He’s behind you Panto-mania
Santa’s grotto Winter wonderland
Christmas markets Last minute shopping
Time for celebration... ’Tis the season to be jolly and where better to celebrate a Christmas to remember than right here in Yorkshire. Whether you prefer a crisp winter walk in a stunning landscape or the colourful magic of an after dark light display, you will find it all here. From upmarket shopping centres to independent shops and festive markets packed with unique handcrafted gifts you’re sure to find that perfect present. There is so much fun to be had as the party season enters full swing, from the finest restaurants and hotels to action packed Christmas shows and pantos. Don’t forget that all important visit to see Father Christmas in the most magical of locations. Whatever is at the top of your festive list you’ll find in Yorkshire. Merry Christmas!
Images top to bottom: Whitby Abbey © English Heritage. Christmas shopping in Yorkshire. The Shambles in York is one of the best preserved medieval streets in Europe and perfect for a bit of Christmas shopping. Harrogate Christmas Market.
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Great Grottos Santa Claus is coming to town and this year he’s rocking up to venues across Yorkshire. The busy man in red will be appearing at various venues across the county to give out presents to everyone on his nice list (remember he checks it twice). Whether you’ve got little ones in tow or you’re a big kid at heart, plan a trip to one of these brilliant Santa’s grottos.
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Stockeld Park
Williams Den
Thornton Hall Country Park
Wetherby, North Yorkshire
South Cave, East Yorkshire
Skipton, North Yorkshire
Stockeld Park like to make sure Santa feels at home in Yorkshire so that’s why they prepare a beautiful, cosy log cabin for him to stay in when he comes to visit. Families are invited to not only meet Father Christmas but also enjoy a little chat with him and even receive a gift.
Learn how to become an honorary elf with the cheeky elves before Mother Christmas tells some treasured Christmas stories and shares her special gingerbread. Of course, Father Christmas himself will also make an appearance and invite children to build their own Christmas bear to take home.
Visit Thornton Hall Country Park for a two-hour Christmas experience like no other! Wrap up warm and prepare to be amazed on a magical journey with your very own elf to guide you along the way. Guests will enjoy a luxury welcome drink with a very special host before a magical grotto experience.
Burton Agnes
Nostell
Cannon Hall Farm
Burton Agnes, East Yorkshire
Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Barnsley, South Yorkshire
Meet Father Christmas in his courtyard grotto or enjoy an audience with him and his Head Elf. Father Christmas, Mrs Claus and Jingles the Magic Elf will be thrilling children, and adults alike, this Christmas with festive performances of magic, song and storytelling. Children will be greeted by Mrs Claus and go through spectacularly decorated rooms.
Father Christmas will use festive magic to dash between the North Pole (to load the sleigh and feed the reindeer) and special grotto sittings at Nostell. Select a 45 minute sitting and enjoy festive crafts in the elves’ workshop while the excitement builds for a special one to one visit with the big man in his grotto.
Visit Santa at Cannon Hall Farm's grotto experience. Every child visiting Santa will be given a passport to the North Pole and will make their way through the elf check in. The diligent elves will then check if children have been naughty or nice - and to make doubly sure children will have to pass through the special elf scanner.
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Santa with a difference
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Middleton Railway Leeds, West Yorkshire Climb aboard the Santa Special Train. On the journey to Middleton Park and back Santa will have a specially selected present for each member of his young audience.
City Cruises York York, North Yorkshire Visitors will be warmly greeted by Santa’s good friend Mary Christmas or Ernie the Elf. Further details are top secret, but we can guarantee that Santa Claus himself will find his way aboard the Santa Experience and the whole family will have the most wonderful time.
National Coal Mining Museum for England Wakefield, West Yorkshire Head 140m underground where Santa is waiting to greet mini miners at the National Coal Mining Museum. Get kitted out with your helmet and lamp ready to descend down and make your way along the festive snowy trails to meet Santa.
The Bowes Museum Barnard Castle, North Yorkshire Santa is coming to The Bowes Museum again this December, so why not join him for a magical family experience. First, visit Santa’s workshop where his friendly elves will help you make some Christmas crafts. Then, meet Santa all cosy in his sitting room, where he will complete the magic with an early Christmas present.
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Illuminated Gardens As the nights draw in venues are shining new light on their outdoor spaces. With trails featuring laser gardens, light tunnels and lanterns there’s plenty to brighten up dark winter nights. So, grab your woolly hat and scarf and take a stroll around one of Yorkshire’s illuminated outdoor displays.
Northern Lights
RHS Garden Harlow Carr Harrogate, North Yorkshire 21 November - 28 December See Harlow Carr in a different light as special effects bring a touch of magic with an illuminated trail around the magnificent trees, shrubs and lake as dusk falls. See captivating light installations of giant botanically inspired blooms and marvel at magnificent trees lit up across the garden.
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Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden Ripon, North Yorkshire 24 November - 23 December See the Abbey aglow (right) with all the colours of the rainbow and hear live music fill the Cellarium. Take a stroll around this stunning venue this festive season and enjoy the enchanting experience of light, colour and sound as Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal is transformed.
Lightwater Valley Ripon, North Yorkshire 22 November - 30 December Discover a fantastical new seasonal adventure at Lightwater Valley this Christmas with the enchanting Alice in Winterland. Families can delight in the festive lights as they embark on a journey of discovery. Hundreds of giant illuminated light sculptures will illustrate stories from Alice in Wonderland and Alice Through the Looking Glass.
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Light nights Brodsworth Hall & Gardens South Yorkshire 5 - 22 December Make the most of the winter evenings with an enchanting experience of light, colour and sound as Brodsworth Hall and Gardens is transformed into an illuminated world. Grab the winter woollies, your family and friends, and revel in the most enchanting event of the year.
Lotherton Leeds, West Yorkshire 22 November - 5 January Come take a stroll on a magical woodland walk at Lotherton (top left). Follow the twinkling lit paths and you’ll discover the enchanting installations of the Twelve Days of Christmas. Gaze in awe at the beautiful golden pears, say ‘bonjour’ to the French Hens, listen to the calling birds, try to ‘hook’ one of the seven swans swimming or make the ladies dance!
Winter Illuminations at Stockeld Park Wetherby, West Yorkshire 14 November - 6 January The award-winning Enchanted Forest comes to life at Stockeld Park with their Winter Illuminations. Dazzling light effects, a captivating soundscape and animated installations come together through almost a mile of beautiful, ancient woodland in the Enchanted Forest. As dusk falls thousands of twinkling lights shine and create a magical winter wonderland.
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Spoil yourself this Christmas
Unmissable foodie experience The Angel at Hetton Skipton, North Yorkshire
Black Swan at Oldstead
Pipe and Glass
Oldstead, North Yorkshire
South Dalton, East Yorkshire
This Michelin star pub and restaurant has a long list of accolades including World’s Best Restaurant (Trip Advisor Awards 2017). Head chef Tommy Banks is Britain’s youngest chef to hold a Michelin star. Other awards for his unpretentious, innovative cooking include 4 AA Rosettes and being placed 28th in The Sunday Times Top 100 Restaurants.
In the pretty village of South Dalton you’ll find East Yorkshire’s first and only Michelin starred restaurant. Chef and proprietor James Mackenzie is committed to sourcing as much local and seasonal produce as possible; and this is reflected in the menu, with dishes featuring the highest quality ingredients from across the Yorkshire region.
The Star Inn Harome
Home
Harome, North Yorkshire
Leeds, West Yorkshire
An historic 14th century thatched inn located in the picturesque village of Harome on the edge of the North York Moors. The menu reflects the best of what’s on offer, such as Butter-roast Sand Hutton Asparagus with Shavings of Aged York Ham in early summer to autumnal game dishes, such as Roast Grouse.
This Leeds restaurant is a dining concept from Michelin starred chef Mark Owens and MasterChef contestant Elizabeth Cottam. The team believes that there’s more to dining out than just great food. Home offers a genuine, warm welcome and a relaxed environment where diners arrive as customers and leave as friends.
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The Angel Inn at Hetton has a long and illustrious history. As the original gastropub it has always led the way and done things a little differently. In recent years it has held the reputation of being the destination establishment, in one of the most exquisite corners of the North Yorkshire Dales. Famous for its food as well as its warm, welcoming atmosphere it has maintained a strong following among locals as well as with customers from all over the world. The arrival of Michael Wignall in 2018 as chef patron put the tiny hamlet of Hetton firmly back on the culinary map. Their bold and ambitious plans took The Angel to a new, unique and very special place, when they were rewarded with a Michelin star for 2020.
Eat, drink and be merry
Grantley Hall
Brocco on the Park
Raithwaite Estate
Ripon, North Yorkshire
Sheffield, South Yorkshire
Whitby, North Yorkshire
Located on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales, yet only 4 miles from Ripon and 10 miles from Harrogate, Grantley Hall is a luxury 5* hotel and wellness retreat. Set in 38 acres of landscaped grounds the hotel offers 47 exquisite rooms including a selection of beautifully appointed and spacious suites as well as a diverse range of dining options from British afternoon tea in the Drawing Room to signature fine dining by Michelin star chef Shaun Rankin.
When guests walk through Brocco’s front door, everything feels like home. The staff work hard to create a boutique hotel space where guests can sleep soundly and dine in style. Brocco on the Park lies in the heart of social Sheffield, making it perfectly placed for the city’s green spaces, theatres and universities. For an evening meal the modern smörgasbord menu mixes classic ingredients with Nordic and seasonal twists
The 80-acre Raithwaite Estate with its landscaped grounds is located in the coastal North Yorkshire countryside. Luxurious rooms within The Hall and The Keep buildings feature alongside an indoor pool, spa, sauna, gym, two restaurants and two bars. For evening meals, The Brasserie at the Hall offers an extensive menu featuring French classics with a Yorkshire stamp.
Matt Healy at The Foundry
The Yorke Arms
Skosh
Ramsgill-in-Nidderdale, North Yorkshire
York, North Yorkshire
Leeds, West Yorkshire After becoming a MasterChef Professional 2016 finalist Matt Healy has taken the helm of the Leeds iconic restaurant The Foundry and transformed it into a modern, fresh and comfortable restaurant. Using their formidable skills in the kitchen, Matt’s team have already started making waves in the food scene, winning Best Newcomer at the Yorkshire Life Awards.
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Nestled in Yorkshire's beautiful Nidderdale Area of Oustanding Natural Beauty, The Yorke Arms is an historic 18th century house and lodge. Now serving as a restaurant with rooms, it is the perfect place to relax. The award-winning kitchen is led by top female chef Frances Atkins.
Skosh has evolved into a contemporary dining room serving uncomplicated yet refined dishes just beyond the ‘Micklegate Bar’, a 12th century gateway into the historic city of York. At Skosh, food is served in the form of snacks and small plates, allowing you to have as little or as much as you want, grazing as you go, or if you prefer, gradually served course by course for a complete dining experience.
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Outdoor fun Wrap up in your wooly hat and scarf and warm your hands on a hot toddy while you venture outside for some festive fun.
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The magical setting of Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland makes for the perfect family fun day out, both on and off the ice. Glide gracefully on the North of England’s largest outdoor ice rink, with a 30ft high sparkling Christmas tree as its centrepiece. The Vintage Funfair includes rare rides featuring two exquisite children’s rides: a 1947 Muffin the Mule Autodrome and Hush Hush the Monorail, the oldest ride, made in 1933. After all the fun at the fair why not tackle those Christmas wish lists at York Designer Outlet.
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The City of York was voted the UK’s most festive city. Why not take a stroll around the historical streets and see what this magical destination has to offer this Christmas time? Explore the stunning Shambles weaving in and out of the many boutiques, gift shops and eateries that make this picturesque street so unique. Visit the Jorvik Viking Centre to discover how the Vikings celebrated Christmas or take a stroll over the cobbles of the twinkling Victorian street at York Castle Museum and experience the true magic and traditions of days gone by.
This winter, The Piece Hall will be transformed into a spectacular Christmas destination like no other. From 22 November – 31 December, the courtyard will become home to a stunning Christmas tree, a thrilling fair-like Victorian carousel and a cosy courtyard Deluxe Bar, where you can enjoy warming drinks whilst being sheltered from the cold weather. A Christmas Fair showcasing some of the region’s favourite independent craft stalls, artisan makers and pop-up food and drink traders will feature for a festive shopping weekend 29 November - 1 December. The surrounding shops, bars and restaurants will be open throughout the season.
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of the best outdoor events Christmas isn't just about the 25 December. Spend the whole festive season making the most of time with friends and family at these fantastic events.
Doncaster Santa Dash Get prepared for a family fun festive 1-mile wheel, walk, jog, run event around the amazing Sandall Park. This fantastic notfor-profit local event supports some great charities. Each participant dons a full Santa suit (juniors get away with just wearing reindeer antlers) and receive a mince pie and medal on completion. What better way to run off a few pre-festive pounds!
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Victorian Weekend From the 6th to the 8th December head to Robin Hood’s Bay in your finest Victorian costume for a magical weekend of fun and festive frolics. Take part in the costume competition, welly throwing on the beach, Victorian games and a sheep hunt, with a flurry of Christmas trees, festive wreaths and festive songs playing everywhere you go.
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Outdoor Performance Walk at Sewerby Hall and Gardens is full of games and activities. Meet a talented toy-maker, dance with the Sugar Plum Fairy, and help the Nutcracker escape the clutches of the mean Mouse King! With mad-cap games, music and off-the-wall activities, plenty of fun and laughter are guaranteed in an adventure full of musical delights and tasty treats.
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The Festive Fifty Cycle Ride in aid of Children's Heart Surgery Fund, organised by Sportive HQ is one of the biggest “Santa rides” in the region. This year follows a Harry Potter theme with a choice of a 30 or 50 mile fully signed and supported route. Enjoy the festive season in a unique way with a beer and chilli to warm you up at the end, which is surely enough to tempt anyone to give it a go.
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Festive stays
Take some time out from the frenzy of Christmas planning and get into the holiday spirit at one of Yorkshire’s idyllic getaways.
2 1 The Grand Hotel, York York, North Yorkshire The Grand in York becomes a magical place at Christmas, as decorations lace the elegant Edwardian architecture, lights illuminate the grand marble corridors and live music floats through the building. Nestled in the heart of York, it is the perfect retreat from the quaint streets and independent shops, with indulgent bedrooms and a luxury spa ensuring you have a relaxing break.
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Middleton Lodge Richmond, North Yorkshire A Georgian country retreat where Christmas is all about eating, sleeping and retreating! Middleton Lodge deck the halls, decorate the trees and hang the stockings in each cosy bedroom, so all you need to do is kick back and relax in this idyllic setting.
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3 Devonshire Fell Burnsall, North Yorkshire Set in the stunning Yorkshire Dales, overlooking the beautiful River Wharfe. Indulge in fizz and mulled wine in the elegant restaurant before enjoying their award-winning food.
6 Yorebridge House Leyburn, North Yorkshire Contemporary and cosy bedrooms boasting fabulous views, luxury products and fluffy robes with some rooms allowing you to soak in your own private outdoor hot tub. Get the festive feeling as you enjoy the restaurant’s romantic atmosphere and lounge area providing relaxed, comfy seating and an open fire.
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Beverley Arms
Griffon Forest
Beverley, East Yorkshire
Flaxton Nr York, North Yorkshire
With beautiful and cosy bedrooms, make your Christmas extra special. Indulge in a delicious array of festive offerings from the seasonal menus, full of holiday cheer. With an outdoor terrace, cosy corners, fireside tables and a stylish restaurant.
Set in the heart of 1000 acres of tranquil woodland Griffon Forest is the perfect place to get the festive feeling. Simply unwind in the comfort of your own oak lodge, set in a natural haven. You may even spot their resident badgers.
5 Holdsworth House Halifax, West Yorkshire This grand Jacobean Manor is packed full of character and history and is the perfect setting for a Christmas stay. Snuggle up to open log fires and feast on afternoon tea and a festive dinner with all the trimmings.
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8 Swinton Bivouac Masham, North Yorkshire Situated amid the 20,000-acre Swinton Estate, get a little bit closer to nature this Christmas holiday in a cosy festive tree lodge or meadow yurt, perfect for families or a romantic woodland getaway.
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Panto time
With festive family pantomimes on offer all over Yorkshire you’ll certainly find your Christmas treat – oh yes you will!
Harrogate Theatre Snow White Wednesday 27 November 2019 Sunday 19 January 2020
The Alhambra Theatre, Bradford Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs Saturday 14 December 2019 – Sunday 26 January 2020
Join Snow White and a host of characters for the adventure of a lifetime, as they travel through the forest to the diamond mines to defeat the spells and enchantments of the Evil Queen. They’re going to need all the help they can get.
This year’s magical and enchanting family pantomime, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs stars Alhambra Theatre panto legend Billy Pearce, pop star and Strictly Come Dancing finalist Faye Tozer and family TV favourite Paul Chuckle.
Lyceum Theatre, Sheffield Cinderella Friday 6 December 2019 – Sunday 5 January 2020 This year’s fun-filled family pantomime stars children’s favourite, Phil Gallagher (CBeebies’ Mister Maker), Sheffield legend Damian Williams and Strictly's Joanne Clifton! It promises to be their most spectacular pantomime ever so don’t be late for the ball.
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Theatre Royal Wakefield Jack and the Beanstalk Saturday 21 November 2019 Sunday 5 January 2020 Don't miss this terrific tall tale, created and produced at Theatre Royal Wakefield. With top-class performers, crazy costumes and a Dame to be reckoned with, this is a classic pantomime not to be missed.
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Hull New Theatre Aladdin Thursday 5 – Sunday 29 December 2019 Starring Blue’s Simon Webbe and packed with all the traditional pantomime ingredients, Aladdin will feature a lamp-load of comedy, jaw-dropping special effects, sensational song and dance and plenty of boos and hisses the whole family will enjoy.
Doncaster Little Theatre Sleeping Beauty Saturday 14 – Tuesday 31 December 2019 Classic fairytale fun for all the family. In the magical Kingdom, join Billy the Butler, Kitty the Cat and Prince Orlando as they try to save Princess Aurora in this funny, family friendly traditional Panto with a modern feel.
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Get outdoors in Yorkshire this festive season. Discover dramatic coastlines, picturesque dales, enchanting forests and amazing moors.
Theatres at Christmas Nothing says Christmas like a trip to the theatre. Yorkshire’s theatre scene is bursting with variety from traditional family favourites to brand new stories.
The Wizard of Oz
Peter Pan
Treasure Island
Leeds Playhouse
Hull Truck Theatre
Stephen Joseph Theatre
20 November – 25 January
29 November – 4 January
5 – 29 December
Soar over the rainbow, follow the yellow brick road and skip into the Emerald City to fulfil your heart’s desire. Join Dorothy as the classic story and songs you know and love burst on to the stage in this technicolour spectacular.
Join Wendy and Peter Pan for a magical family adventure in Neverland. With original music, singing, dancing, flying and a generous sprinkle of fairy dust, Peter Pan is a much-loved story for the child in all of us.
This Christmas escape your landlubber lodgings and join the crew aboard the Hispaniola. A ship full of Scarborough scallys, are heading to Treasure Island in search of Captain Flint's buried gold.
The Elves and the Shoemakers
Little Women
The Storm Whale
East Riding Theatre
York Theatre Royal
Sheffield Studio Theatre
12 December 2019 – 5 January 2020
14 December 2019 – 4 January 2020
5 December 2019 – 4 January 2020
Adapted for the stage by local playwright Laura Turner, this is the classic coming-of-age story. A warm and heartfelt story, Little Women promises to be a wonderful seasonal celebration for the whole family to enjoy whether you are age 10 or 100.
Based on the award-winning books The Storm Whale and The Storm Whale in Winter by Benji Davies. A magical Christmas treat for the family, these tender and heart-warming children stories of friendship, love and courage are brought to life as one enchanting theatre show.
With live music, puppetry and lots of theatre magic, Grimm’s classic fairy tale, The Elves and the Shoemakers, comes to life this Christmas as a festive treat for all the family.
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This winter the curtain rises on a new era of Yorkshire theatre. The Wizard of Oz will be one of the first shows at the revamped Leeds Playhouse.
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Party time There are more Christmas parties going on in Yorkshire than you can shake a Christmas candy cane at so get your dancing shoes on and press record on your favourite TV shows. Celebrate in style with our guide to the best party venues on offer whether revelling with friends and family or colleagues at your annual work Christmas party.
Yorkshire Wildlife Park Doncaster, South Yorkshire This Christmas, enjoy an international festive feast at Yorkshire Wildlife Park (above). A team of chefs will present a magnificent three course buffet with live cooking stations and an all-inclusive choice of over twenty hand-prepared dishes. Entertainers and a DJ will keep the party alive all night and the room dancing until 1am.
The Deep Hull, East Yorkshire The Deep (right) gives you the chance to enjoy a party surrounded by incredible tanks including the Endless Ocean, the Amazon Flooded Forest, Cool Seas and Bugs. With great food, drinks and a disco until late it will make for a brilliant Christmas party venue. See out 2019 in style with a 3-course hot buffet, disco, champagne toast and live Big Ben countdown as you dine and dance alongside the stunning marine life all around you.
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Perfect productions
Mecure Hotel
Middleton Lodge
Oulton Hall
Hull, East Yorkshire
Middleton, North Yorkshrie
Leeds, West Yorkshire
For a Christmas party with a difference don your mask and head over to the Masquerade Party at the Mecure Hotel in Hull. Enjoy the spirit of the ball with a charming night of decadence.
Venture down to the Main House at Middleton Lodge on Saturday 14 December for an evening of festivities and merriment. Fires will be lit, halls will be decked, and the lights will be twinkling.
Let your hair down and party the night away at one of the Winter Wonderland party nights at Oulton Hall and Spa. The evening includes a delicious three-course meal with wine.
The Talbot
The Earl of Doncaster
Carlton Towers
Malton, North Yorkshire
Doncaster, South Yorkshire
Goole, East Yorkshire
An evening of celebrations await guests at The Talbot Hotel in Malton. Partying will commence within the marquee with an arrival drink, canapés and entertainment from a live band!
Welcoming guests since the late 1930s and this year welcoming partygoers to enjoy a range of Christmas themed events. Their ballroom provides the perfect party location.
Get in the mood for the big day. The setting is stunning with toasty fires and decorations all around. Christmas party nights are accompanied by winter Pimms and a delicious three course meal.
Touch of class Dress to impress at the black-tie Gala Ball at the The Grand Hotel, York this New Year’s Eve. Held in the stunning Grand Boardroom, enjoy a Champagne and canapé reception before sitting down for an exquisite five-course dinner followed by live music. Leading up to the New Year celebrations this iconic venue will be serving seasonal menus, Christmas cocktails and festive afternoon tea throughout December.
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All I want for Christmas Whether you’re looking for the perfect Christmas gift, food for the big day, or just fancy browsing the latest Christmas decorations you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to Christmas shopping in Yorkshire this festive season.
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Tasty treats Give your diet the heave-ho this festive season and indulge in these tasty delights.
Bettys Café Tea Rooms
Lewis & Cooper is a multi-award winning independent gourmet food store in Northallerton, packed with the most flavoursome foodie treats, fine wines, delicious gift baskets and sumptuous food hampers, all available to order online for immediate UK and mainland Europe delivery. The magic is back at Tong Garden Centre this Christmas - Yorkshire’s largest independent garden centre. From stunning displays and striking ways to decorate your home, be inspired by the fabulous festive themes created in store for you. Browse amongst the extensive outdoor plant department, huge range of gift and home accessories as well as garden furniture, BBQs and water features. From Christmas trees to stocking fillers, you really won’t need to shop anywhere else. It’s Christmas all year round at Käthe Wohlfahrt in York. This famous family owned business was founded in 1964 and opened up its only UK store in York in 2016. Visitors can immerse themselves in a magical Christmas world, with a wide selection of beautifully handmade and hand-painted Christmas decorations and gift ideas made of glass, wood and much more. Kemps General Store is an emporium of the beautiful and the unusual for everyone, nestled in the North Yorkshire market towns of Malton and Whitby. At Kemps, you will find the things you most certainly want and may even need, such as books, art, greetings cards, quirky gifts and homewares. The perfect place to shop this Christmas.
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Make Christmas special with a luxury hamper from Bettys. All their scrumptious products are unique, delicious and beautifully presented. There are a number of hampers to suit any budget, including the Banquet Hamper - a truly unforgettable present.
Keelham Farm Shop Dedicated to celebrating fresh food and making great tasting affordable locally sourced food available to everyone. Their shop in Skipton offers products from 400 farmers and suppliers, while The Keelham Kitchen is open seven days a week.
Tipple Tails Tipple Tails fruit cakes, made in Sheffield by craft baker Jane Stammers, are perfect for cosy winter evenings. Their hand-crafted, rich, moist fruit cakes are bursting with whole fruit and nuts as well as being laced with award-winning liqueurs.
Spirit of Yorkshire Distillery The first expression of Yorkshire's first ever single malt Whisky is now available at the Spirit of Yorkshire Distillery in Hunmanby on the Yorkshire coast. Representing over eight years of planning and over three years of whisky-making.
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It's cold outside... If those winter temperatures aren’t for you, head inside and experience an exciting range of warm, indoor festive activities and fun.
The Polar Express Train Ride
Burton Agnes Hall
Wensleydale Railway 29 November – 23 December 2019
near Bridlington 14 November 2019 – 23 December 2019
Step onboard The Polar Express Yorkshire for a magical Christmas Experience. You’ll meet all the characters including the conductor, the singing chefs, and of course Father Christmas. Throughout your journey you will tangle with the caribou, see the magic of the Northern Lights and have the story of The Polar Express told to you by the singing chefs. Don’t forget to have a bite of your cookie and authentic hot chocolate before arriving at the North Pole to meet Father Christmas and take part in other activities.
Get into the festive spirit at Christmas Craft Wednesdays. Guides will demonstrate how to make festive decorations and reveal the secrets behind those displayed in the Hall. Children can enjoy a festive trail, seeking snowmen and hunting for clues as they visit each room. During Twilight Weekend (8 - 10 Dec), marvel at the bountifully decorated Hall and receive a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie on arrival. Children can visit Father Christmas in his grotto and everyone can enjoy carols in the hall and relish the decorations twinkling in the twilight.
Choc full of festive fun 23 November 2019 - 24 December 2019 YORK’S CHOCOLATE STORY, YORK
Santa’s Sweet Adventure
Guests can meet Santa on special themed tours, in which they will complete a mission to help him save Christmas! Filled with festive fun, children will experience cracking Christmas games and discover incredible seasonal secrets. Families can learn festive facts about iconic brands and how chocolate was involved in Christmases past. There will be an opportunity to make Christmas-themed lollies and watch special festive demonstrations with talented chocolatiers. Tickets: £6 - £17.50. Price of entry includes: A meeting with Santa, commemorative photo and a festive chocolate making activity.
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Back in time for Christmas
Festive Wreath Making and Sculptural Tree Decorations 1 – 8 December 2019 Yorkshire Sculpture Park Get creative this festive season. Make a personalised wreath for yourself or to give as a gift with each session including a delicious lunch. Or join the Sculptural Tree Decoration family workshop, where you can create festive decorations to treasure. Taking inspiration from David Smith and his intricate steel sculptures, an artist will support your family to make a variety of decorations using wire and shiny materials to design and create your own beautiful decorations.
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The Angels are Coming
A Christmas Masquerade Castle Howard, near York 16 November 2019 - 5 January 2020 Discover flamboyant displays and installations which will celebrate the House’s theatrical roots and the influence of the Italian Baroque on its magnificent architecture and interiors. Experience a journey through the House’s grand state rooms, complete with the iconic 25-foot traditional Christmas tree.
Sheffield Cathedral 4 - 8 December 2019 This year Sheffield Cathedral will be transformed in a way you have never seen before! A spectacular sound and light show will transform the facade of the magnificent Cathedral starting Christmas celebrations off for all the family. The interior of the Cathedral will also be transformed. You will experience being immersed in stunning light art, set to bespoke music created by artistic collaboration Luxmuralis. Christmas starts here!
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Christmas at Harewood 2019 Harewood House, Leeds 23 November 2019 – 5 January 2020 The statues are singing, the paintings are gossiping and there’s hustle and bustle both above and below stairs. Created by acclaimed British artistic duo Davy and Kristin McGuire, from Studio McGuire, open the doors and follow the music as Yorkshire’s most exciting country house presents its interpretation of Christmas.
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Christmas markets SHEFFIELD CHRISTMAS MARKET SHEFFIELD
LEEDS CHRISTMAS CHRISTKINDELMARKT CRAFT FAIR LEEDS THE MOORS NATIONAL
HARROGATE CHRISTMAS MARKET HARROGATE
Thursday 14th – Tuesday 24th November
Friday 8th November – Sunday 21st December
Saturday 16th November
Thursday 14th Sunday 17th November
ST NICHOLAS FAIR YORK
THE HEPWORTH WAKEFIELD CHRISTMAS MARKET WAKEFIELD
GRASSINGTON DICKENSIAN FESTIVAL GRASSINGTON
Friday 22nd – Sunday 24th November and Friday 29th November – Sunday 1st December
Saturday 30th November - Sunday 1st December and Saturday 7th Sunday 8th December
Thursday 14th November – Sunday 22nd December
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Christmas markets are a great way to get into the festive spirit. There’s food and drink, funfairs and entertainers galore to keep all the family happy while you stock up on Christmas presents and treats.
PARK CENTRE, DANBY
CHRISTMAS CRAFT AND FOOD FAIR SLEDMERE HOUSE Friday 6th December – Sunday 8th December
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27TH VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS MARKET KELHAM ISLAND
KNARESBOROUGH CHRISTMAS MARKET KNARESBOROUGH
SKIRLINGTON CHRISTMAS EVENT SKIRLINGTON
OTLEY VICTORIAN FAYRE AND MARKET OTLEY
Saturday 30th November Sunday 1st December
Saturday 7th Sunday 8th December
Sunday 1st December
Sunday 1st December
RICHMOND TOWN CHRISTMAS MARKET RICHMOND
SKIPTON YULETIDE FESTIVAL & MARKET SKIPTON
THE PIECE HALL CHRISTMAS MARKET HALIFAX
A WINTER WONDERLAND LEYBURN
Sunday 8th December
Sunday 1st and Sunday 8th December
Friday 29th November – Sunday 1st December
Friday 29th Saturday 30th November
MALTON CHRISTMAS FOOD MARKET MALTON
BEVERLEY FESTIVAL OF CHRISTMAS BEVERLEY
VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS MARKET SCARBOROUGH
COUNTRY LIVING CHRISTMAS FAIR HARROGATE
Saturday 7th – Sunday 8th December
Sunday 8th December
Tuesday 10th December – Sunday 15th December
Thursday 5th – Sunday 8th December
Grassington Dickensian Festival
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Harrogate has something for everyone this Christmas, from sparkling lights along the Stray to an amazing Christmas Market and from traditional Christmas pantos to late night shopping. You'll discover why our visitors keep coming back for more!
REDCAR
TO THE M6 FOR BIRMINGHAM AND CUMBRIA
SALTBURN
BOWES
KIRKBY STEPHEN
A685
CATTERICK
LEYBURN
A683 DENT
A6108
LOFTHOUSE
HORTON-IN-RIBBLESDALE
RIPON
GRASSINGTON PATELEY BRIDGE
A65
A61 RIPLEY
MALHAM
MALTON
BRIDLINGTON
A64
DRIFFIELD
A166 WETHERBY
A658 A65 A629 ILKLEY OTLEY A61 KEIGHLEY SALTAIRE HAWORTH
A64
A614
A1079
A164 A63
A63 PONTEFRACT
WAKEFIELD
HUDDERSFIELD
HORNSEA
BEVERLEY
SELBY
M621
MIRFIELD
A165
POCKLINGTON MARKET WEIGHTON
A19
M1
HEBDEN HALIFAX TODMORDEN BRIDGE
M62
GOOLE
HULL
HUMBER BRIDGE
WITHERNSEA
M18
A1 BARNSLEY
PENISTONE
EDINBURGH
A1
YORK
LEEDS
HOLMFIRTH
FLAMBOROUGH HEAD
A165
BOROUGHBRIDGE
SKIPTON
M62
FILEY
A19
BOLTON ABBEY A59 HARROGATE
M606
SCARBOROUGH SEAMER
HELMSLEY
KNARESBOROUGH
BRADFORD
PICKERING
A170
THIRSK
MASHAM
KIRKBY LONSDALE
SETTLE
SUTTON BANK
A1
ROBIN HOOD’S BAY
NORTH YORK MOORS
NORTHALLERTON
BEDALE
YORKSHIRE DALES
INGLETON
GOATHLAND
OSMOTHERLEY
A684 HAWES
WHITBY
A171
DANBY
A172
A19
REETH
SEDBERGH
GUISBOROUGH
YARM
A1 A66 RICHMOND
TEBAY
STAITHES
MIDDLESBROUGH
BARNARD CASTLE
M1
M180 DONCASTER
ROTHERHAM PEAK M18 DISTRICT
A57
YORKSHIRE
LONDON
Motorways A Roads Rail Routes Airports Heritage Coast Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty National Parks Ferryport
TO LONDON BY RAIL
LEEDS
MANCHESTER
TO LONDON BY RAIL
SHEFFIELD
How to get here
Yorkshire by air
Yorkshire by rail
International flights connect Yorkshire to the rest of the world, as well as UK flights from Aberdeen, Belfast, London Heathrow, Newquay and Southampton to Leeds Bradford Yorkshire’s Airport, Doncaster Sheffield Airport, Humberside Airport and Durham Tees Valley Airport.
Yorkshire’s cities and towns are easy to get to from other parts of the country. Travel to Yorkshire with high-speed trains from either London or Edinburgh in less than two hours with LNER and Grand Central services. You can also get to Yorkshire by train from the North West with First TransPennine Express, who offer direct services into the county from Liverpool and Manchester. Northern Rail also offer direct services to Yorkshire from the North West.
Yorkshire by road Britain’s biggest and fastest highways cross Yorkshire, making getting here by car or by coach very simple. For details of the quickest (or the most scenic) driving routes see the AA or RAC websites www.theaa.com and www.rac.co.uk. Plan a journey online with Arriva, who have buses running across Yorkshire on a regular basis.
Yorkshire by sea Ferry services to Hull and Newcastle link Yorkshire with Northern Europe. P&O Ferries operate overnight services to Hull from Rotterdam and Zeebrugge.
Bradford District
YORKSHIRE.COM/TRAVEL
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