We love Christmas time at Stonebridge. There’s nothing better than wrapping up warm and heading out to do a festive activity. From visiting Santa’s grotto to ice skating, there’s so much to see and do around this time of year.
Here are just a few festive days out you can enjoy close to some of our developments this year.
The Bowes Museum Christmas Market
Running from the 15th to the 17th of December, The Bowes Museum and grounds are set to become magical once again with their annual Christmas Market. Just over a five minute drive (or under a 30 minute walk) from Ashtree Park in Barnard Castle, this popular Christmas market has got something for everyone. From Christmas crafts to delicious food, the market features an array of local traders from across the North.
As well as shopping for Christmas gifts, you can also enjoy fairground rides and live music too. Inside the museum, children can also take part in crafts and activities in the galleries and learn more about the Museum’s treasures via interactive talks and demonstrations.
Christmas at Mother Shipton’s Cave
Mother Shipton’s Cave is a fun day out all year round, but it’s even more special at Christmas time. From the moment you step into the enchanted land, you’ll feel like you’re in a winter wonderland.
Visit Santa at his cosy Christmas grotto, pose for a photo inside his magic sleigh, sit down and enjoy the tales of wonder told by the enchanting storyteller, make your own reindeer food and so much more! Wander through the woodland and discover the legendary wishing well, making a Christmas wish as you pass. There are even cosy log gazebos surrounding by twinkly fairy lights, where you can warm up and enjoy delicious hot chocolates, mince pies and gingerbread men.
Christmas at Mother Shipton’s Cave will run from the 25th November to 24th December, and it is just a 10 minute drive from Grainger Park in Goldsborough.
Ice Skating at Tingley Garden Centre
This year, Tingley Garden Centre, which is just over a 15 minute drive from The Grange in Wakefield, are thrilled to introduce their brand new ice rink to their fantastic winter wonderland. Gather your friends and family around and glide your way across the ice, as you make magical Christmas memories together.
If you’d prefer to skate in a more relaxed setting, they’re even offering reduced capacity sessions on selected weekdays across the season. There will be no music and low lighting, to ensure a calmer ambiance. Perfect for children who may get a little overwhelmed at large crowds or loud noises. The ice rink will be open from the 18th November to the 7th January.
On a visit, be sure to check out the rest of the garden centre’s Christmas activities, such as an interactive story by professional festive performers, Santa’s grotto experience, and the fantastic E.L.F School, where children can play and learn how to become a brilliant elf.
Festive Stories with Father Christmas at Brodsworth Hall
What better way to start the festive season, than visiting Father Christmas himself and listening to his favourite seasonal stories around the Christmas tree. In these group storytelling sessions, that run on weekends from the 2nd December up until 23rd December, you’ll be immersed in his enchanting stories, before getting the chance to take a memorable photograph with him and receiving a gift to unwrap on Christmas Day.
Whilst you’re at Brodsworth Hall, which is about 20 minutes from The Meadows in Doncaster, take the time to have a wander around the house, which has been conserved to tell the stories of generations of people who lived and worked there. A winter stroll around the beautiful gardens is also a must, so don’t forget your hats and scarves!
Sheffield Cathedral Illuminated: Starlight
From the 5th to the 9th December, Sheffield Cathedral will transform into an incredible multi-sensory immersive experience, both inside and outside the Cathedral. Every year, friends and families come together to watch this stunning light show take place around the Cathedral; it’s the perfect way to kick off the festivities.
This year, Starlight will take you on a journey following the three wise men, taking you to the heart of the Nativity story. The stained-glass windows, beautiful paintings on the wall and the historic Cathedral building are all brought to life by contemporary light and sound. It’s certainly not one to be missed. Sheffield Cathedral is around 20 minutes from Woodhead Park, Deepcar.