What to do This Frosty Festive Weekend
It looks like the weather is going to be pretty cold this weekend, but don’t let that stop you from getting all festive
Skate by…
Experience a winter wonderland (with even the promise of a little snow) this weekend by heading to an ice rink. Since it’s chilly out anyway what better way to pass the weekend than wrapping up warm and heading for a skating session? Whether you’re a complete novice or a pro on the ice, there are plenty of rinks for skaters of all abilities. Despite there being so many options including Life Science Centre, Whitley Bay Ice Rink, Billingham Forum, Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland, Stocked Park and iceSheffield, make sure to get your skates on and book in advance as this winter activity is always really popular.
Walk about…
Wrap up warm and head out for a winter walk this weekend. Whatever the weather, the Castle Howard landscape shows off the very best of the season. With 1,000 acres of parkland as well as woodland walks and walled gardens to discover, it’s a great place to explore. If you’re in the North East, there are few better places than Cragside at this time of year where the house is beautifully decorated for Christmas with a real nod to its Victorian past. Read more about the house and grounds at Cragside here.
Meet the man himself…
There are few better ways to get into the Christmas spirit than meeting the man in red himself, and this weekend at Thornton Hall Country Park you can meet a whole host of festive characters as part of their two-hour Christmas Adventure experience. First on the agenda is helping Mrs Claus bake enough cookies to feed all the elves, before meeting Mr Cornelius Block (head of toy production in the North Pole), The Nutcracker and The Sugar Plum Fairy. Finally, meet Father Christmas himself in his grotto and see Thornton’s herd of deer. Click here for more plenty more places to see Santa in the North East and Yorkshire
Bake this…
Baking is the perfect activity when it’s cold outside. Try this delicious apple crumble and sticky toffee pudding. Or why not get some practice in before the big day and try out these dessert recipes that are sure to wow your guests on over the holidays? If you’re more of a cook than a baker, these warming winter dishes are perfect to prep for the week ahead.
Get crafty…
There’s something extra special about receiving a handmade gift, so why not get crafty and make something special for someone you love. Whether you try wreath making at Beamish Hall, or a Christmas candle making workshop at A Touch of Craft Yorkshire, there are so many things you can make to give as gifts.
Read a story…
Grab your snuggliest blanket and your tastiest snacks before settling in for a very joyful Christmas Storytime with the Elves at Fenwick Newcastle. Taking place all weekend, head to the third floor of Fenwick where you’ll be greeted by jovial elves who will show you to your seat. Parents can enjoy festive mulled wine or spiced apple juice and buttery mince pies, whilst the children tuck into warm cookies and milk.
Read More: Christmas Comedy Shows that Promise Plenty of Laughter
Watch that…
Stories spring from the page onto the screen at Leeds Central Library’s Saturday Family Film Club: Movies from the Bookshelves. The library select best-loved books that have been adapted as films, making this is the perfect family day out to the movies with a twist. While the title of the movie for this Saturday is a secret, we’ve been told you’ll be taken on a very festive train journey. We can’t wait.
Cheer on…
This Saturday England will head to Al-Bayt Stadium to face their enemy from over the channel as they take on France in the quarter finals of the World Cup. Set to be a close match, the game kicks off at 7pm and whether you’re watching from the comfort of your sofa, or enjoying the action at one of the many fan zones, it is one not to miss. For some of the best places to watch all the World Cup action click here.
