesn’t mean others won’t enjoy it! The scavenger hunt booklets can be added to a private or shared tour, providing a fabulous way to make the holidays special for the kids.
Christmas carols on the River
In the heart of the festive season, Cambridge is ready to enchant you once more with a punting tradition. Join us as we embark on our annual “Christmas Carols on the River”, a delightful experience that promises to make your December 9th truly memorable.
Imagine this: a gentle punt ride along the picturesque river cam, where the soothing melodies of christmas carols are brought to life by the talented St John the Evangelist Church choir. It’s an hour-long journey that will leave you enchanted, with warm blankets and the soft glow of Christmas lights adding to the enchanting experience.
What makes the event even more special is the cause it supports, we’re thrilled to announce that 100% of ticket sales will be donated to Tom’s Trust. Tom’s Trust is a charity dedicated to providing mental health support to children with brain tumours and their families, ensuring they get the care and support they need.
Ticket prices:
A row of Seats on a shared tour (Max 3 people): £55
A section on a shared tour (Max 6 people): £100
Private Boat – (Max 12 people): £185
Now in its fourth year, this event is a beautiful embodiment of the holiday spirit. By participating, you are not only treating yourself to a magical afternoon, but also making a difference to those who need it. Tickets will go on sale November 10th to join us at 2:15pm on December 3rd!
This event is open to all but remember to secure your spot early so you don’t miss out on this spectacular event!
