Harrogate Life Magazine - December 2022

weLcome To THe december issue of HarrogaTe Life magaZine

When our family ask us what we want for Christmas, it’s a challenge to know what to say: if it’s small and affordable, we’ve probably bought it already. And if it’s not affordable for us, it’s unlikely to be in budget for others either, and it probably wouldn’t fit under the Christmas tree anyway! And it’s exactly the same for them (the adults at least – kids are easy).

Besides, although it feels a bit “Bah! Humbug!” to be saying it, we just wish it was a bit simpler and less consumer driven. Don’t get us wrong, we love the decorations, the tradition, seeing family, and giving and receiving a surprise gift is lovely. It’s the pressure to overspend on all the above. Do we really have to buy multiple gifts, themed napkins and Instagram-worthy piles of decorations?

Still, we know that we are very fortunate to have the choice, because so many don’t and without support many won’t even see Christmas, let alone enjoy it. If you are a regular reader, you will often have read features on community initiatives and charitable endeavours in the magazine, and we really admire those that work so tirelessly to help others. These organisations need your support now more than ever. Of course, without our loyal advertisers we wouldn’t have a magazine to print the information, and without your custom they wouldn’t have a business to advertise. So, to every one of you who has ever called someone from the magazine: thank you.

We wish you all the very best for a joyful Christmas season.

Paul & Fiona

The Red House is a vibrant retirement village just minutes from the centre of Ripon. Choose to BUY OR RENT one of our superb, spacious properties and enjoy an independent lifestyle with the help and support of the friendly 24-hour staff when needed. Available Now

• Acres of maintained landscaped gardens

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• A ssisted Move Scheme available • S how Apartment open to view • G uest Suite available

H a r r i s o n S p i n k s B u r a n o 6 0 0 0 M a t t r e s s C h a n g i n g t h e w a y t h e w o r l d s l e e p s C u r r e n t l y 2 0 % p r o m o t i o n F r o m £ 6 3 9 N / A a t N o r t h a l l e r t o n s t o r e

s i m p l y b e d s

b e d s m a t t r e s s e s f u r n i t u r e

s u k c o m s i m p l y b e d s u k c o m o p e n 7 d a y s a w e e k m o n s a t : 9 3 0 5 3 0 & s u n : 1 1 0 0 4 0 0

Considering a bathroom, kitchen or home interiors refurb?

Then you may wish to take a look at Harrogate’s new and exclusive resident Harvey George who bring to the region some of the most amazing bespoke made painted and solid wood furniture collections for every corner of your home on display in their luxury showroom on Hookstone Park, Harrogate.

Unlike any other and spanning almost 10,000 sq ft., Phase 1 of the showroom demonstrates true originality, exhibiting stunning ranges of bespoke bathroom furniture made to order in any size and colour and to almost any design you could hope for. Featuring over 650 square metres of Ca’ Pietra tiles, including large format porcelain and natural stone tiles, as well as bespoke marble supplied by Stone Age and luxury flooring by Root London, Harvey George have created floor and wall displays that will inspire and allow customers to be more creative in their spaces when choosing their furniture. With so much more available including baths, basins and taps from the world’s best brands as you step inside you’ll soon realise there really is nothing else like it in the region.

Buy British - As UK manufacturers based right here in Yorkshire, their team of over 25 craftsmen - hand make and design furniture to the exacting needs of customers throughout the UK and beyond. From humble beginnings, their business has flourished fueled

by a desire for consumers to buy British. And despite the current challenges facing most businesses Harvey George have pushed the boundaries of what is possible, making bespoke premium furniture accessible and affordable with something for all budgets and any design taste.

Backed up by an in-house team of specialists, buying bespoke needn’t be a worry. The design team can help bring your ideas to life. ‘Your furniture, Your way’ embodies what this amazing local company is

about. Phase 2 of the launch (around Oct/Nov) will see the opening of further departments for Kitchens, Bedrooms and Home Furnishings. A destination worthy of a visit when designing for the home.

Why not make an appointment and visit their Harrogate showroom to discuss your furniture needs over a complimentary cup of coffee, tea or softdrink at The Inspiration Centre, Unit 3 Hookstone Park, Harrogate HG2 7DB.

Puzzles

The December quick crossword

across 7 A red fruit (6) 8 On every side (6)

Deceased (4)

Hold back (8)

Sprinkle (7)

Weeps (5)

Concerning (5)

Farewell (4-3)

Acquainted (8)

Require (4)

Disclose (6) 24 Thick, oily substance (6)

Answers on page 60…

down 1 Finished (4)

Outlaw (6)

Expedition (7)

Severe (5)

Terror (6) 6 Completely (8) 12 Green vegetables (8)

Bravery (7) 16 Allied (6) 18 Beast of burden (6) 19 Feminine (5) 22 Simple (4)

Welcome to the Nelson Inn

We have been busy breathing life back into this lovely old pub and we are thrilled to have reopened just in time for the festive season.

Visit our website for all you need to know about our different menus and activity through December. Whether it’s a catch up with friends, a large family meal or simply a mulled wine by the fire, we would love to see you.

Sam and all at the Nelson Inn.

Skipton Road, Harrogate, HG3 2BU www.nelsoninn.co.uk

Gardening

GREENFINGERS…

the Alan Titchmarsh

He’s a brilliant presenter, accomplished gardener, talented novelist, and allround horticultural inspiration. This month, Alan Titchmarsh discusses how our gardens can become carbon sinks.

We know how effective plants are at drawing CO2 out of the atmosphere. That means that while our gardens are wonderful spaces for our sensual pleasure, they brilliantly counteract global warming and our fight against climate change. In other words, they become ‘carbon sinks’.

I was recently asked how our green spaces might change if the planet continues to hot up, and I tend to take a middle ground on this. Certainly, I am not a climate change denier, but I think for our own peace of mind we need to keep things realistic, and it’s not

column

as if within 50 years we’re going to be growing bananas in Northumberland or anything like that!

Naturally, in the past there were warm tropical periods between the ice ages, and we came through those, although what’s clear is that the rate of change seems to be happening more rapidly now. And yet before people worry too much, our gardens will, for the most part, cope just fine with a two or three degree change in temperature – we see them doing this every year.

What we can of course do in the short-term is style and shape garden space to ensure we help the planet as much as we can. After all, the most basic way to

prevent greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere (and warming up the climate) is by growing plants. And as gardeners, that’s what we do!

The best way to achieve this is by growing native plants. Not only are they best suited to these conditions and will grow at a manageable speed - and in simple terms, the quicker a plant grows, the more CO2 it is absorbing – but we also won’t find ourselves being caught out by a non-native variety that can really take hold of a space. When that happens, our reaction is to use harmful chemical means to control them. Beyond that, we pull them up, exposing soil and releasing carbon.

Native plants don’t have the same effect – in fact they increase biodiversity and draw carbon out of the atmosphere.We can also compost – it’s a great way of

stopping carbon getting out in the first place. The same applies to mulching, too. When you consider that over 80% of the carbon in your garden is released from the soil, by adding a layer of wood bark chippings, for instance, you are holding the carbon in the soil. It’s for this same reason that turning over soil is actually bad for your garden. Not

only does it interrupt nature’s ability to let your earth matter settle into an organised pattern that benefits both plants and the creatures living in the soil, but turning over, or tilling, releases more carbon. Beyond this, we can be more environmentally friendly by using organic fertilisers; and never be afraid to let your outdoor space ‘go wild’. Rustic gardens are the ultimate low-carbon spaces, and that makes sense, because wild areas such as forests, wetlands and mangroves are the very best at protecting against the risks posed by climate change. Finally, if you must mow your lawn, use a manual motor. Recent research showed that operating a petrol lawn mower for one hour releases as much smog-forming pollution as driving for 100 miles!

As ever, our gardens hold within them the power not just to transform our own lives, but the welfare of the planet too, and that is why we love them so much.

Superior bespoke timber

Books

Books to give and receive

By Kate Duggan

DEMON COPPERHEAD

Demon Copperhead looks set to cement Barbara Kingsolver’s reputation as one of the best authors of our time. In this modern-day reimaging of Charles Dickens’ David Copperfi eld, the ‘Demon’ of the title is born to a single, drugaddicted mother in povertystricken Virginia. At every turn, the odds are stacked against him, from the broken care system to the lack of job opportunities and his own sense of worth. Raw, angry, starkly beautiful, this book is an absolute masterpiece.

GOOD COMFORT – HugH

fearnLeywHiTTingsTaLL

Healthy recipes tend to focus on what to leave out – whether the focus is on cutting carbs, ditching meat or reducing fat. With Good Comfort, the focus is on what to add to make a meal or snack more nutritious (and more delicious). Think lamb tagine with apricots and chickpeas, pork ribs with fennel slaw, and hot chocolate with raw cacao powder, oak milk, brown sugar and cardamom pods.

THE PAPER PALACE

HeLLer

Not a new one this, but if you haven’t read it yet, The Paper Palace is defi nitely worth adding to your wish list. An unexpected passionate liaison with a childhood friend sees Elle looking back over her life and the decisions she made along the way. Tragedy, romance and family dynamics all combine to make this a cracking story. Perfect for curling up with on Boxing Day.

WOMAN OF LIGHT – kaLi faJardo-ansTine

In 1930s Denver, Luz and her brother Diego are battling poverty in a city that needs but doesn’t want them. The pair are expected to keep their heads down and comply, while the Ku Klux Klan has free reign to march against them. When Diego is forced to fl ee the city, Luz’s visions recall the family history that brought them to Denver. Rich, evocative, with characters that leap out of the page, Woman of Light is a short but highly satisfying read.

curnick

This sweet little children’s book takes inspiration from the Twelve Days of Christmas song. On each day, animals (from the traditional partridge to dancing hippos) bring one ingredient to make a very special cake. Colourful illustrations and amusing rhymes mean this book could well turn into a new Christmas favourite. Plus, there’s a recipe at the end so families can make their own twelfth night cake.

QUEEN OF OUR TIMES: THE LIFE OF ELIZABETH II – roberT

Hardman

Published before her death, Queen of Our Times provides a fascinating insight into our longest-reigning monarch. Incredibly detailed and impeccably researched, this book is a must for biography fans, history lovers and royalists alike. You’ll read insights from people who knew the Queen well, including former world leaders, and be treated to a range of black and white and colour photographs from throughout the Queen’s life.

– barbara kingsoLVer

– miranda cowLey

THE BIG CHRISTMAS BAKE – fiona barker and PiPPa

Christmas… the most wonderful time of the year, but for many it can also be one of the most stressful. Here are twelve tips to get you through the festive season.

Plan ahead

Start stocking up as soon as possible –add extra items over the remaining weeks along with your regular shopping. Have an emergency supply of a few small gifts to save you from embarrassment if someone arrives unexpectedly with a present for you.

Budget-conscious

Instead of splashing out on expensive gifts, you could: a) all decide on a budget per head and pull names out of a hat for who to buy for, or b) all family members chip in to buy tickets for a show, day out or meal out.

Everything in moderation

You don’t have to have everything. It won’t spoil Christmas if you don’t have pigs in blankets, themed napkins, candles, luxury crackers etc. Let some of it slide and you’ll save on your Christmas spend too.

Ease the stress

Write a to-do list. Delegate jobs: get younger family members to wrap the presents; ask guests to bring a starter, dessert, the mince pies or sausage rolls. Set the table the night before – that’ll give you extra time to be with family on Christmas morning.

Get up, get out

Finding time to exercise during the festive break can be a challenge but keeping motivated and active is beneficial to both your body and your wellbeing.

Sleep

Sleeping is the time when our bodies recover from the excesses of life – and the overindulgence of festive food and drink can severely affect our sleep patterns. Turn off mobile phones at bedtime to give your mind and body time to unwind and relax.

Happy families

For some families, Christmas is the only time of year they all get together – and there are bound to be some heated moments. Young guests can get overexcited and too loud, which in turn can upset older guests, so have a supply of games, movies to watch and books to read to calm the situation and ease tensions.

Time off

If possible, plan time off work in the run-up as this will prevent you from being overworked and overstressed by the time Christmas morning arrives.

Others less fortunate

For many, Christmas can be the loneliest day of the year. From checking on an elderly neighbour to volunteering, a small gesture can mean so much to others.

New traditions

Create your own family traditions. Is there a particular country that holds a place in your family’s heart? Why not have a culturallythemed Christmas and recreate its celebrations.

Party animal

We’ve all been there –the office party! All too often people go a bit too far…remember to take things easy and have no regrets.

A final word…

If you’ve found previous years have not been enjoyable then why make the same mistake again? Work out how much you’re likely to spend, then use that amount to do what you really want to.

Yorkshire Loft Ladders - quality you can trust!

THese days mosT Homeowners suffer from a Lack of sTorage sPace.

So many precious items that need to be kept - but where to store it all? That’s where Yorkshire Loft Ladders come in. The company, based locally, offers homeowners the opportunity to maximise their storage space with a loft ladderm 50 sq ft of boarding and a light all fully fitted in less than a day for just £277 + VAT. But it’s not just the affordability of the package the company offers that makes Yorkshire Loft Ladders stand out as manager Aaron Wilson explains:

‘Our watchwords are Quality, Integrity and Value. Quality in the materials that we use and the fact that all our loft packages are fitted by time served tradesmen so our customers are assured of the best

job. Integrity in that we will turn up at the time we say and make sure the house is spotless when we leave, and Value in that we offer our services at a price people can afford. Our business relies on referrals and we got a huge amount of our calls from people who have been referred to us by our existing customers - that simply wouldn’t happen if we didn’t adhere to our overriding principles. At the end of the day the old adage that happy customers lead to more happy customers is true and we work hard to make that happen for every installation we carry out!’

So, if you want to make use of your loft space, however big or small, call Aaron on 0800 612 8359 and he’ll be happy to pop round and give you a no obligation quote so you too can make use of your loft!

Finance Money on my mind... the Martin Lewis column

He’s THe uk’s Leading money saVing eXPerT - a JournaLisT and PresenTer wHo Has kePT miLLions of Pounds in PeoPLe’s PockeTs as weLL as LifTing THe Lid on THe THreaTs and dangers we need To be aware of as consumers.

In this month’s column, Martin Lewis looks at the emotions we all attach to money, and how easy it is to let our worries guide us.

Someone asked me the other day what it was that terrifi ed me most in life. I wouldn’t describe myself necessarily as one of life’s worriers, but I do like to take a cautious and protective approach to my family, my fi nances and myself. And for the most part I think that’s pretty much the same for all of us.

I think what has worried me most in the past is mental health – keeping hold of that strand of sanity; the ability to be able to function in a society that invites pressure in from all sides.

I have had some battles with mental health in the past, and when your mental health is good then all the other challenges and trials in your life seem approachable.

Unfortunately, the link between mental health and money is arguably the most tacit of them all – both affect and impact each other. Yet the assumption that people with money are stress-free, and those on the breadline are shredded with worry, is wrong.

When I sold my website, MoneySavingExpert, it’s fair to say I had enough in reserve not to worry about bills; yet as an advocate for fairness, for affordability and as someone who wants

to protect consumers and the vulnerable, I’ve never once stepped away from the coalface, nor would I want to.

I feel a deep responsibility to people who have put their trust in me over the years, and never have those feelings intensifi ed more than to the level we are at now, where I feel there is so much wrong with the system.

We continue to sit on the precipice of a real emergency, and I am one of millions who fears for the welfare of the average person in the street who has invested so much into this country. This isn’t about the rich, the poor, the middleclass – it’s just about people.

Do I believe we will emerge out of this crisis? Of course. Yet lessons have to be learned so that we don’t end up here again… for the sake of our communities, our families, and our own mental health.

The Very Best Beef

Wagyu beef, raised and reared only a short drive away at High Moor Farm, Brimham Rocks. Add a bit of luxury to your Christmas dinner this year.

Premium Turkey

The Smokehouse

MCKENZIES

Can’t think of the words?

Do you dread having to update your website, menu, product brochure?

Does blank screen time replace quality time when your next newsletter, mailshot, press release is on deadline?

Don’t you just know that your CV, personal profile, business advertising could be so much stronger?

The answer is Solutions J

Words have more power than ever in the fast-moving dynamics of today’s world, and content truly has become king, so the launch of Solutions J is very opportune for the area’s businesses and individuals.

Solutions J has been created by local resident Jane Bargh; her professional career spans over 30 years working globally at a senior level for the world’s leading concierge provider, with extensive experience across travel, dining, retail, health

and wellbeing, home services and entertainment. Working as a freelance professional wordsmith and marketeer was a natural next step, In her own words, Jane says: ‘When your website, brochure, mailshot, newsletter or CV leaves you lost for words, Solutions J puts it effectively and affordably into writing. No job is too small; I work according to your bespoke brief, to your budget and to your timeline. I write and edit words to power you and your business forward.’

Solutions J also collaborates with a handpicked, specialist network which includes experts in social media management; web design and build; graphic design; studio, location and drone photography; CGI and signage; exclusive event planning, including high-level access to premier DJs, entertainers, private chefs & sommeliers. Readers of, and advertisers featured in Harrogate Life, receive preferential rates on Solutions J’s copywriting and editorial services. For further details, recent examples of work, and to discuss your requirements, please contact jane.bargh@gmail.com

No

What’s On

guide To wHaT’s on in HarrogaTe for DECEMBER

HARROGATE FARMERS MARKET

USUALLY ON THE 2ND THURSDAY OF THE MONTH: 8TH DECEMBER, 12TH JANUARY CAMBRIDGE STREET, HARROGATE, HG1 1RX

Yorkshire Farmers’ Markets sell fresh and organic produce, direct from the producer and sourced as locally as possible. The wide variety of stalls include bread, honey, jam & preserves, fresh eggs, plants & herbs, Italian and Indian foods, pies, pork, bacon and beef products, soups, baking and confectionery, local cheeses and fruit & vegetables. We also have good-quality, hand-made craft items including jewellery woodcraft, soaps, pottery and woollen products.

GLOW - WINTER ILLUMINATIONS AT RHS

GARDEN HARLOW CARR

THURSDAY 17TH NOVEMBER

2022 16:30PM - FRIDAY 30TH DECEMBER 2022 20:30PM

RHS GARDEN HARLOW CARR, CRAG LANE, HARROGATE, HG3 1QB

Let it Glow! Enjoy an unmissable after-dark spectacle of lights at RHS Garden Harlow Carr this festive season. Take an enchanting walk at RHS Harlow Carr, marvelling at spectacular light displays along your way. See iconic features such as Streamside, the Queen Mother’s Lake, Winter Walk, Doric Columns and Kitchen Garden light up winter nights with festive sparkle and magic. New for 2022, enjoy ambient sounds around the Queen Mother’s Lake and be wowed by a ‘pixel lawn’ with hundreds of synchronised, dancing lights. Glow runs on selected dates from Thursday 17th November until Friday 30th December. For full dates please visit the website.

MUSIC AND LIGHTS AT NT

FOUNTAINS ABBEY

SATURDAY 19TH NOVEMBER 2022 14:00PM - MONDAY 3RD JANUARY 2022 15:00PM FOUNTAINS, RIPON, HG4 3DY

As it begins to get dark the abbey glows with rainbow colours from the cellarium’s vaulted ceilings. Live choirs and bands perform from 2-3pm. Carols by Candlelight are on 5th and 12th December at 3pm.

MAGICAL CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCE AT MOTHER

SHIPTON’S

SATURDAY 26TH NOVEMBER 2022 09:30 AM - SATURDAY 24TH DECEMBER 2022 15:30PM

MOTHER SHIPTON’S CAVE, PROPHECY HOUSE, HIGH BRIDGE, HARROGATE ROAD, KNARESBOROUGH, HG5 8DD

There’s so much to enjoy at Mother Shipton’s this Christmas. Enjoy a personal family visit with Santa in his cosy Christmas grotto and receive a special Santa gift. Take a photo inside Santa’s magic sleigh. Visit Holly Berry the storyteller for some enchanting Christmas tales. Create your own bag of reindeer food to take home and sprinkle outside on Christmas Eve. Write, stamp and post your letter to Santa at our North Pole Post Office Hang a handwritten wish upon the Christmas tree. Warm up with a deluxe hot chocolate in our cosy log gazebos. Treat yourself or a loved one to something special in our magical Christmas Shop.

Tickets for Christmas at Mother Shipton’s can be purchased online only for selected dates through November and December. Places are limited, don’t miss out!

COUNTRY LIVING CHRISTMAS FAIR, HARROGATE

THURSDAY 1ST DEC 2022 10:00AM - SUNDAY 4TH DEC 2022 16:00 PM

HARROGATE CONVENTION CENTRE (HCC), KING’S ROAD, HARROGATE, HG1 5LA

Celebrating a timeless and traditional way of living, the Country Living Fair in Harrogate will bring the pages of the magazine to life in an unmissable day-out for all generations to enjoy. You’ll find unique gifts for friends and family, home styling advice, beautiful handmade decorations and tempting food and drink made by small artisan producers – and it’s all under one roof. You will also find a selection of inspiring food demonstrations in the CL Kitchen from a line-up of celebrity chefs, workshop sessions hosted by our expert crafters as well as entertaining talks by members of the Country Living editorial team on everything from decorating to being greener and more sustainable. To round it all off, can you enjoy a glass or two of bubbly in our popular Champagne Bar, sip cocktails or enjoy one of our afternoon tea dining experiences.

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING AT HAMPSTHWAITE VILLAGE HALL

THURSDAY 1ST DECEMBER

6:00PM - 9:00PM

A unique, festive evening with local Artisans showcasing beautiful handmade gifts

£5 in advance includes glass of wine/ soft drink and Christmas nibbles  Cash bar for extra drinks

Profits of tickets, raffle& drinks sales to The Lifeboat

Contact Katie on 07775 530260 for more details.

Continued on page 50…

for furTHer eVenTs and fuLL deTaiLs PLease VisiT WWW.VISITHARROGATE.CO.UK Harrogate Life cannot be held responsible for any changes, amends or cancelations of an event

(all events subject to change due to Covid 19 restrictions)

Wharfeside Care Home Recruitment Open Day

Recipe

Nigella Lawson’s Yule Log

Top Tip: Don’t expect perfection. Remember that trees are naturally wonky and flawed. Be sure not to over stir the cake mix; you want it light and airy.

Ingredients (serves 12)

For the cake

• 6 large eggs (separated)

• 150 grams caster sugar

• 50 grams cocoa powder

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 5 teaspoons icing sugar (to decorate)

For the icing

• 175 grams dark chocolate (chopped)

• 250 grams icing sugar

• 225 grams soft butter

• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C Fan/ gas mark 4/350°F. In a large, clean bowl whisk the egg whites until thick and peaking, then, still whisking, sprinkle in 50g/ ¼ cup of the caster sugar and continue whisking until the whites are holding their peaks but not dry. In another bowl, whisk the egg yolks and the remaining caster sugar until the mixture is moussy, pale and thick. Add the vanilla extract, sieve the cocoa powder over, then fold both in. Finally, gently fold in the egg yolks.

2. Line a Swiss roll tin with baking parchment, leaving a generous overhang at the ends and sides, and folding the parchment into the corners to help the paper stay anchored. Pour in the cake mixture and bake in the oven for 20 minutes. Let the cake cool a little before turning it out onto another piece of baking parchment. If you dust this piece of parchment with a little icing sugar it may help with preventing sticking, but don’t worry too much as any tears or dents will be covered by icing later. Cover loosely with a clean tea towel.

3. To make the icing, melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl suspended over a pan of simmering water, then let it cool. Put the icing sugar into a processor and blitz to remove lumps, add the butter and process until smooth. Add the cooled, melted chocolate and the tablespoon of vanilla extract and pulse again to make a smooth icing.

4. Sit the flat chocolate cake on a large piece of baking parchment. Trim the edges of the Swiss roll. Spread some of the icing thinly over the sponge, going right out to the edges. Start rolling from the long side facing you, taking care to get a tight roll from the beginning, and roll up to the other side. Pressing against the parchment, rather than the tender cake, makes this easier.

5. Spread the yule log with the remaining icing, covering the cut-off ends. Create a wood-like texture by marking along the length of the log with a skewer or sharp knife and finish with a dusting of icing sugar.

No one does Christmas like Nigella, which is why this glorious yule log is the ideal centrepiece for your festive lunch.

Travel

Best Christmas markets in Europe

NUREMBERG, GERMANY

Home to more than 150 towns and cities with established Christmas market traditions, Germany is synonymous with the festive season. Berlin and Cologne are world-renowned but most visitors will agree that Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt just about comes out on top.

WithChristmas now just around the corner, if you find yourself fantasising about mulled wine and steaming chestnuts – you’re not alone. Christmas market season is upon us, the perfect time to wrap up warm and hunt for gifts you wouldn’t find anywhere else. While we have plenty of markets to visit on our doorstep, nothing quite compares to Europe’s fairy-tale, festive spirit.

From Hungary’s regional specialities and the dazzling lights of Vienna, all the way to Tallinn’s cobblestone streets dusted with snow, we’ve pulled out five of the best Christmas markets in Europe, and what makes each one so magical.

VIENNA, AUSTRIA

Every winter, Vienna’s prettiest squares transform into a maze of Christmas markets, adorned with fairy lights. Wherever your feet take you, expect to see everything from artisanal handicrafts and traditional wooden toys, to ice rinks, Ferris wheels and merry-gorounds. This is Christmas at its most traditional.

Oh, and did we mention the food? Warm the cockles of your heart with a mug of mulled wine while inhaling

TALLINN, ESTONIA

Part of what makes Tallinn’s Christmas markets so magical is their setting. Come December, this beautiful medieval city is completely dusted with snow, and the markets filled with local arts and crafts and festive treats. They’re also joined by Tallinn’s very own Santa, who arrives at his winter grotto on an authentic reindeer sleigh.

The highlight, though, is Tallinn’s Christmas tree, which has been displayed in front of the town hall since 1441, making it the first of its kind in Europe.

BUDAPEST, HUNGARY

Officially hailed as Europe’s best Christmas market in 2022, Budapest’s Advent Feast at the Basilica is a delight for the senses. Shop for unique gifts from more than 160 artisan vendors and sample local Hungarian specialities. Goulash and flódni are must-tries!

There’s even an ice rink in the heart of all the action, circling a nine-metre-tall Christmas tree. Be sure to hang around for the real star of the show though – a spectacular laser light show projected on the facade of St. Stephen’s Basilica.

One of Germany’s oldest Christmas markets, dating back to around 1530, Christkindlesmarkt is a foodie’s paradise. Grilled sausages, crackling pork, mulled wine, sweet gingerbread – every festive food fantasy can be fulfilled here.

PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC

Postcard-worthy Prague was made for the festive season, so it’s no surprise its capital’s market is one of Europe’s favourites. This is part and parcel down to its magnificent setting, but as Czechs are famously heavy drinkers, they go above and beyond when it comes to booze too. Sample mead, punch and grog, a concoction of rum, lemon, sugar and hot water.

If you’ve got little ones, they’ll love the Old Town Square’s petting zoo – complete with sheep, goats and donkeys.

the smell of roasted chestnuts and freshly baked pretzels.

@ Christmas Trees Harrogate

In keeping with 20+ years of selling top quality Christmas Trees, in many varieties, we are now entering the sixth year with ‘The Christmas Barn’ selling the finest quality;

Christmas Decorations

Christmas Lighting Gifts and Ornaments

We hope you enjoy the beautiful rustic charm while you shop for all your Christmas desires. There will be several ranges of themed decorations to suit all tastes, as well as unique gifts and ornaments and all the extras that you will need to create your perfect Christmas setting!

Opening from mid November, please check Facebook for confirmation, or call the below number.

With over 1000 trees to choose from & 20+ years experience, why look anywhere else? Rudfarlington Farm has; Nordman Fir, Norway Spruce and Fraser Fir.

The Christmas Barn @ Rudfarlington Farm, Wetherby Road, Harrogate (opposite the Kestrel Pub) Contact Mike on 07703435480 or email: sales@christmastreesharrogate.co.uk www.christmastreesharrogate.co.uk

Find us on: facebook.com/christmas-trees-harrogate

Christmas Trees Harrogate

What’s On

…Continued from page 38

HARROGATE CHRISTMAS FAYRE

FRIDAY 2ND DECEMBER 2022

10:00AM - SUNDAY 11TH DECEMBER 2022 16:30PM

Harrogate’s famous Christmas Market returns to the town centre for 10 days of festive shopping opportunities from an eclectic mix of local traders and traditional European Christmas stalls. Among the many stalls and entertainments will be arts and crafts from artisan creators, mouth-watering treats for customers to sample or purchase, festive decorations for your home and a range of unique gift ideas for you to choose from, or just treat yourself amid the busy Christmas preparations. In addition there will be music and entertainment to add to the perfect Christmas atmosphere whether you visit friends or family. The Harrogate Christmas lights will be on and the festive season well underway, making this the perfect excuse to come and spend time with us this Christmas. Don’t forget you can use the FREE Candy Express road train to get around every day that the Christmas Fayre is on! Follow the Harrogate Christmas Market Facebook Page for up-to-date news straight to your feed.

KNARESBOROUGH CHRISTMAS MARKET

SATURDAY 3RD DECEMBER 2022 10:00AM - SUNDAY 4TH DECEMBER 2022 16:30PM

MARKET PLACE, KNARESBOROUGH, HG5 8AG

Held over the first weekend in December in Knaresborough’s Market Place this traditional Yorkshire festive market, with a nod to the diversity of cultures around us, brings a flourish of festive cheer to this historic Yorkshire town.Come and hear the brass bands, carol singers and seasonal entertainers too, who bring a lovely atmosphere to enjoy. The narrow cobbled streets are lined with festively decorated shops, from butchers, bakers and candle makers to picture galleries and antique sellers.A wide variety of local artists will be performing in the Knaresborough Christmas

Market during the weekend, including local morris dancers, brass bands, choirs and a fabulous Firework Finale on the Sunday.A free Park and Ride is available all kend from the GSPK car park (HG5 8LF) on Manse Lane to Chapel Street, close to the Market Square.

THE HARROGATE CHRISTMAS CONCERT

SATURDAY 3RD DECEMBER 2022 18:00PM - 20:00PM

HARROGATE CONVENTION CENTRE, KINGS ROAD, HARROGATE, HG1 5LA

The annual Harrogate Christmas Concert takes place at Harrogate Convention Centre featuring festive music by Harrogate Symphony Orchestra Harrogate Choral Society and over 300 children from local primary schools. Plus a special guest appearance! Tickets are priced at £14 for adults and £7 for students. Under 11s are free.

HANDEL MESSIAH

SATURDAY 10TH DECEMBER 2022 19:00PM - 21:30PM

THE ROYAL HALL, RIPON ROAD, HARROGATE, HG1 2RD Harrogate Choral Society present Handel Messiah with Manchester Camerata, Kathryn Jenkin (Soprano),  Gaynor Keeble (Mezzo),  David Woods (Tenor) and Andrew Mayor (Bass). Conducted by David Lawrence.

CHRISTMAS TRAIL AT SWINTON BIVOUAC

SATURDAY 17TH DECEMBER 2022 10:00 AM - MONDAY 26TH DECEMBER 2022 15:00 PM SWINTON BIVOUAC, MASHAM, HG4 4JZ

Starting 17 December throughout the Christmas holidays (except 25 December)Bring the family for a Christmas trail around the woodland at Swinton Bivouac, supporting FROGS (Friends of Grewelthorpe School). Follow the trail to solve the clues and break the code to win, while enjoying the many wonderous

landmarks and hidden secrets of the Druid’s Temple woodland walk. Pick up a trail sheet from the Bivouac café to begin your adventure! Stop by the Bivouac Café for a warming drink and sweet treat. £5 per child with a gift upon completion, with all money going towards FROGS

THE KNARESBOROUGH OUTDOOR NATIVITY

SATURDAY 24TH DECEMBER 2022 17:15PM - 19:00PM

Live in Knaresborough market square as night falls on Christmas Eve, Mary and Joseph will make their way to Bethlehem in the hope of comfort and shelter. This annual festive event tells the Christmas story and brings together a sense of community and Christmas spirit. Organised by the Knaresborough community, a mixture of readings and drama bring the story to life with a cast of local residents and a real donkey.The performance will begin with a formal announcement by the Knaresborough Town Cryer at 6pm.

BOXING DAY PILGRIMAGE FROM RIPON CATHEDRAL TO FOUNTAINS ABBEY

MONDAY 26TH DECEMBER 2022 09:30AM - 13:00PM

FOUNTAINS ABBEY & STUDLEY ROYAL, RIPON, HG4 3DY

Eucharist for St Stephen’s Day and Pilgrimage to Fountains Abbey, retracing the steps of the abbey’s founders centuries ago.

The service begins in Ripon Cathedral at 9.30am and the pilgrimage makes its way to the abbey where the service continues from approx. 12 noon.

On a cold day in 1132, thirteen monks walked from Ripon to a completely deserted valley by the River Skell. There they started their own community from nothing and so, Fountains Abbey was born! You too can follow the monks in their footsteps in this annual traditional pilgrimage. It will begin at Ripon Cathedral with a celebration of Eucharist and end with a service of carols and prayers in the abbey cellarium.

for furTHer eVenTs and fuLL deTaiLs PLease VisiT WWW.VISITHARROGATE.CO.UK

Harrogate Life cannot be held responsible for any changes, amends or cancelations of an event

White Rose Sewing

esTabLisHed in 1979 wHiTe rose sewing cenTre is a friendLy, famiLy run sewing macHine business based in HarrogaTe.

The owner, Phil Pearson, moved to new premises in 2014. The new premises are bigger and brighter giving Phil more room to display his impressive stock of sewing machines and haberdashery.

Phil has had 40 years experience in the

business, so is very well informed to offer advice to anyone wishing to buy a new machine or explore the features of their existing machine.

You can contact Phil by calling 01423 503767 or by emailing: info@whiterosesewing.com

Phil will be exhibiting at Northern Quilting Show 17th-19th Feb 2023 at Hall 2, Great Yorkshire Showground.

We endeavour to run The Gatehouse as a caring business and the home enjoys an enviable reputation within the discerning community as the best elderly Care Home. We pride ourselves in creating a homely, home from home in a welcoming atmosphere. The Residents can feel secure in the knowledge that they can savour fabulous menu’s created from locally sourced produce. They can even enjoy time spent with our pet hens Fluff and Nip.

We endeavour to run The Gatehouse as a caring business and the home enjoys an enviable reputation within the discerning community as the best elderly Care Home. We pride ourselves in creating a homely, home from home in a welcoming atmosphere. The Residents can feel secure in the knowledge that they can savour fabulous menu’s created from locally sourced produce. They can even enjoy time spent with our pet hens Fluff and Nip.

We endeavour to run The Gatehouse as a caring business and the home enjoys an enviable reputation within the discerning community as the best elderly Care Home. We pride ourselves in creating a homely, home from home in a welcoming atmosphere. The Residents can feel secure in the knowledge that they can savour fabulous menu’s created from locally sourced produce. They can even enjoy time spent with our pet hens Fluff and Nip.

The Gatehouse delivers 5 star luxury, a welcoming atmosphere, a Home for life

The Gatehouse delivers 5 star luxury, a welcoming atmosphere, a Home for life.

The Gatehouse delivers 5 star luxury, a welcoming atmosphere, a Home for life.

The Gatehouse Care Home

The Gatehouse Care Home

The

Gatehouse

Care Home

Call The Gatehouse Manager to arrange a visit at a time to suit you on 01423 535730 or email thegatehouse@thefranklyngroup.com The Gatehouse, 9 Manor Road, Harrogate, HG2 0HP

Call The Gatehouse Manager to arrange a visit at a time to suit you on 01423 535730 or email thegatehouse@thefranklyngroup.com The Gatehouse, 9 Manor Road, Harrogate, HG2 0HP

Call The Gatehouse Manager to arrange a visit at a time to suit you on 01423 535730 or email thegatehouse@thefranklyngroup.com The Gatehouse, 9 Manor Road, Harrogate, HG2 0HP

Other homes included in the Group:

Other homes included in the Group:

Other homes included in the Group: Stobars Hall, Kirby Stephen, CA17 4HD 01768 371291 Hillcrest, Byng Road, Catterick Garrison, DL9 4DW 01748 834444 Kirkwood, 35 Moorfield Road, Ben Rhydding, Ilkley, LS29 8BL 01943 600653

Stobars Hall, Kirby Stephen, CA17 4HD 01768 371291 Hillcrest, Byng Road, Catterick Garrison, DL9 4DW 01748 834444 Kirkwood, 35 Moorfield Road, Ben Rhydding, Ilkley, LS29 8BL 01943 600653

Stobars Hall, Kirby Stephen, CA17 4HD 01768 371291 Hillcrest, Byng Road, Catterick Garrison, DL9 4DW 01748 834444

Kirkwood, 35 Moorfield Road, Ben Rhydding, Ilkley, LS29 8BL 01943 600653

Technology Stocking Fillers

Official Samsung Galaxy

S22 leather case

We’re

all watching our money this year, and that means when it comes to Christmas presents we’re perhaps being a little more careful with what we’re buying for the people we care about. But you don’t have to splash the cash to get great tech gifts for family, friends or colleagues. There are stacks of great gifts for every kind of person.

If you’re buying for someone who’s mad about music, wireless Bluetooth speakers can be great buys. Amazon’s Echo Dot speaker is a good choice of smart speaker, currently £25.99, and the JBL Go 3 is a fun and very small speaker that’s easy to take anywhere. It’s around £30. We’re also very impressed by the Earfun Air headphones, which are an incredible bargain at £33.95. If you’re buying for kids, Belkin’s Soundform Nano (£29) sounds great, comes in fun colours and has a volume limit to protect their hearing.

Phone and tablet accessories can be great gifts too, whether that’s a genuine leather phone case (typically £30 to £60), a Popsocket phone grip (around £11 for the nicest ones) or an AirTag or Tile tracker (£20 to £35) for someone who’s always misplacing their purse or their keys.

There are lots of clever gifts for outdoor types too, including self-cleaning water bottles with UV light (around £49), multi-tools to cope with every conceivable kind of task (from £20) and solar lanterns (from around £20).

If the person you’re buying for would rather cook in a kitchen than halfway up a mountain, there are some great cooking gadgets for relatively low prices including the Thermapen instant-read thermometer (£39), which has saved many of our meals from overor under-cooking, and the brilliant Stirr automatic pan stirrer, which you can use to prevent sauces and stews from sticking to the pot while you go and do something more interesting. And for coffee fans there’s the excellent AeroPress coffee maker (£31), which makes delicious coffee incredibly quickly without making it bitter. There’s a mobile version too, so the lucky recipient can get great coffee wherever they may roam.

Stirr Automatic Pot Stirrer

The Stirr is a simple solution to a common problem: some things stick to your pots and pans if you don’t constantly stir them, but stirring is often very time consuming and extremely boring. Stirr sits in the pot and uses cooking-grade nylon legs to do the stirring for you. £20-£40, amazon.co.uk

Cases don’t just look good: they help protect your pricey phone so you can get a better trade-in price when you replace it. Official leather cases are often quite expensive but that’s not the case with Samsung. From £24, amazon.co.uk

Gerber Truss Multi-Tool

You can spend huge sums of money on multitools such as the famous Leatherman, but brands such as Gerber make excellent alternatives that deliver all the key features for considerably less money. Other brands may be even cheaper. £40, amazon.co.uk

JBL Go 3

This little speaker has excellent go-anywhere energy and it’s not so loud that you’ll get complaints from the recipient’s nearest and dearest. It sounds great for its size, it’s really affordable and the battery life is very good. £34, uk.jbl.com

Apple AirTag

Apple’s AirTags and its main rival, Tile trackers, can be attached to keys, put in purses or snuck into schoolbags to make it easy to find them again if they get lost, misplaced or even stolen. The battery lasts for months. £35, Apple.com

Little gifts that’ll bring big smiles this Christmas

Sudoku sponsored by W. Bowers

How To PLay

Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 through to 9 with no repetition.

That’s all there is to it.

You solve the puzzle with reasoning and logicthere’s no maths involved and no adding up.

It’s fun. It’s challenging, It’s addictive!

Answers on page 60…

Nowtakingbookingsfor Christmas

Index

Aerials & Satellite

Aerial Services 34

Baby Wear

Mum2mum Market 51

Bathrooms

More Bathrooms 20

More Ability Bathrooms 52 Harvey George 01/11 Beds & Bedrooms

Simply Beds 07

Builders/Building Materials

Dalebuild 41

HRT Builders 04

Castle Timber Buildings 19

Harrogate Roofing 37

Ridgeway 23

Butchers

Hutchinsons of Ripley 55

Car Sales, Repairs & Services

Impact 23 Trailers & Towbars 21 Harrogate Jagwar 20 Care & Care Homes

Gatehouse 53

Rise Mobility/Wheelchair Hire 52

Children’s Wear

Mum2mummarket 51

Christmas Country Living Christmas Fair 47 Horticap 45 Christmas Barn 49 Cleaning/Home Help Services Ovenclean 14 The Housekeepers 39 Zero Dry Time 41 Stoneclenz 44

Copywriting & Marketing Services

Solutions J 35

Curtains and Blinds

Walton Mill 45

Shutter Emporium 08

Electrical Retailers/ Repairs/Electrician

Abbey Electrical 22

Herbert Todd 02 J S Electrical 37

Entertainment

Ripley Star Club 55

Estate Agent & Property

The Red House Ripon 05 Myrings Estate Agents 64

Food & Drink

Kushi Indian Takeaway 15

The Station Pub Birstwith 61

Sukhothai 31

Jinnah 06 Coffee 28 15 Nelson Inn 13

Hutchinsons Butchers Ripley 55 Mackenzies Farm Shop 33 Tarbetts Fishmongers 43 Outside Inn 09

Fireplaces Feature Fireplaces 36 Fishmonger

Tarbetts Fishmongers 43 French Polisher Woodfellas 36 Funeral Directors W. Bowers 59

Furniture Harvey George 11 Garage Doors

Garolla Garage Doors 21 Castle Timber Buildings 19 Gardens

Bardsey Tree Care 17 James Nelson 19 Chaplins 18 Proctor Landscapes 17 Castle Timber Buildings 19 Horticap 45

USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS

POLICE EMERGENCY ..................................... 999 or 112

POLICE NON EMERGENCY 101

CRIMESTOPPERS NON EMERGENCY ........... 0800 55111

HARROGATE HOSPITAL 01423 885959

NHS DIRECT 111

SAMARITANS 08457 909090

CHILDLINE 0800 1111

NSPCC 24HR HELPLINE 0808 8005000

RSPCA 0300 1234999

CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU 01423 503591

MACMILLAN CANCERLINE 0808 8080000

FUNERAL DIRECTOR ................................ 01423 505543

GAS EMERGENCIES 0800 111999

Gifts

Inger & Rae 46

Harrogate BID 30 Country Living Christmas Fair 47 John Atkinson Books 25 Horticap 45

Health & Beauty

Bespoke Eyewear 12 Yorkshire Hearing Clinic 57

Heating & Fuel Supplies

Feature Fireplaces 36 JLB 34 Blakeborough Plumbing 29 & Heating

Hobbies

Cycle Carriers 22 White Rose Sewing 51 Photography Bass & Bligh 15 Yarn 41 John Atkinson 25 Holidays Coast2Coast 34

Home Improvements Walton Mill 45 Feature Fireplaces 36 Dalebuild 41

Yorkshire Loft Ladders 27

The Housekeepers 39 Garolla Garage Doors 21 HRT Builders 04 Buywell Interiors 39 Knaresborough Kitchens 63 More Bathrooms 20 More Ability Bathrooms 52 More Kitchens 54 Reeves Upholstery 36 Simply Beds 07 Castle Timber Buildings 19 Woodfellas French Polishing 36 Harrogate Roofing 37 Blakeborough Plumbing 29 & Heating Ridgeway 23 Zero Dry Time 41 Harvey George 01/11 Stoneclenz 44 Shutter Emporium 08

Job Vacancies

Anchor Care Homes - Otley 40

Locksmith Harrogate Locks 22 Optician

Bespoke Eyewear 12

Painter & Decorator

Yorkshire Décor 14 Photography

Bass & Bligh 15

Plumbing

J & L Bradley Plumbers 34 Blakeborough Plumbing 29 & Heating

Pubs & Restaurants

The Yorkshire Hussars 58

The Station Birstwith 61 Sukhothai 31 Mackenzies Farm Shop 33 Jinnah 06 Coffee 28 15 Outside Inn 09

Removals

Rocket Removals 34 Roofers

Harrogate Roofing 37 Ridgeway 23

Sewing Machines

White Rose Sewing 51 Storage

Rocket Removals & Storage 34 Takeaway Food Kushi Tandoori 15 Jinnah 06 Sukhothai 31 Upholstery Reeves Upholstery 36 Windows

Window Wise 23 Timber Windows of Harewood 04 YAAS 14

FLOODLINE ............................................. 0845 9881188

NATIONAL RAIL ENQUIRIES 0845 7484950

HARROGATE LIBRARY 0845 0349520

LEEDS BRADFORD AIRPORT 0871 2882288

TOURIST INFORMATION 01423 537300

HARROGATE COUNCIL 01423 500600

ODEON CINEMA HARROGATE 0871 2244007

YORKSHIRE WATER 0845 1242424

ELECTRICITY NEDL 0800 375675

HARROGATE DISTRICT TRAVEL 01423 566061

TAXI SERVICES 01423 525200

ST PETERS C OF E CHURCH 01423 568218

ST ROBERTS RC CHURCH 01423 873577

DEMENTIA FORWARD 01765 601224

62 Tel 01423 771200