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FREE Issue No. 53 Nov/Dec 2013

Christmas? … It’s in the bag! Where’s Santa? Gift guide Fairs & markets Pantos & theatre Competitions 11

The Herts magazine with the information young families want

From your Editor…

In this issue:

Is it nearly Christmas already? Judging by our festive front cover it seems it is! This issue we have five Christmas Competitions and each one has a perfect Christmas prize that, for the lucky winners, will make a great gift or seasonal family theatre trip. We always work hard on giving you a really great What’s On listing and we are very proud of our Christmas offering but do make sure you take a look online at www.familiesherts.co.uk for the unabridged version. Christmas equals shopping. So, for our Gift Guide this year we have tapped into the combined experience of over forty Families Magazines Editors so that, together, we can share the successful presents we have given to our own children over the years. There is, of course, life beyond Christmas and in the Parenting section Joanna Moorhead shares her approach to supporting her daughters through some of the trials and tribulations of school life. That’s it for now. Enjoy the festivities!

News & Views: 3-5

Shelley Where are we? Baldock, Bishops Stortford, Borehamwood, Chorleywood, Harpenden, Hatfield, Hemel Hempstead, Hertford, Hitchin, Kings Langley, Knebworth, Letchworth, Radlett, St Albans, Stevenage, Ware, Welwyn GC. Pick it up from cafes, playgroups, nurseries, schools, activity groups, selected shops, surgeries, leisure centres and libraries. Get in touch to request copies for your venue.

Christmas Competitions: 6 Parenting: 8 Families’ Gift Guide: 10 Get Outdoors & Get Active: 12 Christmas What’s On: 13-20 Jan/Feb deadline: 6th December Next Issue: Nurseries

Subscribe to get Families Herts by post for just £9.30 for 6 issues (1 year) or £18 for 12 issues (2 years). Call or email for a subscription form.

Front cover image by www. yourstrulyphotography.co.uk

Families Herts, PO Box 434, Pinner, HA5 9AH Tel/Fax: 020 8428 6384 editor@familiesherts.co.uk www.familiesherts.co.uk

News & Views Vibrant VOCES8 at Beechwood Park School VOCES8, the award-winning octet, is holding a workshop at Beechwood Park School on 17th November. This will be a rare opportunity to experience VOCES8’s repertoire which ranges from Renaissance polyphony to unique jazz and pop arrangements. The group, which was founded in 2003 by ex-choristers of Westminster Abbey, have performed to high acclaim at the Royal Festival Hall, Tel Aviv Opera House and Beijing’s National Centre for the Performing Arts. Voces 8 Julie Edwards, Director of Music at Beechwood Park, comments “VOCES8 will lead an innovative workshop [to which] we warmly invite adults, music students and children of all ages and from all musical or unmusical backgrounds to Beechwood Park for the event which is designed to inspire creativity and excellence through music.” The masterclass/workshop starts at 10 am and will finish with a concert at 4.30 pm to 5.30pm by VOCES8 along with all of the course participants. Beechwood Park School is situated just outside Markyate. The cost for the day is £35 including lunch and refreshments. Tickets for the concert only are £10 per adult and children are free. To find out more or to book call 01582 840333 x4 or email l.peck@beechwoodpark.herts.sch.uk

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Pirate Fun Day for Children in Need Positive Steps Children’s Day Nursery in Apsley is holding a Pirate Theme Open/Fun Day on Saturday 23rd November from 10am until 1pm to raise money for children in need. Everyone is welcome; fun and activities include bouncy castle, face painting, arts and crafts and cannon ball skittles. Positive Steps is rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted and offers childcare for babies and children from six weeks to five years. The staff are qualified and dedicated early years practitioners. Children enjoy a range of activities inside and out such as music and French lessons. Nutritious meals are also provided. The nursery recently received five stars from Dacorum Borough Council. To find out more call 01442 266119 or email apsley@positivesteps.co.uk

News & Views Fruit for thought This autumn Crowdfunder UK teams up with River Cottage to launch Fruitshare, a fruit-tastic national campaign to get schools planting fruit trees. Backed by foodcampaigner Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, Fruitshare aims to get children planting fruit trees across the nation to provide an edible educational legacy that will last for decades. Schools are also encouraged to reach out to their local communities and businesses to pledge to fund the trees. “I am on a mission to make the most of fruit, so what better place to start than with our kids,” says Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall. “If we can get them to propagate a positive relationship with fruit,

Have you got a passion for performance? Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall

it could be a love affair that lasts a lifetime. Gathering local communities and businesses to use Crowdfunder.co.uk to raise funds to get growing fruit trees is a brilliant way of demonstrating what can happen when a group of people get together to achieve something great.” Register your school at www.crowdfunder.co.uk/fruitshare.

Outdoor Child Nursery and Holiday Provision

Outdoor Child, the innovative project set up in 2012, have now opened their brand new Ofsted registered provision, offering the only outdoor based nursery, holiday, parent and child provision in the Southeast. With the two nurseries, one in Harpenden and one in Gustard Wood, Wheathampstead and with other locations opening soon, Outdoor Child are flying the flag for a natural childhood.

Outdoor Child is a mainly outdoor based provision that brings with it a focus on outdoor play and learning. This approach, originating in Scandanavia, puts the emphasis on natural, child directed development within a natural organic environment. The two founders have a diverse wealth of experience working with children in an outdoor setting and they have a strong belief in, and a real love for, what they do. At Outdoor Child, children will receive all the support they need to facilitate and scaffold their development while still ensuring that each child is learning in their way, at their own pace. The activities include: den building which encourages skills such as team work, communication and planning; tree climbing, nature walks, seasonal learning and many more fantastic activities that will help to give children a well-rounded and healthy upbringing. Outdoor Child is the future in childcare. A positive start for a healthier life. To find out more call 01582 855054 or email theden@outdoor-child.com. Facebook: Outdoor Child.

Top Hat Stage School will be holding its annual auditions on 17th November to offer children and young people in Hertfordshire aged 6-17 years old the opportunity to win a scholarship worth £900 to one of its six stage schools. The scholarships are an opportunity for children to pursue their passion for performing, regardless of finances. Top Hat do not expect experts; they are looking for children with plenty of enthusiasm for the performing arts. The auditions take place at the Hatfield Forum, part of the University of Hertfordshire. There will be two workshop formats that will cover dance, drama and singing. The workshops will start at 10.30am to 12.30pm and from 1pm to 3pm; only one session need be attended. Eighteen finalists will be selected by an independent panel of judges and teachers. Principal Warren Bacci says: “We started our scholarship programme to give children whose families can’t afford for them to attend a part-time stage school the opportunity to get involved in performing. Some of our previous scholarship students have gone on to perform in West End shows such as The Lion King and Billy Elliott, and appear alongside A-list stars in big-budget films.” For more information go to www. tophatstageschool.co.uk/scholarships.htm

Kids get Creative in Hatfield Creative Kids is a fun art and craft class for children, aged two to five years, who like to make a mess and for their parents who don't want to clear it up! Each week six activities are on offer, all based around a unifying theme such as pirates and princesses, animals, sea life, shapes and more. The class has been started by Melissa Mileham, an enterprising Hatfield Mum who wanted a local arts and crafts group for her three year old son. The class is held at St.Etheldreda's Church Hall, Church Street, Hatfield, AL10 9AW (car park at rear). It runs on Mondays from 9.30 11am during term-time and costs £5 per child or £8 for two siblings. For younger siblings there is a play mat with toys plus free tea and coffee for the adults. To find out more and to join the fun contact Melissa Mileham on 07979 756528 / creativekidsmelissa@yahoo.co.uk

Three new Community Free Schools Opening in 2014 Having opened the Hatfield Community Free School, it is now full steam ahead for the opening of another three Community Free Schools in Hemel Hempstead and Watford. Interested students and their parents are invited to attend any of the forthcoming open events where they can find out about the vision and ethos of these schools and what they will offer students when they open in 2014. 30th November - 10am - 12pm. West Herts College. 4th December - 10am - 1pm and 6pm - 8pm. Hatfield Community Free School Email: westhertscommunityfreeschools@live.co.uk or go to www.westhertscommunityfreeschools.org.uk

Against Bullying National Anti-Bullying Week takes place 18th-22nd November this year, with the theme ‘The Future is Ours: Safe, Fun and Connected.’ The AntiBullying Week website is packed with resources for schools, parents and children, plus online workshops, practical resources and short films on how to survive bullying. You can also join the Anti-Bullying Roadshow which tours schools, youth clubs and parents' groups throughout the UK during November. Powerful, fun and exciting, the Roadshow includes music, science, strategies and up-to-date research and information on bullying. Check out the website for their Anti-Bullying Village for Kids and Teens – a virtual space created by young people for young people where you can interact with others, as well as find out about events on school bullying, violence, racism and xenophobia through workshops, young people’s conferences and exhibitions. www.antibullyingweek.co.uk Also: ChildLine can be contacted at anytime on 0800 1111 or www.childline.co.uk.

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Christmas Competitions Win a Family Ticket to see

Join in the magic and help Mrs Duster bring the toys to life and save her toyshop from the evil landlord in this brand new pantomime by Sally McCormack. This interactive show is full of fun, music and laughter for all the family. Meet the quirky characters, cheer, hiss, boo and singalong to a mix of Christmas classics and new tunes performed by a multitalented cast. An energetic, non-stop show, to entertain children (and adults) of all ages is guaranteed! The show runs from Tuesday 17th December until Thursday 26th December at The Ark Theatre, Borehamwood’s hidden gem. Tickets cost £12 with £9 for children and concessions. Book online and find out more at www.thearktheatre.co.uk or call the box office on 020 8238 7288. Enter to win one of four sets of family tickets (two adults & two children or 1 adult & 3 children). Closing date: 25th November

Win an awesome

Evolution ATV Models Set Meccano's new Evolution ATV is as good as it gets when it comes to robust all-terrain vehicles. The stunning new scale muscle-bound Meccano model comes with working suspension units at the front and rear and the steering is just like the real thing controlled by the handlebar and gears. Chunky off-road pneumatic tyres and brightly coloured components give this awesome model a fantastic finish. With over 210 parts, the kit allows the creation of two models; an ATV and a three-wheel motorbike. Stickers, tools and building instructions are included. Priced £29.99. For stockists, go to www.meccano.com/uk. Suitable for ages 8 upwards. There are three fantastic ATV models to be won. Closing date: 25th November

Enter all these competitions at www.familiesherts.co.uk

Win DK’s

Win a family ticket to see

‘Knowledge Encyclopedia’ The world as you've never seen it before From the Big Bang to the Industrial Revolution, DK’s Knowledge Encyclopedia is the complete visual reference that shows you what other encyclopedias only tell you. Using the latest CGI technology, explore and discover the world; discover Tutankhamun’s tomb or see the birth of a star. This is not just another encyclopedia, but the key to uncovering the marvels of space, science, the human body and more.

Hertford Theatre celebrates Christmas this year with the glitzy, glamorous Beauty and The Beast. Brought to you by the same team that created the hilarious Dick Whittington and His Cat last year; Beauty and The Beast promises to be the best Hertford Theatre pantomime ever! Set in snow-blown Paris and full of great songs, side-splitting jokes and fantabulous dance routines; Beauty and The Beast will be the most magical Christmas panto this side of the English Channel. C’est magnifique! Beauty and The Beast runs from Friday 6th December – Wednesday 1st January. Find out more and book your tickets at www.hertfordtheatre.com or call the

box office on 01992 531500. The prize is one family ticket for the 8th December, 2.30pm performance. Closing date: 22nd November.

Win a Lazer P’Nut Cycle Helmet Did you know that the average taste bud only lasts 10 days? That a frog forces food down its throat by pulling its eyeballs back into its head? Packed with facts, the Knowledge Encyclopedia, has something to captivate every mind. With six in-depth chapters it uncovers the marvels of the natural world, history and science in extensive detail with astonishing images. The Knowledge Encyclopedia makes tough subjects easy to follow and utterly absorbing. It can help with homework or simply satisfy your curiosity. With its amazing 3D images, intriguing information and facts it will keep the whole family interested. RRP: £25. Suitable from age: 9+ Enter for a chance to win one of five copies. Closing date: 25th November

Lazer, the world’s oldest helmet manufacturer, has just launched their brand new collection of helmets. The extensive range of styles, colours and shapes have all been designed with safety, style and comfort in mind; with something to suit every head and every style! Whether you are a colourful character, a mini adventurer or an action hero Lazer has the helmet for you. You can be confident that you will be the safest and coolest kid on your street! No need to worry about fiddling with the fit of the helmet, the P’Nut has the super helpful autofit system which holds the helmet at the correct tension, keeping the helmet firmly on your head. If you fancy trying a different style for a change or want to match an outfit, but don’t want to buy a whole new helmet then customize your P’Nut with one of the Lazer

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Crazy Nut Shellz which come in a variety of styles and colours including a rocket, a fireman’s hat and a strawberry! Looking after your head has never been so fun! Find out more at www.lazersport.co.uk Enter to win one of four P’Nutz helmets with a Nutshell. Closing date: 25th November

Parenting

Memo to self: Let them fight their own battles By Joanna Moorhead

Are you forever rushing into school to talk to your child’s teacher, or phoning other parents to talk about playground squabbles? Think again, says Joanna Moorhead, a mother of four daughters. One of my daughters is disgruntled. I am, she says, a bad mother. “Other mums support their children,” she says. “When they have a problem, the mums go into school to talk to the teachers. You never do that.” She’s not entirely correct; I’ve had children at school for the last 15 years or so, and there might have been one or two occasions when I’ve gone in to talk to a teacher or a head outside of parent-teacher meetings. But I could certainly count those times on the fingers of one hand; and, thinking about it, probably even on one finger. I hope I’m not a bad mother; and I know there are some problems – and bullying is foremost among them – when a meeting with a teacher has to be arranged, and fast. But bullying apart, I believe that my daughters are better helped if I hang back from making appointments, and arm them instead to negotiate their own issues, and fight their own battles, at school. Why so? Well, the raison d’etre of parenting is to make your child independent: and it seems to me that if I wade in at every opportunity to smooth my child’s path in life, I’m not helping her to learn to do it for herself. And what message does it give if, when she tells me about a problem she’s experiencing, my response is to say ‘I’ll come in to talk to your teacher about that’? What it says is: you can’t sort this out for yourself; you’re not smart enough or capable enough or eloquent enough. You can’t do it, but I can. And that doesn’t help my daughter develop those skills, and it doesn’t help her become experienced and confident at learning to problem-solve for herself. Sometimes, over the years, my daughters’ problems have been significant ones – and certainly many of them have seemed significant to my daughters, even if they didn’t

seem all that important to me. On at least one occasion, the problem has been a clash between them and a teacher, and listening to the story it’s been difficult not to agree that, yes, it sounded as though the teacher was in the wrong. But this is what I tell my daughters: teachers are only human. Teachers, like everyone else in the world, have some people they like better than others. So of course it’s possible that a teacher might not favour you, might even pick on you, because he or she doesn’t like you. And, yes, of course it’s a terrible shame if you end up with an unfriendly-seeming teacher in a subject you really love. But rather than race in to school to have it out with the teacher, I tell my daughter to find a way of dealing with it; and if possible, I help her work out what that might be. Could she start the ball rolling on building a better relationship with the teacher in question by being nicer to her, or by working harder in the subject, or by making more contributions in class? Because the truth is that, all through life, there will be individuals who will seem to stand in the way of what we want – and learning to work with these people, or round them, is a hugely important life skill. Talking to your child about what’s going on will also help her process her own feelings; and again, this is an important learning curve. Help your child see that it’s not the case that someone has got it in for her, but maybe just that the teacher or the other child has issues in their own life. And instead of encouraging your child into negative feelings (“that teacher/child has always been a total pain, I’ve been saying it for years”) turn things round into something positive (“everyone has bad days; what could you do tomorrow that could start to improve this relationship?”). Similarly problems with other children: I

long ago made a resolution never, ever to get involved at parental level over my daughters’ squabbles. Not only is life far too short, but more importantly, learning to get on with their peers is what childhood and adolescence is for. None of this means, by the way, that I’m abdicating responsibility for how my girls behave. It’s just that talking to other adults isn’t how I believe my offspring will learn to treat others well; that comes, I think, from modelling what I hope are good relationships in my own life, and in listening to the issues they have in their lives (when they want to

talk about them) and helping them find a way of dealing with them. So it’s really important to make time to listen when they’re experiencing problems at school; and it’s crucial to validate how they’re feeling, to reflect back that I understand their worries and can see that it’s a genuine issue. But what should happen next is far more about equipping them to go back into school and work out how to put the problematic relationship on track, than it is about grabbing your coat and racing in to try to solve the difficulties yourself.

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Families’ Christmas Gift Guide

All they want for Christmas… Ever wondered what to get a one-year-old boy now you’ve got teenagers, or your pre-teen god-daughter when your kids are still happy with Stickle Bricks? Here at Families we’ve got over 50 children between us, so we’ve got together to make a list of the toys that our children have really loved and played with to help you get a winning present this year. Babies You’ve heard it before, but it’s not worth spending a lot. How about a donation to a savings account and something small like stacking cups, soft toys (Jellycat have some gorgeous ones), fabric books or a new rattle? If you want to spend a bit more, try a play gym or door bouncer, musical toys or something from VTech with lots of flashing lights and noises!

Toddlers By now toys are getting more exciting, and sometimes quite large. One of the favourite toys for this age group is a Little Tikes Cozy Coupe – played with for years, even when they’re almost too big to get out of it! You can often get these in quite good condition secondhand, too. Just as big, and as popular, is a toy kitchen complete with plastic fruit and veg that they can cut up and serve to mum and dad for tea. The HappyLand range from ELC (www.elc.co.uk) is great for this age group – choose from a rocket set, train set, pirate ship, fairy treehouse or the very sweet Rose Cottage. And again anything musical is also sure to be popular. Or try colouring (mess free with Aqua Draw) and sticker books (Usborne First Sticker Books series, www. usbornebooksathome.co.uk for lots and lots of stickers).

Preschool girls At this age a lot of little girls are crazy about dolls – try a soft rag doll like Bigjigs or the Manhattan range, where you can also buy outfits and accessories. Or how about a dolls’ pram or buggy? ELC has a good selection. Peppa Pig is perennially popular – choose from playsets, puzzles, books, DVDs and much more. The Disney Princesses are also sure to be a hit – dolls, dressing-up sets, playsets or stationery (www.disneystore.co.uk). My Little Pony has also stood the test of time.

Preschool boys Favourites that seem to be played with for a long time are dressing-up outfits (doctor, fireman, cowboy and pirate) and role-play kits like a doctor’s case or a workbench with lots of nails to hammer down. Thomas the Tank Engine and Brio trainsets are loved by some little boys, and it’s often easy to find them in good condition on ebay. Dinosaurs are loved by all – ELC have some plastic models

of all sizes, or try www. nhmshop.co.uk/dinosaurs. Or how about some popup tents and tunnels for getting rid of energy? Duplo is also a good bet, choose from basic bricks or themed sets like a fire station, zoo or farm.

Girls 5–8 By now imaginative play has really kicked off – forever popular and loved by many are Sylvanians, choose from families, playsets or a vast array of houses to put them in. Lego Friends is also a good bet. Playmobil has a big range to choose from – farms, fairies, hospitals and more – you might just want to consider constructing it beforehand to avoid lots of time spent fiddling around with small bits on Christmas Day. Craft kits are also popular with this age group, try Hama Beads, ELC for complete, easy-to-follow kits for decorating mermaids, jewellery boxes etc

and Yellow Moon (www.yellowmoon.org.uk). And don’t forget Barbie and Build-a-Bear (local stores in High Wycombe, Uxbridge, Milton Keynes, Reading or visit www.buildabear. co.uk).

Boys 5–8 Lego, lego and more lego, in all its various forms – bricks and wheels, Lego City, Harry Potter, The Hobbit and Star Wars – is always popular and played with for years. And Playmobil again – pirates, knights, vehicles and more to appeal to every interest. Or how about a wooden fort, garage, fire station or workbench – Pintoy make some lovely ones. Construction toys of all shapes and sizes – Geomags panels and magnets, wooden bricks and blocks – are also popular. Or try Hot Wheels, Transformers, a marble run or Scalextric.

Girls 9–11 While still happy to play with toys, by now girls often love something which makes them feel grown-up – try pretty slippers, little bags, jewellery, scarves, picture frames or a gift card from Claire’s Accessories. DIY baking sets made up of fairy-cake cases, sprinkles, icing tubes, cutters, apron and a book all put

Perennial favourites Everyone who has one says that a trampoline really is the best thing they’ve ever bought. Buy the biggest your garden can accommodate and make sure you’ve got a safety net. Try Just Outdoor Toys (www.justoutdoortoys.co.uk) or John Lewis (www.johnlewis.co.uk).

Games we all love • Orchard Toys board games like Tell the Time, Bus Stop, and Tummy Ache. • Snakes and Ladders • Tiddlywinks • Guess Who?

Time to get Bizzy with …

in a pretty tin make a lovely gift. Crafts are still popular – the Klutz range is easily available and a bit more unusual. Or how about Harumika (www. harumika.eu), you dress mannequins in different outfits using bits of material and can upload the creations online. Scrap-booking is often also popular, you could include a voucher for a local class. And of course no matter how many pens, pencils and notepads they have, stationery is always a winner!

Boys 9–11 If they’re into sports, it’s easy – kit, clothes, books, DVDs on their favourite team or a moment in sporting history are all likely to go down well. Or how about a football goal, kite, skateboards, or cool clothes to protect elbows etc. Also worth a look are Ripstyle waveboards, which come in a variety of styles and colours www.waveboardsale.com/ collections/ripstyle-boards). If they’re musical, a drum kit or guitar (do check with the parents first). Or how about kits to make something

• Junior or adult Monopoly • Connect 4 • Uno • For children of about 7 or 8 and over, why not try Rummikub – a little bit like Scrabble but with numbers, it’s for dyslexic children but not a specific SEN game. • For 10 years and over, try Balderdash; you get obscure words and if you guess the real definition you get points. • Cluedo

Every bookcase should have one! Our top books for every age • Babies and toddlers: The Usborne That’s Not My… series; The Hungry Caterpillar; Dear Zoo; The Mole Who Knew It Was None of

Bizzy Bitz! The toy that was created for the 21st century! With it’s simple ball and socket system and a phenomenal internal socket, Bizzy Bitz is set to capture the world with its infinite possibilities. With brightly coloured pieces and a wide variety of shapes, children of all ages can create anything with Bizzy Bitz. It’s cool, educational, fun and a must for every family. Using only Bizzy Bitz basic shapes children can create accurate models of absolutely anything. With no custom made pieces needed, if a piece is lost you can still build hundreds of things from your remaining pieces. Children as young as 3 years old make cars,

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(Letterbox have a good selection, or try www.sciencemuseum.org.uk). If they are fans of Minecraft, the computer game, there is a range of toys to complement including a torch, collectable figures and a Lego game that are all available through Amazon.

Older kids It might be a case of clubbing together for a high-ticket item like a new bike, but no matter how old you are you still need something to play with on Christmas Day. How about something fun like a hula hoop – you can’t be a grumpy teenager when you’re hooping and there are lots of tutorials on You Tube to learn some cool tricks. Or how about an e-reader, you could always add some of their favourite ebooks – for reluctant readers the novelty factor might just work. And if all else fails, there’s always an iTunes voucher; which leads us to Apple. There’s no denying it an iPod, iTouch or iPad often feature on most kids’ Christmas lists. Maybe they should come with a warning from Santa – to prevent selfdestruction, only use for x hours a day when your parents say it’s ok.

His Business; & Spot and Maisy flap books. • Preschool: Anything by Julia Donaldson; The Tiger Who Came To Tea; I Will Not Ever Never Eat A Tomato; Each Peach Pear Plum; That Rabbit Belongs To Emily Brown; & Harry And His Bucket Full of Dinosaurs. • 5 to 8 years: Anything by Roald Dahl & Michael Morpurgo; The Faraway Tree; Daisy And The Trouble With Christmas; Ratburger; Dr Proctor’s Fart Powder; & the Spy Dog series. • 9 to 11 years: Harry Potter, all of them; Northern Lights; Skulduggery Pleasant; The Ingo Chronicles; Percy Jackson And The Lightning Thief; Alex Rider series; The Secret of Platform 13; & The Hobbit.

necklaces and little people, whilst especially enjoying the Bizzy Bitz baseboard. Older children can build detailed lorries, aeroplanes, clocks and much more. What will YOUR child make of it? There are a range of sets available to suit all ages and stages. To view the range and to buy go to www. bizzy-bitz.com, also available on Amazon where you can see customer product reviews. WIN a super maxi 850 piece box of Bizzy Bitz! To enter this online competition go to www.familiesherts.co.uk and click the ‘competitions’ link. The competition will be open online from 4th November until 2nd December.

Get Outdoors & Get Active this Christmas Six ideas for outdoor play Outdoor play and exposure to nature is one of the most effective ways to educate children about the natural world around them. It is also vital for their health and physical development and will help them Boy making a beautiful picture from natural materials. ©Woodland to improve Trust - www.woodlandtrust.org.uk) their sensory, cognitive and social skills. Despite the weather, the winter months provide a surprisingly wide range of fun outdoor learning opportunities for your children. Wrap up warm and enjoy!

1. Let’s go fly a kite What better way to spend a breezy, sunny winter day than flying a kite? You could even have a go at making your own, it’s easy to find instructions online. Encourage your child to run, jump and chase their kite.

Festive Fun in the Lee Valley Lee Valley has everything for a festive day out in December; from Santa’s grotto to a Christmas themed horse riding show and a Christmas cruise, there is a stocking full of merry events to look forward to. Enjoy a festive filled day at Lee Valley Park Farms in Waltham Abbey, with huskies and reindeer on the weekends of 14th to 15th and 21st to 22nd December. Kids can get creative with Christmas themed arts and crafts followed by a visit to Santa. After which, they can let off steam by sliding down Santa’s Launch Pad. Experience a Christmas Cruise at Broxbourne Riverside Moorings on 21st and 22nd December, with mulled wine and mince pies it’ll be full of festive cheer. Watch the free Christmas themed riding show at Lee Valley Riding Centre on 20th December. It will be a horse and pony show with a difference. For another opportunity to meet Santa go to The WaterWorks Centre on 21st December. Children will also be able to have a go at lots of different craft activities. For more information on all these events and more, go to: visitleevalley.org.uk or call 08456 770 600.

2. Have a nature walk adventure Organise a treasure hunt or get children to collect a list of objects; feathers, fir cones, conkers. The Woodland Trust’s Nature Detectives website (www.naturedetectives.org.uk) has lots of free downloadable sheets with ideas such as collecting leaves and sorting them into shapes and colours or identifying animal homes and even a guide to identifying ‘Who’s poo?’

3. Try leaf rubbing Children can create their very own autumn inspired artwork by leaf rubbing. Place a large leaf on a hard surface, put a piece of plain paper over the top and gently rub over the leaf with a crayon. Children will be amazed as the leaf pattern appears. Experiment with different types of leaves and coloured crayons. You can try it on tree bark as well.

4. Get wet! Water play is fun and it can also teach basic science. Encourage your child to throw different objects (sticks, stones, leaves etc) into a pond and ask them to guess if they will float or sink. Teach them to skim stones.

5. Blow bubbles Make your own bubble potion with water, washing up liquid and a dash of sugar to thicken the mixture and use metal coat hangers and pipe cleaners to make bubble frames. There’s no need to go far afield, your back garden or balcony will do, but there’s lots of fun to be had.

6. Make walks fun Cycling, climbing trees, singing, playing games such as eye spy, tag and hide and seek or building a den with fallen branches, moss and leaves are all simple ideas for adding fun. For a list of beautiful woods to walk and play in go to http://visitwoods.org.uk

Christmas Frost Fair

Hatfield House, the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth I, is the atmospheric setting for the annual Christmas Frost Fair. The market is sited in The Old Palace, the Riding School and heated Marquees on Palace Green. Wander through this unique historical monument and enjoy all of the festive sights, sounds and delicious scents. Browse the stalls that will be selling a large and varied selection of gifts to suit all tastes and all ages. You will be spoilt for choice with so many wonderful gifts for family and home to choose from: including stunning jewellery, original crafts, toys and fine foods. When you need a shopping break: morning coffee, lunches and afternoon teas will be ready and waiting. For those that want to get creative try one of the craft workshops. Children will not want to leave the Christmas Frost Fair without meeting Santa. This year’s fair will be held from 22nd until 24th November. Open daily from 10am-5pm. Entrance: Adults £5 accompanied children free. www.hatfield-house.co.uk

PANTO & THEATRE FUN ABBEY THEATRE Westminster Lodge, Holywell Hill, St Albans AL1 2DL 01727 857861 www.abbeytheatre.org.uk boxoffice@abbeytheatre.org.uk The Railway Children 20, 23 & 27 Dec – 7.30pm 21, 22, 28 & 29 Dec – 2.30 & 5.30pm This children’s classic is a heartwarming story for all the family, based on the much-loved book by E Nesbit. Three children leave their home in prosperous Edwardian London to live in the country with their mother after their father is falsely accused and imprisoned. The railway becomes the centre for many exciting adventures and fascinating new friends are made along the way. Funny, clever and moving, this is the perfect stop for all the family this Christmas. Tickets: £10.25-£12.25. Child/ Concs £6.25-£11.25 THE ALBAN ARENA Civic Centre, St Albans AL1 3LD 01727 844488 www.alban-arena.co.uk

Christmas What’s On Cinderella 6 Dec-5 Jan – various times Tickets: £12.50-£24.50 THE ARK THEATRE BOREHAMWOOD The Civic Car Park, Elstree Way WD6 1WA 020 8238 7288 www.thearktheatre.co.uk Rotary Christmas Concert 2013 6 Dec – 7.30pm Local performers of all ages present a seasonal extravaganza. Tickets: £3 A Musical Gala for the Festive Season 14 Dec – 8pm Seasonal numbers and singa-longs from The BBC Elstree Concert Band. Tickets: £9 Mrs Duster's Magic Toyshop 17-26 Dec – various times Pantomime Tickets: £12. Child/Concs £9. Family £36

BROXBOURNE CIVIC HALL High Street, Hoddesdon EN11 8BE 01992 441946 www.broxbourne.gov.uk/ whatson Aliens Love Underpants 4 Nov – 4.30pm 5 Nov – 10.30am & 1.30pm Based on the bestselling children’s book. Ages 3+.

Tickets: £12. Family £44 Aladdin 13 Dec-4 Jan – various times Starring Pop Idol Andy Scott-Lee. Tickets: from £13.50 HARPENDEN PUBLIC HALLS Southdown Road, Harpenden AL5 1PD 01582 767525 www.harpendenpublichalls.co.uk

BARN THEATRE Handside Lane, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6ST 01707 324300 www.barntheatre.co.uk Peter Pan the Musical 14, 15, 21, 22, 24, 27, 28, 29 & 31 Dec – 2.30pm 18, 20, 23 & 30 Dec – 7.30pm Tickets: £13.50

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Christmas What’s On Jack and the Beanstalk 13-22 Dec – various times Tickets: from £11.25 HAWTHORNE THEATRE Campus West, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6BX 01707 357117 www.hawthornetheatre.co.uk Oliver 13, 14 & 15 Nov – 7.30pm 16 Nov – 2.30 & 7.30pm Welwyn Thalians perform the well-known musical. Tickets: £18. Zebra Card/over 60s £16. Family £60 Sherlock Holmes & the Case of the Christmas Carol 17 Nov – 6.30pm Literature’s favourite quirky detective is infused with the spirit of a crotchety Ebenezer Scrooge in this festive Victorian theatrical treat. Ages 8+. Tickets: £9.50. Senior/Student £7.50. Child £6.50. Zebra Card discounts available The Great Santa Kidnap 1 Dec – 1pm Delightful Christmas entertainment for ages 5+. Tickets: £9.50. Senior/Student £7.50. Child £6.50. Zebra Card discounts available Fireman Sam: Pontypandy Rocks Live stage show with the hero next door! 7 Dec – 1 & 3.30pm Tickets: £12.50. Child £10.50. Family £42 Beauty and the Beast 21, 22, 23, 27, 28, 29 & 30 Dec – 1.30 & 5pm 24, 26 & 31 Dec – 1.30pm Family Christmas show. Tickets: from £9.60. Early bird prices until 25 Nov HERTFORD THEATRE The Wash, Hertford SG14 1PS 01992 531500 www.hertfordtheatre.com Bananas in Pyjamas 2 Nov – 1 & 3.30pm Join B1, B2, Amy, Lulu and Morgan in this new, all singing, all dancing show. Audience participation & slapstick fun. Ages 4+. Tickets: £12.50. Concs £10.50. Family £42 Beauty and the Beast 6 Dec-1 Jan – various times Tickets: from £9 LETCHWORTH ARTS CENTRE 2, The Arcade, Letchworth Garden City SG6 3EW 01462 670788 www.letchwortharts.org Rumpelstiltskin and the Wheel of Fortune 23 Dec – 11am & 2pm

Theatre of Widdershins’ trademark puppets, music & storytelling. Tickets: £8. Child £5. Family £24. MALTINGS ARTS THEATRE Level 2, The Maltings Shopping Centre, St Albans AL1 3HL 0844 8700 887 www.maltingsartstheatre.co.uk Book online, by phone or in person at St Albans Tourist & Information Centre, Town Hall, Market Place AL3 5DJ Cinderella and The Soul Sisters – A Motown Musical 27-30 Nov – 7.45pm A funky, fabulous night out! Tickets: £12.50 A Victorian Christmas 10 Dec – 8pm Music, song, stories & drama from the time of Dickens and Hardy. For all ages. Tickets: £10/£7.50 Hansel & Gretel 19 & 20 Dec – 7.30pm Engelbert Humperdink’s opera, full of wonderful tunes, magic & drama. Tickets: £14 THE OLD TOWN HALL THEATRE High Street, Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AE 01442 228091 www.oldtownhall.co.uk Teddy Time 30 Nov – 11am & 2pm A magical introduction to theatre for 3-7 year olds. Tickets: £5.50 The Very Snowy Christmas 23 Dec – 2.30 & 5.30pm 24 Dec – 11.30am Based on the best-selling children’s book. Live music, beautiful puppets & a stunning snowy set. Ages 3-7. Tickets: £5.50 THE RADLETT CENTRE 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL 01923 859291 www.radlettcentre.co.uk Aladdin 7-31 Dec – various times Tickets: from £16.50 SANDPIT THEATRE Sandringham School, The Ridgeway, St. Albans AL4 9NX 01727 370067 www.sandpittheatre.co.uk Chemistry Xmas Show 27 Nov – 6pm Loud noises, flashing lights & mess! Explosive showcase of Sandringham's science faculty. All ages. Tickets: Free but must book Robin Hood 30 Nov-7 Dec Talented young actors from Top

Hat’s Stage and Screen School. Tickets: £10. Child/Over 60 £7 ST ALBANS MUMMERS Various locations in St Albans City Centre 01727 864511 www.stalbansmummers.org.uk 26 Dec For over 40 years the Mummers have performed their unique adaptation of George & The Dragon on Boxing Day. TRESTLE ARTS BASE Russet Drive, St Albans AL4 0JQ 01727 850950 www.trestle.org.uk Red Riding Hood 21 & 22 Dec – 11.30am & 2.30pm Exquisite visuals blend with pantomime-style silliness to create an enchanting piece of theatre for ages 4+. Tickets: £12. Concs £10. Family £40 THE WESTON AUDITORIUM University of Hertfordshire, De Havilland Campus, Hatfield AL10 9EU 01707 281127 www.herts.ac.uk/ artsandgalleries Stick Man 10 Nov – 1.30pm From the book by Julia Donaldson. 3 yrs+. Tickets: £10. Child £8 Happy Feet (U) 16 Nov – 10am (FilmCRAFT workshop). 11am (screening) 5 yrs+. Film: £2.50 per child (up to 2 adults free). Workshop: £3.50 per child (children only) Hook (U) 7 Dec – 10am (FilmCRAFT workshop). 11am (screening) 7 yrs+. Film: £2.50 per child (up to 2 adults free). Workshop: £3.50 per child (children only) WYLLYOTTS THEATRE Wyllyotts Place, Darkes Lane, Potters Bar EN6 2HN 01707 645005 www.wyllyottstheatre.co.uk The Nutcracker 24 Nov – 2 & 5pm Performed by the Vienna Festival Ballet. Tickets: £16. Child £12 The Very Snowy Christmas 30 Nov – 11.30am & 2.30pm Music, puppetry and a glittering snowy set. Ages 3+. Tickets: £6.50 Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs 14 Dec-5 Jan – various times Tickets: from £13.50

WHERE TO GO BOPPING BABES PARENT & CHILD DISCO The Charles Morris Hall, Tyttenhanger Green, St Albans AL4 0RN www.boppingbabesdisco.co.uk 7 Dec – 1-4pm Disco for adults and babies/ children up to age 6. Face painting. Licensed bar. £5 for one adult & child GOSLING SPORTS PARK Stanborough Road, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6XE 01707 384303 bookings@goslingsports.co.uk www.goslingsports.co.uk Drop & Shop Sessions 14, 15, 21 & 22 Dec – 9am-3.30pm Special camps at the weekend enabling parents to go Christmas shopping without the kids around or to just have some downtime! From £15 per day HEARTWOOD FOREST Sandridge 01476 581111 www. heartwoodforest.wordpress.com Tree Planting 15 Dec – 10am-3pm Every tree at Heartwood is planted by a volunteer. Hot food & drink available to buy. Trees & spades provided but take a spade if you can. HERTFORD MUSEUM 18 Bull Plain, Hertford SG14 1DT 01992 582686 www.hertfordmuseum.org Toddler Tuesdays: Fancy Flamingos 19 Nov – 10.30-11.30am Crafts, toys & a story. Ages 2-4 (adult must stay). Book in advance. £1.50 per child including refreshments Stay and Play Saturdays 2 Nov & 7 Dec – 10.30am-3.30pm. Drop in Toys & crafts. Explore the galleries. Free, donations welcome LEE VALLEY ATHLETICS CENTRE 61 Meridian Way, Edmonton, London N9 0AR 08456 770 600 visitleevalley.org.uk Special Olympics 17 Nov – 11am-5pm National sporting event. Free for spectators Lee Valley Minithon 22 Dec – 12-6pm Athletics competition for school years 3 to 7. Medals presented by top GB athlete. Book online or 020 8344 7230. £10 per child

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Christmas What’s On SPORTSPACE HEMEL HEMPSTEAD Park Road, Hemel Hempstead HP1 1JS 01442 507100 www.sportspace.co.uk Squash (7-15 yrs) From 5 Nov – 4-5pm £39.60. Members £28.80 Micro Football (3-4 yrs) From 8 Nov – 1.30-2.30pm £46.20. Members £33.60 Football Skills (7-12 yrs) From 9 Nov – 10-11am £46.20. Members £33.60 Badminton (8 yrs+), Trampolining (5 yrs+), Mini Tennis (5-8 yrs) Various days, see website for details. Prices pro rata from the date you join

CHRISTMAS FAIRS & CAROLS APPLECROFT SCHOOL Welwyn Garden City AL8 6JZ Winter Bazaar 16 Nov – 11am-2.30pm Christmas & craft stalls, children's games, Santa's Grotto, refreshments. £1. Child/Senior free ASHRIDGE ESTATE Visitor Centre, Moneybury Hill, Ringshall, Berkhamsted HP4 1LT 01442 851227 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ ashridge-estate Christmas Fair 8 Dec – 10am-3.30pm Festive goodies, including original local gifts. Free entry BARLEY TOWN HOUSE Church End, Barley SG8 8JW 01763 848705 alison.white@tinyworld.co.uk Barley Christmas Market 23 Nov – 11am-4pm Stalls, simple lunches & refreshments. BAYFORD MEMORIAL HALL Ashendene Road, Bayford SG13 8PX 07966 167613 sarah@bayfordbury.demon.co.uk Christmas Craft Fair 17 Nov – 11am-3pm Christmas gifts; yummy delights; do crafts, have your photo taken & sing to the reindeer with Bayford School and Pre School choirs. BRITISH SCHOOLS MUSEUM 41/42 Queen Street, Hitchin SG4 9TS 01462 420144 www.britishschoolsmuseum.co.uk Christmas Fair 30 Nov

BROXBOURNE CIVIC HALL High Street, Hoddesdon EN11 8BE 01992 441946 www.broxbourne.gov.uk/ whatson Christmas Fayre 1 Dec – 11am-3.30pm 60 stalls selling seasonal crafts & gifts. Santa’s grotto. £1.50. Child/over 62s 70p CRABTREE SCHOOL Crabtree Lane, Harpenden AL5 5PU Christmas Bazaar 7 Dec – 11am-3pm £1 Adults. Free for primary age. 50p for secondary age. FROGMORE PAPER MILL Fourdrinier Way, Apsley, Hemel Hempstead HP3 9RY 01442 234600 www.thepapertrail.org.uk Christmas Fayre 24 Nov – 11am-4pm £1. Child 50p HARPENDEN PUBLIC HALLS Southdown Road, Harpenden AL5 1PD www.ladiescircle.co.uk/ harpenden Harpenden Ladies Circle Gift Fair 22 & 23 Nov – 9.30am-4.30pm Approx 50 stalls including jewellery, gifts, children’s presents & festive foods. Refreshments. HATFIELD HOUSE Hatfield, Herts AL9 5NQ 01707 287010 www.hatfield-house.co.uk Christmas Frost Fair 22-24 Nov – 10am-5pm Gifts, crafts & fine foods. Lunches & refreshments. Drop in workshops, including Christmas decorating using fresh flowers. Father Christmas. £5. Accompanied children free HERTFORD CASTLE Castle Street, Hertford SG14 1HR 01992 552885 (Tom) Carols with the Mayor 14 Dec – 5.30-6.30pm Traditional carol singing with the Mayor of Hertford. HILLMEAD PRIMARY SCHOOL Woburn Avenue, Bishop's Stortford CM23 4PW Christmas Fayre 7 Dec – 12-3pm HODDESDON TOWN CENTRE High Street 01992 785655 www.broxbourne.gov.uk European Christmas Market 14 Dec – 9am-5.30pm

KNEBWORTH HOUSE Knebworth SG3 6PY (Sat Nav: SG1 2AX) 01438 812661 www.knebworthhouse.com Christmas Fair 15-17 Nov – 10am-4pm Crafts, gifts, food & drink. £5. Senior £4. Child £3 Christmas Music 14 & 15 Dec – 2.30-4.30pm & 8-10pm Doyle Dykes & local choir groups perform in the Banqueting Hall. Mulled wine & mince pies. £21.50 LETCHWORTH ARTS CENTRE 2, The Arcade, Letchworth Garden City SG6 3EW 01462 670788 www.letchwortharts.org Christmas Craft Fair 22 Nov-21 Dec. Mon to Fri – 10am-5pm. Sat – 10am-3pm. Work by local & national artists specialising in quality arts & crafts. Free entry Christmas Winter Warmer 22 Nov – 5.30pm Watch the Christmas Lights Switch-On, enjoy a mug of soup & late opening of the Craft Fair. Free entry Christmas Crafternoon with Carols 22 Dec – 1pm Free crafts for children. Carols around the piano. Join in or just soak up the atmosphere. Free MARLBOROUGH ROAD METHODIST CHURCH Marlborough Road, St Albans AL1 3XQ 07884 231958 www.choralsociety.com A Celebration of Christmas 15 Dec – 7pm St Albans Choral Society and Fleetville Junior School choir. Seasonal carols & readings. £13. Child £1 MILL GREEN MILL & MUSEUM Mill Green, Hatfield AL9 5PD 01707 357850 www.welhat.gov.uk/museum Victorian Christmas Fair 1 Dec – 2-5pm Children's fun activities, storytelling & games. Santa’s Grotto (limited spaces). Food, stalls, carols at 4pm. Entry £2.50. Child (2 yrs+) £2. Grotto: £3 per child NCT NEARLY NEW TOY SALE Sele School, Hertford SG14 2DG www.nct.org.uk/branches 24 Nov – 11am-1pm Entrance £1. Free if donate a cake (homemade or bought)

SANDRINGHAM SCHOOL The Ridgeway, St. Albans AL4 9NX 01727 370067 www.sandpittheatre.co.uk Winter Wonderland 7 Dec – 11am-6pm Festive amusements, Christmas market & ice skating. Free entry. Skating £5 (25 mins) ST ALBANS CATHEDRAL AL1 1BY 01727 860780 www.stalbanscathedral.org Family Carol Concert 14 Dec – 3pm Pre-concert entertainment for children from 2.15pm. £5. Child £1 if seat needed Christingle Service 8 Dec – 3pm Carols on the Hour 21 Dec. Every hour 11am-4pm Sing some uplifting carols with the Cathedral choirs. Lasts 30 minutes. Crib Service 24 Dec – 3pm ST ALBANS CHRISTMAS MARKET Vintry Garden & outside St Albans Cathedral www.enjoystalbans.com 28 Nov-21 Dec – 10am-6pm. Thurs until 8pm Traditional wooden chalets selling speciality food & drink, wooden toys, Christmas decorations, handmade clothes & gifts. Carols on the hour, entertainers & twinkly lights! ST ELIZABETH'S CENTRE Perry Green, Much Hadham SG10 6EW 01279 843451 Christmas Bazaar 30 Nov – 12-4pm STEPPING STONE PRE SCHOOL Knebworth Village Hall, Park Lane, Knebworth SG3 6PD Christmas Craft Fair 1 Dec – 11am-3.30pm Craft stalls, children's soft play area, café. £1. Under 12s free ST MICHAEL'S CHURCH Windhill, Bishop's Stortford CM23 2ND Holly Fair 7 Dec – 10am-12noon WELWYN GARDEN CITY CHRISTMAS MARKET Quadrant Park, Welwyn Garden City www.christmasmarkets.com 7 & 8 Dec – 10am-5pm 40 exhibitors. Food hall; Christmas gifts; carols; free children’s entertainment; Father Christmas. Free parking & free bus from train station. Free entry

WELWYN ST MARY’S PRIMARY SCHOOL London Road, Welwyn AL6 9DJ Christmas Fair 30 Nov – 1pm Craft stalls, children’s games, Santa’s Grotto (pre bookable only), refreshments. £1. Child free WIMPOLE ESTATE Arrington, Royston SG8 0BW 01223 206000 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ wimpole-estate Christmas Craft Fair 16 & 17 Nov – 10.30am-5pm Buy unusual presents from over 50 craft stalls. £4. Under 14s free

WHERE’S SANTA ASHRIDGE ESTATE Visitor Centre, Moneybury Hill, Ringshall, Berkhamsted HP4 1LT 01442 851227 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ ashridge-estate Visit Father Christmas 30 Nov & 1 Dec Visit with Father Christmas get a gift plus Christmas craft session. Booking essential. Max 2 adults per child. Child £6. Adult (includes warm spiced apple juice) £2 CAPEL MANOR GARDENS Bullsmoor Lane, Enfield EN1 4RQ 08456 122 122 ext 1200 www.capelmanorgardens.co.uk Christmas Carousel 7 & 8 Dec – 11am-4pm Santa; carol singing; magic shows; crafts; face painting; tractor rides; stalls & floristry displays. Contact for admission fees CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND Cattlegate Road, Crews Hill, Enfield EN2 9EE 020 8367 9326 www.christmas-wonderland. co.uk Climb aboard Santa's Express & journey through 20 different Christmas scenes before arriving at Santa's Grotto. ESSENDON COUNTRY CLUB Bedwell Park, Essendon, Hatfield AL9 6HN 07568 108794 www. thechildrenstrust.org.uk/shop 21 Dec – 11am-1.30pm Brunch with Santa Buffet brunch followed by entertainment & face painting. Book online. Child £15. Adult food voucher £5. Adults not requiring food are free.

HATFIELD FOREST Takeley, Bishop Stortford CM22 6NE 01279 870678 (Fiona Harrower) www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ hatfield-forest Father Christmas Trail 7, 8, 14 & 15 Dec – 10.30am, 11.45am & 1.30pm Follow the magical trail through the woods to visit Father Christmas in his grotto. Booking essential. £6.50 per child + 5% booking fee (includes gift, craft & refreshment) KNEBWORTH HOUSE Knebworth SG3 6PY (Sat Nav: SG1 2AX) 01438 813825 www.knebworthhouse.com Sunday Lunch with Santa 8, 15 & 22 Dec – 12-4.30pm Two-course festive lunch served in the barns. Gift for children from Santa. Booking essential. £22.50. Child (up to 13 yrs) £9.50 LEE VALLEY BOATS Broxbourne Riverside Moorings, Nazeing Road, Broxbourne EN10 6QT. To book: 01992 462085 leevalleyboats.co.uk Santa Cruise 20 & 21 Dec – 10.30am (Fri only), 12.30 & 2.30pm Mulled wine, mince pies & carols on this one hour Christmas Cruise. Meet Santa and take a present home with you! £8.50 per person LEE VALLEY PARK FARMS Stubbins Hall Lane, Waltham Abbey, Essex EN9 2EF 01992 892781 www.visitleevalley.org.uk/go/ farms Farm-tastic Santa 15, 21 & 22 Dec – 10am-5pm Booking required. Meet Santa & his reindeer. Alpine adventure toboggan run. Arts & crafts. First child £18. Additional children £10. Adults free LEIGHTON BUZZARD STEAM RAILWAY Pages Park Station, Billington Road, Leighton Buzzard LU7 4TN 01525 373888 www.buzzrail.co.uk Santa Specials 1, 4, 7, 8, 11, 14, 15, 18, 21 & 22 & 23 Dec New Year Cheer 28 & 29 Dec 25-minute return journey in a festively decorated steam train. Santa Specials: Adult £8. 2-12 yrs £8.50. Under 2s £4. New Year Cheer: Adult £6.50. 2-12 yrs £3.50. Under 2s free.

Book online by 30 Nov for 10% discount LOWEWOOD MUSEUM High Street, Hoddesdon EN11 8BH 01992 445596 www.broxbourne.gov.uk A Victorian Christmas 7 Dec – 11am-1pm & 2-4pm Make Victorian Christmas sweets to take home in a Christmas inspired box. £3 per child to see Father Christmas (includes gift) RYE-ASSIC ADVENTURE PARK Rye House Kart Raceway, Rye Road Hoddesdon EN11 0EH 01992 460895 www.ryeassic.co.uk Rye-Assic Winter Wonderland 7-24 Dec – 9.30am-5pm. Santa’s Grotto 12-4pm Children’s rides, games, eateries & Santa himself! Park admission: Adults & under 1s free. Child £3.95 weekdays, £4.95 weekends. Additional £3.50 for Grotto SANTA TO YOUR DOOR A visit from Santa on Christmas eve or Christmas day. He will deliver your presents and chat to your children about their favourite things. He may even sing a few festive songs before he says goodbye having nibbled a mince pie, or two. Call the Santa hotline on 0208 959 1045 or email info@ adamantsparties.co.uk SHEPRETH WILDLIFE PARK Station Road, Shepreth, nr Royston SG8 6PZ 01763 262226 www.sheprethwildlifepark.co.uk Santa’s Grotto 7, 8, 14, 15 & 21-24 Dec Meet Father Christmas in his winter jungle grotto! Normal admission applies: £10.95. Child/Conc £8.95. Under 2s free STOTFOLD MILL Mill Lane, Stotfold, Bedfordshire SG5 4NU 01462 734541 www.stotfoldmill.com Christmas at the Mill 23 & 24 Nov – 10.30am-5pm The mill will be transformed into a festive wonderland. Visit Santa in his grotto. Mulled wine & mince pies. (Special event for families with young children, the machinery will not be operating.) Free WATERWORKS CENTRE NATURE RESERVE Lammas Road (off Lea Bridge Road), Leyton, London E10 7QB 020 8988 7566 visitleevalley.org.uk

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Santa's Grotto 21 Dec – 11am-4pm Meet Santa in his urban retreat. Festive foraging - go willow coppicing with a ranger. Yuletide crafts. Make popcorn icicles. Refreshments. Booking required. Free WILLOWS FARM VILLAGE Coursers Road, London Colney, St Albans AL4 0PF 0870 129 9718 www.willowsfarmvillage.com Santa's Spectacular Grotto & Festive Farm Fun 23 Nov-24 Dec Visit Santa; join in the Nativity story; Festive Wood Ride; Elves House; reindeer; synthetic ice rink & indoor play barn. Adult £8.25. Child £16.25 (includes gift, reply letter from Santa & magic reindeer dust if complete reindeer hunt). Under 2s £8.50 (if they want to see Santa & receive gift) WOODLAND TRUST SANTA HUNT Wick Wood, Marshals Drive, St Albans AL1 4RE 01727 864871 www.woodlandtrust.org.uk 27 Dec – 10am-12noon Collect 5 tokens scattered along the pathways under the trees & exchange them for a modest chocky treat. For toddlers to teens. Parking in Marshals Drive. Entry 50p

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