A Winter Wonderland Returns: Christmas in Cambridge 2025

This winter, the historic heart of Cambridge will once again glisten with festive magic as Christmas in Cambridge returns to Parker’s Piece for its second year. From 13th November to 31st December 2025, the city’s iconic green will be transformed into an elegant winter village, a curated celebration of craftsmanship, gastronomy, and seasonal splendour that captures the very essence of Christmas in one of England’s most enchanting cities.

The spirit of the season

After a resoundingly successful debut, this year’s Christmas in Cambridge promises an elevated experience designed to delight discerning visitors of all ages. Against the backdrop of the city’s Georgian architecture and softly glowing lamplight, Parker’s Piece becomes a stage for celebration—where fine food meets artisanal shopping and timeless traditions are given a contemporary twist.

At its centre lies the Christmas Market, a collection of beautifully dressed wooden chalets showcasing handpicked local and national artisans. Each stall tells its own story, from handcrafted jewellery and bespoke homewares to indulgent festive treats. The air is perfumed with the scent of cinnamon and roasted chestnuts, while gourmet street food favourites such as the irresistible Yorkshire Pudding Wrap, add a touch of indulgent comfort to a brisk winter’s evening.

Elegance on ice

The village’s glittering ice rink, the largest outdoor rink in Cambridge, invites visitors to glide gracefully beneath a canopy of lights. Skaters of all abilities are welcome, with expert guides and skating aids ensuring everyone can take part in the magic. For those who prefer to admire the scene, heated domes and raised viewing platforms offer luxurious comfort and the perfect vantage point from which to sip hot mulled wine or a glass of fizz while the world spins merrily below.

Nearby, the Alpine Lodge brings a touch of après-ski chic to the city, channelling the atmosphere of Val-d’Isère with rustic wood interiors, faux furs, and twinkling fairy lights. Whether you choose to warm up with a spiced hot chocolate or unwind with a festive cocktail, the Lodge provides an effortlessly stylish retreat to linger and luxuriate in the glow of the season.

Moments of magic and play

For families and the young at heart, the Christmas Tree Maze offers a moment of pure wonder, a labyrinth of more than 300 twinkling evergreens that feels straight out of a fairy tale. Just beyond, the Après Terrace hums with convivial energy, where guests can enjoy curling, shuffleboard, and air hockey in a vibrant, festive atmosphere.

And towering over it all, the magnificent Big Wheel rises 36 metres into the winter sky. From its peak, the view is nothing short of spectacular—Cambridge’s spires and rooftops illuminated in golden light, the city shimmering like a snow globe below.

Cambridge at its most captivating

What makes Christmas in Cambridge so alluring is not just its elegance, but its spirit of warmth and togetherness. It’s a place where timeless tradition meets modern sophistication – a festive escape that celebrates craftsmanship, connection, and the quiet beauty of the season.

So this year, step into the glow of Parker’s Piece, where every detail has been designed to enchant. From the glint of the ice rink to the sparkle of the Christmas lights, Christmas in Cambridge offers a truly refined way to experience the magic of the holidays.

Plan your visit

Dates: 13th November – 31st December 2025
Location: Parker’s Piece, Cambridge, UK

Highlights:

  • The Christmas Market with local artisans, luxury gifts, and gourmet street food
  • Cambridge’s largest outdoor ice rink, complete with heated domes and VIP viewing areas
  • The Alpine Lodge – a Val-d’Isère-inspired hideaway serving seasonal cocktails and festive fare
  • A whimsical Christmas Tree Maze of over 300 evergreens
  • The Après Terrace, with curling, shuffleboard, and lively entertainment
  • The Big Wheel, offering breathtaking panoramic views across the city

Tickets: Entry to the Christmas Village is free; some attractions (such as the ice rink and Big Wheel) require advance booking. Visit christmasincambridge.co.uk for schedules and ticket details.

Insider Tip:
Arrive as the sun sets to watch Parker’s Piece transform into a glittering wonderland, then retreat to the Alpine Lodge for a spiced mulled wine or a champagne toast under the stars.

Getting There:
Cambridge is easily reached by train from London King’s Cross in under an hour. Parker’s Piece is a short stroll from the station and close to the city’s boutique hotels, luxury eateries, and independent shops, perfect for a festive weekend escape.

Images: Christmas in Cambridge