Little Vikings Magazine (Issue 4)

York for kids Issue 04

FREE Xmas 2014

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Š National Trust Images. Registered Charity Number 205846.

Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal

Christmas time

Wrap up warm to see the abbey lit in rainbow colours and hear live music in the cellarium. Meet Father Christmas in his grotto, get crafty making decorations and tackle our trail.

Members and under 5s go free.

01765 608888

nationaltrust.org.uk/fountainsabbey

Little

Welcome © National Trust Images. Registered Charity Number 205846.

Hello and welcome to our Christmas issue! It’s our absolute favourite time of year: festive food, twinkling lights, carol concerts and a great excuse to spend time with family and friends.

York comes into its own at Christmas, with loads of things to see and do for families, and you can read all about it here. We’ll tell you about all the best Christmas shows and festive events, and there’s even a handy guide to the best places to meet Santa this festive season.

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas, and we’ll see you in the New Year!

little-vikings.co.uk info@little-vikings.co.uk facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK @LittleVikingsUK Little Vikings is brought to you by a York family on a mission to help other families enjoy the city

What’s On this Yuletide IT’S CHRISTMAS!! And what better excuse to get out and about as a family, enjoying what the city has to offer. There’s lots of festive fun to be had, and this is our pick of the best.

Mr Tackleton’s Christmas Tale Meet Mr Tackleton, from Charles Dickens’ The Cricket on the Hearth, at York Castle Museum. He’s the toymaker who hates children as much as he hates making toys, and you can follow his story as he discovers some Victorian Christmas cheer.

York Castle Museum - 6th and 7th December & 14th to 23rd December – performances between 11am and 4pm – normal admission charges apply

Scrooge: A Christmas Carol Listen to Ebeneezer Scrooge tell this classic Christmas tale on Kirkgate, the Victorian street. We went last year and our little Vikings still talk about it now.

A lovely thing to do together.

York Castle Museum – 24th December – performances 11am – 3pm - normal admission charges apply Victorian Christmas Experience at York Castle Museum For a magical Christmas experience you’ll never forget, head to Kirkgate, the Castle Museum’s Victorian Street. Meet the residents and traders as they prepare for Christmas and take part in a Victorian shopping trip. Families who manage to find everything on the shopping list will meet a very special person. Price includes shopping list gifts, present from Santa, coffee and mince pies for adults and juice and biscuits for kids.

16th, 17th, 18th, 19th and 20th December – One hour tours from 5pm - £5 adult, £7.50 child (inc. admission) – Call 01904 687633 to book. www.little-vikings.co.uk 2

Barley Hall’s Festive Medieval Market Get in the mood for Christmas, medievalstyle, with a festive market at one of York’s hidden gems. Pick up some unique gifts for your Christmas list and enjoy a drink from the tavern bar. Combine it with a visit to the rest of the Hall, including the gruesome Plague. Poverty and Prayer exhibition, for a small extra charge.

27th to 30th November - 10am to 5pm £2 adult, £1 conc, £5 family of four

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Baubles and Bunting A day of festive fun where families will work alongside a professional artist to explore the museum’s Victorian Christmas collection. Everyone will then design and decorate willow circles as baubles and bunting to take home.

Bring Christmas photos to use and enjoy a mince pie or two! Kids under 5 may need extra help.

York Castle Museum – 22nd November – 10am to 3pm - £7 per person – Call 01904 687633 to book Kids in the Kitchen: Christmas treats!

Start your Christmas preparations with the kids by making some special tree decorations and traditional ginger pigs in the Castle Kitchen.

York Castle Museum – 23rd November – 10am to 11.30am, 12.30pm to 2pm - £4 per child – call 01904 687633 to book Christmas Carols and Candlelight at Castle Howard Enjoy an extended day of Christmas festivities at Castle Howard. See the house at dusk and join in the carols around the Christmas tree. There’ll be a courtyard market, audiences with Father Christmas and the chance to meet some reindeer.

Castle Howard – Thursday 19th December – Last house admission 6.30pm – Normal admission charges apply

Festive Fun & Meet Father Christmas at

6th, 7th, 13th & 14th December 2014 Make this Christmas even more special for your children with a personal invitation from Father Christmas to join him at this exclusive festive event within Barley Hall. £12 per child with one free accompanying adult place

Call today to book your place: 01904 615505

www.barleyhall.co.uk

Stockeld Park There’s loads going on at Stockeld Park this festive season, including: Christmas at Hogwarts, a weekend of Harry Potter tribute events (8th & 9th November); three kings parade and camel rides (22nd November); an appearance by the Magic Hatter (29th November); Santa’s arrival and sleigh parade (15th & 16th November) and lots of opportunities to meet the man in red and white (see our guide to where to meet Santa for more details).

Stockeld Park – open for autumn/winter from 22nd October to 6th January – visit the website for details of activities and prices See our competition pages to win a family pass to Stockeld Park!

THE PAULINE QUIRKE ACADEMY OF PERFORMING ARTS IS ENROLLING NOW!

Don’t forget to check details before you set off as things can change

Fountains Abbey: Dear Father Christmas…

It’s nearly Christmas so the elves’ twinkly post office is officially open for business!

It’s time to write to Father Christmas to tell him how good you’ve been and tell him your wish list. Then become the elf postmaster and send it off to the North Pole. It’ll still be open after Christmas so you can write and say thanks for your stocking!

Fountains Abbey - Weekends 29th November to 21st December, and daily Monday 22nd December to Sunday 4th January - 11am to 3pm

With outstanding Performing Arts tuition for 4 to 18 year olds, your very own movie screened at the cinema, free Trinity exams and our West End show - what are you waiting for?

PQA York is enrolling now.

Find us at Huntington School, Huntington Road, Huntington, York YO32 9WT Academies run on Saturdays from 9.45am until 1pm To enrol your child and for further information please visit www.pqacademy.com or call us now on 084567 32022

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Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland returns to York’s Designer Outlet this Christmas with ice skating at The Ice Factor, a traditional funfair and Santa’s grotto.

There are also rink-side refreshments and a traditional fun fair.

Designer Outlet, York - Dates and times vary according to activities; check the website for details; ice skating tickets can be booked online.

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Where to meet Santa

in and around York

There are loads of opportunities to meet good old Saint Nicholas in and around York this Christmas.

Here’s our pick of the best.

Barley Hall Make this Christmas even more special for your children with a personal invitation from Father Christmas to join him at this exclusive festive event at Barley Hall.

You’ll be greeted by costumed hosts for a festive breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea followed by fun games within the decorated parlour, seasonal stories and Christmas crafts. Then you’ll be joined

by Father Christmas himself, who has a personalised present for every child to take home and put under their tree! Price includes personalised invitation and gift, refreshments & craft item from your activity.

6th, 7th, 13th and 14th December – 10am, 12.30pm, 3pm daily – child £12 including one free adult - Pre-booking essential: 01904 615505 DIG: A Little Diggers Christmas Dig, delve and discover the fun side of history with this Little Diggers learn and play session for 2-5 year olds! At this seasonally themed session, there will be Christmas stories, activities and a very special visitor!

Saturday 20th December – 10.30am to 11.30am - child £3 including one free adult - Pre-booking strongly advised: 01904 615505 or visit www.digyork.com.

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Active Kids - Issue: 03

Piglets Jump aboard Santa’s sleigh ride at Piglets Adventure Farm Park. Ride to his woodland village, see the nativity scene (with real animals!), say hi to the donkeys in the stable and visit Santa in his cabin.

6th December to 24th December - child from £8, adult from £4 - online booking only

From 15th November – from £8 per child and £2 per adult off-peak - check the website for details North York Moors Railway North Yorkshire Moors Railway’s Santa Express shuttle service departs from Pickering, Grosmont or Whitby stations.

As part of this magical journey, children will meet Santa in his on-board grotto.

Ticket price includes: adult/child return travel, present for each child, mince pies, warming hot drinks, juice for the kids and an alcoholic tipple for adults.

30th November, and 6th & 7th, 13th&14th, 20th, 21st & 22nd December – £15 per ticket - visit http://www.nymr. co.uk/special-events/santa-specials/ for times and to book

Fountains Abbey Father Christmas is touching down at Fountains Abbey this year and he comes bearing gifts. If you’ve been good, come and pay him a visit in his cosy grotto and he may have a special something for you.

Weekends 29th November to 21st December - 1pm to 3pm - £5 per child (including gift) Beningbrough Hall Whilst the elves are busy, Santa is on holiday at Beningbrough. If you’re very good, you can join a small group for a special story and gift.

6th to 21st December, weekends only - £6 per child, plus normal admission charge – Booking essential (01904 472027) Stockeld Park Visit Santa in his grotto at Stockeld Park from 15th November. He welcomes visitors to his luxury log cabin from Friday to Sunday during November, then daily from 1st December until Christmas eve. Ticket includes a gift that’s suitable for any age. Arrive early to avoid disappointment. www.little-vikings.co.uk 6

Book early! And always check details before setting off as things can change.

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Santa - Issue: 04

York Castle Museum Father Christmas will be appearing in the Toy Gallery throughout December.

Meet him and write your Christmas wish in the Big Book of Christmas. You can also meet Father Christmas at the Castle Museum as part of the Victorian Christmas Experience; see our what’s on guide for more information.

6th & 7th December, then 14th to 24th December (appearances at 11am, 12pm, 2pm and 3pm) – Normal admission charges apply

on Christmas Eve) - visit nrm.org.uk/ Christmas for more details and to book Murton Park Head to Murton Park for a guided tour around Santa’s village. See his house and the elves’ workshop, and help them solve ‘the case of the missing sleigh’. Children will meet Santa on the train and receive an early Christmas present. Adults can enjoy sherry and mince pies. No booking required!

6th & 7th, 13th & 14th, 20th to 23rd December – 10am to 3pm (last admission) – adult £6, child £8 – Some of this event is outdoors so dress accordingly!

York’s Chocolate Story Each weekend in December, kids can meet Father Christmas in his yuletide grotto and receive an early Christmas gift from the man himself at York’s Chocolate Story. On the tour itself, visitors can indulge in a spot of festive nostalgia as favourites such as Black Magic and Quality Street are celebrated before creating their own seasonal chocolate creations.

Weekends throughout December – £5 per child in addition to admission price National Railway Museum Join Santa on an exciting steam adventure: as part of this interactive and immersive story, help him prepare for his busiest time of the year and maybe even receive a gift for your efforts. As the steam ride ends, relax and enjoy a festive snack and drink.

23rd November to 24th December – adult £7.50, child £11.50, under 1s £3 (more

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He’s behind you!

York’s top family Christmas shows A turkey the size of a small hatchback? A huge tin of chocolates in shiny, gem-coloured wrappers? Falling asleep in front of the Queen’s speech? Everyone’s got their Christmas traditions, and for our family, Christmas just isn’t Christmas without a trip to the panto at York Theatre Royal. We’ve been going for years, like so many other loyal York families, and it’s a real highlight of the festivities. Some things are guaranteed: there will be bad gags, local gags and gags that are just for mums and dads; there’ll be Harry Gration and Wagon Wheels, and possibly even a storyline. It’s one-of-a-kind show and we love it.

But it’s not the only choice; York has plenty of Christmas shows to choose from and this is our pick of the best.

Old Mother Goose Berwick Kaler and his talented cast return for another year, this time delighting and confusing us with the tale of Old Mother Goose. Expect it to be nothing like it is in the storybooks.

York Theatre Royal – 11th December 2014 to 31 January 2015 – Tickets from £11

Grand Opera House – 12th to 31st December – Tickets from £10 plus booking fee Puss in Boots A great alternative to the pantomime is this comic retelling of the classic story about Jack and his Puss in Boots.

Expect puppetry and surprises in this family-friendly show suitable for 5 to 11 year-olds (some all-age performances available).

York Theatre Royal – 10th December to 3rd January – adult £12.50, child £8.50, family (2+2) £37.50

Cinderella Pumpkins, mice and glass slippers: Cinderella takes to the stage for this year’s pantomime at York’s Grand Opera house that features stars of stage and screen.

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4 & 5 ye ar ol ds Fa nt as tic fu n fo r

e v e r y S a tu r d a y !

The Magic Hatter’s Christmas Cracker York’s ever-popular magic man, the Magic Hatter, returns for his fourth Christmas show with brand new holiday magic, comedy and lots of surprises.

The Hive Studios, Manor CE Academy, YO26 6PA – 13th and 14th September – 2pm – adult £9, child £8, family (2+2), £30 – pre-booking essential (www. magichatter.co.uk)

Co m e al on g an d jo in th e fu n at pq a

Find us at Huntington School, Huntington Road, Huntington, York, YO32 9WT Saturdays from 10 till 11.30am To enrol your child and for further information please visit www.pqacademy.com or call us now on 084567 32022

Hark the Herald! Carol concerts York Minster Carol Concerts There’s nothing quite as magical as listening to beautiful carols in the stunning surroundings of York Minster. As well as choir performances, there will be a variety of readings and an opportunity for everyone to join in some muchloved Christmas songs. There is also a crib service for families with young children on Chistmas Eve at noon (free). Dressing as a nativity character is optional but encouraged!

York Minster – 5th and 6th December, 7pm to 8.30pm – Prices TBC (book early!)

York Community Carols This long-established family Christmas concert returns to the York Barbican with more new faces on stage to perform everyone’s favourite festive carols and music. Featuring local school choirs and a brass ensemble, it’s a relaxed, family-focused festive concert that will have everyone singing along.

York Barbican – 14th December, 2.30pm - £7.50, concessions available

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A chat with Berwick Kaler We caught up with York’s legendary pantomime dame, Berwick Kaler, to find out the things he loves about our fair city and - crucially - how to get ourselves a Wagon Wheel.

Where are your favourite places to eat and drink?

We have an abundance of first rate restaurants catering for all tastes and occasions, so I hope they will all forgive me if I have to choose just one. For over 37 years I have regularly eaten at ‘PLUNKETS’ restaurant on High Petergate. In all that time I have never been let down by their exceptional standard of food and friendly service. It’s also located just round the corner from the theatre, which is handy for this old pensioner!

Do you live in York and, if so, how long have you lived here?

I first entered the city walls in 1977 and I was instantly impressed with everything that was Yorkshire. I’ve always felt at home here but it wasn’t until 1999 I was able to buy a hovel and become an adopted son of York.

What do you like most about the city?

For me the glorious architecture and spectacular countryside surrounding York is a huge bonus and I adore it, but it is people who create atmosphere, community spirit, and give a place its heart. I have never met such wonderful characters anywhere else.

Their mannerisms, quirks, and sayings are usually incorporated into my panto scripts.

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Do you have any top tips for tourists?

Yes. Stop loitering on the corner of Bootham and Gillygate when I’m trying to get through! Seriously, I’m the first to admit to the value of tourism and its vast input to the economy of the city. We have everything here to entertain tourists from all over the world and these days people choose to go where the natives are friendly; a simple welcoming smile costs nothing and the rewards are enormous…they’ll return!

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What’s so special about the York panto audience?

I’ve grown up with them; they’re my extended family and the most loyal audience you can possibly imagine. We share the same anarchic sense of the ridiculous where comedy is concerned. They return year after year in the full knowledge that we will never drop our production standards. They expect spanking new sets and costumes, brilliant lighting, inventive choreography & music choice, and a script that is accessible to all but has ‘Made in York’ stamped all over it.

Any advice for budding actors and actresses?

Here’s a reality check – it is one of the toughest professions you can enter, so be prepared for hard work, constant rejection, humiliation, negative criticism, lousy digs, and even after three years at a reputable drama college there is no guarantee you will ever get a job on the professional stage. If this doesn’t deter you then go for it! There’s a great line in The Rocky Horror Show – ‘don’t dream it…be it’! Best advice you could ever get when choosing a career.

What would you do if you were Lord Mayor of York for the day?

This question is a gift for a comic response, but you’re not getting one! Instead I would beg everyone who drives any form of transport to sign up to the York Pledge for Road Safety. This is a council backed campaign which I am seriously passionate about, and reminds people of the dire consequences of driving a vehicle or bicycle whilst speaking or (unbelievably) sending a text on their mobile phones. By asking drivers and cyclists to put their signatures on a piece of paper and send their pledge off to the council we are hoping that this commitment

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may live in their memories long enough until not using a mobile while driving becomes the norm.

Describe York in three words.

Home sweet home!

Finally, any top tips on how to bag ourselves a Wagon Wheel? We go to the panto every year and never get one!

You should write to me telling me why this biscuit is so important to you and how would it change your life to receive one. In the songsheet I shall read out the best story (you have my permission to fib a bit) and I will guarantee you’ll get the Flying Wheel.

Otherwise I suggest you book a different seat for every performance and keep your fingers crossed!

Gift ideas

and stocking-fillers

Stuck for ideas for what to get your little Vikings for Christmas? We bet they’d be pleased with something from this selection from some of York’s lovely shops.

Lebkuchen Father Christmas Biscuit, £3.95, Bettys

A 100% cotton stocking filled with milk chocolate penguins, caramel Christmas trees and white chocolate reindeer, £10, Hotel Chocolat

Home made cookie stamper, £9.95, Snowhome www.little-vikings.co.uk www.little-vikings.co.uk

Liven up your kids’ lunchboxes with these stick-on edible eyes! £5, Snowhome

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Gift ideas - Issue: 04

Or how about…

I’m as big as….. height chart (measure yourself against mythical creatures, birds, beasts and more), £9.95, Snowhome

Milk chocolate soldiers, £7.25, Bettys

Woodland rabbit LED night light, £5.99, Blossom and Walker

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A voucher for some amazing homemade ice cream from York’s Luxury Ice Cream Company (20 Back Swinegate, York YO1 8AD) * A customised rubber stamp with your child’s name on it from Make Your Mark (72 Goodramgate, York YO1 7LF) * A voucher for a children’s cookery workshop at York Cookery School (www. yorkcookeryschool.com) * And if you’re looking for things for your children to give as gifts, we’d recommend a trip to Rainbows Ceramics where they can paint their own masterpieces for friends and family (go early in December at the latest to allow time for collection). www.facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK @LittleVikingsUK

Kids’ Tardis Bathrobe, £19.99, Give the Dog a Bone Easy- Peasy Felt Elephant Sewing Kit, £12.00 (left) and Build Your Own: Wind-Up T Rex, £4.00, (right) both from The Flax and Twine

TREAD THE BOARDS PERFORMING ARTS CLASSES FOR ALL AGES FROM 3-ADULT

Domino rally, £14.95, Blossom and Walker

Learn new skills, boost confidence and have fun!

Classes at Clifton Moor and Poppleton To find out more, call 01904 693661 alison@treadtheboards.org www.treadtheboards.org

Santa is Coming to York, £4.99, all good bookshops

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Food & Drink Our pick of York’s most family-friendly hot chocolates, and a delicious recipe for gingerbread Christmas decorations.

York’s most family-friendly hot chocolates Christmas shopping and children isn’t a combination made in heaven. How about keeping them happy with the promise of a pause for refreshments? With York being the capital of chocolate that it is, we thought it was only right for us to try out the best that York has to offer in the way of that family-pleasing winter warmer, the hot chocolate.

Selfless, we know.

Bettys The hot chocolate Taking the minimalist approach, there’s just one hot chocolate on offer: Betty’s Swiss chocolate sauce with hot milk, topped with whipped fresh cream and chocolate flakes. It’s served, as you’d expect, in the kind of cup and saucer you’d love to have at home but know would only last two minutes before it ended up broken.

Why it’s family-friendly The thought of taking children to somewhere as sedate as Bettys could have most parents running in the direction of the nearest Starbucks. But even York’s smartest tearoom extends a warm welcome to little visitors. The downstairs café has some alcove tables that are great for discreet breastfeeding and making your children feel they aren’t on show. Staff couldn’t be keener to help families, lending out bibs and small toys. Fab kids’ menu, and the chance to choose from the famous cake trolley is a dilemma every child will remember.

Bettys York, 6-8 St Helen’s Square, York YO1 8QP www.little-vikings.co.uk

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Food - Issue: 04

Rowntree Park Reading Café The hot chocolate The Reading Café focuses on simple homemade food made with love and care, and their range of drinks is no different. In fact their coffee is our favourite in York – really delicious and ridiculously good value. The hot chocolate is no different. Don’t expect the whistles and bells of the likes of the hot chocolates at York’s Chocolate Story, just a really tasty winter warmer that’s perfect for defrosting after an hour pushing the kids on the swings or a walk by the river.

Why it’s family-friendly If there’s one thing that might persuade the kids to leave the play area at Rowntree Park, it’s the promise of a drink or something to eat at the Reading Room and Cafe. What’s not to love? There’s a great selection of children’s books to browse (and borrow, if you have a YorkCard), delicious coffee, cakes and lunches and a view across the park. Very friendly service and a warm atmosphere make this a very popular place; it’s not huge so there can be fierce competition for tables at weekends and mealtimes. If only all parks had a café like this.

Rowntree Park Reading Cafe, Rowntree Park Lodge, Richardson Street, York, YO23 1JU York Cocoa House The hot chocolate This place is serious about hot chocolate, so much so that it has its own hot chocolate menu. From the Classic Cocoa House Hot Chocolate (using a recipe dating back from 1644) to the Luxury Hot Chocolate with marshmallows, whipped cream and chocolate, there’s something for all chocolate fans. There are even white and milk chocolate versions, sugarfree versions and completely vegan dark chocolate drinks made with pure cocoa mass.

Why it’s family-friendly Although there are a couple of steps to negotiate to get inside, once you’re in there’s a definite family-friendly vibe. Staff will help accommodate a buggy and there are highchairs and baby changing. The Cocoa House runs chocolate workshops for children, like lolly-making, and also hosts birthday parties York Cocoa House, 3 Blake Street, York YO1 8QJ

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City Screen The hot chocolate A good option for the indecisive, City Screen offers just two choices of hot chocolate: small or large. Everything about it is stylish and understated: nice white cup and saucer, small and tasty biscotti on the side (eat it before your child does, or use it as a bargaining tool) and a smooth, sweet flavour. Not a marshmallow in sight, so if you like your hot chocolate to look like a funfair in a cup, it might not be for you.

Why it’s family-friendly Family film-wise, City Screen can’t be beaten. There’s nowhere else in York that you’ll find weekly Scream screenings (for parents/carers with a child under one), dedicated toddler screenings and such a good Saturday morning kids’ club. The café has plenty of highchairs and there’s far more space for buggies since the refurbishment. Baby changing is fine. All of that, combined with a relaxed atmosphere and background music (good for drowning out the sound of noisy children), make this a very popular meeting place for mums and dads with young children.

City Screen, 13 – 17 Coney Street, York YO1 9QL

York’s Chocolate Story The hot chocolate Not one for the indecisive: there’s a huge range of hot chocolates on offer at York’s newest chocolate attraction, including white chocolate, strawberry chocolate, orange chocolate and Belgian dark chocolate. Prices are fairly high, but portions are generous and you won’t need to eat for some time afterwards.

Tel 0755 735 5562 principal@enpointeyork.co.uk �.enpointeyork.co.uk facebook.com/enpointeyork Classes from £3.25 | Girls & Boys | All ages

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Why it’s family-friendly You don’t need to be visiting the attraction to take advantage of the café at York’s Chocolate Story.

It’s a fun, relaxed environment for kids, with lots for them to look at.

The only trouble is getting them out again without spending a fortune on confectionary.

York’s Chocolate Story, King’s Square, York YO1 7LD

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Food - Issue: 04

Little Vikings Cook Festive gingerbread biscuits This festive take on the classic gingerbread man/woman/ elephant/star is a nice alternative when you’re bored of the tin of Quality Street. If you make a hole and decorate them you could even hang them on the tree. Top marks for self-control if they’re still there on Christmas morning.

Method

1. Put the flour, bicarbonate of soda, ginger, cinnamon and butter into a mixing bowl or the bowl of a food processor. Rub by hand or blend until the mix looks like breadcrumbs. Add the sugar and stir until mixed.

2. Beat the egg and golden syrup together, then add to the dry mixture and mix it all until it clumps together.

Tip the dough out, knead briefly until smooth, wrap in clingfim and leave to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.

3. Preheat the oven to 180C/350F/Gas 4. Line two baking trays with greaseproof paper.

4. Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/2cm thickness. Using your most festive cutters, cut out the shapes you’d like and put them on the baking trays, making sure there’s space for them to spread. Use a skewer to make a hole for those that will go on the tree (make it bigger than you think as it will close slightly during cooking).

5. Bake for 10-15 minutes depending on your oven.

Keep a close eye to prevent burning. They should be golden-brown but still slightly soft. Move to a wire rack to cool. Decorate festively!

Ingredients

To make about 20 175g plain flour

½ tsp bicarbonate of soda 1tsp ground ginger

½ tsp ground cinnamon (more if you like) 60g butter

75g light brown sugar ½ beaten egg

2 tbsp golden syrup Icing to decorate

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Competitions!

We’ve got a bumper crop of competitions for you this issue.

Bag yourself a birthday party at The York Dungeon, a term of swimming lessons with Puddle Ducks, a festive family day out at Stockeld Park or a place at Tread the Boards. Best of luck!

Competition: Win a birthday party at The York Dungeon worth £150!

Make your birthday an unforgettable adventure through York’s murky past at The York Dungeon with 15 of your mates. They will make sure that you and your party have the most horrible day!

The York Dungeon is a unique visitor attraction that brings together an amazing cast of theatrical actors, special effects, stages and scenes in a truly unique and exciting walkthrough experience that you see, hear, touch, smell and feel. It’s hilarious fun and sometimes a bit scary (recommended for kids aged 10+).

Your 80 minute journey will take you through 2000 years of York’s dark history. Guided by a full cast of actors, you’ll walk between shows based on York’s real history (minus the boring bits). You’ll get up close and personal with local legends including Eric Bloodaxe and Dick Turpin.

New this year is Tyrannical Tudors: join the Traitors Rebellion as Henry VIII brings the wrath of the Tudors against the City of York.

To win, email info@little-vikings.co.uk by midnight on 31 December 2014 with your name, address and the answer to this simple question: Which famous highwayman is buried in York? One winner will be chosen at random by us. For full terms and conditions, visit the Little Vikings website.

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Competitions - Issue: 04

Competition: Win a place at Puddle Ducks Puddle Ducks is a fun, friendly swimming programme offering unique baby, toddler and child swimming classes across York every week. Puddle Ducks uses a child-led approach to make learning to swim a positive experience for all. The teachers are highly trained, caring, fun and keen to nurture water confidence and a love of swimming. For more details of times and locations, visit www.puddleducks.com/york.

WIN A TERM OF LESSONS! Little Vikings and Puddle Ducks have teamed up to give one lucky child aged o to 4 a FREE TERM of classes worth up to £125. The place is for the spring term (from the first week of January) at one of three venues across York.

To enter, email info@little-vikings.co.uk by midnight on 24 December 2014 with your name, address and the answer to this question: who wrote The Tale of Jemima Puddleduck. The winner will be picked at random and notified by email. No cash alternative. Subject to availability. For another chance to win, visit the Little Vikings Facebook page.

Competition: Win a bumper festive day out at Stockeld Park!

Win a Magical Family Day pass to Stockeld Park this festive season! This fantastic prize package includes day passes for one family of four to experience all of Stockeld Park’s activities (The Enchanted Forest, Nordic Ski Trail and Interactive Maze). You can also visit Santa in his Woodland cabin and try the NEW 4D Cinematic Sleigh Sensation! What better way to get in the festive spirit? The pass is valid until 24th December 2014 and we’ll be very jealous of whoever wins – our day at Stockeld Park last Christmas was one of our best family trips of the season.

WIN A FAMILY DAY PASS! To enter, email info@little-vikings.co.uk by midnight on 30 November 2014 with your name, address and the answer to this simple question: what colour is Rudolph’s nose? For another chance to enter, visit the Little Vikings Facebook page.

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Competition: Win a place at Tread the Boards Tread the Boards Academy of Performing Arts offers fun drama, singing and dance classes across York for anyone aged from 3 upwards. Their classes for youngsters provide a foundation for any child wishing to pursue a career in the performing arts, but will be equally beneficial for children just wishing to build confidence and make new friendships in a supportive and positive environment (while learning some valuable theatre skills into the bargain!). The specialist teachers use a mix of familiar and new stories and songs, with activities designed to encourage an understanding of rhythm, movement and pitch, as well as helping with co-ordination and language skills.

It’s a great introduction to the arts and a brilliant way to gain confidence.

WIN A FREE JUNIOR PLACE! Little Vikings and Tread The Boards have teamed up to offer a free place in the Junior class for a child between 3-6 years for the Spring term (11 weeks) worth £82.50. The winner will get a free T-shirt too! The Junior class is held at Clifton Moor Community Centre from 9 to 10am every Saturday in term time.

To enter, email info@little-vikings.co.uk by midnight on 24 December 2014 with your name, address and the answer to this simple question: What was Shakespeare’s first name? The winner will be picked at random and contacted by us. No cash alternative. Subject to availability.

www.little-vikings.co.uk

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www.little-vikings.co.uk

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Fun ‘Tis the season of terrible jokes, and we’ve got some more to add to your collection. If you’re feeling creative, try your hand at our Christmas craft and use it to decorate your house!

Fun - Issue: 04

Games and Puzzles Fun stuff for little Vikings Christmas Word Search p g s t n e s e r p

a q a t n e v d a d

n i m i n c e p i e

t r t r a t s l h s

o q s g t f a e p n

g n i k c o t s l o

t u r k e y n n o w

v i h t c o a i d m

c c c p x w s t u a

r e i n d e e r r n

See if you can find advent, christmas, mince pie, panto, present, reindeer, rudolph, santa, snowman, star, stocking, tinsel, turkey

What do snowmen eat for breakfast?

Ice Crispies!

What do you get when you cross a snowman with a vampire?

Frostbite!

What’s green, covered in tinsel and goes ribbet ribbet?

Mistle-toad!

What do you get if you cross Santa with a duck?

A Christmas Quacker!

What do Santa’s little helpers learn at school?

The elf-abet!

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How to make handprint reindeer puppets

Christmas is coming and it’s a time for making the house look amazing! And what better decorations are there than those you’ve made yourself?

We’ve got a great way of making 4. Add some antlers - you can decorations that you can also tell use either pipe cleaners or stories with - handprint reindeer another bit of cutout card. puppets!

5. Now stick a lolly stick or a straw to the back so you can Here’s how you make them: use your reindeer as a puppet.

1. Take some paper - you can You can also add a bit of string use plain or coloured card - and to their back if you want to hang place your hand flat on it. Then them from your Christmas tree! take a pen and draw around Hope you enjoy your handprint your hand. reindeer puppet and that you 2. Now get an adult to help you all have a fabulous story-filled Christmas! cut out the handprint.

3. Turn the cutout upside down - your fingers are the legs and your thumb is the neck and head. Time to decorate! Using any materials you like, pens, paint, other bits of coloured paper, tinsel - decorate your reindeer to make them look lovely and festive. Don’t forget a red nose and an eye so he can see! © Gemma - Hoglets. Gemma is the founder of Hoglets: Theatre Fun For Little Folks. Hoglets runs weekly drama and storytelling classes in York for babies and toddlers from 0-4 years. See www.hoglets.org.uk for more info.

www.little-vikings.co.uk

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Guide It’s a great time of year to get out and about as a family and enjoy a bit of time together. Here are our favourite places to visit and things to do for families.

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The Guide: Places to go, things to do Star attractions The National Railway Museum Lots of train-related fun for families, all for free.

NRM, Leeman Road, York YO26 4XJ DIG Fantastic hands-on archaeological fun for budding Indiana Joneses.

DIG, St Saviour’s Church, St Saviourgate, York, YO1 8NN York Minster The city’s most famous landmark. Kids can borrow an Explorer Backpack to make their visit even more fun.

York Minster, Deangate, York YO1 7HH Jorvik Ride through a reconstructed Viking village and meet ‘real’ Vikings.

JORVIK Viking Centre, Coppergate, York, YO1 9WT The Yorkshire Museum Dinosaurs, fossils, intriguing Roman artefacts and much more. Plenty of hands-on activities for children.

Yorkshire Museum, Museum Gardens, York YO1 7FR

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City Walls Almost 3.5km of medieval walls with fantastic views, all for free. Not a great option for buggies or wobbly toddlers.

Cliffords Tower An iconic landmark with picture-perfect views of the city. Tons of steps, so not one for buggies.

Cliffords Tower, Tower St York, North Yorkshire YO1 9SA

Chocolate York’s Chocolate Story Join a tour to learn about the history of chocolate then make your own chocolate treat to take home.

York’s Chocolate Story, King’s Square, York YO1 7LD York Cocoa House Enchanting café, shop and chocolate school.

Regular workshops for children and adults.

York Cocoa House, 3 Blake Street, York YO1 8QJ Goddards Former house of York chocolate-making family, the Terrys, now owned by the National Trust.

Lovely gardens.

Goddards, 27 Tadcaster Road, York YO24 1GG

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Guide - Issue: 04

Joseph Rowntree Theatre This community theatre opened early last century and is still going strong. The everchanging programme has a strong familyfriendly slant.

Joseph Rowntree Theatre, Haxby Road, York YO31 8TA

Cinemas and Theatres City Screen Picturehouse Kids’ Club, Toddler Time and the Big Scream screenings are weekly favourites for children at this fab riverside arthouse cinema. Good cafe.

City Screen, 13-17 Coney Street, York YO1 9QL Vue A 12-screen out-of-town cinema complex with lots of free parking.

Vue York, Clifton Moor Centre, Stirling Road, York YO30 4XY Reel Fairly small, no-frills cinema often showing a good selection of family films.

Reel Cinema York, Odeon Buildings, Blossom Street, York YO24 1AJ York Theatre Royal The city’s oldest theatre. Lots of family shows and a world-famous panto. Classes for kids and a very popular youth theatre.

York Theatre Royal, St Leonard’s Place, York YO1 7HD Grand Opera House A theatre specialising in touring shows, including family favourites like Peppa Pig and the Gruffalo.

Grand Opera House, Cumberland Street, York YO1 9SW

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York Barbican Former leisure centre-turned-arts-venue that plays host to touring artists and family shows.

York Barbican Centre, Paragon Street, York YO10 4NT

Parks and Open Spaces Museum Gardens This ten-acre botanical garden plays host to the Yorkshire Museum. Its riverside location and stunning medieval ruins make it a special place.

Museum Gardens, York YO1 7FR Rowntree Park A beautiful place with lots going on. Two well-equipped play areas, a small lake with ducks and geese, tennis courts, a skate park, a basketball court and gardens. And a great café.

Rowntree Park, Terry Avenue, York YO23 1JQ

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Wacky Warehouse A fairly small but self-contained soft play centre based just outside York, next to the Flying Legends pub.

Flying Legends, Clifton Moor Retail Park, York YO30 4XY

Rowntree Park A beautiful place with lots going on. Two wellequipped play areas, a small lake with ducks and geese, tennis courts, a skate park, a basketball court and gardens. And a great café.

Rowntree Park, Terry Avenue, York YO23 1JQ

Sport and Leisure

Homestead Park Beautiful gardens, grassy areas for ball games, well stocked play areas and a pond.

Lots of benches for picnics.

The Homestead Park, 40 Water End, York YO30 6WP

Energise As well as a 25m pool, there’s a gym, crèche, climbing wall, dance studio and outdoor pitches.

Swimming lessons, birthday parties and classes and courses for kids.

Energise, Cornlands Road, York YO24 3DX

Askham Bog Woodlands, meadows and flocks of birds just outside the city. A good option for a short, buggyfriendly walk thanks to the boarded path.

Just off the A1036, York YO23 2UB The Knavesmire Home to the racecourse, but also an ideal open space for running off steam, kite-flying or kicking a ball about.

The Knavesmire, York YO23 1EX

Adventure Playgrounds and Soft Play

Yearsley Step back in time at this 50 yard Edwardian swimming pool, with poolside changing cubicles.

No-frills: don’t expect wave machines or slides!

Yearsley Pool, Haley’s Terrace, York YO31 8SB Tenpin Out-of-town bowling alley with plenty of lanes and a fun atmosphere. Pool tables, arcade games and a small café. Tenpin, Stirling Road, Clifton

Moor Centre, York YO30 4WZ

Gory York

Creepy Crawlies/The Web Adventure Park Almost 2 acres of indoor and outdoor activity for children of all ages.

The Web Adventure Park, Wiggington Road, York YO32 2RH Piglets Adventure Farm Park Lots of farm-based outdoor fun, open seasonally.

Slides and ropes, crazy golf, go-carts, barrel rides, farm animals and much more.

Piglets Adventure Farm Park, The Farmer’s Cart, Towthorpe Grange, Towthorpe Moor Lane, York YO32 9ST www.little-vikings.co.uk

York Sport This new £9m facility has a 25m pool, 18m learner pool, football pitches and gym. There’s a café too, and plenty of swimming lessons.

York Sport Village, Lakeside Way, York YO10 5FG

York Dungeon A tour of gory York, brought to life with sounds, smells and actors, for brave little Vikings (10+).

The York Dungeon, 12 Clifford Street, York YO1 9RD Barley Hall Restored medieval house that hosts the Horrible Histories exhibition. Other hands-on stuff for kids too. Barley Hall, 2 Coffee Yard, York YO1 8AR

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Guide - Issue: 04

Beyond the Walls

Beningbrough Hall Fab National Trust destination for families with great gardens and adventure playground.

Beningbrough Hall, Beningbrough, York YO30 1DD Nunnington Hall An attractive National Trust manor house 45 minutes from York. Gorgeous gardens but no playground. Giant garden chess and peacocks, and regular events for families.

Nunnington Hall, Nunnington, Near York, YO62 5UY Harewood House Stunning stately home near Leeds with a fantastic adventure playground and bird garden with flamingos, penguins and much more.

Harewood House, Harewood, Leeds LS17 9LG Newby Hall A favourite day out for York families because of the impressive adventure playground, miniature railway and magical gardens.

Newby Hall & Gardens, Ripon, North Yorkshire HG4 5AE Castle Howard A beautiful grand house and gardens in the Howardian Hills. Walks in the woods, great adventure playground and regular kids’ holiday activities.

Castle Howard, York YO60 7DA

Stockeld Park A fantastic seasonal attraction with lots to do. Activities vary but can include nordic skiing and ice skating. The Enchanted Forest is truly enchanting.

Stockeld Park, Wetherby, LS22 4AW Tropical World It’s home to the largest collection of tropical plants outside Kew, but kids love the snakes, butterflies, birds, meerkats and other beasts at this Leeds Council-run attraction.

Tropical World, Princes Avenue, Roundhay, Leeds LS8 1DF Helmsley Castle The ruins of this ancient monument are a great excuse to visit the pretty market town of Helmsley.

Helmsley Castle, Castlegate, Helmsley, North Yorkshire YO62 5AB Royal Armouries Museum Huge collection of all things armour-related, with loads of hands-on stuff for kids.

Royal Armouries Museum, Armouries Drive, Leeds LS10 1LT Yorkshire Sculpture Park A stunning open air gallery; world-class sculpture set in gardens and woodland.

Perfect outdoor day out when the sun shines.

Yorkshire Sculpture Park, West Bretton, Wakefield WF4 4LG

Check opening times before you travel

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@LittleVikingsUK

Viking Voice The Deep, Hull This issue’s Viking Voice is Seb Harbour, 4, from York. He tells us about how he loves going to The Deep in Hull.

“When we want a treat we go to the aquarium. I love watching the penguins dive into the water. We pretend to be penguins at home. I love going in the lift through the water and waving at the fish”

O

S O S

Want to be the next Viking Voice? Tell us what you enjoy doing in York. Email us at info@little-vikings.co.uk

www.little-vikings.co.uk

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Open Morning

St Olave’s School Outstanding education Saturday 27 September 01904 527416 www.stolavesyork.org.uk from rising 3 Clifton Clifton 3–8 3–8

Olave’sSt Peter’s St Peter’s 01904 527361 StSt Olave’s 8–13 13–18 8–13 13–18 www.cliftonyork.org.uk Registered Charity Number: 1141329 Registered Charity Number: 1141329

Kids Go

FREE

in 2014*

Christmas at the Castle 27 November - 24 December 2014

NEW THIS YEAR FOR ALL THE FAMILY

Visit Father Christmas in our festive Toy Gallery

See our beautifully decorated Victorian street

Meet Mr Tackleton the Toy Maker as he discovers some Victorian Christmas cheer

VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCE A unique and magical Christmas evening for all the family. Take a lantern lit Christmas shopping tour of our recreated Victorian street, Kirkgate, with a special chance to meet Father Christmas.

For more details and prices visit

www.yorkcastlemuseum.org.uk

Learn how to make Christmas Gingerbread decorations

For further details, including event times and prices, please visit

www.yorkcastlemuseum.org.uk *Kids go FREE - offer does not apply to organised groups

18104 YMT Castle Christmas Little Vikings A5 Ad.indd 1

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