Families Hampshire West Magazine November/December 2019 issue 73

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IN THIS ISSUE

Talking to kids about climate change Act of kindness advent calendar What’s on this November & December Christmas in Hampshire Issue 73 November/December 2019 familiesonline.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk Families Hampshire West

Issue 73 I Nov/Dec 2019 Editor Rebecca Carr editor@familieshampshirewest.co.uk 07789 882 467 Advertising Claire Clarricoates claire.clarricoates@familiespublishing.co.uk 07812 218331 What’s on Chloe Atkinson assistant@familieshampshirewest.co.uk Social Media Chloe Atkinson Printed by Holbrooks Printers Ltd. Next issue January/February 2020 Booking deadline 2 December

Contents

We distribute 22,000 copies in Winchester, Southampton, The New Forest, Totton, Eastleigh, Chandler’s Ford, Hedge End, Bursledon, Netley, Park Gate and all the areas in between.

4. News

Published 6 times per year. If you would like copies for your establishment contact us.

8. It’s party time!

Cover image Depositphotos

10. Christmas in Hampshire

6. Talking to kids about climate change

12. What’s on this Christmas

Stay in touch

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Familieshampshirewestmagazin

Advertise your business in our Jan/Feb issue. Book by 2 December Early years I Childcare I Education Family Health I Travel I Clubs & Classes February Half Term Call 07789 882467

16. What’s on in November & December 18. Top board games this Christmas 19. Act of kindness advent calendar © Families Hampshire West Magazine 2019. Families Hampshire West is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Hampshire West are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Hampshire West. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Hampshire West; our distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

Distributors Wanted

KIDS & ADULTS YOGA COLLABORATIVE

Eastleigh & Winchester Are you looking for some extra income? Do you have a few hours spare for 1 - 2 days every two months within school hours?

Families Hampshire West Magazine is looking for distributors to delivery our magazine to local schools, nurseries and family attractions. If you live in the area, are reliable, have a car and would like to earn extra money, email editor@ familieshampshirewest.co.uk for more information.

Starting January 2020 2 Families Hampshire West

Sunday’s 10am-11am Chandler’s Ford & Chilworth Southampton £6.50 Children’s Yoga with Sally £8 Adults Flow & Restore with Rochelle And Special Family Sessions To book: sally@sallywilkinsonyoga.co.uk I 07855 040246 @rochelleholisticyoga I livingyogatravel@gmail.com

familiesonline.co.uk

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CELEBR ATION S AT U R DAY 1 6 N OV E M B E R 11AM-4PM Meet Elsa, Anna, Olaf and Sven, follow our Frozen Ice Sculpture Trail and get your face painted before meeting

ELSA OLAF ANNA SVEN

Father Christmas.

The children’s entertainments are not supervised playschemes and parents are requested to stay with their children and join in the fun.

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Late night shopping | Christmas Market | Ice Skating Christmas Shows | Dining & Dancing | Festive Events

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Families Hampshire West 3

News

The Tiger Who Came to Tea hits the screen this Christmas The Tiger Who Came to Tea, the classic children’s book by Judith Kerr, will come to TV this Christmas adapted as a half-hour animated film for Channel 4.

It will feature a star studded cast of voices including Benedict Cumberbatch, David Oyelowo, Tamsin Greig, David Walliams and Paul Whitehouse.

The role of Sophie will be played by 7 year old Clara Ross, who will be making her TV debut.

For anyone that doesn’t know the book, it tells the tale of the tiger that shows up at young Sophie’s front door and proceeds to eat the family out of house and home, even going so far as to drink all of the water out of the taps, before declaring: “Thank you for my nice tea. I think I’d better go now,” and departing.

Banish the brown envelope!

Not that we have anything against stationery per se but we feel it’s time to revolutionise the mechanic for group gift collecting. Ever been in charge of organising the teacher’s leaving gift and halfway through the process you’ve lost track of who you’ve accosted in the playground?

Have you ever organised a baby shower, hen do or dare we say it weekend away without kids (yay!) but had a headache getting everyone’s money together or deciding on what gift or experience to spend it all on?

We think group gifting should be fun and hassle free. With Collection Pot you can collect money from different contributors easily through a simple online platform and then the lucky recipient can choose to spend their “pot” on one of the many exciting gifts and experiences available, or simply have the balance transferred to a bank account or gift card.

Why not start your first pot today at www.collectionpot.co.uk

Chloe Tucker, Commissioning Executive, Channel 4 Drama said: “The Tiger Who Came to Tea is a timeless classic, and we hope this film will capture the same special place in every family’s imagination watching it.”

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance call on children to support their New Schools and Youth Campaign Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance (HIOWAA) is calling on schools, clubs and youth groups to help keep their paramedics ‘life-saving ready’ by taking part in their new education campaign; Learning Saves Lives.

It costs the Charity £6 per day to fund the training of one Critical Care paramedic over the course of a year. With the help of 4-to-16-year-olds across the region, HIOWAA aims to raise £30,000; enough to train 15 of their paramedics. The Charity is encouraging schools and youth groups to raise funds by hosting non-uniform days and dress up days.

Schools and clubs interested in getting involved in Learning Saves Lives should visit the Charity’s ‘Get Involved’ website page, where they can find fundraising packs with interactive resources to help young people with their fundraising: www.hiowaa.org

To advertise in our Jan/Feb issue call 07789 882467 Booking deadline is 2 December

Download our magazine Don’t miss an issue! Download the latest magazine and our back catalogue at issuu

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W.J. French & Son, your local, children’s shoe experts.

We stock a large range of children’s shoes in full & half sizes as well as a wide range of width fittings.

We are recognised by the Children's Foot Health Register as a centre of excellence for shoe fitting.

We are are the the largest largestindependent independantshoe shoeshop shopinin Hampshire Hampshire and and have havebeen beenproviding providingexcellent excellent customer customer service service for forover over200 200years. years.

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Enjoy a Wonderland themed Christmas at Marwell This year Christmas at Marwell takes families into a curious world of topsy turvy delights with a fairy tale Alice in Wonderland theme, available on selected dates from 16 November to 24 December, Marwell Hall will be turned into a wonderland of whacky delights to offer a Christmas experience with refreshments fit for the Queen of Hearts, a tea party with Mother Christmas as she recounts a curious tale and an elf workshop where little ones create a ‘magical’ elf door. Children then get to meet Father Christmas and receive a surprise gift.

Daytime sessions, 10am-2.25pm include all day zoo access, a Christmas ‘wonderland experience’ and a new Cheshire cat trail to take part in. Evening sessions, 4–6.15pm include a special Mad Hatter character welcome, an illuminated train ride aboard the ‘woodland express’ to Marwell Hall, a Christmas ‘wonderland experience’ and regal garden games. For more information and tickets visit www.marwell.org.uk/christmas

Big fun at Little Beaulieu with new £½m adventure play area Playtime is coming to Beaulieu with an adventurous new feature for 2020 as Little Beaulieu brings family fun to the award-winning attraction with a £½m enchanting play area for all ages. The fun fantasy play area is crammed with quirky features to try out and secret passageways to discover.

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Opportunity reigns at King Edward VI’s Sixth Form Naturally, promoting intellectual excellence and developing curious minds take precedence at King Edward’s, Southampton, as one of the south coast’s leading selective, academic secondary schools. Almost all Sixth Form students go on to higher education institutions, with over 80 percent attending Russell Group universities with an average of 10 percent taking up Oxbridge places.

However, academia is not the sole focus. Fostering a sense of personal worth in pupils and equipping them with the practical skills to be successful in the wider world are also priorities. Most recently, Sixth Formers enjoyed workshops with BBC Question Time production team, during the episode hosted at the impressive Dobson Theatre. Such opportunities are abound at King Edward’s, from volunteering projects in South Africa, to scientific research excursions in Iceland, to expeditions in Nepal, and cricket tours in India.

Students from King Edward’s combine academic achievement with the impressive communication and leadership skills they acquire through directing a production, organising a musical charity fundraiser, or captaining a sports teams, and stand out from the crowd.

To tour the site or attend the Sixth Form Information Evening on Thursday 17 November, email registrar@kes.hants.sch.uk or call 023 8079 9216.

Follow us on Facebook to keep up to date with all the latest news and events happening in Southampton, The New Forest and Winchester Facebook/familieshampshirewestmagazine

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Beaulieu’s play area will open in early 2020. From early 2020, a standard admission ticket to Beaulieu will include entry to Little Beaulieu. For tickets and details see www.beaulieu.co.uk.

News

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Families Hampshire West 5

Parenting

Talking to children about

climate change Valentina Gianella

Being a parent is a tough job. The trickiest part is making sure we tell our children the truth, without simultaneously causing them to be either over-anxious or delusional about the future. It applies to an extensive range of aspects in life, and climate change is a relatively new but undeniable one.

My children were 10 and 7 years old when we first started talking about the environmental challenges facing humanity. Even as a journalist who has dealt with such topics for years, I was frankly terrified of this task. Writing an article is one thing: facing their worried questions was entirely another.

Then, a young girl showed up. Greta Thunberg was everywhere online, with her yellow raincoat and a straightforward concept: we have to DO something to save our planet, or there’s going to be trouble. Action: that was the key. If you know that there is something you can do about a problem – even the smallest thing, anything that is within your power – you feel less hopeless. Less scared.

Here are some of the questions that children and their parents have been asking me about Climate Change and the answers that seem to help them.

My child gets anxious about the future of humankind: what should I say?

Talk frankly, but also help them understand the everyday actions that we can all take to tackle the main issues

related to Climate Change. Action is the best cure for fear. Stop using disposable plastic; start using re-fillable water bottles; make sure you recycle correctly; re-use; exchange instead of buying new things; save energy; save water; walk and cycle more; use public transport or shared transportation. Show your child we can all make a difference and that if everyone does the same, the future looks more positive.

“What is climate change?”- How to answer The earth is our home, and it is nestled within a precious shelter that is called the atmosphere. Inside the atmosphere, we and other creatures can breathe and live. For nearly 200 years we have used something called fossil fuel (carbon and oil), which we burn in order to fuel our working world, in everything from factories to transportation. Every time we burn fossil fuels, or cut down trees, the atmosphere temperature rises a tiny bit because the gas (mostly a gas called carbon dioxide) that comes from this burning becomes trapped inside the atmosphere. This means the earth cannot release the heat that it receives from the sun. This is called Global Warming.

As the temperature rises, the climate changes. This brings heavy rains or severe drought, diverts the sea currents and disrupts the natural habitat of many species. It also means that the sea level is rising due to the ice melting in the Poles. All of these are the main effects of Climate Change.

What can help me communicate the key facts to my child?

It helps to introduce a hero character that allows children to engage their imagination while they absorb abstract information. Greta Thunberg is a perfect medium for these concepts. Discover other children who have also made a difference – like William Kamkwamba, who inspired the book and film The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind.

6 Families Hampshire West

Who is Greta Thunberg?

Greta is a child who loves to be “in the know” about what is happening to our planet.

She comes from a family of scientists and artists, she has studied the facts, and she is not afraid of being in the spotlight.

This combination worked well when she decided it was time to speak out and gain attention from the world about the danger we are facing and what we should be doing to avoid it.

Where can we learn more about this?

Sometimes, the news can be challenging for children to understand because it only illuminates part of a problem. Also, some headlines can be scary. Suggest that your child come to you with their questions and look for scientific sources together.

Bookshops and the internet (reliable websites such as www.climatekids.nasa. gov) can give a wider view. Look for sources that have been translated in a way that is understandable for younger ages.

Valentina Gianella is the author of We Are All Greta: Be Inspired to Change the World published

by Laurence King and is available from www.amazon. co.uk, www. laurenceking. com and all good book stores.

ISBN: 9781786276131 £9.99 familiesonline.co.uk

KING KING EDWARD EDWARD VI VI SCHOOL SCHOOL S SO OU UT TH HA AM MP PT TO ON N

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Fulfil your potential Accepting Accepting Sixth Sixth Form Form applications applications until until Friday Friday 31 31 January January 2020 2020 Email registrar@kes.hants.sch.uk for more information and to arrange a tour.

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Families Hampshire West 7 @kessouthampton

Parties

It’s PARTY time

Party entertainers are a great idea for a birthday party. They mean less stress and more time for you to enjoy your child’s celebration. But you may still need invitations, decorations, food and some activity ideas. So, if your child has their heart set on a themed party here are tips for popular themes.

Science Party Science parties are a great way for introducing science concepts to young children.

Decorations Spell out the birthday child’s name using the periodic table.

Hang up educational science posters like the periodic table which can be downloaded for free.

Circus Party Kids love to clown around and have fun so why not try a circus party?

Prince and Princess Party

Decorations

A prince and princess party is all about makebelieve and dressing up. Think gold and silver, jewels and gems!

Create a balloon archway around a doorway.

Invitations

Create the illusion of being under a big top by hanging bunting from the where the walls meet the ceiling, with the other ends of the bunting meeting in the centre of the ceiling.

Arrange toy animals like elephants and lions around the room.

Create royal proclamations to invite your guests using coloured paper, ribbon and some candle wax. Either hand write or print out on a computer.

Decorations

Food

Welcome your guests by rolling out a length of red carpet or any fabric that looks grand.

Serve popcorn in decorated paper cups.

A drawbridge made from cardboard or a balloon archway also adds finesse.

Choose a colour theme for your balloons.

Decorate the cake with a clowns face Use icing pens to draw balloons on cupcakes.

Hot dogs, funny-face pizza and animal-shaped biscuits add to the atmosphere.

Activities Pin the Red Nose on the Clown – children pin their red nose onto a clown poster whilst blindfolded.

Juggling - use tennis balls to teach juggling or spin plastic plates on top of a broom handle.

Musical Clown Noses – children skip around the room to music. When it stops, they have to find a clown nose and the person who doesn’t find a nose is out.

Clown Face Painting Competition - children paint their own faces, making themselves look like clowns.

Circus Crafts Balloon animals – buy a pack of long balloons and search for free video tutorials online.

Circus finger puppets - download and print out circus characters. Get children to colour them in and cut them out. Cut a 2cm wide strip of paper long enough to go round the middle of each child’s finger. Glue/Sellotape strip into a circle. Attach the character onto the front.

Clown Hats - cut circles out of bright, thick card to make into cone shapes, as well as small circles in different colours to be glued on. Glue a pompom at the top of the hat. Punch holes either side to thread elastic through.

8 Families Hampshire West

Make the table the focus. A canopy made from inexpensive voile, or a net curtain hung from the ceiling, will look eye-catching. Wrap fairy lights around the table or scatter it with glittery confetti.

Food Watermelon Magic Wands – cut watermelon into star shapes, and serve on top of skewers.

Crown-shaped Biscuits and Sandwiches - wrap a cake tin with foil, and add four turrets made from foil-wrapped cardboard tubes.

Royal Sweets - pile red, white and blue sweets or cupcakes onto a cake stand.

Activities Make crowns and tiaras - decorate paper crowns with sequins and glitter.

Make medieval prince/princess hats - provide some pastel-coloured card, elastic and cheap net or voile, to transform into cone-shaped, medieval prince/princess hats.

Royal Party Games - Play Pin the Tail on the Dragon or the Jewel on the Tiara, Musical Thrones, or The Queen Says (instead of Simon Says).

Royal Treasure Hunt - Hide gold chocolate coins around the house or garden. Someone has stolen the king’s gold and the children must find it!

If you have one, display a whiteboard for working out problems such as ingredients for a potion or volcano.

Use coloured balloons for different planets – add cardboard for Saturn’s rings.

Costumes Oversized white shirts can become lab coats.

Print out name tags with monikers added like ‘Professor Julia.’

Party Food Rocket and Star Sandwiches and Pizzas – use a cookie cutter to cut sandwiches or pizza slices into rockets or stars.

Celestial Cupcakes - use edible glitter to dust cupcakes.

Sweet Rockets – fill plastic test tubes with sweeties.

Activities Erupting Volcanoes - children make a small volcano from play dough. Then insert a small container such as jar or film canisters (available cheaply on Amazon) into the centre of each volcano. Into each container, put one teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda, a squirt of dish washing up liquid and a few drops of red food colouring.

Add one tea spoon of vinegar and kapow!

Mini Lava Lamps - fill jars or bottles about a ¼ full with water. Add food colouring and mix.

Almost fill jars with oil. When the oil and water have separated, drop in a fizzing tablet like Alka Seltzer or Vitamin C. Watch as the tablet floats down slowly to the water, dissolve and create bubbles of gas that carry some of the coloured water to the top. Add a few tablets at a time!

Magic Potion Station - Gather safe ingredients such as washing up liquid, vinegar, bicarbonate of soda, glitter, food colouring, spoons and mixing bowls/glass jars and arrange them so children can mix their own potions.

Loves

For a truly special experience, celebrate your child’s next space themed birthday at Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium. Have fun and be inspired in this unique birthday party setting!

Email info@winchestersciencecentre.org for more details. familiesonline.co.uk

Parties

Climbing Parties at Golden Gecko A birthday party at Golden Gecko is a very special experience. It’s a chance for up to 20 children from 5 years to challenge themselves against the climbing wall.

With two hours of fun starting at £150 for the first 10 people, parties include one full hour of climbing, two instructors and the use of the party room. During the hour of climbing you will have exclusive use of the Challenge Wall which has a wide variety of climbs to test all abilities. To replenish energy levels, you can enjoy a delicious hot buffet at £4 per head or bring your own party food.

Superhero Party You don’t need to be a super parent to make sure your kids have fun at a superhero party.

Invitations

Book online www.ggclimbing.com orxfor any04.12.18.pdf queries ring the Winchester Landscape Advert 87mmW 60mmH 1 04/12/2018 centre on 01794 590 022 on weekdays from 10am - 2pm.

Superhero party invitations can be bought or make your own. Buy superhero masks, handwrite the party details on a notecard or decorative shipping tag and tie onto the masks.

The springboard to confidence for your child

Costumes Children come dressed as their favourite superhero, or transform into one on arrival using a selection of masks and capes which you can buy cheaply. Capes can be decorated with markers and printables you have downloaded.

Decorations Lay the table with red, blue and yellow table cloths. Stick to three primary colours with balloons too for a real comic book effect.

Classic superhero terms such as ‘Kapow’, ‘Boom,’ as well as posters can be downloaded to print and use to decorate walls.

Superhero inflatables are cheap and can be hung in the room.

Food

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Use brightly coloured cups and plates.

Superhero Chips - make cones from downloadable comic book pages to serve chips, dippers or other party food.

Superhero Cupcakes can be obtained from supermarkets.

Superhero Fruit Sticks - foods such as pineapple, green grapes and watermelon fit the colour scheme; put them on sticks with superhero labels attached to the end.

Super Juice - brightly coloured fruit juices or low sugar squash will keep super thirsts quenched!

Activities Pass the Kryptonite - children sit in a circle and pass around a green object (a painted rock or green bean bag), while the music plays. When it stops, whoever’s holding the kryptonite is out! Give a prize to the last child left in the game.

Superhero Face Painting - you could get a professional face painter or set up your own face painting stand and view online video tutorials to transform your guests into superheroes.

Superhero Obstacle Course - jump through a hoop; weave through cones; run with an egg and spoon; pop a balloon; crawl through a tunnel or walk along a balance beam.

To feature your party business in our next issue call Claire on 07812 218331 familiesonline.co.uk

Families Hampshire West 9

© Winchester Cathedral Market

Christmas in Hampshire

Dinosaurs at Winchester Science Centre this Christmas Winchester Science Centre announced a brand-new Christmas partnership with the creators of The World of Dinosaur Roar! and a whole host of dinosaur-themed science activities (from 30 November).

family photograph with Santa.

Families looking for Father Christmas can breathe a sigh of relief as the Science Centre is offering a bookable Santa and the Elves Christmas Grotto, complete with sciencethemed activity, gift, and the chance to meet and have a

Dino Discovery is open for weekends from Sat 30 Nov and daily from 19 Dec to Mon 6 Jan 2020.

The Santa and the Elves Grotto is open at weekends from 7 Dec and daily from 19-24 Dec. Tickets for the planetarium and Santa and the Elves Grotto carry an additional charge but you can save up to 25% on General Admission when booking tickets online at least three days in advance.

For full details, ticket sales and a timetable of activities visit: www.winchestersciencecentre.org.

Christmas at Paultons Park Visit Paultons Park from Saturday 23rd November (selected dates until 24 Deecember) and celebrate Christmas in a world of twinkling illumination, seasonal music and a giant musical Christmas tree.

Discover magical scenes inside Santa’s Grotto as you join a reindeer on his journey to find Santa in time for Christmas Eve. Visit the Park’s state-of-the-art 4D Show Street Cinema and follow the journey of Thunder, a young ginger cat who faces adventure at every turn in the new fun-filled film, The House of Magic.

Peppa Pig World will also be transforming this Christmas season as Peppa Pig and George wrap up in their winter outfits, giant Christmas trees appear as well as Santa in his sleigh from the TV series.

Selected rides and attractions will also be open during the Christmas season. Visit paultonspark. co.uk for further information and to book.

Christmas at the Swan Centre, Eastleigh Get your Christmas prep off to a great start at the Swan Centre, Eastleigh; your local destination for shopping and leisure. With over 50 shops, restaurants and leisure venues there’s plenty of reasons to keep it local this festive season.

Their food and leisure venues are booking up fast, so whether you want a tasty treat, a festive feast at one of the many restaurants, a Christmas Movie at Vue, a bowling bash at Hollywood Bowl, or a play time adventure at Partyman World of Play visit www. visiteastleigh.co.uk/things-to-do/swan-shopping-centre and make your reservation.

10 Families Hampshire West

Dick Whittington at Theatre Royal Winchester, Saturday 30 November Sunday 5 January Theatre Royal Winchester’s traditional family pantomime Dick Whittington heads to the city from Saturday 30 November. Produced by the same created team as last year’s hugely successful Beauty and the Beast, the production is filled with hilarious gags, original songs and lots of audience participation.

Two familiar faces return - Julian Eardley, who has been performing as the theatre’s Dame returns for his 10th year, this year as Dame Dolly Dumpling, and Ed Thorpe, who had previously played Wally and Smee, returns as the title character, Dick Whittington. Kristopher Milnes, Bouffon in last year’s Beauty and the Beast, returns as the sinister King Rat. They will be joined by Caitlin McNerney (Cat), Libby Gores (Fairy Bow Bells), Joanna Brown (Alice Fitzwarren) and Jon Bonner (Alderman, Captain and Sultan). The professional cast are supported by a cast of local young performers.

Dick Whittington tells the story of a man who seeks his fortune in a London tormented by Revolting Rodents led by the sinister King Rat. Book your tickets today, call the Box Office 01962 840 440 or visit www. theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk

Don’t miss CINDERELLA: THE MUSICAL at NST City A magical treat for all the family this Christmas.

23 November - 5 January Tickets from £10. Book now at nstheatres.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

WIN

Christmas magic awaits in Southampton The Christmas festivities begin on Thursday 14 November from 5pm with the countdown to the Christmas light switch on and live entertainment throughout the evening.

The city not only has two shopping centres, but there’s also the Southampton Christmas Market running from 14 November - 23 December with over 40 chalets selling gifts and traditional German fayre. The ever-popular ‘Flying Santa’ takes to the sky twice daily (Monday - Saturday at 5pm and 7pm, Sundays 4pm and 6pm) and the open-air bars with live music stay open until 10pm daily. Visit www.xmasfestival.com for full details.

You can also enjoy Westquay’s ice rink from 9 November – 5 January, book tickets to see the panto at the Mayflower Theatre or a Christmas show at Nuffield Southampton Theatre. From 21-23 November the iconic Bargate will be brought to life through a futuristic projection mapping show, which will tell the story of Southampton’s past, present and future.

For more information visit www.southamptonchristmas.com

Blue Funnel Cruises Christmas parties Cruising along Southampton’s scenic waterways from Town Quay and relax with great company and ever-changing views on one of their superb Christmas Lunch Cruises running from the end of November. A great alternative to an evening party and something a little different than the usual restaurant lunch. For the evening there are different packages to suit all requirements. There is the more informal Christmas Party Cruise including Reception Drink, Christmas Box Festive Meal and Disco with resident DJ or enjoy a dinner dance with silver service, reception drink, four-course set menu and glass of wine, followed by dancing. Public or private charters offered for groups large and small are also available, catering up to 200 depending on menu choice. Meals prepared onboard and served by uniformed staff.

Visit www.bluefunnel.co.uk for more details or to book.

Christmas at The National Trust’s Hinton Ampner The house at Hinton Ampner is beautifully dressed with traditional decorations and a roaring lit fire this festive season. Handmade felt ornaments, inspired by Aesop’s Fables, hang from the Christmas trees inside. Outside in the fresh air, there’s walks to be discovered, a shop and cafe stocked with festive treats. Families can take part in the Aesop’s Fables children’s trail, £2 per trail plus usual admissions to the estate. Hinton’s Christmas Fables runs from 1-31 December, 10am-2.30pm. Booking is essential to enter to house.

Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hintonampner for more information and to book tickets. Please note that the estate is closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market and Ice Rink If you’re looking for festive family fun this Christmas then look no further than Winchester Cathedral’s Christmas Market and Ice Rink!

Located at the heart of Winchester Cathedral’s historic Inner Close, you’ll be captivated by the sights, sounds and smells of the Christmas Market with tasty treats and Christmas gifts for visitors of all ages.

At the centre of the bustling Christmas Market, you’ll find Winchester Cathedral’s Ice Rink, an impressive real ice rink with a covered roof, guaranteeing a rain-free skate whatever the weather. With child friendly skate aids, family tickets and ‘tiny tots’ sessions available.

Complete your day with a visit to the magnificent Winchester Cathedral where you can enjoy family events throughout the festive period, including the famous Lantern Parade on 28 November. With its towering Christmas tree and traditional carol services, you’ll experience the true joy of Christmas at Winchester Cathedral.

The Market is open daily from 21 Nov – 22 Dec and entry is free. The Ice Rink is open from 21 Nov – 5 Jan with tickets available from £6.95.

Visit the Cathedral website to plan your visit www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk/home/ christmas-at-the-cathedral Families Hampshire West Magazine has a family Ice Skating ticket to giveaway.

To be in with a chance of winning, simply go to our facebook page (Facebook/ familieshampshirewest), Like us and comment on the pinned post at the top of the page. Enter by 30 November. T&C’s apply.

‘ Tis the Season ...

...for family fun

Enjoy a fun-filled festive day out for all the family at Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market and Ice Rink!

ICE RINK 21 November 2019 - 5 January 2020 10.00am - 9.00pm (last session starts at 8.00pm) Tickets available from £6.95 (including free skate hire).

Family tickets, parent and toddler sessions and child-friendly skate aids are also available. Advanced booking is recommended.

Book online or call 01962 857 276.

CHRISTMAS MARKET 21 November 2019 – 22 December 2019 Sun – Wed, 10.00am – 6.30pm, Thurs – Sat, 10.00am – 8.00pm

winchester-cathedral.org.uk/christmas familiesonline.co.uk

Families Hampshire West 11

What’s on

What’s on

Your essential guide to family events this November & December. Compiled by Chloe Atkinson We take great care in compiling our events guide, but check with the venues before you leave home just in case times or prices have changed since we went to print.

21 November – 5 January Hyde Park Winter Wonderland London

There are lots of exciting new attractions including the world’s tallest transportable Observation Wheel, and new theme ‘A Christmas Carol’ at the Magical Ice Kingdom and ‘Paddington on Ice’, to name just a few. 10am–10pm. Free entry.

WHERE IS SANTA?

CHRISTMAS MARKETS 9 November Christmas Craft Fair Ascension Church Southampton, SO18 1HZ

Enjoy some Christmas crafts with some great activities for children.

There will be cakes, refreshments and lots of handmade gifts for your loved ones. 10am–3pm.

21 November – 22 December Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market Winchester, SO23 9LS

Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market is recognised as one of the best in Europe due to its unique location, high quality exhibitors and bustling atmosphere. Christmas gifts, decorations and festive foods can be found in abundance.

23 November Craft & Gift Market Romsey Town Hall Romsey, SO51 8YZ

Browse high quality gifts and homemade crafts like jewellery, handbags, woodcraft and glasswear.

10am–4pm. Free entry.

24 November Christmas at The Brickworks Bursledon Brickworks Industrial Museum, Swanwick, SO31 7GW

Enjoy a large Christmas market with lots of craft stalls to keep the whole family entertained. The museum will be steamed-up, with trains running.

11am–4pm, £4.

24 November Handmade Craft Fair AFC Totton Football Ground Totton, SO40 2RW

Come and browse lots of local crafters selling their handmade wares. 11am–3pm.

29 November Christmas In Lymington High Street, Lymington, SO41 9AA

This free family event is bursting with festive fun! The beautiful Christmas Market will be brimming with delicious food, festive fare and gifts for all ages. There will also be a free giant Snow Globe where families and individuals can step inside and pose for pictures in their own winter wonderland photo booth. The Mayor will be switching on the Christmas lights, carols will be sung outside St Thomas Church and Santa will be making an appearance on his Sleigh.

4-8pm. Free car parking in all NFDC car parks in Lymington all day!

16 November – 15 December Christmas at Marwell Zoo Marwell Wildlife Winchester, SO21 1JH

30 November Hythe Mistletoe Fayre Hythe Village, Hythe, SO45 6AG

Enjoy a Christmas market in the centre of Hythe village! 10am-4pm.

Free.

7 December Southampton Cats Protection Christmas Fair Totton & Eling Community Hall Totton, SO40 3AP

The annual Christmas Fair will have lots of gifts for the animal lover in your life, including crafts, plants, cakes and tombolas. Free entry.

19 December Woolston Community Christmas Event Centenary Quay Woolston, SO19 9UE

Enjoy a lively evening of Christmas Carols, food, mulled wine, Santa’s Grotto and plenty more for the community. 6–9pm.

ICE SKATING

21 November – 5 January Winchester Cathedral Ice Rink Winchester, SO23 9LS

Enjoy festive, rain-free skating at the heart of Winchester Cathedral’s Christmas Market! Skate around a huge Christmas Tree in the centre of the Ice Rink and then warm up with a cup of hot chocolate in the Ice Rink café. Tickets £6.95 - £11.

Teach your little one how to skate with the exclusive Parent and Toddler sessions at 10am from Monday to Friday until 19 December. £11.50 for one adult and a toddler and includes skate aids. Sessions are exclusive to toddlers aged 2–4.

23 November – 5 January Portsmouth Ice Rink Guildhall Square Portsmouth, PO1 2AB

Get your skates on this festive season and take to the ice as Portsmouth’s Guildhall Square is transformed into a winter wonderland. Various prices.

Meet Santa in his magical Grotto and many of his animal friends along the way as they all get ready for Christmas Eve. Adorable animated characters greet you at every turn with twinkling lights and magical scenes brought to life. All visits must be pre-booked. Santa’s Grotto is available 9.30am-5.15pm. Park entry is included with your booking, rides and attractions open from 10am.

Visit paultonspark.co.uk for further information and to book tickets.

Travel in a festive train carriage for a magical trip where Santa and his jolly helpers visit you in your seat with a gift. Tickets from £18.

Enjoy a festive skate in Southampton’s very own Ice Rink.

ICE SKATING FURTHER AWAY...

23 November – 23 December Santa’s Grotto at Paultons Park Romsey, SO51 6AL

30 November & 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 23, 24 December Santa Specials The ‘Watercress Line’ Alresford, SO24 9JG

9 November – 5 January Southampton Ice Rink West Quay Shopping Centre Southampton, SO15 1QE

22 November -19 December (Mon-Fri only) Parent & Toddler Ice Skating Winchester Cathedral Ice Rink, Winchester, SO23 9LS

Enjoy the 10th anniversary celebrations at Marwell, this Christmas as you join Jingle the elf and some of his new friends in ‘Wonderland’ as you step into a curious world of topsy-turvy delights! There are daytime and evening experiences available. See website for times and prices.

30 November – 23 December Longdown Farm Christmas Barn Longdown Activity Farm Ashurst, Southampton, SO40 7EH

Delight in the festive atmosphere where you will meet real live animals among the fairy-lit Christmas trees.

See the peaceful Nativity scene and then look for Father Christmas’ tractor sleigh outside the Farmhouse Grotto.

30 November – 15 December (weekends). 19 December – 6 January 2020 (daily) Dino Discovery with the World of Dinosaur Roar!

Winchester Science Centre Winchester, SO21 1HZ

The Science Centre has teamed up with popular children’s book series The World of Dinosaur Roar! for an imaginative dinosaur-themed Christmas. Meet Trixie the baby triceratops and her friendly ranger and take part in a dino dig, trail and live science show. Book for the Father Christmas grotto and new Christmas planetarium show to add a little Christmas magic and sparkle to your day. Normal admission.

7, 8, 14, 15, 21, & 22 December Santa’s Grotto Milestones Museum Basingstoke, RG22 6PG

Visit Santa and his elves in their magical grotto deep in the heart of Milestones. Meet Santa and receive a special festive gift, then create a glittering decoration to take home for your own Christmas tree.

Book a session between 11.45am– 4.15pm. £7.50 per child plus general admission to the museum.

7 & 8 December Visit Father Christmas at Tudor House Tudor House & Gardens, SO14 2AD

See Tudor House dressed in its best for Christmas, follow a festive family trail meet Santa, receive a Christmas gift and enjoy a truly magical experience in a traditional setting.

Places are limited so book early to avoid disappointment. Families can book more than one child per slot 10am-5pm, £7, Pre-book 023 8083 4536.

14 & 21 December Santa’s Special Cruise Blue Funnel Day Cruises Town Quay, Southampton, SO14 2AQ

Join Santa and his good friend Scotty the Clown for a magical Christmas Cruise. Sit back and relax with a complimentary glass of wine and mince pie while the little ones are entertained by Scotty the Clown for the duration of the cruise. All children will join Santa in his magical grotto to share their Christmas wish list and receive a present before leaving the boat. Various times.

Adults £10.95, children £12.50.

DANCING SANTA

Festive Family Fun AT THE FURLONG SHOPPING CENTRE, RINGWOOD

Saturday 7th December, 11am - 3pm

GIANT IGLOO PHOTO BOOTH STILT WALKING ELVES CRAFT STATION FACE PAINTING

FREE EVENT

BALLOON MODELLING

FOR FULL DETAILS VISIT THEFURLONG.CO.UK

& MORE!

FIND US JUST OFF THE A31, RINGWOOD

12 Families Hampshire West

FREE PARKING FOR 2 HOURS

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

familiesonline.co.uk Viewpoint Christmas Event 87mm x 60mm.indd 1

01/10/2019 16:04

© National Trust 2019. Registered Charity no. 205846.

Photography © National Trust Images/Charlotte Langdon

Christmas Fables at Hinton Ampner, Hampshire Step into a house beautifully decorated for Christmas, and discover classic Christmas fables. Outdoors, a themed trail takes kids on a storytelling adventure.

Pre-booked tickets for the house essential (0344 249 1895). Usual admissions apply, plus £2 per trail 1–31 December, 10am–2.30pm.

These are the places that make us. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hinton-ampner

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BOOKING NOW

doorstep

#lovelepe

Beach • Sensory garden • Woodland play area

paultonspark.co.uk

*Hand in this advert to receive 2-for-1 on hot drinks at The Lookout, our beachside restaurant. Voucher can only be redeemed once. Photocopies and web copies not accepted. Expires 24 December 2019.

www.hants.gov.uk/lepe

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For more details check out our Brand Guidelines.

ALL VISITS MUST BE PRE-BOOKED ® Paultons Park and the Paultons Park logo are registered trademarks of Paultons Park Ltd

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Families Hampshire West 13

What’s on 14, 21, 22 & 23 December Christmas Canoe Paddle New Forest Activities Beaulieu, SO42 7YA

1 December Santa’s Christmas Countdown Hanger Farm Arts Centre West Totton, SO40 8FT

Enjoy a festive paddle on the Beaulieu River to find Santa! All children will receive a gift from Father Christmas. Adults £25, children £19

Join Dotty the Elf, Dasher the Reindeer, Jack Frost and Pompom the Penguin in a fun, festive, musical adventure to help fix the Christmas calendar and get Santa’s Christmas Countdown started. 2pm, From £9.

16 – 20 December Santa’s Grotto Monkey World Wareham, Dorset, BH20 6HH

5 – 7 December Jack and the Beanstalk The Berry Theatre Hedge End, SO30 4EJ

Take a fairy-lit buggy ride deep into the park and visit Santa in his Grotto!

Mulled wine, mince pies and a gift for each child will make it a truly magical experience for the whole family. 5–7.30pm. Tickets from £12.

CHRISTMAS THEATRE & PANTOMIMES 23 November – 5 January CinderELLA: The Musical NST City, SO14 7DU

Cinders feels old before her time and Ella feels like she’s running out of time. Throw in the reopening of the Midnight Ballroom, a not so charming Prince and two nasty step-nieces and you’ve got yourself A CinderELLA story: The musical remix. Ages 5+. From £10.

27 – 30 November Dick Whittington The Point, Eastleigh, SO50 9DE

The much loved classic family tale brought to life with fun and laughter as all good Pantomimes should be. Accompanied by great songs and superb special effects, this is a show not to miss this festive season.

Various times. From £10.50.

30 November – 5 January Dick Whittington Theatre Royal Winchester Winchester, SO23 8SB

Theatre Royal Winchester’s traditional family pantomime Dick Whittington is filled with hilarious gags, original songs and lots of audience participation. Dick Whittington tells the story of a man who seeks his fortune in a London tormented by Revolting Rodents led by the sinister King Rat. Various times. Tickets from £10.50 - £25.50.

An action packed story filled with novel ideas and comedy. Abundant audience participation, visual comedy and traditional pantomime antics are also included. Various times. Tickets from £10.

6 - 29 December Wow said the Owl NST City Studio Southampton, SO14 7DU

See Wow! Said the Owl, the acclaimed children’s book by award winning author Tim Hopgood, at Nuffield Southampton Theatres City Studio this Christmas! Join us from 6 – 29 December for this beautiful blend of story-telling, puppetry and music. Book tickets to this enchanting tale perfect for 2-5 year olds at nstheatres.co.uk or call the Box Office on 023 8067 1771.

13 – 31 December Stickman The Berry Theatre Hedge End, SO30 4EJ

What starts off as a morning jog becomes quite the misadventure for Stick Man: a dog wants to play fetch with him, a swan builds a nest with him, and he even ends up on a fire! How will Stick Man ever get back to the family tree? This award-winning production, from the team behind Tiddler and other Terrific Tales, Tabby McTat and Zog features a trio of top actors and is packed full of puppetry, songs, live music and funky moves. Various times. Tickets from £12.

Don’t forget to say you saw these events advertised in

THIS CHRISTMAS AT THE POINT, EASTLEIGH

Lyngo Theatre presents

14 December The Snowman Featuring the Donkey’s Tale Winchester Cathedral Winchester, SO23 9LS

Experience the magic of The Snowman in a whole new way this Christmas. The world’s most prolific performers of The Snowman film with live orchestra. Ages 3+. 1pm, 3pm & 7.15pm. Tickets from £23.

14 December – 5 January Peter Pan Mayflower Theatre Southampton, SO15 1GE

Peter Pan will be packed full of sensational flying effects, a boat-load of laughter and all the entertainment. Jump aboard the Jolly Roger and set sail for Neverland this Christmas. Various times. From £15.

15 December The Nutcracker The Point, Eastleigh, SO50 9DE

Journey through the magical night with Clara and her Nutcracker Prince, meet the Mouse King and join the Sugar Plum Fairy in the beautiful Land of Sweets.

Immerse yourselves in the spectacular world of professional dance, in this festive treat for the whole family! 1pm & 3.30pm, £10.

16 December Santa’s Christmas Countdown Theatre Royal Winchester Winchester SO23 8SB

Join Dotty the Elf, Dasher the Reindeer, Jack Frost and Pompom the Penguin in a fun, festive musical adventure to help fix the Christmas calendar! An interactive family show where each child gets to meet Father Christmas and receive a specially wrapped present from him! Suitable for ages 2-7. 10.30am, 1pm & 4pm. £12.

20 -24 December Heart of Winter The Point, Eastleigh, SO50 9DE

Christmas is coming and Sally can’t sleep - it’s too hot! The weather has gone topsy-turvy. No-one can remember the last time it snowed or even rained, and her father can’t sell any of his umbrellas. Will a snowy bedtime story from Dad help?

Various times, tickets from £9.

22 December Malcolm the Magician’s Magical Christmas Show Hanger Farm Arts Centre Totton, SO40 8FT

Take some time out from your busy Christmas schedule to enjoy Malcolm the Magician’s Family Magic Show. 11am & 2pm. Tickets from £6.

THEATRE SHOWS NEARBY...

11 December – 5 January Aladdin Kings Theatre, Southsea, PO5 2QJ

Featuring laugh-out-loud comedy, a wish-granting genie, stunning scenery, dazzling costumes, an evil sorcerer and a lamp-full of family fun for all the ages. Various times.

Tickets £11.50–£17.50 12 December – 5 January Aladdin The Anvil, Churchill Way, Basingstoke, RG21 7QR

Jump aboard the magic carpet and follow Aladdin, his hapless brother, and of course his mother Widow Twankey, on a fearless quest to stop the evil Abanazar from ruling the world. Various times. From £20.

13 December – 5 January Beauty and the Beast Ferneham Hall, Fareham, PO16 7DB

A top Christmas extravaganza with a guaranteed mix of slapstick fun, magical effects, stunning costumes and a sensational live band. Various times, tickets £11-£21.

DIARY DATES Until 29 November St Bees Musical Adventures (Fri) St Barbe Museum and Art Gallery Lymington, SO41 9BH

Take your child on a magical sensory journey, inspired by the objects on display, through stories, songs, puppetry, baby sign, dance and creative play. 10-11am, pre-book 01590 676969. Ages under 5.

1, 23 November & 7 December Story Time The Point, Eastleigh, SO50 9DE

Join the musical storytellers on Saturday mornings for their adventure packed Story time sessions. 10.30am, £3.

THIS CHRISTMAS at The Berry Theatre, Hedge End FRECKLE PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS

Heart of Winter Friday 20th to Tuesday 24th December

Book now

023 8065 2333 www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk

Friday 13th to Tuesday 31st December

Book now 023 8065 2333 www.theberrytheatre.co.uk

Stick Man © 2008 Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Published by Alison Green Books, an imprint of Scholastic Children’s Books.

14 Families Hampshire West

familiesonline.co.uk

Christmas

Week end Decem s in ber

on the Farm

Weekends in December

Christmas on the farm

Enjoy a variety of fun activities including Elf Training School, The 12 Days of Christmas Trail and festive crafts.

Father Christmas will be calling in at the farmhouse for a chat and a sing-song on the 14/15 & 21/22 Dec at 2pm.

A Traditional Family Pantomime

Written & Directed by James Barry | Music by Simon Slater

30 November 2019 – 5 January 2020 Normal farm admission charges apply.

www.hants.gov.uk/manorfarm

www.hants.gov.uk

A Nuffield Southampton Theatres Production

theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk

Jewry Street, Winchester, SO23 8SB

Box Office 01962 840 440

LITTLE ANGEL THEATRE PRESENTS

An enchanting tale this Christmas

BOOK AND LYRICS BY MICHAEL FENTIMAN MUSIC AND ADDITIONAL LYRICS BY BARNABY RACE DESIGNER MADELEINE GIRLING

23 Nov – 5 Jan NST City Book now at: nstheatres.co.uk

6 - 29 Dec NST City Studio Book now at: 023 8067 1771 nstheatres.co.uk

PERFECT FOR AGES 2-5

Families Hampshire West 15

familiesonline.co.uk

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What’s on Peppa Pig World at Paultons Park

3 November Festival of Remembrance The Point Eastleigh, SO50 9DE

12 November Accessible Cinema: Dumbo (PG) The Point, Eastleigh, SO50 9DE

10.30am, £5 (carers free).

Service conducted by Ian MacFarlane, featuring the Military Wives Choir Portsmouth. 3pm, £11.

14 November Open Morning The Gregg School Southampton, SO18 3RR

3 November 1 December Learning to Grow Wyevale Garden Centres Across Hampshire

Open morning from 9:30am.

16 November Frozen Christmas Fun Day Swan Centre, Eastleigh, SO50 5SF

First Sunday of the month. Get your little diggers planting and learning.

Children will learn all about planting seeds, and how to care for them.

Ages 3+.

4, 9 & 10 November Incredible Inventions Winchester Science Centre Winchester, SO21 1HZ

Explore the greatest inventions through the ages and learn how they have transformed the world we live in today. Encourage your little ones to think big with fun handson activities and challenges in the Invention Studio. Normal admission charges apply.

Join us as we launch Christmas in the Centre. Meet Elsa, Anna, Olaf and Sven, follow our Frozen Ice Sculpture Trail, get your face painted and meet Father Christmas.

11am-4pm.

7, 14 & 21 November Little Adventurers Mottisfont, near Romsey, SO51 0LP

Little Adventurers is an outdoor learning group for children aged 2-5 years old and parents. Booking essential 01794 344 020. Normal admission charge. £3 per child.

8 & 9 November Mr. Men & Little Miss on Stage The Berry Theatre Hedge End, SO30 4EJ

4 – 29 November I-Spy Winter Trail Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Romsey, SO51 0QA

Come and collect a cone or two on this family self-guided trail! Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Normal garden admission fees apply.

Join your favourite Mr. Men and Little Miss characters as they leap off the page and onto the stage in this beautifully crafted and hilarious live stage show! From £11.

5, 12, 19, 26 November & 10 December Messy Play YMCA Fairthorne Manor Curdridge, SO30 2GH

9 November Winchester Bonfire & Fireworks Broadway & Recreation Ground Winchester, SO23 7DD

Enjoy a morning of messy play at Fairthorne Manor. Advanced booking required. 10–11.30am. £3 per child.

At 7.15pm, the huge Bonfire is lit, and at 7.45pm the legendary Fireworks Spectacular will take place. Advance tickets £5. Event starts at 6pm.

10 November & 8 December Wildlife Watch Group Eling Tide Mill Experience Totton, SO40 9HD

Explore autumn colours and get crafty with leaves. 10am–12noon. £4.

10 November Remembrance Day Concert The Berry Theatre Hedge End, SO30 4EJ

The Concert will feature everything you’d expect from a Royal Marines Band. 3pm. £10-12.

10, 16 & 24 November Lantern Making Workshops Fair Oak Garden Centre, SO50 7HD

These lantern making workshops include all materials and refreshments. Booking required.

12 November Sherborne House School Open Morning Chandler’s Ford, SO53 1EU

Come along to the school’s open morning from 9am-12 noon.

16 November The Young Ones (7-13yrs) Southampton City Art Gallery, Southampton, SO14 7LP

Discover different art techniques such as; monoprinting, wire working, clay, mixed media and more. 10.30am £9. Pre-book 023 8083 4536.

16 November Autism Friendly Day Monkey World Wareham, Dorest, BH20 6HH

To help autistic visitors and their families further, visitors with autism can access the park at 9am, an hour before public opening time, to avoid the rush at the gates.

16 November Uglydolls (U) The Berry Theatre Hedge End, SO30 4EJ

In this all-new story, the UglyDolls will go on a journey beyond the comfortable borders of Uglyville.

2pm. Tickets from £6.

Refreshed for 2019!

Visit Exbury’s

FESTIVE EXPRESS RAILWAY EXPERIENCE this December for a wholesome family Christmas day out like no other.

MEET FATHER CHRISTMAS • RIDE THE STEAM RAILWAY DECORATED ENGINE SHED • REAL-LIFE ELVES LOG REINDEER TRAIL • CHRISTMAS CHOIR • YULETIDE CRAFTS

Book online at WWW.EXBURY.CO.UK

16 Families Hampshire West

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What’s on Muppets Christmas Carol at The Point

16 – 24 November (weekends) The Science of Roald Dahl Winchester Science Centre Winchester, SO21 1HZ

Travel back in time and visit the Victorian Montagu family home, with stunning decorations, welcoming log fires and a Christmas tree in each room - including a 22ft tree at the foot of the main staircase! Normal admission charges apply.

If you’ve ever wondered what’s needed to get James’ peach to fly, whether George is a genius scientist and how topsy turvy the Twits could really be, then this is the splendiferous science show for you! Join BBC Bitesize science presenter Jon Chase as he delves into the whoopsy waffling worlds of Roald Dahl. This brilliant live science show will spark children’s curiosity in science and, if they’re not already hooked, the much-loved stories of Roald Dahl. Normal admission 16 November Saturday Story Time The Berry Theatre Hedge End, SO30 4EJ

Join us on Saturday mornings and step into our enchanted storytelling wood. Ages 3-7. 10.30am. £3.

16 & 17 November The Big Sleep Weekend Bursledon Windmill Southampton, SO31 8BG

It’s time for the animals to hibernate or rest for winter months, come along this weekend to help put the animals to bed! £1 per activity.

17 November MY Museum Children’s Club (MC2) St Barbe Museum and Art Gallery New Street, Lymington, SO41 9BH

Looking at what really washes up on our beaches & ways we can change our throwaway lifestyles. 11am. £2.50.

8 & 15 December Family Carol Service Winchester Cathedral Winchester, SO23 9LS

23 November Winter Watercolour Advent Calendars Southampton City Art Gallery Southampton, SO14 7LP

29 November Christmas Decemberorations St Barbe Museum and Art Gallery Lymington, SO41 9BH

Develop your drawing and painting skills working with inks and watercolours. 10.30am-1pm, £12, Prebook 023 8083 4536. Ages 7-13yrs.

23 November – 5 January An Enchanted Christmas with the Flower Fairies Mottisfont, Near Romsey, SO51 0LP

Enjoy a magical Christmas at Mottisfont, with beautifully decorated rooms inspired by the Winter Flower Fairies. Normal admission charges apply. £1 per trail.

28 November Lantern Parade Winchester Cathedral Winchester, SO23 9LS

Enjoy the family parade starting from the Cathedral and finishing with a stunning fireworks display.

6.30–8pm.

Get ready for Christmas by making beautiful Decemberorations (Part of Lymington late night shopping).

4-6pm. Drop-in, free.

30 November DIY Elf on a Shelf!

Southampton City Art Gallery Southampton, SO14 7LP

Make your very own mischievous elf in time for December 1st. 10.3011.30am & 1pm-2pm, £6, Pre-book 023 8083 4536. Ages 4+.

30 November – 24 December Gingerbread Family Trail Winchester City Mill Winchester, SO23 9BH

Mrs Clause needs your help to find the gingerbread people that are hiding around the Mill. Normal admission charges apply, £1 per trail.

30 November – 5 January The Snowman and the Snowdog Winter Trail Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Romsey, SO51 0QA

Inspired by Raymond Brigg’s muchloved classic, this wonderful wintry adventure is suitable for all ages.

Guides £5. Normal garden admission applies.

WINTER TR

AIL

1 – 14 December Christmas House Tickets Hinton Ampner near Alresford, SO24 0LA

5 Jan 2020

wman and Snowdog Come and enjoy the Sno around the Gardens story on a winter wander

£5 per trail (plus normal garden admission charges)

gif ted comple trail!

Step into a house beautifully decorated for Christmas and rediscover the classic tales of Aesop’s Fables. Advance ticket required. Normal admission applies. © Snowdog Enterprises Ltd 2019.

Sat 30 Nov 2019 to Sun

EaE FR ch t with e

1 – 31 December Hinton’s Christmas Fables Trail Hinton Ampner Near Alresford, SO24 0LA The animals of Aesop’s Fables are facing some Christmassy dilemmas, help them out on the trail through the gardens. 10am-3.30pm. Normal admission charges apply. Trail sheet £2.

7 December Embossed Christmas Cards Tudor House & Gardens Southampton, SO14 2AD

Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Jermyns Lane, Romsey Hampshire SO51 0QA

www.hilliergardens.org.uk

Enjoy Christmas at Tudor House and create a stunning set of embossed Christmas cards. £4, Pre-book 023 8083 4536.

8 December Christmas Peg Fairy Tudor House & Gardens Southampton, SO14 2AD

Have fun designing and decorating a peg fairy. 1.30-3pm & 3.30-5pm, £7, Pre-book 023 8083 4536. Ages 5+. familiesonline.co.uk

7, 8, 14, 15, 21 December – 1 January Victorian Christmas National Motor Museum, Beaulieu, New Forest, SO42 7ZN

Enjoy a family-friendly afternoon Carol service in the magnificent Nave of the Cathedral. 3.30pm.

14 December The Young Ones Southampton City Art Gallery Southampton, SO14 7LP

Be enthused and inspired by artist Jo Bressloff and the gallery’s fantastic collection. Discover different art techniques such as; monoprinting, wire working, clay, mixed media and much, much more. 10.30am-12.30pm, £9, (Pre-book 023 8083 4536.

7-13years.

15 December MY Museum Children’s Club (MC2) St Barbe Museum and Art Gallery Lymington, SO41 9BH

Joe Doherty, Explorer: My South Pole – over 2,000km across 66 days a story of determination and hard work. 11am-12pm. Drop-in, £2.50.

17 December Cathedral Carol Service Winchester Cathedral Winchester, SO23 9LS

Wonderful services filled with beautiful music sung by the Cathedral Choir. The first service is ticketed with priority booking for the Cathedral Community.

18 December The Muppet Christmas Carol (U) The Point, Eastleigh, SO50 9DE

The Muppet characters tell their version of the classic tale of an old and bitter miser’s redemption on Christmas Eve. 2pm & 7.30pm, from £6.

19 December Toddler Tour Theatre Royal Winchester Winchester SO23 8SB

An interactive tour for toddlers exploring the beautiful Theatre Royal Winchester through fun activities, songs, music and stories. 10.30am, £4.

21 December Mini Monets Club Southampton City Art Gallery Southampton, SO14 7LP

Explore the gallery and get messy with your little art enthusiasts! Have fun experimenting in this fun-packed session using a range of materials and methods to create a beautiful piece of artwork to take home. 11am12 pm, £6, Pre-book 023 8083 4536.

2-6 years.

23 December - 3 January Holiday Club Golden Gecko Climbing Romsey, SO51 0HR

One hour instructed session to give your child the chance to try everything that the centre has to offer. 5-6pm. 12-17-years 23 & 30 Dec. 8-11-years 26 Dec & 2 Jan. 5-7-years 27 Dec & 3 Jan. Families Hampshire West 17

Family Christmas

Top board and card games to play

this Christmas

Christmas is the time to dust off your favourite games to play at home with your family and friends. With a flurry of new games hitting our living room tables during recent years, the games market has seen something of a revolution. Now there are hundreds of games available that employ brain-teasing strategies and flex your investigatory muscles.

Claire Winter has picked some family board games that will help entice your children away from gadgets this festive season.

Sherlock Holmes - Consulting Detective Thames Murders Game Gather your loved ones, and don your deerstalkers to play this fun mystery game. You have to solve the case by interviewing witnesses, and tracing their steps through Victorian London. This is very much a challenge of the mental ability of the players, rather than a game of chance. The details are well-researched and give you a real sense of a bygone era. £34.90 Amazon

The London Board Game

Monopoly Cheaters Edition

Pictionary

The complexities of the London Underground system make this a great brain-challenging game for players of all ages. The board itself is the London Underground map, so while enjoying the race, you’ll also learn more about London.

Players must visit six of London’s sightseeing hotspots, and the winner is the first person to get back to the mainline station where they started.

The new Cheaters Edition of Monopoly brings a fresh twist to the property trading game that was initially designed to warn players about the dangers of capitalism. This version encourages cheating and subterfuge! It includes 15 cheat cards that allow players to steal money from the bank and avoid paying rent.

This drawing game has been a firm favourite since 1985. The latest edition has been updated with two levels of clues for adults and younger children, making it a fun game for all ages. It also has wipe clean markers and boards. Mattel has also released Pictionary Air, which uses an app and augmented reality, but I prefer the old school version!

£17.74 Amazon

£21.99 Amazon

£30 www.ltmuseumshop.co.uk

Dobble

Chess and Draughts

Speech Breaker

Nudge

This fun picture card game is very popular in our house and it’s really addictive. It depends on speed of observation as players have to match one icon from a group on a card that matches the same icon in a group on another card.

This simple premise then forms the basis for five short minigames, alternatively asking you to collect or discard cards as quickly as possible. Younger eyes and reflexes are at a definite advantage which means your 5 year old will beat you fair and square!

According to academics, chess boosts intelligence and creativity, so this Christmas teach your children the tactical games of Chess and Draughts to improve their mental agility. These timeless games are also a great way to share one-on-one time with your child.

This challenging game for children age 14+ is great fun. You have to put on the game headset, talk into the microphone, and get your teammates to guess who, what, where without saying any of the words on the cards. But… the microphone jams your speech with a built-in delay. As you talk, you’ll hear your delayed voice through the game headset, making it harder to speak clearly. Really hilarious!

Nudge is an incredibly simple, yet insanely addictive strategy game for children age 14+ designed to send you and your opponent over the edge. Designed with the environment in mind, the game is made from 100% recyclable materials including the game board, single-colour packaging, and fully biodegradable game discs.

£19.99 Amazon

£9.99 www.nudgegames.co.uk

£25.52 Amazon

£12.99 Amazon

18 Families Hampshire West

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An Act of Kindness for Every Day of Advent!

– choose from below or make up your own 1. Smile at everyone you see today 2. Make cards for elderly people in your street 3. Tell someone the reasons you like them 4. Pick up litter in your street or local park 5. Clean up a mess you didn’t make 6. Wish a stranger a nice day 7. Help make dinner 8. Donate pocket money to charity 9. Compliment staff at a café or shop 10. Donate books, toys and clothes to charity 1 1. Volunteer at a festive community event

Zoe took biscuits to school

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12. Leave snacks on your doorstep for delivery people 13. Let somebody go ahead of you in the queue 14. Hug someone 15. Bake biscuits to take to school or work 16. Deliver notes to houses with great Christmas light displays 17. Pack away your things without being asked 18. Make someone laugh 19. Take canned food to your local food bank 20. Make a list of the things you’re thankful for 21. Leave a kind note where someone will find it 22. Send a Christmas card to someone overseas 23. Do a chore for someone else 24. Leave food out for Santa and his reindeer!

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Perform an a ct of kindness each day until Ch ristmas!

Pin up the c alendar and keep a daily record of yo ur family’s good deeds .

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ADVENT CALENDAR

Families Hampshire West 19

Christmas weekend at

Tudor House Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 December, 10am-5pm Book a visit to see Father Christmas, a festive craft workshop or magical tour and explore the house for free*

TUDOR HO USE

Visit tudorhouseandgarden.com/christmas for a full list of adult and children’s activities and Father Christmas time slots *charges apply to activities - Book on: 023 8083 4536 Families Hampshire West

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