Visit York Christmas Guide 2022

visityork.org/christmas

Get into the festive spirit in York with plenty of choice when it comes to magical things to do this Christmas. Discover the delights of the iconic St Nicholas Fair, which is set to return for its 30th Anniversary this year. Meander through the alpine chalets and discover a treasure trove of festive goodies. Each chalet is adorned with twinkling fairy lights and stocked with everything from original gifts to extra special treats and handmade crafts. Indulge in mouthwatering street food, pick up some unique stocking fillers and tuck into some seasonal produce from an array of local traders.

A brand-new Christmas offering for the 30th year anniversary of St Nicholas Fair, The Winter Hütte, brings a traditional Swiss chalet to Parliament Street. With a spectacular terrace overlooking the Christmas market, the Winter Hütte offers a ‘Swiss with a Twist’ dining experience from one of Yorkshire’s bestknown chefs, the Michelin-starred Andrew Pern. For passers-by, there is a fully-licensed bar area serving seasonal favourites such as glühwein and spiced cider.

Follow the brand-new spectacular Nutcracker Trail and see the city in all its festive glory. Discover more of York with a family friendly trail this Christmas. Pick up a free map and seek out ten Nutcrackers across the city centre for a chance to win a £500 York BID Gift Card.

Residents and visitors can bring home some of the magic of York this Christmas, with their own special edition 30th Anniversary Bauble. Designed by local artist Emma Feneley, following a local competition, the porcelain bauble will be available to purchase from the Visitor Information Centre from midNovember. Emma’s design features famous York landmark Clifford’s Tower in the festive season and is the perfect addition to any Christmas tree!

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ThisChristmas,immerseyourselfinthehistoric surroundingsoftheBarConventforaunique festiveexperience.

TheBarConvent,onBlossomStreet,isastunning heritagehousedatingbackto1686.Totheoutside worlditwasaschoolforgirls,tothoseintheknow, itwashidingasecretconvent.

Thisyear,visitorsareinvitedforaChristmaslikeno other.

Enjoytheever-populartraditionalChristmas lunches,withoptionsincludingturkeywithallthe trimmings,Christmaspuddingandmincepies, againstabackdropofbeautifuloriginalfeatures.

DiscovertheGeorgianparlourhistoricallydressed toreflectChristmas’past.The18th centurychapel willhouseadisplayoforigamipeacedovesvisitorsarewelcometocontributetothedisplay. Youcanmakeyourvisitextraspecialwithastayin ouraward-winningguesthouse.

The

l'o� SeeYorkThis

From the arrival of the Romans in AD71 to Queen Victoria leaving in a huff, our open-top bus tours take you on an entertaining journey through York’s amazing past. With your ticket valid for 24 hours, you can hop off to explore whenever and wherever you like, then re-join the tour when you are ready.

regular buses 9am to 5.30pm

languages 21 stops

AChocolateCovered Christmas

WhatwouldChristmasbewithoutchocolate?JoinYork’sChocolateStoryfora ChocolateCoveredChristmasasyougoonajourneythroughthehistoryofchocolate. Watchhowit’smadeandlearnhowitbecameapartofChristmasforsomanyofus.

Whetherit'stheexcitementofopening youradventcalendarorthedelightof unwrappingyourfavouriteselectionbox, Christmasisatimeforchocolate.And youcan'thavechocolatewithoutYork.

Someofourmostpopularfestive favouritesoriginatedinthecity.These includetheiconicTerry'sChocolate Orangeandtheselectionbox.Butwhere didthislinkbetweenChocolateand Christmasallbegin?

When we think of Christmas, most of us would think of Christmas trees, crackers, cards and Santa's red hat and jacket. These aspects of our traditional Christmas were all popularised by the Victorians in the 19th Century. During this time, companies recognised that chocolate was becoming a festive favourite. The first modern selection boxes were developed here in York by Rowntree's in the 1920s.

The Chocolate Orange has been many people's 'go-to' Christmas treat for nearly 100 years. Oranges were once a luxury gift for many people to receive at Christmas. As times changed and oranges became cheaper, the Chocolate Orange was used to replace them as a luxury Christmas gift.

Join York’s Chocolate Story, as they deck their tours with festive fare! All three floors will have a Christmas makeover as Santa takes up residence. You'll be able to meet Santa and his elves on themed tours and make Christmas treats with him. Filled with fun and magic, children and adults alike will discover incredible seasonal secrets.

Tistheseason Ofshopping

Fromindependentshopsandcheerful boutiquestohighstreetnamesandhuge departmentstoresyouareguaranteedto findsomespecialChristmasgiftsinYork.

NoshoppingtriptoYorkiscomplete withoutavisittoBradley’sJewellers.Head toLowPetergateforBritishcrafted jewellery,youareguaranteedtosurprise someonespecialthisChristmas.Find moresparklingjewelleryat NominationItalywhosebraceletlinkswill maketheperfectgift.

Coppergateistheultimatedestinationfor designerandhighstreetgoods,withbig namessuchasHugoBoss,Chaneland VivienneWestwood,locatedinFenwick. Excellentforuniquegiftideasand establishedboutiquessuchasClarks, FlyingTigerCopenhagenandTheWhisky Shop.

StopoffatKätheWohlfahrtandbrowse twofloorsofstunningGermanmade decorations,andpickupsomething magicalforyourhome.

WarmupwithahotchocolateatYork’s ChocolateStoryandchoosefroma selectionofthefinesthandmadefresh chocolates.AbrahamMoonofferstop qualityproductsexclusivelywoveninfine fabricsandluxurywools.

FinduniqueChristmasgiftsatTheHat Shop,withtheirfantasticselectionof occasionhatsandsensationalheadwear. VenturetoFabricationCraftsandshopfor handmadegiftsandthoughtfulstocking fillers.TickoffitemsonyourChristmas shoppinglistatSnowhomewhereyouwill findone-of-a-kindgiftsandarangeof homewares.

HiddenTreasuresisexcellentforgiftideas filledwitharangeofjewelleryandunique crystals.Ifyou’recookingupacurryat home,grabingredients,recipesandall youneedfromRafi’sSpicebox.VisitYork Ginattheiraward-winning16thCentury shoponPavementoratYorkRailway Stationtofindtheperfectginlovers’gift.

Don’tmissthecharmingShambles Market,andfindtheperfectChristmasgift foryourlovedones.Treatyourselftosome ofthefinestseasonalproduceforyour Christmasdinner,offeringfreshfarmmeat, vegetables,poultryandmuchmore.Enjoy sizzlingstreetfoodasyoubrowsemore than70stallsoflocaltraders.

York Award-Winning Jewellers

Step into a world of award-winning Christmas luxury at Bradley’s Jewellers York on Low Petergate. Inside this quaint Grade II Listed building is a sparkling selection of diamond and coloured gemstone jewellery that’s perfect for gifting.

As you’re wandering the cobbled streets of York in search of the perfect Christmas gift, make sure to say hello to the friendly team at Bradley’s Jewellers York on Low Petergate. Having recently been named Retail Jeweller of the Year (Five Stores or Fewer)

at the UK Jewellery Awards 2022, the team are on a high and ready to make this festive period extra special. Positioned in the shadow of York Minster, Kay Bradley and her team have curated a tempting collection of luxury pieces that suit a range of budgets, from classic diamond-set stud earrings to extravagant natural diamond and coloured gemstone rings.

Bradley’s Jewellers York is well-known for its uniquely designed collections that are inspired by the beauty and history of York, including The York Daffodil and the Rainbow Hope collections. Most recently, Kay has collaborated with the world-renowned brand Fabergé to create a Yorkshire Rose Egg pendant that pays tribute to her home city. Alongside these natural diamond and coloured gemstone jewellery collections, Kay is also highly regarded for a second specialism: laboratory-grown diamonds. Her Eco Rocks range of rings, earrings, pendants, and tennis bracelets is known across the country and has helped to propel this new category of fine jewels forward.

Across all her luxury jewellery collections, Kay prioritises uniqueness and quality. She says: “Christmas is the time of year when we really want to indulge and treat our loved ones to something they will really treasure. We are committed to matching people with the piece of fine jewellery that’s right for them, and we will work with you to choose the ideal gift based on pictures, stories, memories, and so much more.”

You’ll notice Bradley’s Jewellers York as soon as you wander down Low Petergate. The business is known locally for its floral display that wraps around the window of its 500-yearold Grade II Listed building. The heritage of

the building adds to the festive feeling that’s enhanced by the wood-panelled walls and jewel tones when you step inside.

Kay works with clients personally to make unique pieces from scratch. Whether it’s a bespoke item of jewellery or a creation from her ready-to-wear collections, Kay ensures her designs are British-made and hallmarked with her unique makers’ marks for absolute authenticity.

Discover modern, elegant & luxurious accessories. Woven with delicate Yorkshire

FestiveTheatrics

Therearelotsofmagicalshowsand concertsinYorkthisfestiveseason,from classiccarolstopantomimesandtheatre performances.

Don’tmissthe“AllNewAdventuresof PeterPan”asYorkTheatreRoyalpresents afun-packedswashbucklingfamily adventurewithanextrasprinklingoffairy dustmagicwiththeir2022pantomime.

AttheGrandOperaHouseseeatrue classicwithBerwickKaleras“OldGranny Goose”.DiscoverwhyBerwickandhis teamhavebecomeatruerockoffamily entertainmentovermanydecadeswith theirhilariousanarchicapproachto pantomime.

Enjoythereturnof“TheBigChristmas Concert”withAlistairGriffinasthismustseeshowwilltakeyouonamusical journeyfromacousticversionsof

traditionalcarolsthroughtoWizzard, SladeandThePogues.

ExperiencethemagicofChristmasatYork Barbicanandbeenchantedbythe classicaladaptationofLoveActually, completewithaliveorchestra.Joininwith allofyourfavouriteChristmassongswhilst alsolisteningtosometalentedlocal musiciansattheYorkCommunityCarol Concert.

Seethesightsthisfestiveseasonasyou exploreYorkwithawalkingtour.Getthe perfectpicturefromsomeofthecity’sbest viewingspotsheldbyInstagrammable Tours.DiscoverthehistoryofChristmasin anextraspecialwalkingtourthroughthe glimmeringstreetsofYork.Getintothe spiritofthingsandfindoutaboutYork’s fascinatingpastwiththeYorkChristmas WalkingTour.

The

presents

Christmas Concert

Michael Le Belfrey Church

9th, 10th & 17TH

Eat,Drink &BeMerry

ExplorethebestplacestoeatinYork,with amultitudeofeateriesservingupevery cuisineimaginable.

DiscoverfoodietreatsatSPARK:York, hometothelargestselectionof independenttraderslocatedinupcycled shippingcontainers.Amealherecanbe anythingfromauthenticGreekstreetfood toepicbuttermilkfriedchickenburgers.

TuckintowarmingplatesofAsianfoodat Wagamama.It’spopularforitsramen bowls,donburidishesanddelicious curries.Choosefromarangeofsmall plates,meat,fishandveganoptions.

TakeabreakfromChristmasshoppingand headtotheever-trendyHeavenly Desserts.Indulgeinarangeofawardwinningdesserts,suchasAmerican waffles,crepesandcheesecakes.

Ifyouarelookingforaquickbitetoeat, ShamblesFoodCourtistheplacetogo. Withpermanentfoodspotsservingup dishesfromacrosstheglobe,suchas pizza,friedchicken,noodlesandfamously goodsandwiches.Browseaselectionof freshfruitandveg,meatsandbaked goodiesoveratShamblesMarket.

LocatedonConeyStreet,Rosa’sThaiis theplacetobeifyouwanttoindulgethis Christmas.BringingThailandtoYork, expectsomelocalfavouritesfromchilli basil,crispyporkandpopcornshrimps.

FollowyournosetoYorkRoastCoasthey willbeservinguptraditionalYorkshire puddingsfilledwithyourchoiceofmeat andallthetrimmings.Frompork,turkey, hamandbeefyouwillbesuretogetyour fillwiththistastytreat.

SPARK* is a covered and heated outdoor community space, home to some of York’s most exciting start-up businesses working in street food, retail, arts, events and social enterprise. We are family-friendly, dogs are welcome and we have a lift available to ensure accessibility for all.

Our unique community space in the heart of York will be transformed into a futuristic space western landscape of aliens, cowboys, planets, animals and UFOs providing the perfect respite from the outside world.

WHY ARE WE DOING THIS?

We can’t wait to welcome visitors to our immersive winter experience unlike any other! To coincide with the arrival of our temporary roof we want to transport you to a futuristic world of fun, community, inclusivity, and the odd extraterrestrial. We know 2022 has been tough, so let’s blast off into a brighter future.

A WORLD CUP UNLIKE ANY OTHER

We’re excited by the prospect of hosting our first-ever winter World Cup (November - December). Historically we bask in the summer heat while hoping England will conquer the world. This year, for the first time, our World Cup experience will be underneath our canvas roof - the same great atmosphere just with warmth from our heaters.

FUTURE FESTIVITIES

The festive period is about bringing people together and celebrating community. Our independent traders will be serving delicious specials and warm cocktails. We have plenty of events planned, from exhibitions, workshops and the return of the Creative Babes market to face painting, hair braiding and a festive SPARK* cinema club viewing. Not to mention My POP Donut will be back with a seasonal residency. We will also be working with local schools and community partners to ensure everybody is part of the festive cheer!

ENTRY: FREE

WHERE TO FIND US?

17—21 Piccadilly, York, YO1 9PB (1 minute walk from Parliament Street!)

01904 217555

www.sparkyork.org

hello@sparkyork.org

OPEN: Tuesday to Thurday: 12pm-10.30pm. Friday and Saturday: 12pm-11pm. Sunday: 12pm-9pm

THIS WINTER, GET READY TO BE TRANSPORTED INTO A NEW GALACTIC FRONTIER, A BRAVE NEW WORLD WHERE 2022 IS A DISTANT MEMORY.

Winter Wonder

Thai-land is coming to York!

are you ready to brace yourself for

exotic Christmas experience? This year

bringing Thailand over to you,

our cozy restaurant on Coney Street. Be

some of the local’s favourites from

basil crispy pork and popcorn shrimps to our festive boozy bubble tea

There’s a bit of something for everyone to celebrate this Christmas like a Thai.

menu starts from £25 per person

between

BeyondYork

Withfestivitiesspreadingacrosstheregionthere’sso muchmoretoenjoyonYork’sdoorstep

York’sChristmasspiritspreadsfarand wideandthere’ssomuchtoexperience beyondthecity.

Head‘IntotheWoods’thisChristmasfora fairytalelikenootheratCastleHoward. ThisChristmasCastleHowardbecomesa wonderlandofhappilyeverafters,fair maidensandmagic!

AtBeningbroughHallexplorethegardens thiswinteranddiscoverthecomingsand goingsofthepeoplewhoshapedthe estate.

Withold-worldcharmandvibrantmarket towns,Ryedalewillrekindleeventhemost humbugofChristmasspirits–theperfect placeforagentlewinterescape.

EnjoythemagicalWinterWoodat NorthwoodTrail,England'sfairyand hobgoblinsanctuary.

JoinSantaandhisteamofelvesonboard theSantaExpressontheNorthYorkshire MoorsRailwaytakingintheepicscenery oftheNorthYorkMoorsnationalpark.

TothewestofYorkletthetwinklinglights drawyouintothewonderofMother Shipton’smagical,memory-making Christmasexperience.

ComeandmeetFatherChristmasandhis elvesatWilliam'sDenforafunpacked dayout.

and Goings

Generationsofmemories at

ChristmasIn Ryedale

Withold-worldcharmandvibrantmarkettowns,Ryedalewillrekindlethemost humbugofChristmasspirits–theperfectplaceforagentlewinterescape.

Forcenturies,Ryedale’spicturesquemarkettowns–Helmsley,Kirkbymoorside, Pickering&Malton–havebeentheheartandsouloftheregion,andthat’sespecially trueatChristmas.Justafewmilesawayfromeachother(andonlyashorthopfrom York),theyformanextraordinary20-milecorridorsparklingwithyuletidetradition,and uniqueintheUK.

MakemerryatChristmasFestivalsheapedhighwithfoodanddrink,wheremusicand theatrespillontothestreets,andmarketsquaresdresstoimpressSantahimself.

You’reinoneofBritain’sbestfoodiedestinations,sostockupyourXmashamperwith abountyofprize-winninglocalproduceorindulgeinwinterfeastinginaward-winning eateries.Revelinthejoyofgifting,browsingthegalleriesandworkshopsforaunique localmasterpiecebyBritain’sleadingmakers,orhuntingforantiques.

Makemagicalmemories:don’tmissCastleHoward’swinterwonderland,Santa’ssteam trainsattheNorthYorkshireMoorsRailway,orcandlelitwinterowlsdancingatthe NationalBirdofPreyCentre.

Andifyoufindthatonedayjustisn’tenough,stayalittlelongerinoneofRyedale’s luxuryhotels,cottagesorB&Bs. Discovermoreatvisitryedale.co.uk

PhotoCredit:CharlotteGraham

william's wonderful Christmas

Come

GETTINGTO

RegularbusservicesruntoYorkfrommany nearbytownsandcities,includingLeeds,Selby andScarborough.CallBusInfoon01904 551400orvisit itravelyork.info/buses.

YorkTrainStationisashort10-minutewalkfrom thecitycentre.Formoreinformationonservices pleasevisit nationalrail.co.uk.

Checkthetravelsectionon visityork.org for reputabletaxiservices.

StoreyourluggageonQueenStreet,adjacent tothelongstaycarparkatYorkRailwayStation, youwillseetheleftluggageofficeontheright nexttoEuropcar,YO241AD.Alternativelyyou canuseYorbagLeftLuggagelocatedat20High Petergate,only90metresfromYorkMinster.

Visitorstravellingbycarareencouragedtouse York’sPark&Rideserviceforease.Findout moreaboutservicesatthefivesitesbyvisiting yorkparkandride.co.uk.

Thereareanumberofconvenientandsecure carparksinYorkcitycentre.Fordetails,visit itravelyork.info/driving/parking.

DuringyourChristmasvisitwewanttomake sureyouareabletogetaroundsafely.Visit AccessAble.co.uk tocheckforeasilyaccessible venues.

Call01904679222tohireascooteror wheelchairfromthesecondfloorofPiccadilly carpark(YO19NX).Visit yorkshopmobility.wixsite.com/mysite tofind outmore.

Pleasecheckonlineforthemostup-to-date information.

SER YORK COLLECTION

by Kay Bradley

From the same award-winning team that brought you Christmas in Narnia, as seen on Channel 4 in 2021. Book your tickets at castlehoward.co.uk castle_howardcastlehowardcastlehowardest