Mother Shipton’s Christmas Experience 2023
Step into a world of magic and wonder as you enter Mother Shipton’s magical Christmas experience. Get ready, for Santa is flying through the starry skies to meet you!
🎅🏽 Enjoy a personal family visit with Santa in his cosy Christmas grotto and receive a special soft toy gift from Santa.
🛷 Pose for a photo inside Santa’s magic sleigh, before he journeys through snow-covered lands and starlit skies on Christmas Eve night.
📖 Gather around Holly Berry, the enchanting storyteller, as she weaves tales of wonder and merriment. Settle upon the reindeer chairs nestled within her charming tipi, adorned with lights that shimmer like angel wings.
🦌 Create your very own bag of reindeer food, a magical blend that you’ll sprinkle outside on Christmas Eve to guide Santa’s reindeer to your home.
📮 In the heart of this mystical place, find the Snowy Owl Post Office and send your heartfelt wishes to Santa himself. Stamp, seal, and imagine your letter soaring through the night sky.
🎄 Hang your handwritten wish upon the Christmas tree, its branches carrying the hopes and dreams of all who visit.
☕️ Warm up with a deluxe hot chocolate as you snuggle in cozy log gazebos, surrounded by the soft glow of fairy lights.
✨ Let the magic of the Christmas Shop enchant you, a treasure trove of wonder where you can find the perfect gift for yourself or a loved one.
🔮 Venture into the depths of the woodland and discover the cave, the legendary Petrifying Well, and the Wishing Well. Close your eyes, make a wish, and let your heart dance with the possibilities of the season.
Until 23 Dec 2023
Celebrate Christmas at Leeds most beautiful country estate, Temple Newsam. Explore the festively decorated house and get in the Christmas spirit with themed crafts and activities. Father Christmas will be taking visitors each weekend (except Christmas Eve), and Thurs 21 Dec, where children can tell him their festive wishes and receive a gift. Brand new for 2023, Mrs Claus is in residence too and will be telling festive stories to families at the weekends. She’s busy making lots of Christmas crafts and needs your help to get them ready – but don’t worry, whatever you make you can take home!
Pre-booking required. Suitable for babies and toddlers.
Temple Newsam Road, Off Selby Road, Leeds LS15 0AE. Tel: 0113 336 7460
As twilight falls see the abbey aglow with all the colours of the rainbow from 2 pm – 5 pm every Saturday and Sunday between 25 November – 31 December (excluding 3 and 10 December).
Once you’ve finished the Christmas shopping, explored the family trail and been revived by a warming mug of hot chocolate, it’s time for Music and Lights. Walk beneath the abbey cellarium’s vaulted ceilings, under the grand columns of the nave and stop to watch the live choirs and bands fill the ruins with festive music. Join in if you know the tune! Bands and choirs will play in the cellarium from 2-3 pm. The last admission is at 4 pm and the estate will close at 5 pm as usual. You don’t need to book a ticket to visit as Music and Lights is part of normal admission.
Everyone is welcome to join the Carols by Candle services in the Cellarium on Sunday 3 and Sunday 10 December from 3 – 4 pm
Pick up a candle on your way in and see the flickering glow of hundreds of candles light up the abbey cellarium. Sing along to well-known carols accompanied by Ripon City Band. Pre-booking will be essential, visit the website to find out more.
Come along to our On the Hoof event on Saturday 2, Saturday 9 and Saturday 22 December from 11:30 am-12:20 pm. Watch the wild deer munching through their winter feed and chat to our rangers who’ll be on hand to answer your questions.
As always, there’s plenty of things to discover here at Fountains Abbey – why not try a walk on the high-ride to find some of the best views? Dash through the deep-dark serpentine tunnel and whiz along the zip-line in the adventure playground.
Open Daily From 27th December – 7th January 9.30am – 5pm
25,000sq feet of children’s indoor fun, a range of inflatables and games. Toddler area designed specifically for the younger children.
Open daily from 9:30am – 12:00pm, 12:00pm – 2:30pm and 2:30pm – 5:00pm. We’re open New Years Eve from 9:30am – 12:00pm and 12:00pm – 2:30pm, as well as New Years Day from 10:30am – 1:00pm and 1:00pm – 3:30pm.
Everyone on the ground will require a wristband to enter, simply buy online and show the volunteers your QR code to receive a wristband.
Prices are £15 per child and £3 per spectator. BOOK NOW!
Session times
9:30am – 12pm
12pm-2:30pm
2:30pm-5pm
Now includes :
Harrogate Arena, Brackenthwaite Ln, Harrogate, HG3 1PW
Cafe onsite – food and drink available.
The highly-anticipated Harrogate Ice Rink returns to Crescent Gardens for the second year in a row; running alongside the Harrogate Christmas Fayre from 1st December and remaining open until 7th January 2024.
This festive favourite will be bigger and better than ever before, hosting not only a bigger ice rink, but an outdoor bar, a cosy sheltered tipi, funfair rides including a carousel and bungee trampolines, and a Yorkshire Wrap food stall – vegetarian and vegan options available.
Immerse yourself in the magic of Christmas with this family-friendly and affordable attraction coming to the centre of Harrogate from December to January.
Harrogate Ice Rink is open from 11am every day until 19:30 on weekdays and 20:45 on weekends. You can book a one-hour session for a reduced price of £10 per ticket (plus booking fee) this year, and each ticket purchased will also grant 50% off any hot drink at the bar on site; including mulled wine and hot chocolate.
Adults and children aged 4+ are welcome at Harrogate Ice Rink. Free skate hire is available on site and there are skate aids available on a first come first served basis, these are available for £5 per user.
During your visit to Crescent Gardens, be sure to visit the Harrogate Christmas Fayre, ride on the Candy Cane Express road train, or experience the open top bus, which stops at the Ice Rink too!
More details about session times, bar opening hours, and terms and conditions can be found online
This festive season, Tingley Garden Centre is thrilled to introduce a BRAND NEW, enchanting addition to our winter wonderland – AN ICE RINK!
Get ready to bring your whole family together for an unforgettable experience that will fill your hearts with Christmas cheer.
Christmas is all about spending quality time with your loved ones, and our ice rink is the perfect place to do just that. Gather your family and friends and make cherished memories on the ice!
For more information and to book your tickets CLICK HERE
Featured Listing
Friday 24 November – Sunday 31 December 2023
Millennium Square, Victoria Gardens & Cookridge Street | Leeds City Centre
Tickets and info: icecubeleeds.co.uk
Make magical memories with your little ones this festive season as Ice Cube at Christmas is back in Leeds City Centre from 24 November until 31 December 2023. Boasting a covered ice-skating rink, Christmas food & craft stalls and winter-themed rides and attractions, the popular event makes for the perfect winter family day out!
The ever-popular Ice Cube at Christmas once again brings winter magic to Millennium Square, Victoria Gardens and Cookridge Street this holiday season. Taking place from 24 November until 31 December, the annual event promises a joyful experience for all ages, featuring an array of exciting winter-themed activities and attractions. Strap your skates on and enjoy a one-of-a-kind outdoor ice-skating experience on the 400sqm covered ice rink with daily sessions, one-to-one lessons and Penguin Clubs for young families.
Step into the enchanting world of “The Christmas Experience” at Lotherton!
Journey to Santa’s North Pole, where you’ll be greeted by jovial elves and discover the secrets of Christmas in their bustling workshop. Make a wish at our magical wishing well before visiting Santa himself in his cozy log cabin, where a special gift awaits you. For our littlest believers, Santa’s Cabin is open for weekday visits, offering a perfect first encounter with the magic of Christmas. As well as relaxed Santa sessions for children with additional needs.
Join us in the enchanting Elf Village for arts and crafts activities in the elves’ cabins. Even make your own reindeer feed to leave for Rudolph on Christmas Eve. Warm up with a hot chocolate or mulled wine in our festive yurts, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Join Mrs Claus in the grandeur of the Hall for a heartwarming session of gingerbread decorating. Unleash your creativity and enjoy the sweet aroma of spices as you adorn your own festive treats.
Come take a stroll through the magical, interactive Festive Woodland Walk, adorned with playful Christmas installations that capture traditions past and present. Discover the hidden gem of the Fairy Dell, a secret fairy rockery that comes alive with enchanting sounds and twinkling lights as dusk falls.
Wander through the beautifully lit Lotherton Formal Gardens, and step back in time in Lotherton Hall, where you can admire the Edwardian splendour of Christmases past.
Off Collier Lane, Aberford, Leeds LS25 3EB
0113 378 2959
Wed – Sat, 22 November – 30 December 2023
Let it Glow! Enjoy an unmissable after dark spectacle of lights at RHS Garden Harlow Carr this festive season.
Bring all the family for a magical evening at RHS Garden Harlow Carr. See the garden in breathtaking beauty as amazing illuminations light your way on our spectacular Glow trail.
Take an enchanting walk at RHS Garden Harlow Carr, marvelling at spectacular light displays along your way. See iconic features adorned with festive lights including Streamside, the Edwardian Garden, Queen Mother’s Lake, Winter Walk, Doric Columns, Bath House and the Kitchen Garden.
Marvel at the ‘field of fire’ on the Main Lawn and don’t forget to take a selfie through the gilded frame in the Sun Border.
Discover the garden in a whole new light as you follow the magical trail around magnificent trees and shrubs awash with colour. New for 2023, cross Thaliana Bridge in a rainbow of lights and enjoy playing with family on the illuminated Logness monster.
Looking for something to keep you aglow? Take a break along the way and tuck into tasty festive treats and warming drinks available to buy from Bettys Tea House. Enjoy a mulled wine or indulgent hot chocolate and choose from a magnificent range of sweet treats including mince pies and fat rascals, a Yorkshire favourite.
🎅🏻 Father ChristmasNovember 25/26December 2/3/9/10/16/20/21/22/23/24🎅🏻 Times are 10.30am till 3.30pm🦖🦌🎄 An immersive Santa and Cavewoman experience, creating incredible memories & excitement for every family this Christmas. Lots of options to choose from on the link below👇👇1. Christmas Full Day Package2. Santas Grotto and Cave Package3. Christmas Film4. Santas Grotto5. SEN Grottos available🎄🎅🏻🦖 Enjoy a Festive Family Discovery Day….making lifetime memories ❤️ Santa will welcome you to his fantastic Festive Grotto in our cosy Cinema and all children will receive a special wrapped gift from Santa, you are very welcome to take your own photographs so you can capture those special family memories. Adults accompanying children are welcome free of charge
Fri 24 Nov 2023 – Sun 7 Jan 2024, Various Times
2hrs approx
Age Guidance: 5+
When the vain Wicked Queen realises that she is no longer the fairest in the land, she seeks revenge against her beautiful stepdaughter Snow White. With the help of the magical Forest Fairy and her seven faithful friends, can Snow White escape the Wicked Queen’s evil clutches and live happily ever after with her handsome Prince?
Featuring breath-taking scenery and special effects, sparkling costumes, spectacular song and dance, with plenty of fun, laughter and audience participation, Snow White is the pantomime that is simply wicked, simply wonderful and simply must be seen!
At Leeds Playhouse until 6 Jan 2024. Snap up your tickets today!
‘For my lunch today I would like… a nice juicy little child!’
The ENORMOUS crocodile is weaving his way through the jungle in search of delicious little fingers and squidgy podgy knees. Only the other jungle creatures can foil his secret plans and clever tricks, but they’re going to have to find a large amount of courage to stop this greedy brute.
A new musical version of Roald Dahl’s picture book for the whole family to enjoy, expect tasty tunes, rib-tickling lyrics, exciting tunes and a menagerie of mischievous puppets. The jungle awaits the bravest of children!
A Leeds Playhouse, Roald Dahl Story Company and Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre Production.
This winter in Bradford, immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural heritage by visiting the fascinating free museums and galleries. Delve into the history of Cliffe Castle Museum, where you can explore its wonders. At Cartwright Hall, you can find a variety of artistic treasures See the city’s industrial past come to life at the Bradford Industrial Museum. And don’t miss the opportunity to visit Bolling Hall Museum, one of the oldest buildings in Bradford. Go on a journey of discovery and embrace the chance to explore these remarkable cultural gems.
Saturday 16th December 2023 to Sunday 7th January 2024
Enjoy a walk through Strid Wood where clues connected to the popular ‘12 Days of Christmas’ carol will help you to solve the festive mystery.
The trail will begin at the Cavendish Shop and lead you up to the Strid.
Activity sheets will be issued from the car park kiosks on arrival.
The ‘12 Days of Christmas’ is included in the Estate car parking price.
Suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Dogs are welcome on a lead.
25th & 26th November, weekends in December and then daily from 16th -20th December 2023
10 am – 3 pm
Families can join Mrs Claus for storytelling in the Great Hall this year, take a seat and enjoy a festive tale!
Visit the Discovery Room and try making some handprint reindeer, pop up to the maid’s chamber and add some fabric to our giant rag wreath, don’t forget to write your letter to Santa there so Mrs Claus can deliver it to the North Pole.
BOOKING NOT NEEDED
FREE EVENT (ADMISSION APPLIES)
Wed 8 Nov 2023–Sun 7 Jan 2024
Harewood’s Great Time Travelling Christmas is an immersive, fun and slightly wild festive experience for all of the family. You’ll hear the sounds, play the games and be reminded of Christmas memories from your childhood and you’ll have the chance to share your own Christmas memories too.
Elf Trail
01 December 2023 – 07 January 2024
We need your help to seek out the location of Noel the Elf who has been causing mischief. He’s escaped from the naughty corner at the North Pole and we can’t find him.
Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to report the location of the runaway. Pick up a trail at the museum and search high and low for clues!
Please note, the museum will be closed on 25 & 26 Dec, and 1 Jan. We will be open 11am – 3pm on 24 & 31 Dec.
Leeds City Museum, Millenium Square, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 8BH
Looking for something fun and active for all ages and abilities?
Welcome to Gravity Active Entertainment, Leeds. The perfect day out.
Grab your Gravity Socks and wristbands and get bouncing.
For those who are looking to relax, head upstairs to our Newtons café. Coffee, cake, ice cream and a full view of the park!
Cardigan Fields Leisure Park, Kirkstall Rd, Leeds LS4 2DG
A festive bar and street food experience in our giant teepee. Come and enjoy a cosy atmosphere suitable for all, roast marshmallows over the fire and enjoy beers, mulled wine or cocktails.
Street-food style dining is provided by Broadley’s Bistro & Eat Art Kitchen.
Dogs are welcome and no bookings are being taken before Christmas so just turn up and enjoy! (Bookings only on New Years Eve)
Fridays – 8th, 15th, 22nd – 4pm til 10:30pm
Saturdays – 9th, 16th, 23rd – 1pm til 10:30pm
Sundays – 10th, 17th, 24th – 1pm til 10:30pm
New Years Eve will be a ticketed event with Live music, a DJ and fantastic food and drinks.
Get your skates on – the Ice Rink is returning to The Village at White Rose this year, from 21st November – 7th January, 2024!
Outdoor and undercover, our 800sqm rink offers plenty of fun for guests of all ages, come rain or shine. We’ll also be running quiet sessions, in addition to parent and toddler sessions for wobbly starters. Penguin and seal skating aids will be available for little ones and bob skates to help guests stay steady.
BOOK ONLINE
26th December 2023 – 1st January 2024
Travel in our toasty Yuletide carriages as our festive journey continues into the New Year. See our stations transformed with a Christmas display creating a magical glow as your train rolls in.
You can simply turn up on the day and purchase your tickets (or pre-book online). Your ticket includes a homemade Mince pie, tasty!
When booking tickets, fares are a standard price, so a rover ticket is valid for the Mince Pie Specials!
LS-TEN PRESENTS LEEDS ROLLER RINK
23rd / 27TH / 28TH /29TH /30TH December
11am -3pm / 30 minute free session
BOOK your free session by scanning the QR Code
1st – 17th December 2023
Pick up a free trail map and use it to make your way around the town to discover the various snowmen hidden away in shops and people’s gardens. Decide which are your favourites and vote for them to win one of the coveted category prizes.
Various locations around town, free entry, and donations to the Snowman Trail charity Hang on to a Dream are welcome.
‘The Elf Explorer’, A journey of festive discovery where the magic of Christmas comes to life!
Weekends from 25th November then 21st – 24th December 2023
Arrive at Oxenhope station and explore the winter wonderland with a North Pole Elf. Write a list for Santa then board The Elf Explorer steam train for a fun-filled adventure. Father Christmas will join you and if the children have been good, they’ll receive their first gift of the Christmas season.
A new feature to this year’s Elf Explorer is a 20-minute Elf show that will take place on stage in the Exhibition Hall!
Keighley & Worth Valley Railway, The Railway Station, Haworth, BD22 8NJ
Telephone: 01535 645214
Mar 22 2024 – Apr 14 2024
Totally Chaotic History Museum Trail
Explore the amazing world of Ancient Egypt at Cliffe Castle Museum this Easter. The Totally Chaotic History Museum Trail from Kids in Museums and Walker Books celebrates the release of hit historian Greg Jenner’s new book, Totally Chaotic History Ancient Egypt Gets Unruly, with expert interruptions from Egyptologist Dr Campbell Price and illustrations by Rikin Parekh.
Discover intriguing objects, pretend to be a Pharoah planning what you’ll take to the afterlife and learn about some of the hundreds of Ancient Egyptian gods and goddesses. Complete the activity sheet to receive your Totally Chaotic History sticker!
01535618231
Keighley BD20 6LQ
Train from Pickering to Goathland, Grosmont and through to Whitby over 24 miles of beautiful Yorkshire Scenery.
UNLIMITED Annual Pass Ticket £49.50. Plus KIDS GO FREE! A Shorter Journey Ticket allows day return travel between up to one station (e.g. Goathland to Grosmont day return) for a fixed fare price of £13.50 per adult (16+) and up to two stations (e.g. Pickering to Goathland day return) for a fixed fare price of £25 per adult (16+). Both are free for children (0-15).
Pickering Station, YO18 7AJ. 01751 472508
The Holidays are coming and that means its time for the Coca-Cola Christmas Truck Tour 2023¬
This year, we’re planning to stop off at as many cities around the UK as possible
For details of all the stops on the tour click here.
RE:LOADED 16 December 2023 to 31 May 2024
Explore the Royal Armouries’ collection of firearms in a new way. Guns are powerful weapons. They can be loaded with meaning as well as bullets.
VIKING YULE: 30 & 31 December 2023
The Vikings are returning to spend the Yule festival at the Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds again this mid-winter.
FREE
Armouries Drive, Leeds LS10 1LT. Tel: 0113 220 1999
