What to do over the Christmas period if you live in the North of England
Living in the North of England during the Christmas period offers a wide range of festive activities and events to enjoy. From traditional Christmas markets to stunning light displays, there is something for everyone to experience during this magical time of year. Whether you live in cities like Manchester, Liverpool, or Leeds, or in smaller towns and villages across the region, there are plenty of ways to celebrate the season in style.
One of the most popular activities to enjoy during the Christmas period in the North of England is visiting the many Christmas markets that pop up in cities and towns across the region. Markets like Manchester’s famous Christmas markets offer a wide range of stalls selling everything from handmade gifts and decorations to delicious food and drink. The atmosphere at these markets is truly special, with twinkling lights, festive music, and the delicious smells of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts filling the air. It’s a great way to get into the festive spirit and support local businesses at the same time.
If you’re looking for a more magical experience, why not visit one of the many light displays that are held across the North of England during the Christmas period? Places like Chatsworth House in Derbyshire host stunning light installations that transform their grounds into a winter wonderland. Other places, like the Enchanted Christmas at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Edinburgh, offer visitors the chance to walk through illuminated trails and take in the beauty of the natural world at night. It’s a truly enchanting experience that is sure to leave you feeling full of Christmas cheer.
10 Things to do over the Christmas period in the North of England
Christmas is a magical time of year, and there is no shortage of festive activities to enjoy if you live in the North of England. From traditional markets to winter wonderlands, there is something for everyone to get into the Christmas spirit. Here are 10 things to do over the Christmas period in the North of England:
1. Visit the Manchester Christmas Markets: The Manchester Christmas Markets are some of the largest and most popular in the country. With over 300 stalls spread across the city, you can find everything from traditional German bratwurst to handmade crafts and gifts. The markets are a great place to get into the festive spirit and pick up some unique Christmas presents.
2. Explore the Lake District: The Lake District is a beautiful place to visit at any time of year, but it is particularly magical during the Christmas period. Take a scenic walk around Lake Windermere, visit the Christmas markets in Keswick, or enjoy a festive afternoon tea in one of the region’s quaint tea rooms.
3. Attend a Christmas Carol concert: Many towns and cities in the North of England host Christmas Carol concerts throughout the festive period. From small community choirs to professional orchestras, there are plenty of options to choose from. Gather your friends and family and sing along to your favorite Christmas carols in a beautiful setting.
4. Go ice skating: Ice skating is a quintessential winter activity, and there are plenty of ice rinks to choose from in the North of England. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, skating outdoors in the crisp winter air is a magical experience that will get you in the Christmas spirit.
5. Visit a Christmas market in York: The historic city of York is home to one of the most picturesque Christmas markets in the North of England. Set against the backdrop of the city’s medieval streets, the market is a festive wonderland of twinkling lights, decorations, and stalls selling everything from mulled wine to handmade gifts.
6. Take a ride on the North Pole Express: Several heritage railways in the North of England offer special Christmas-themed train rides during the festive period. Hop aboard the North Pole Express and enjoy a scenic journey through the snow-covered countryside, complete with festive decorations, music, and even a visit from Santa Claus himself.
7. Visit a Christmas tree farm: If you’re looking for the perfect Christmas tree to decorate your home, why not visit a Christmas tree farm in the North of England? Many farms offer the opportunity to choose and cut your own tree, as well as festive activities such as wreath-making workshops and visits from Santa.
8. Attend a pantomime: Pantomimes are a beloved Christmas tradition in the UK, and there are plenty of pantos to choose from in the North of England. Whether you prefer a classic fairy tale like Cinderella or a more modern twist on the genre, attending a pantomime is a fun and festive way to celebrate the holiday season.
9. Visit a winter wonderland: Winter wonderlands are popular attractions during the Christmas period, and there are several to choose from in the North of England. From ice sculptures and light displays to Santa’s grotto and Christmas markets, a visit to a winter wonderland is sure to put you in the Christmas spirit.
10. Enjoy a traditional Christmas dinner: Finally, no Christmas period would be complete without enjoying a traditional Christmas dinner with all the trimmings. Whether you cook at home or dine out at a cozy pub or restaurant, sitting down to a delicious meal of roast turkey, stuffing, and Christmas pudding is a wonderful way to celebrate the festive season.