Christmas is always a special time of the year, but what makes it so magical is family time, festive activities and traditions that are enjoyed and live on. Create your own ways to celebrate by planning a visit to some of these twinkling destinations – all geared up to make this your merriest Christmas yet!
MEET SANTA AND SING WITH THE PENGUINS AT CHESTER’S GROSVENOR SHOPPING CENTRE! Families will be welcomed by Santa’s snow elves at this year’s wonderful, Narnia-inspired Enchanted Grotto opening on the 25th November at Chester’s Grosvenor Shopping Centre. Once there, you can enjoy being serenaded by their singing penguin! Join in the family fun and festive cheer in the heart of Chester where you can find perfect presents for all your loved ones. Many of their stores will be opening late every Thursday from 24th November, as well as staying open late every day from the 19th – 23rd December (check individual store times as some may vary). To book your grotto tickets, visit experiencechester.co.uk/ santas-enchanted-grotto
CHESTER CATHEDRAL EMBRACES THE SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS
FESTIVE DIARY CHRISTMAS TREES, DECORATIONS, LIGHTS AND WREATHS AT CHRISTMAS, FIREWOOD ALL YEAR ROUND Ivy Cottage Tree Farm in Wilmslow has been growing Christmas Trees for over 40 years. Now the biggest Christmas Tree retailer in Cheshire, they sell cut spruce, fir and pine. Potted and rooted trees are also available in various sizes. You can also walk in the plantation and pick a tree that is still growing which they will cut down for you. Open every weekend (10am-3pm) and then 7 days a week from the 20th November (9am5pm), there is also a large decoration shop with a great range on offer, and an onsite florist making wreaths. Model trains run around the ceiling of the shop delivering (miniature!) trees, presents and firewood. In addition, they supply firewood which can be ordered yearround. Open until Christmas Eve. Ivy Cottage Tree Farm, Racecourse Road, Wilmslow, SK9 5LG. T: 01625 531609 E: wadandsriley@aol.com
LIVERPOOL ALPINE VILLAGE BRINGS CHRISTMAS TO LIFE FOR ALL THE FAMILY There’s a lot to feel jolly about when you head to Liverpool ONE this festive season! Visit the magical ski holiday-inspired alpine wonderland taking over Chavasse Park and enjoy karaoke, curling, shuffleboard, food and drink stalls and festive family events. On various dates from 27th November – 6th December, join delightful, friendly Wreath Making Workshops and create your very own Christmas wreath. And for little ones, on Sundays in December and the week leading up to Christmas, it’s the chance to meet Santa - this family-friendly booking includes a karaoke hütte for one hour, free hot chocolate and colouring pads for the kids, plus the chance to get a picture with Santa Claus. Visit their website to book your chosen activities! W: www.liverpool-one.com/christmas
FESTIVE FUN AND YOUR SHOPPING DONE Christmas is always a special time to visit Chester Cathedral. Alongside annual events, such as the Christmas Tree Festival, Sunday Brunch with Santa and the Christmas Carol Concerts, there are a number of exciting new events too: ‘A Festive Tale with Emma Elf’ – a fabulous story time with the Cathedral’s very own elf, and Wreath Making workshops for parents to name but two! And of course, The Snowman is back in Chester once again! Naturally, Christmas Services are in the diary, including Lessons and Carols for Christmas, Midnight Mass and a wonderful Crib Service for families on Christmas Eve. W: chestercathedral.com/Christmas
Blakemere feels magical at Christmas, you can explore its independent shops, relax in its cosy eateries, and enjoy festive activities. Take time to shop for unique Christmas gifts for the whole family, including artisan crafts, children’s toys, jewellery, homeware, fashion, antiques, collectables and festive houseplants. Blakemere is also brimming with seasonal events for the whole family to enjoy. Create lasting memories at the Magical Woodland, The Playbarn’s Christmas Party or Blakemere’s self-led Yule Ville Christmas Trail. For crafty types, Cheshire Craft Workshop and Crafts in the Corner are hosting several festive workshops. W: blakemerevillage.com
Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/cheshire for thousands more great days out
WINTER ISSUE 2022
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