Get ready to unwrap the magic of Christmas at Dunstable Downs! With rolling hills and breath-taking views, our landscape is the perfect winter escape from the pressures and stress of the season. Whether you’re a keen walker, a festive foodie, or simply need some sparkle, we are thrilled to bring you an enchanting array of festive experiences that will make this holiday special for all the family.
What’s on: 2026 season at a glance
Dunstable Downs is open every day in December. Our Visitor Centre and Café will be closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Prepare for the festive season by taking part in our spotter trail, where you can help Santa find his reindeer! This runs from Sat 12th - Wed 23rd December.
Join a local florist for some Festive Wreath-Making Workshops, on Fri 27th November & Sat 5th December, from 6:30pm - 8:30pm.
Breakfast with the Elves returns! Join us for some festive cheer on Sun 6th, Sun 13th, Sun 20th, Mon 21st, Tue 22nd, and Wed 23rd December.
Make your own decorations and gifts and post your letter to Santa on one of our family-friendly craft days! Every weekend in December leading up to Christmas.
Festive spotter trail: Help Santa find his reindeer!
12 December - 23 December 2026
Christmas is just around the corner, but Santa has a problem... his playful reindeer have disappeared from the North Pole and are hiding around Dunstable Downs! | 10am - 4pm | £2 per trail - no pre-booking required
Set off on a family adventure to search for Santa's missing helpers. They've hidden themselves around the Chiltern Gateway Centre and along our path to Chute Wood.
Find all the reindeer, enjoy some festive fun, and help make sure Christmas stays on track. Once you're done, head back to our visitor hub to collect your festive treat.
Best suited to ages 3-12, but everyone is welcome to join the hunt.
Join professional florists from Maples Flowers for a relaxed evening of festive creativity, easing you into Christmas and creating something beautiful for your home | 6:30pm - 8:30pm | £75 per person - pre-booking required
Maples Florists will guide you through the process of making your own handcrafted Christmas wreath using a carefully curated selection of fresh seasonal foliage, dried fruits, ribbons and festive details.
Everything you need will be provided, with plenty of choice to make your wreath completely your own, whether your style is classic, natural, contemporary or somewhere in between.
Perfect for a festive evening with friends, family or colleagues, or simply a little treat for yourself.
It's that perfect time to grab those all important Christmas cards, buy a few stocking fillers or purchase gifts. Whether you're buying something for a book lover, a gardening fanatic or budding chef, there's something to suit all tastes and ages.
Tuck into some tasty treats with our festive flavoured drinks from gingerbread lattes to luxury hot chocolates. As well as savoury paninis and sausage rolls, rounding everything off with yummy festive bakes.
There are loads of different family activities designed to help you explore and discover Dunstable Downs. However you choose to spend your day with us, your adventure starts here.
Dunstable Downs is a two pawprint rated place. Dogs are welcome here (and can collect their Pooch Passport and stamp!) Discover everything you need to know when planning your visit with your four-legged friend.
