Luxe Festive

FEST i VE ISSUE 4 - NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

Feast CHRISTMAS MENUS AND

festive baking inspo

Relax

SEASONAL SPA DAYS

and getaways

Celebrate Go-to events TO

ADD SPARKLE TO YOUR SOCIAL CALENDAR

Make our hall your home this Christmas...

Delight in luxury and relax in the comforts of Seaham Hall this Christmas. Just a short drive from the magical historic City of Durham and a stones throw away from the Durham Heritage coastline, there couldn’t be a more perfect venue for an indulgent Christmas break!

Feeling festive yet?

Suites from £699 based on a two night stay package.

Party in style at Seaham Hall with friends, family or colleagues from £45 per head.

Seaham Hall Hotel, Lord Byron’s Walk, County Durham, Sr7 7Ag Tel: 0191 516 1400 Email: spamembership@Seaham-Hall.com www.seaham-hall.co.uk

Welcome

The Essentials

ISSUE 4 • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

04 Fabulous feasts

10

We uncover some of the region’s tastiest Christmas menus to try

10 Scandi sweets Three festive desserts to try this Christmas - all with a Nordic twist

16 Trend watch Deck the halls with this year’s most dazzling interior must-haves

22 Gifts galore Perfect presents for the whole family

28 And relax Our pick of the best festive spa days and seasonal getaways

It’s the most wonderful time of the year...

And just like that, Christmas is on the horizon! Time to start thinking about all things festive, from food and cosy interiors, to this year’s go-to events and glorious gifts for the whole family. This year’s sparkly edition is brimming with bright ideas to help you pack in as much fun as possible this Christmas. Sit back and relax as we guide you through the social calendar, picking out the best festive events you won’t want to miss, shine a light on our favourite interior trends to help you add some seasonal sparkle to your home and uncover some of the best places to indulge in a little me-time - festive style! Oh, and if that wasn’t enough, we’ll also uncover some of 2018’s tastiest Christmas menus and serve up some Scandi inspiration for those in charge of dessert this year. Don’t say we don’t spoil you. Seasons greetings, from us!

30 Get social Our what’s-on guide to all things Christmas 2018

34 Festive memories What Christmas means to Sky Sports presenter Hayley McQueen

Jessica Laing, editor Contributors Elysia Agnew

If you wish to advertise with us please contact our sales team: Lisa Anderson: lisa@remembermedia.co.uk / 07734 560565

Remember Media Ltd, e-volve Business Centre, Cygnet Way, Rainton Bridge South Business Park DH4 5QY remembermedia.co.uk All contents copyright ©2018 RememberMedia Ltd. All rights reserved. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, no responsibility can be accepted for inaccuracies, howsoever caused. No liability can be accepted for illustrations, photographs, artwork or advertising materials while in transmission or with the publisher or their agents. All information is correct at time of going to print, October 2018. Festive Essentials is published annually by Remember Media Ltd.

03

FESTIVE ESSENTIALS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 18

Festive Essentials

MENUS WITH CHEER

Crab & Lobster

Push the boat out when it comes to your festive celebrations by booking up for a fine-dining feast at Crab & Lobster restaurant in Thirsk. The sophisticated set menu is a foodie’s dream, showcasing local, just-caught fish and seafood, meat and stellar UK cheese and veggies. Enjoy two courses for £22 per person, or three for £25.

Definitely worth the journey!

Start with this: Ham hock terrine, duck confit, black pudding and prunes with fig and pear chutney and sage and onion brioche.

For mains: Roast fillet of sea trout, samphire, fresh crab, herb crushed potatoes with crab and lobster bisque.

End with this: Baileys chocolate and mint crisp creme brûlée with gingersnaps.

We uncover six of the best Christmas menus on offer in the region. Time to feast - festive style!

FESTIVE ESSENTIALS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 18

Disforth Road, Thirsk, YO7 3QL crabandlobster.co.uk

04

Festive Essentials

The Treehouse Restaurant

Middleton Lodge

Start with this: Roast winter squash and parsnip soup with toasted cumin and coriander oil.

For mains: Honey nut roast, roast parsnips and carrots, brussel sprouts, roast potato and nutmeg mash.

End with this: Mulled wine trio, cheesecake, jelly and sponge.

Start with this: Cured salmon, beetroot, horseradish ice cream.

For mains: Yorkshire beef, smoked potato, oxtail, onions and cavolo nero.

End with this: Christmas pudding, ice cream and brandy sauce.

The Alnwick Garden’s twinkly Treehouse Restaurant is a must-visit if you’re a fan of dining high in grotto-like surroundings (who isn’t?). Head to Northumberland, make your way up through wooden walkways, find a table by the roaring log fire and dig in to a mouthwatering Christmas-inspired menu, packed with seasonal produce. You get two courses for £29.95, or three for £34.95.

There are far worse places to find yourself on Christmas Day than Middleton Lodge. This gorgeous Georgian country retreat, set in 200 acres of rural North Yorkshire, is something out of a magical festive film - and its food offering on the big day sounds out of this world. After champagne and canapés on arrival, diners will be treated to a small, but perfectly-formed menu of wintry goodness, stretching from traditional dishes, to fancy party plates.

Kneeton Lane, Richmond, DL10 6NJ middletonlodge.co.uk

Denwick Lane, Alnwick, NE66 1YU alnwickgarden.com

The Broad Chare

If a cosy Christmas lunch or dinner, in snug surroundings, is your idea of festive heaven, then look no further than The Broadchare - the perfect place for gangs of chums and small groups of family (six to eight people) in search of a laid-back pub oozing with festive cheer. For a very reasonable £28, you can indulge in three top, rustic plates of food.

Start with this: Duck sausage roll, celeriac and prune ketchup.

For mains: Venison and smoked bacon pie, crushed roots and spiced red cabbage.

End with this: Brown sugar meringue with mulled pears and chestnut cream.

The Feathers Inn

25 Broad Chare, Newcastle, NE1 3DQ thebroadchare.co.uk

This charming traditional inn, which has tons of character and community spirit, is renowned for its Northumbrian-inspired cuisine, using locally-sourced and foraged produce. This year, the kitchen will be serving up two menus for groups of six or more.

Filled with inventive dishes with Christmassy spins on the traditional, they’re definitely worth considering if you’re part of a big brood or friendship group! £22 for two courses or £25 for three.

Start with this: Salad winter leaves, mulled wine pear, salted caramel walnuts and blue cheese.

For mains: Wood pheasant, sage and onion stuffing, chipolatas, honey roast parsnips, sprouts and chestnuts, braised red cabbage with bread and cranberry sauce.

End with this: Dark chocolate and spiced rum pot with boozy prunes and biscuits.

High View, Hedley on the Hill, Stocksfield, NE43 7SW thefeathers.net

05

FESTIVE ESSENTIALS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 18

Festive Essentials

Beamish Hall Hotel

Alongside festive Afternoon Tea (enjoyed while you watch a Christmas film), dazzling party nights, wreath-making workshops and Sunday lunch with Santa, the kitchen team at Beamish Hall Hotel are also offering diners a show-stopping Christmas Day menu. Not only will you be treated to a jaw-dropping festive feast, you’ll also enjoy bubbles and canapés on arrival - plus gifts for every child. Up to 14 guests are welcome per table - best get planning your guest-list! £75 per adult and £33 per child for three courses.

Start with this: Smoked chicken, asparagus and black pudding terrine with spiced piccalilli and toasted focaccia.

For mains: Roast turkey with all the traditional trimmings, plus Yorkshire puddings.

End with this: Trio of chocolate desserts with contrasting sauces.

Beamish, Stanley, County Durham, DH9 0YB beamish-hall.co.uk

FESTIVE ESSENTIALS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 18

06

Festive Essentials

C E L E B R AT E T H E F E S T I V E S E A S O N I N S T Y L E Christmas Parties Available throughout December (including Mondays) Lunch 2 courses £22.50 / 3 courses £27.50 Dinner 5 courses £35 Michelin Bib Gourmand / 2AA Rosettes / National Finalists 2018 Best Wine Pub, Chef of the Year, Young Chef of the Year

C H A D W I C K S I N N M A LT B Y, H I G H L A N E , M A LT B Y, M I D D L E S B R O U G H , T S 8 0 B G T E L : 0 1 6 4 2 5 9 0 3 0 0

c h a d w i c k s i n n m a l t b y. c o . u k

Festive Essentials

FESTIVE ESSENTIALS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 18

08

Festive Essentials

09

FESTIVE ESSENTIALS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 18

Festive Essentials

FESTIVE ESSENTIALS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 18

10

Festive Essentials

Scandi sweets Get fun and festive in the kitchen with three tasty

twists on Christmas dessert - Nordic style!

Gooey Gingerbread Cookies Makes 15 (roughly)

FOR THE COOKIE DOUGH

METHOD

150g butter 300 plain/all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda/baking soda 1/2 teaspoon sea salt flakes 150g soft brown sugar 100g caster/superfine sugar 1 egg and 1 egg yolk 3 tablespoons of milk

Preheat the oven to 175°C. Line several baking sheets with baking parchment. Melt the butter and set aside to cool.

Combine the flour, bicarbonate of/baking soda, salt and spice mix in a bowl, then set aside.

Combine the brown and caster/superfine sugars with the cooled, melted butter, and stir until no lumps remain.

Combine the egg, egg yolk and milk, then mix with the sugars and butter until thoroughly combined.

FOR THE NORDIC GINGER BISCUIT SPICE MIX

Add the flour mixture little by little until everything is incorporated, then chill the dough in the fridge for a few hours.

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground ginger 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/2 teaspoon vanilla sugar 50g roughly chopped macadamia nuts

Form the dough into rough balls - about the size of a golf ball.

Place the balls about 5 cm/2 inches apart on the lined baking sheets (they will spread during baking).

Bake for 8 1/2 to 10 minutes, or until just golden, then remove from the oven immediately and transfer to a wire rack.

p u c a th Perfect wcihocolate! of hot

The middle should still be slightly soft when you take them out of the oven and they will harden up after a while. The cookies will be best after cooling for about 30 minutes – slightly warm, but chewy in the middle.

11

FESTIVE ESSENTIALS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 18

Festive Essentials

Great with a glass of mulled wine!

Mincemeat buns Makes 16

FOR THE BUN DOUGH

250ml whole milk, heated to 36–37°C 25g fresh yeast 80g butter, melted and cooled slightly 40g caster/superfine sugar 400–500g white strong bread flour 2 teaspoons of ground cardamom 1 teaspoon of salt 1 egg, beaten

FOR THE FILLING 400g shop-bought jar of mincemeat

FOR BRUSHING Beaten egg 100g sugar (for the sugar syrup) Pearl/nibbed sugar (optional)

FOR THE CINNAMON FILLING (OPTIONAL) 100g soft butter 100g sugar 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract 1 teaspoon plain/all-purpose flour

METHOD Preheat the oven to 200°C. To make the bun dough, put the warm milk into the bowl of a stand mixer, add the yeast and stir until dissolved. Add the cooled, melted butter. Allow to combine with the yeast for a minute or so, then add the sugar and leave for another minute.

Place 400g of the flour in another bowl. Mix in the

FESTIVE ESSENTIALS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 18

cardamom and salt. Start adding the flour mixture into the milk bit by bit. Add half the beaten egg and knead for five minutes. You may need to add more flour to get a dough that’s a bit sticky, but not so much that it sticks to your finger if you poke it. It’s better not to add too much flour as this will result in dry buns – you can always add more later.

Leave the dough in the bowl in a warm place, covered with a tea towel/ dish towel or clingfilm/plastic wrap. Allow to rise for around 30 minutes or until doubled in size.

Dust your work surface with flour and turn the dough onto it. Using your hands, knead the dough and work in more flour if needed, then roll it out to a 40 x 50-cm rectangle.

Spread the mincemeat across the dough in a thin, even layer. You may have some left over, but keep the layer thin.

Roll the dough lengthways into a long roll and slice into 16 pieces.

Place on a baking sheet lined with baking parchment, cover and leave to rise for another 20 minutes.

Brush the buns lightly with beaten egg, then bake for 6–9 minutes, or until golden. They can burn easily, so keep an eye on them.

To make the sugar syrup, in a pan heat 50ml of water with the sugar until bubbling and melted. When the buns come out of the oven, immediately brush lightly with the syrup, then scatter over pearl/nibbed sugar, if using.

Cover with a damp tea towel/dish towel to stop them going dry and leave to cool.

For cinnamon buns, mix the filling ingredients together until smooth and spread onto the rolled-out dough.

Proceed as above.

12

Festive Essentials

13

FESTIVE ESSENTIALS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 18

Festive Essentials

th i w d e k c a P lavour! es asonal f

FESTIVE ESSENTIALS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 18

14

Festive Essentials

Apple trifle Serves 6-8

FOR THE APPLE COMPOTE

This makes enough for the cake base and trifle.

1kg tart apples (Bramleys or Granny Smiths) 1 vanilla pod/bean, seeds scraped out, or vanilla extract 3 tablespoons of sugar

To make the cake layer, you will need a 20 x 20cm cake tin, or the equivalent (it needs to be a relatively thin layer).

Combine the flour, bicarbonate baking soda, salt, cinnamon and mixed spice in a bowl, and set aside. Beat the butter and sugar until fluffy, then add the egg and keep beating until incorporated.

FOR THE CAKE LAYER 125g of plain/all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda/baking soda A pinch of salt 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon of mixed spice 75g softened butter 100g caster/superfine sugar 1 egg

Fold in the dry ingredients, followed by 150g of the apple compote.

Once combined, pour the mixture into the cake tin and bake in the preheated oven for around 10 minutes until just baked through. Insert a skewer into the centre – if it comes out clean, it’s done. This is a thin layer, so it won’t take long. Leave to cool.

FOR THE HAZELNUT-OAT CRUNCH 50g butter 40g golden caster/superfine sugar 25g rolled/old-fashioned oats 50g panko breadcrumbs 50g chopped hazelnuts

To make the hazelnut-oat crunch, melt the butter in a frying pan/skillet, then add the sugar and stir until melted. Add the oats and breadcrumbs and fry for several minutes, allowing them to crisp up. Add the nuts and fry for a few more minutes – but be careful not to over-toast, as they can go bitter. Once everything is crispy, turn out into a bowl and leave to cool, stirring once in a while to break up any lumps.

FOR THE TRIFLE 150ml good-quality cold custard 200ml whipped cream (forming soft peaks)

To assemble the trifle, put a layer of the remaining apple compote in a glass trifle bowl as the base, then add a layer of the cake. Add more compote, followed by a good layer of the crunch, then apple again. Add a layer of custard, followed by crunch, then apple, then cake. Repeat again, reserving a bit of the crunch to decorate. Finally, spread the whipped cream on top.

METHOD Preheat the oven to 170°C. To make the compote, peel, core and chop the apples. Place in a pan with the vanilla, sugar and 100 ml water and bring to the boil. Simmer for about 20 minutes until the apples are mushy, then leave to cool. Remove the vanilla pod/bean, if using. The compote needs to be quite tart to balance the cake and cream.

Leave to set in the fridge for at least an hour. Just before serving, add the rest of the crunch on the top to decorate.

For more like this...

Recipes taken from ScandiKitchen Christmas: Recipes and Traditions from Scandinavia by Brontë Aurell. Published by Ryland & Small. £16.99 Brontë is a Danish entrepreneur, restaurateur and cook. Together with her Swedish husband, she runs the acclaimed ScandiKitchen Cafe and shop in Central London.

15

FESTIVE ESSENTIALS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 18

3 Festive Essentials

trends to try...

COX & COX Frosted Branches Hanging Tree Large, £45; coxandcox.co.uk

Deck the halls with woodland treasures, sparkling stars and bold baubles...

STONEGLOW Eucalyptus & Lime Natural Wax Candle £28; amara.com

WOODLAND WONDER A BY AMARA Deco Sage Leaves Wreath - Large, £45; amara.com COX & COX Indoor Outdoor Deer Silhouette, £55; coxandcox.co.uk

THE WHITE COMPANY Winter Fragrance Oil, £8; thewhitecompany.com

TUTTI & CO Set of 2 Metal Trees, £26; tuttiandco.com

COX & COX Two Tree Log Holders, £130; coxandcox.co.uk FESTIVE ESSENTIALS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 18

16

Christmas at The Jet Miners Inn LUNCH FAYRE (served 12-2pm) 2 courses £17.95 pp - 3 courses £19.95 pp Tea/coffee and mince pie £2.00 EVENING FAYRE (served 6-9pm) 3 courses £27.95pp Tea/coffee and mince pie included Christmas fayre menu is available from 26th November until 24th December (except Sundays).

Booking essential. See website for full menu.

Search for us on

61 High Street, Great Broughton, North Yorkshire, TS9 7EF Tel: 01642 711377 www.thejetminersinn.co.uk

|

info@thejetminersinn.co.uk

Festive Essentials TUTTI & CO Antique Nickel Hanging Star £27.50; tuttiandco.com

A BY AMARA Metal Christmas Tree Ornament - Large, £42; amara.com

LIME LACE Set of 3 Copper Sumba Stars £12.95; limelace.co.uk ANDSHINE Fine Little Day Cushion Cover, £24; andshine.co.uk

OH STARRY NIGHT

A BY AMARA LED Christmas Tree and Star Table Lamps - Set of 2, £40; amara.com

NKUKU Talini Star Christmas Tree Decoration - Small £13; amara.com

TUTTI & CO Large Dusk Print £10; tuttiandco.com FESTIVE ESSENTIALS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 18

THE WHITE COMPANY Moon Christmas Decoration £4; thewhitecompany.com

18

Festive Essentials

THE WHITE COMPANY Dressed Nordic Star Decoration ÂŁ35; thewhitecompany.com

Festive Essentials ANTHROPOLOGIE Collected Christmas Ornament Set, £38; anthropologie.com

LIME LACE Tropical Fruit Christmas Baubles, £15; limelace.co.uk

PENELOPE HOPE Tropical Pineapple Christmas Stocking, £48; limelace.co.uk

JOHN LEWIS & PARTNERS Rainbow Bauble Wreath, £25; johnlewis.com

BRIGHT IDEA COX & COX Two Teacup Mice £14.50; coxandcox.co.uk

LIBERTY LONDON Antique Glass Dimpled Ogee Decorations Box of 6 £19.95; libertylondon.com

LIBERTY LONDON Glass Rainbow Decoration, £8.95; libertylondon.com

SARA MILLER Sandalwood, Oud and Cardamon Diffuser, 100ml, £27.95; johnlewis.com FESTIVE ESSENTIALS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 18

ANTHROPOLOGIE Treasured Tassel Stocking £46; anthropologie.com

20

Festive Essentials

SHOP

A U T U M N W I N T E R 2 018

LOVED UNIQUE HANDMADE GIFTS

by

x

laingartgallery.org.uk Laing Art Gallery, New Bridge Street, Newcastle, NE1 8AG Tel: (0191) 232 7734

Monument Donation is welcome, free entry

In honour of moving to our new premier location and because it is the season for giving we are offering some fantastic special offers With over 27 years of experience and treatments carried out by experienced doctor and nurses you will be in safe hands.

These are just some of our services we offer: • Laser hair removal • Laser Tattoo removal • Laser Acne/scarring treatment • Facial aesthetic treatment • Vampire face lift / PRP treatment • Lip augmentation • Thread vein removal • Stretch Mark removal

• Anti-ageing treatment • Non-surgical face lift • Electrolysis • Skin tag & Milia removal • Warts & Verruca removal • EndyMed - radiofrequency treatment • Edermastamp - microneedling

Christmas Special Offers *50% off your first EndyMed 3 Deep Skin Care treatment *Buy 2 laser hair removal sessions and get 1 free *G&T Peel course – 6 treatments and products for £199 (RRP £395) T&C’s apply please contact clinic for information

Formerly at the Freeman Hospital, now at: 1 Cartington Terrace, Heaton, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE6 5RS T: 0191 2130666 E: info@laserasenewcastle.co.uk W: www.laserasenewcastle.co.uk CQC Registered

FESTIVE ESSENTIALS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 18

Festive Essentials

Spoil her Gorgeous gifts to lift her spirits this Christmas…

1

we love

Mint Velvet Classic PJ Set, £89, www.mintvelvet.co.uk This page 1. Morgan Lane Jillian Nightshirt, £479; www.farfetch.com 2. Jimmy Choo Emmie Black Glittered Leather Clutch, £475; www.harveynichols.com 3. Rae Feather Monogram Leather Collection Wash Bag, £275; www.raefeather.com 4. Elemis Pro-Collagen Overnight Matrix, £144.99; www.feelunique.com 5. Baobab Collection The Marble, From £92; www.baobabcollection.com

2

5 3

FESTIVE ESSENTIALS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 18

4

22

Festive Essentials 7

8

9

6

10

11

12

This page 6. Manolo Blahnik Hangisi 105 Royal Blue Silk Satin Pumps, £775; www.harveynichols.com 7. Links of London Treasured 18kt Rose Gold Vermeil, Champagne & Blue Diamond Stud Earrings, £295; www.linksoflondon.com 8. Johnstons Plain Cashmere Scarf, £380; www.selfridges.com 9. Helmut Lang Pleated Satin and Lace Midi Skirt, £420; www.selfridges.com 10. Saint Laurent Monogram Loulou Quilted Leather Cross-body Bag, £815; www.selfridges.com 11. Tiffany & Co Eau de Parfum - 30ml, 50ml & 75ml, £52 - £100; www.johnlewis.com 12. John Lewis & Partners Beauty Advent Calendar, £165; www.johnlewis.com

23

FESTIVE ESSENTIALS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 18

Festive Essentials

Spoil him Must-have man kit for a very merry Christmas...

1

This page 1. Fendi Virgin Wool Logo Sweater, £490; www.farfetch.com 2. Lime Lace LEFF Amsterdam Piet Hein Eek - Tube Wood Clock, £199; www.limelace.co.uk 3. Saint Laurent Mountain Wool Beanie, £170; www.selfridges.com 4. Tom Ford Noir Anthracite Eau de Parfum, 50ml, £79; www.tomford.com 5. Gucci GG Marmont Belt, £270; www.flannels.com 6. Annabel James Whisky Connoisseur Set - Stemmed Nosing Glasses, £295; www.annabeljames.co.uk

2 we love

4

3

6

5

FESTIVE ESSENTIALS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 18

24

Festive Essentials 7

This page 7. Yves Salomon Homme Short Parka, £2,502; www.farfetch.com 8. William Lockie Ribbed Cashmere Scarf, £125; www.mrporter.com 9. Gucci Fair Isle Jacquard Cotton-knitted Socks, £135; www.selfridges.com 10. Santoni Burnished-Leather Monk-Strap Shoes, £710; www.mrporter.com 11. Wouf Marble Laptop Case, £50; www.amara.com 12. NOBIS Clayton Coat, £495; www.matchesfashion.com

8

9

10

12

11

25

FESTIVE ESSENTIALS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 18

Festive Essentials This page 1. ASOS The Face + Beauty Advent Calendar, £55; www.asos.com 2. Wild & Wolf Wild Wood Illuminated 10” LED Globe Light, £90; www.black-by-design.co.uk 3. Hansa Pug Soft Toy (Years 3+), £80; www.selfridges.com 4. Bobby Rabbit Here We Are Book, £14.99; www.bobbyrabbit.co.uk 5. Wild & Wolf Christmas Train Floor Puzzle, £15; www.wildandwolf.co.uk

1

Spoil them Presents aplenty for the little people in your life...

2

3

4

5

FESTIVE ESSENTIALS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 18

26

Festive Essentials 6

7

8

10 9

Mini Maison Wildfire Teepee, Monochrome £135; www.minimaison.co.uk

11

This page 6. Next Grey Christmas Reindeer Knit (3 months - 6 years), £14 - £15; www.next.co.uk 7. Printer + Tailor Meri Meri Knitted Angel Christmas Tree Decoration , £13; www.printerandtailor.com 8. Cavendish Rugby Ball Wash Bag, £19.99; www.gettingpersonal.co.uk 9. Bonordic Sebra Animal Stacking Cubes, £25; www.bonordic.co.uk 10. Bobby Rabbit Swifty Scooter, Raspberry, £349; www.bobbyrabbit.co.uk 11. Lucy Pittaway Mugs £17.95 each; www.lucypittaway.co.uk

27

FESTIVE ESSENTIALS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 18

Festive Essentials

Have yourself a

relaxing little Christmas

In the midst of the fun-but-frantic festive season, a little escapism does you good. Sit back and relax as we pick out our favourite seasonal spa days and festive getaways…

Matfen Hall

Holiday getaway... at Matfen Hall Escape to Matfen Hall for two - maybe even three - days of feasting, celebrating and chilling out. Fill your Christmas Eve with afternoon tea delights, carolling, midnight mass and a warming whisky or two. Then, after a restful night, begin Christmas with a luxury breakfast and gifts, followed by a festive lunch in The Library and a relaxed buffet service in the evening. Check-out after breakfast on Boxing Day, or extend your stay, enjoying a rejuvenating spa visit before departing on the 27th, feeling like a new, rested version of yourself! £389 per person (December 24-26) or £465 per person (December 24-27), matfenhall.com

Christmas Evening Spa… at Seaham Hall Indulge in zen after dark at Seaham Hall’s Serenity Spa this Christmas.

Book up now and the spa’s award-winning and oh-so tranquil facilities will FESTIVE ESSENTIALS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 18

28

Festive Essentials be all yours from 5pm-10pm. You’ll also be treated to a two-course festive meal with an Asian twist over in the Ozone restaurant, followed by a 45-minute treatment - either a Serenity Drift Away massage, or a Power Breakfast Facial. From £82.50 per person, seaham-hall.co.uk

Seaham Hall

Lavish Yule Escape… at Feversham Arms Hotel Beginning on Christmas Eve, your three-day mini-break at Feversham will start with festive afternoon tea and fizz in one of the hotel’s lavish lounge areas, followed by pre-dinner champagne, a three-course meal with live entertainment and midnight mass (complete with mulled wine and mince pies) over in All Saints Church, should you fancy it. Enjoy a Buck’s Fizz brekkie on Christmas morning, followed by a slap-up five-course lunch in the afternoon to mark the big day.

You’ll also be invited to a relaxing festive buffet by the log fire as the night draws in. On Boxing Day, chill out in style with a long walk in the Moors, a hearty Yorkshire brekkie and time in the hotel’s Verbena Spa, before digging out your best black tie looks for a six-course dinner in the evening with entertainment and bubbles. £1,409 based on two people sharing, fevershamarmshotel.com

Festive Spa Indulgence… at Doxford Hall and Spa A Christmassy spa day at Doxford Hall means pure indulgence - inside and out! Zone out and savour a full day of festive relaxation, including full use of the hotel’s leisure facilities, refreshments and two treatments of your choice; either a skin-perfecting facial, a rebalancing back massage with lava stones, a stress-busting shoulder, neck, face and scalp massage, or a mini manicure or pedicure. Pampering complete, you’ll enjoy a two-course festive lunch, showcasing dishes such as duck and pistachio parfait with cherries and bacon brioche, turkey with all the trimmings and traditional Christmas pud or mince pies. £79 per person (Mon-Fri) or £89 per person (Sat-Sun), doxfordhall.com

It’s A Wonderful Life Spa Day… at Rockliffe Hall Inspired by the classic Christmas film, this indulgent spa day at Rockliffe Spa is guaranteed to bring the fuzzy, feel-good vibes. Ahead of a full day of festive goodness, you’ll be greeted with a glass of Buck’s Fizz as a toast to the best time of the year, followed by time spent relaxing in the wellness facilities, a 60-minute Divine Touch Caudalie treatment for the face and body and a Christmas-inspired lunch in the hotel’s Brasserie restaurant.

From £130 per person, www.rockliffehall.com

Don’t miss Rockliffe Hall’s Festive Beauty Bazaar on 5 November Enjoy fizz on arrival, a two-course lunch and a chance to shop seasonal gifts in the spa’s boutique! £29.50 per person

29

FESTIVE ESSENTIALS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 18

Festive Essentials

Christmas crackers Festive happenings, seasonal

must-do’s and go-to gatherings for the whole family. Diaries at the ready…

THE CHRISTMAS LIGHT SHOW

The Alnwick Garden 14-23 December, £7.95 per person alnwickgarden.com With a jam-packed festive calendar year after year, the folk at The Alnwick Garden know a thing or two about excitement-filled Christmassy events. And new for 2018, they’re giving families the chance to visit after-dark to see their new, dazzling light show. It’s a self-guided event, meaning you can visit whenever you like - from 4.30pm weekdays (last entry 8pm) and from 6.30pm at the weekend (last entry 9pm). Time to get twinkly!

Also worth checking out… The Winter Trail and Crafts. Embark on this free Christmassy selfguided, magical stroll around The Garden in search of clues left by Santa’s clever elves. From 17 November - 24 December.

FESTIVE ESSENTIALS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 18

30

Festive Essentials

EDIBLE GIFTS WORKSHOP

Swinton Cookery School, 13 December, From £85 per person, swintonestate.com Foodies will love this Christmassy cooking class, led by Kevin Hughes - the talented and passionate head chef behind Swinton Cookery School, on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales.

Open to all ages and abilities, this one gives guests a chance to make their very own tasty presents, from edible tree decorations, to festive biscuits, chutneys and more.

Also worth checking out… its New Year’s Eve Dinner Planning full day course on 15 December.

Learn how to make dinner party-worthy nibbles and dishes, guaranteed to wow your guests. £160 per person.

FESTIVE COCKTAIL MASTERCLASS

The Cleveland Tontine, 14 December, £44.95 per person theclevelandtontine.com Brush up on your mixing and muddling skills at this fun, laid-back cocktail-making class. With the help of the Tontine’s expert team of alchemists, you’ll learn how to make three of the latest yuletide creations, paired with a selection of Yorkshire tapas dishes, followed by a two-course festive dinner.

Also worth checking out… its Festive Slingsby Gin Evening on 7 December. Gin-lovers will learn how to make three Christmasinspired cocktails using Slingsby gin and perfectly-paired tonics and botanicals. £25 per person.

FESTIVE ADULTS ICE SKATING

Wynyard Hall, 13 & 20 December, £17 per person wynyardhall.co.uk This year, Wynyard Hall is giving the grown-ups a chance to let loose and tap in to their inner kid - with a bit of adults-only ice skating! Get your boots on and enjoy a 45-minute skating session, followed by hot roast buns and glass of mulled wine to warm you up.

Also worth checking out… its Royal Northern Sinfonia Christmas Concert on 12 December. A string ensemble will play everyone’s seasonal favourites - prepare to feel all warm and fuzzy inside! £25 per person.

31

FESTIVE ESSENTIALS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 18

Festive Essentials

IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE CHRISTMAS NIGHT OF CHEER

MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET MUSICAL

Arc Stockton Arts Centre, 7-20 December, From £10.10 per person, arconline.co.uk Settle in as Stockton Riverside College’s musical theatre students bring this festive favourite to the stage. Featuring top festive tunes, such as It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas, magical effects and live dance numbers, the musical extravaganza promises heartwarming family entertainment from start to finish.

Also worth checking out… its Make Your Own Gingerbread House Tea Light Holder workshop on 17 November. Enjoy a cool crafty experience, during which you’ll learn all the basic tools to help you create your very own twinkly masterpiece. £17 per person.

Tyneside Cinema, 22 December, £30 per person tynesidecinema.co.uk It’s the festive tearjerker that has everyone reaching for the tissues this time of year - and it’s back at Tyneside Cinema for 2018. James Stewart steps into the shoes of frustrated businessman, George Bailey, whose life seems hopeless until a loveable angel arrives on earth to show him how much his life is worth living. Enjoy a special screening of this feel-good flick, followed by an exclusive afterparty, with festive drinks on arrival and live jazz.

Also worth checking out… A one-off screening of White Christmas - the classic festive musical, starring Bing Crosby and Rosemary Clooney - on 20 December. Something different, yet still heartwarming, for those who’ve seen It’s a Wonderful Life a million times! From £8.75 per person.

CHRISTMAS PARTY NIGHTS

Parlour at Blagdon, 30 November and 1, 15 & 21 December, £27 per person, theparlouratblagdon.co.uk Enjoy a knees-up at the always-cute-and-cosy Parlour at Blagdon a modern day gingerbread house in Northumberland! Eat, drink and be merry with the help of festive welcome drinks, a threecourse feast, complete with crackers and party hats, followed by live music, a Christmassy disco and cocktails ’til the clock strives twelve.

Also worth checking out… its Festive Afternoon Tea offering, available from 26 November. Think turkey and cranberry jam sliders, cinnamon and sultana scones, mini mince pies and cherry and mixed nut Christmas cake. £28 for two people.

HOME ALONE IN CONCERT WITH ROYAL NORTHERN SINFONIA

Sage Gateshead, 25 November, From £16.50 per person sagegateshead.com See cult Christmas movie, Home Alone, starring cheeky kids’ star Macaulay Culkin, on the big screen, with John Williams’s Academy Award-nominated score, performed live by Royal Northern Sinfonia. A must-see for music lovers, film lovers and families.

Merry Christmas ya filthy animals!

Also worth checking out… A Jazzy Christmas on 21 December.

A group of super-duper talented musicians, including vocalists, saxophonists, violinists, bassists and drummers, return with their own funky arrangements of everyone’s festive favourites. £15.30 per person.

FESTIVE ESSENTIALS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 18

32

Festive Essentials

TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL

Durham City, 30 November - 2 December, Free, durhamchristmasfestival.com Durham’s oh-so popular Christmas festival brings the feel-good factor year after year. Get wrapped up warm and mooch the countless Christmassy stalls, selling all kinds of festive treats and gifts for the whole family. Topped off with live entertainment, mulled wine and sweet treats for all, prepare to be swept up in plenty of festive hype and cheer.

Also worth checking out… The Christmas at Beamish Launch Parade at Beamish on 17 November. Watch as Mr and Mrs Claus lead a festive procession of vintage vehicles, huskies and marching bands through the 1900s town, marking the beginning of the Christmas period at Beamish. £19 per adult, £11 per child.

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

The County Hotel, 8, 15, 22 & 24 December, £10.95 per adult, £6.95 per child (0-12), under-3s go free countyhotel.co.uk Treat the little ones to a morning date with Santa, before he embarks on his annual worldwide trip. Tuck in to a Christmassy buffet, including festive fry-ups, waffles and pancakes, yogurt, fresh fruit and toast. Young ones will leave with a present from the big man himself, while adults will be treated to copious amounts of tea and coffee!

Also worth checking out… Newcastle’s International Christmas Market, from 16 November - 16 December. A free, month-long celebration of Christmassy cuisine from all over the globe. Sip the mulled stuff and eat the good (traditional) stuff!

SANTA ON THE ROOFTOP

Fenwick Newcastle, 3 November - 24 December, £11.50 per person fenwick.co.uk This Christmas, Fenwick is treating the people of Newcastle to an immersive festive experience, taking them on a winter wonderland journey high above the city. Escorted by Santa’s helpers, customers and their young ones will be taken on the elf express, through an enchanted forest, up to Fenwick’s rooftop, where they’ll be able to meet Santa in his log cabin. Make special Christmas wishes on your way through secret doors and put your names on Santa’s nice list before relaxing in Cafe Claus with hot chocolate and mulled wine.

Also worth checking out… Santa’s Rooftop Cinema from 3 November - 22December. A chance to see all your favourite festive flicks, including Miracle on 34th Street, Love Actually and The Holiday.

CHRISTMAS MARKET

The Bowes Museum, 14, 15 & 16 December, £5 per adult, £2.50 per child, bowesmuseum.org.uk Surround yourself with all things twinkly, crafty and delicious at The Bowes’ annual festive market. Around 100 vendors are expected to attend this year’s event, selling all kinds of festive delights, from artisan pies, breads and cheese, to handmade decorations, jewellery, candles and more. Shop ’til you drop while sipping the mulled stuff and listening to the smooth seasonal sounds from local bands and choirs. Kids, meanwhile, can enjoy fairground ride fun and children’s crafts, before snacking on hot Belgian waffles and other sweet treats.

Also worth checking out… The man himself, Mr Claus, in his workshop. Book up now and take tots to see him between 14-16 December for £10, which includes a special Christmas gift.

33

FESTIVE ESSENTIALS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 18

Festive Essentials

Q&A

My typical Christmas Day routine…

I still do the same things I’ve done since I was a kid: wake up at my parents’ house to bacon sandwiches, a cup of tea and a glass of Buck’s Fizz, or champagne, in my pyjamas! After opening our presents, lots of fizz and a walk along to the pub while the turkey’s in the oven, we’ll return home and mum will cook a big, traditional dinner. Sadly I’m at work this year, though, so it’ll be a FaceTime chat with the gang on the big day and Christmas dinner in a paper box while on air!

My kind of Christmas

My Christmas traditions...

Tartan pyjamas and a sleepover at my parents’ on Christmas Eve. The night before Christmas was always spent in Yarm, seeing old school friends. The good old Christmas megamix in the Black Bull pub was a particular highlight!

SKY SPORTS PRESENTER, HAYLEY MCQUEEN, TALKS PJS, PIGS IN BLANKETS AND STEALING HER SIBLINGS’ PRESENTS…

Most memorable Christmas present...

I once got Ice Skating Barbie, which was only sold in America. She was the dream - I even made her an ice rink out of tinfoil. The year of Mr Frosty The Crunchy Ice Maker was also a pretty memorable year, but it was my little brother who always got the presents my sister and I wanted! Our favourites were his Scalextric and Sega Mega Drive. We loved staying up all night playing Sonic the Hedgehog.

Favourite Christmas song...

Mariah Carey’s All I Want for Christmas, of course, but I have to listen to Chris Rea’s Driving Home for Christmas when I’m making my way back up to the North East.

Dream Christmas dinner...

Everything you can imagine on one big plate, including my favourites - pigs in blankets with slightly burnt bacon. You can never have enough of them.

For us, it’s always turkey with homemade cranberry sauce. I buy the Christmas pudding every year - and add lots of brandy to the brandy sauce!

Favourite Christmas TV...

Home Alone Lost in New York is the best! I make my other half, my sister and other members of the family watch it every year. It’s not Christmas until we watch it.

Favourite thing about the festive period...

I’m obsessed with Christmas. I put my decorations up on December 1st and am in sequins and party outfits right up until January 2nd. It’s my birthday month, too, so I always have a Christmas-inspired party somewhere which kicks off the festivities nicely. Now I have a niece and nephew, Christmas is very much like how it used to be when I was a child. Seeing the kids so excited is the best part.

“I’m obsessed with Christmas.

I put my decorations up on December 1st and am in sequins and party outfits right up until January 2nd”

we love

FESTIVE ESSENTIALS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 18

34

Festive Essentials

Gibside

Gibside, Gateshead Visit Gibside this Christmas.

Think fresh air, gorgeous scenery and festive decorations, then relax by the log burners with a hot chocolate topped with marshmallows.

Cragside, Northumberland Now open seven days a week in winter, escape the hustle and bustle of Christmas at Cragside.

Plus, see the ground floor of the house dressed for the season every weekend.

Cragside

For more information on Cragside and Gibside visit: nationaltrust.org.uk/north-east 35

FESTIVE ESSENTIALS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 18 When you visit, donate, volunteer or join the National Trust, your support helps us to look after special places for ever, for everyone. Š National Trust 2018.

The National Trust is an independent registered charity, number 205846. Photography Š National Trust Images / Catherine Martin / John Millar

Festive Essentials

No one does

Christmas like us © 2018 intu properties plc

As the largest shopping centre in Europe, we’ve got the perfect spread for the festive season.

FESTIVE ESSENTIALS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 18

From toys and games to clothing and jewellery, there’s something for everyone and we’re always adding more. After unveiling G-Star Raw, Fat Face and The Couture Club, Victoria’s Secret and Jack Wills are set to follow this November. Plus, we’ve got the only ODEON IMAX in the north east and our impressive list of over 50 places to eat and drink. With all this choice, we can help you make this a Christmas like no other.

36