HO-HO-HOPETOWN

Experience the magic of Christmas at Ho-Ho-Hopetown Darlington

This festive season, Hopetown Darlington is the place where Christmas spirit comes to life! With sparkling lights, joyful experiences, and plenty of holiday cheer, it’s the ultimate destination for families and friends to celebrate together. Bring the whole family and get ready for a season full of wonder, creativity, and festive joy.

Nestled around the magnificent replica Locomotion No.1, the Elves' Giftworks brings together the charm of a bygone era with the sparkle of Santa’s elves hard at work. Whether you're young or just young at heart, there's magic waiting at every stop!

No visit is complete without meeting Santa Claus! Step inside his cosy grotto in the heart of The Carriage Works – now home to the elves’ bustling workshop – and tell him all about your Christmas wishes. Every child will receive an early, special Christmas gift.

Step into the story of Christmas past with a family-friendly interactive tour of North Road Station Museum for A Hopetown Christmas Carol. Meet Charles Dickens (played by The Histrionics), discover what a traditional Victorian Christmas was like, how the railways used to operate and maybe even encounter a spirit or two lingering from holidays gone by…

Join Mrs Claus for storytelling and a sweet treat at North Road Station Museum! She’s been busy baking while the elves prepare presents, and now it’s your turn to help decorate festive biscuits to take home (and eat, of course!). Mrs Claus will entertain you with magical stories from the North Pole and how the Victorians helped to shape Christmas as we know it today.

Enjoy the timeless charm of our beautiful Victorian Carousel – bringing timeless festive fun for little ones and big kids alike! Climb aboard and enjoy a gentle spin under the glow of fairy lights, a picture-perfect Christmas memory in the making!

As the evening sets in, Hopetown glows with dazzling lights and festive displays. It’s a magical backdrop for a perfect winter evening. Explore after dark with festive street theatre, mince pies, carollers, mulled wine, and a magical atmosphere. Don’t miss the chance to play in the fully illuminated Wagon Woods!

There’s more to enjoy, too. Stroll through twinkling Christmas lights across the site, grab a festive treat (or two!) at our food stalls, take your perfect family photo in front of our Christmas tree and explore the railway museum to discover the magic of Hopetown. Whether you're here for the joy on your children’s faces, a festive treat with friends, or to soak up the Christmas atmosphere, Hopetown Darlington is the place to be this holiday season.

Book your visit now and get ready to make magical memories.

P.s. the video above is from Ho-Ho-Hopetown 2024. Your experience will look different to the video but will be just as (if not more!) magical.