We might not want to think about it just yet but, let’s face it, Christmas will be here before we know it and the kids will be begging you to take them to see Santa any day now.

While there will be plenty of markets, light switch-ons and festive fairs popping up all over Kent in December, some Christmas attractions are already on sale - and it’s worth booking now before tickets sell out.

Believe at Bluewater

Bluewater’s family-friendly Christmas attractions return this year. The under-cover ice rink will open at the Greenhithe shopping centre from November with quiet sessions, party nights and penguin and seal skating buddies for young visitors. There’s also the Believe grotto, which includes gingerbread decorating, selfie station and a chance to visit the elves’ workshop and meet Father Christmas.

You can book tickets online here.

Christmas at Bedgebury

One of the biggest festive events of the season returns to a country park this year, and it’s almost always a sell-out. The Christmas at Bedgebury light trail is a one-mile trail in Goudhurst filled with show-stopping installations, from the water-based floating lights to the ‘fireflies’ darting through the trees.

Last year, a second trail from the same company made its debut at Leeds Castle, just outside of Maidstone. The trail, which has similar installations to its Bedgebury counterpart but also includes some different displays that are exclusive to this location, sees the historic castle grounds covered in thousands of twinkling lights.

You can book tickets to Christmas at Bedgebury here, and Christmas Lights at Leeds Castle here.

Christmas at the Castle

There’s a full-scale Christmas extravaganza taking over Tonbridge Castle this year, and sounds like it’s going to be a hit. There’s a brand new Illuminate trail which features a 45-minute journey through the grounds with projections and fairy lights - and tickets for some dates are already running low. In addition to the spectacular light trail, there will be an Alpine Bar serving drinks and hosting live entertainment throughout the festive season and a Christmas market with more than 30 stalls and a food village.

You can book tickets online here.

Christmas at Walmer Castle

For the first time, Walmer Castle will be illuminated by dazzling light installations throughout the Christmas period. The Tudor castle, just outside of Deal, is introducing the light trail to its grounds for a festive debut this December with multi-sensory projections, interactive elements and a unique soundtrack. There will also be festive food and themed cocktails.

You can book tickets online here.

Father Christmas in Kent

Bring the magic of Christmas to your very own living room with a visit from Father Christmas and his elves. After selling out last year, the visits will return to a number of local towns to delight and surprise children all over the county. The visit includes Father Christmas bringing his sack of gifts to the house, taking photos with the family and chatting with the kids. Parents are able to email in advance so that jolly old Saint Nick brings the right presents for their children and also knows their names when he turns up to make the experience as authentic and memorable as possible.

You can book tickets online.