Betws-y-Coed

A town for all seasons

In summer, walkers and holidaymakers are drawn here by its stunning location deep in Snowdonia National Park. But at this time of year there’s an extra attraction…

DID YOU KNOW? The town’s name means “chapel in the woods”

Perfect position

Betws-y-Coed attracts visitors pretty much year-round, thanks to the host of outdoor activities the area offers. But once the winter season kicks in, there is just one thing on local minds as preparations begin for the town’s Christmas Fair.

Organisers are already well underway planning exciting events, entertainment and stalls to provide everyone with a fantastic festive time. An appearance from Father Christmas, a candlelit lantern procession, seasonal music, fireworks and the traditional Santa Dash combine with many of the independent shops and art galleries staying open late to allow shoppers to bag some unique gifts.

Throughout the weekend of 1st-2nd December, Santa will be on hand, ready to ask children what they’re hoping for this Christmas, and there’ll be arts and crafts to keep them entertained. Delicious bakeries, delis, restaurants and cafes are set to be open, offering a range of food and drink. Local children will be leading the lantern procession through the centre – always quite a sight – and treasure hunts, local crafts, home-made mince pies, fair rides, real reindeer and much more make this an event you simply should not miss. Attracting visitors to the fair is never an issue as the small town enjoys an enviable location in the heart of the Conwy valley and on the edge of the Gwydyr forest. Right on the boundary between Denbighshire and Caernarfonshire, it’s a truly lovely spot, nestled at the point where the river Conwy is joined by the Llugwy and the Lledr.

The area has been inhabited for centuries. The earliest residents founded a monastery here in the late sixth century. The village grew very slowly with the local lead mining industry and only truly took off after 1815, when Thomas Telford built a bridge to carry the London to Holyhead road (now the A5) across the river. Waterloo Bridge allowed the town to become a major hub on the routes to Corwen, Capel Curig, Blaenau Ffestiniog, Llanrwst and Conwy, and the addition of the railway station in 1868 brought another population boost.

High-wire adventures

The place has kept its large village green, overlooked by 19th-century buildings including shops, hotels and the church of St Mary, all creating a magical backdrop for the festive season. On the southern side is the station with cafes, tourist shops and a car park. In the former goods yard is a railway museum with an extensive miniature railway.

But Betws y coed comes into its own for those who enjoy the outdoors and is fast becoming a destination synonymous with adrenaline and activities. At Zip World, visitors can launch themselves along dramatic high lines or go below ground to discover giant trampolines and explore the caves.

There are scenic walks along the river Llugwy, which flows through the town, and beside the Conwy, which provides further attractions including the Fairy Glen, the fish pass and Conwy Falls. A mile upstream are the famous Swallow Falls, while the Llyn Elsi reservoir nearby is popular with walkers and anglers. The whole town has a magical, almost alpine feel to it and is wonderful to explore at any time of year, but particularly picturesque over the winter months. Many of the town’s independent shops stay open late

Snow on the tracks

THINGS TO SEE AND DO

Zip World A470, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0HX zipworld.co.uk; 01248 601444

Beics Betws bike hire, Vicarage Road, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0AD; 01690 710766

Conwy Valley Railway Museum

The Old Goods Yard, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0AL; 01690 710568

Winter at Powis Castle

Take your pooch for walkies at Powis Castle before February and entertain them on a paw-some trail designed just for dogs. Paws at Powis is open 10am-4pm, normal admission applies.

From 3rd-24th December see the castle sparkle with over-thetop Christmas trees, festive replaces and beautiful lights. Each of the State Rooms will transport you to a di erent part of the world,

BAUBLES AND BELLS

e Barmouth community will come together on 1st December when the Christmas lights are switched on by Mayor Trevor Roberts at 5.30pm, surrounded by carol singers. e church bells will ring out as people head towards the shops, which will be open late for the occasion. Listen to the Batala Bermo samba band and enjoy a glass of mulled wine, visit Santa’s Grotto or some of the many pubs and hotels o ering live music. e ever-popular skating rink will be open from 3rd December.

Puss in Boots

Mid Wales Opera continues its Fairy Tale season with Montsalvatge’s take on the wealth-seeking, matchmaking cat who, in return for a hat, sword and a pair of boots, secures a kingdom for his young master. e production is perfect for families and a great way to introduce youngsters to opera. e second half of the evening features a cabaret-style collection of musical items. Catch shows on 3rd November at eatr Felinfach, Ystrad Aeron; 11th at Dragon eatre, Barmouth and 12th at Neuadd Dy , Aberdovey. Tickets from £12 (concessions available). midwalesopera.co.uk

DID YOU KNOW?

Hedgehogs were inspired by the castle’s treasures. Venice, China, Elizabethan England, there’s something special to discover in every corner. Open noon-7pm originally called ‘urchins’. It’s where sea urchins get their name. (until 4pm on 18th-24th). Young explorers can enjoy the Hedgehog Trail throughout December. Follow the clues to learn more about these fascinating creatures. nationaltrust.org.uk

EVERYBODY’S FAVOURITES

Daliso Chaponda: Apocalypse Not Now, 16th November Finalist of Britain’s Got Talent and star of BBC Radio 4’s Citizen of Nowhere, Daliso performs his brand of intelligent, satirical humour. 8pm. Tickets £15.

Miracle on 34th Street, 25th November A live version of a radio play based on the Oscar-winning classic lm, young and old alike will delight in this tale of festive magic at work. 7.30pm. Tickets from £13. mwldan.co.uk

A TRADITIONAL END TO THE YEAR

Near Llanwrtyd Wells for New Year’s Eve? Experience an ancient tradition and follow the torchlit procession from the town square in the wake of the Mari – a decorated horse’s skull atop a pole. At Abernant Lake Hotel there’ll be a re-enactment of the Mari Lwyd, an exchange of challenges and banter between the bearer of the Mari and followers, in order to gain admission and refreshment! en return to the town square for the midnight celebrations. From 10pm. Free. green-events.co.uk

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

4TH-10TH NOVEMBER

COWS, CRAFTS AND CHRISTMAS CHEER

As one of the nest stock shows in Europe, the Royal Welsh Winter Fair in Builth Wells draws huge crowds. Taking place this year on 28th-29th November, enjoy two days of competitions, festivities and Christmas shopping. e Winter Fair is major attraction on the agricultural show calendar and leading stockmen from all over the UK will compete for the top accolades. Away from the ring, the best of Welsh food producers will be showcasing their wares and shoppers can explore hundreds of trade stands, demonstrations and exhibitions whilst soaking up the atmosphere – and Father Christmas will make an appearance! It’s late-night shopping on Monday with free entry after 4pm and a free reworks display. Tickets £20 (ages 5-15 £5). rwas.wales

Festivities at Llanerchaeron

Catch a fantastic opportunity for festive shopping at Llanerchaeron’s bustling Christmas Fair on 2nd-4th December. ere’ll be local food and craft stalls, mince pies, mulled wine – and on Saturday and Sunday, a chance to meet Santa! Normal admission charges apply. And on 8th December, join gardener Meg to create a decorative wreath using natural materials from the estate. 10am-noon. £30 (including mince pie!) nationaltrust.org.uk

Support your local traders

Come and be merry at Hay-on-Wye Christmas Fayre on 10th December. Over 50 independent traders will take over the town from 10am-4pm, bringing festive gifts, local crafts and homewares, a vintage/ ea market, food, drink and songs of cheer. And try the vibrant market in the centre of Hay every ursday, for local and seasonal produce, fresh sh and more.

Welsh heroes, assemble!

Ffabl is magical lantern and light trail in the grounds of Cardigan Castle. Meander among the creatures and heroes of Welsh mythology and the Mabinogion. Open throughout December, the trail ends in the Pavilion where you’ll nd festive food and a makers’ market. Tickets £11 (child £8).

Bikes, boots and beer

Cyclists who enjoy a pint will like the Real Ale Wobble from Llanwrtyd Wells on 19th November, and the Real Ale Ramble on 26th-27th November o ers free real ales at the checkpoints! Both events o er a choice of routes in unspoilt scenery and pub entertainment in the evening. green-events.co.uk

Christmas in the castle

Enjoy a shopping trail and visit Santa’s Grotto at Cardigan’s Christmas Fair on 26th November. e Castle will host over 40 craft stalls, with festive food and mulled wine. Every child will receive a gift and have the chance for a photo with Santa. e fair is open 10am-4pm, entry is £3 (under-16s free) and the grotto is £5 per child.

cardigancastle.com

•4th November, African

Night!, Y Tabernacl, MOMA,

Machynlleth Brilliant South African cellist Abel Selaocoe and his trio Chesaba meld classical, jazz and world music in a unique fusion. 7.30pm. From £5.

•4th November, Stargazing at Lake Vyrnwy Join the RSPB and Snowdonia National Park’s Dark Skies o cer and use binoculars or telescopes to explore the night sky and identify some constellations. 6-9pm. From £6. Call 01691 870278 to book.

•4th

November, Firework- inspired Art and Crafts, The Rodd, Presteigne

Spend an hour creating some autumn and Bonfi re Night art with the Sidney Nolan Trust. 11am-noon. £5.

•4th & 18th November, 2nd &

16th December, Down with the Arts, Dragon Theatre, Barmouth

Creative sessions for adults: art, crafts, song and dance – anything goes! Just bring your creative energy and imagination. 10am-2pm. Free. 01341 281697. •10th

November, Martyn Joseph, Mwldan, Cardigan

A national treasure, Martyn performs intelligent, energising and provocative songs, ranging from tenderness to growly indignation. 7.30pm. From £17. •10th & 24th November,

8th December, Have-a-go Shakespeare, Wyeside Gallery, Builth Wells

Explore the Bard’s texts in reading and performance. 10.30am-1pm. £7. Call 01597 811487.

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

20TH NOV – 9TH DEC

•20th November, Jack Frost

and the Search for Winter,

Aberystwyth Arts Centre An enchanting new play by poet and playwright Joseph Coelho with important environmental themes, plenty of wintery fun and original live music. 1.30pm & 3.30pm. From £8. •25th November,

Dream, The Hafren, Newtown

Ballet Cymru performs a full-length ballet based on A Midsummer Night’s Dream, with innovative choreography and stunning video projections. 7pm. From £8.50. •26th November, Felted

Christmas Garland, Make it in Wales, Cardigan

Ruth Packham will demonstrate a combination of wet felt and needle-felting techniques and stitching to help you create your own everlasting garland. 10am4pm. £98.

Variety at Wyeside Arts Centre

Mal Pope, 12th November An evening of stories and song – Mal has written for Cli , e Hollies and Bonnie Tyler. 7.30pm. Tickets from £13.

DID YOU KNOW?

Dr Phil stood for Parliament in 1992 for the Struck O and Die Doctors Dr Phil Hammond, 25th Alliance! November Confessions of a retiring NHS whistleblower! 7.30pm. £15.

e Wizard of Oz, 23rd November Ballet eatre UK takes the Yellow Brick Road with Dorothy and pals to discover the wonders of Oz. 7pm. From £12. Catrin Finch: e Story So Far, 2nd December An insight into the life and music of an extraordinary harpist. 7.30pm. From £14. wyeside.co.uk

STEAM TO SEE SANTA

Meet Santa on the Rheil ordd Corris Railway at Machynlleth. A special service will run on 10th-11th December, with presents for the children, fun activities and seasonal treats for all. £7.50 adult, £10 child, £1 dog. corris.co.uk

PAVILION BEATS

Beardyman, 12th November e award-winning musician is one of the world’s best beatboxers, a live-looping pioneer and comedic talent! 7.30pm. Tickets £19.40.

Dub Pistols, 9th December Now celebrating their 25th anniversary, the multi-cultural collective has involved dozens of artists and musicians over the years. See them perform a riotous set, journeying through ska, dub, electro and more. 7.30pm. Tickets £19.80.

pavilionmidwales.org.uk

•2nd-3rd December, The

Christmas Express, Aberystwyth

Arts Centre The Arts Centre’s Dance School presents a collection of pieces performed by ballet and contemporary dance pupils from grade 2 and above. Times vary. From £10. •3rd December, Christmas

Cracker Market, Welshpool

Over 100 stalls, a grotto, and seasonal food and drink, raising money for Shrewsbury’s Lingen Davies Cancer Fund. 10am-4pm. •Until 9th December, Beautiful

Books, The National Library of

Wales, Aberystwyth Explore for free the intricate books within the Fine Bindings collection, from a Victorian experimental wooden binding to more recent designs. 9.30am–5pm (Sat 4.30pm), closed Sun.

SILVER SERVICE

At Silver Mountain near Aberystwyth, Santa’s elves are busy preparing for Christmas. Visit their workshop and see Santa in his grotto on 10th-11th, 17th-18th and 21st-23rd December. A host of activities are included, and you can also explore the old 19th-century lead mine. silver-

mountainexperience.co.uk

ALL ABOARD!

Santa Specials will be running on the Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway throughout December. Come and meet Santa whilst travelling by steam train through the beautiful Mid Wales countryside. Climb aboard the specially decorated carriages and enjoy a magical 45-minute ride, meet Santa and receive a gift. ere’ll be mince pies along with warming mulled wine for the adults and a fruit drink for the children.

Festivities continue after Christmas Day as Mince Pie Specials steam you into the New Year. Full details at wllr.org.uk

Winter Exhibition in Glasfryn Hall 25th Nov - 18th Dec

Snow tops the 13th-century castle and Italianate Terraces

A TREASURED CHRISTMAS AT POWIS CASTLE AND GARDEN

Get into the festive spirit with a visit to Powis Castle and Garden this Christmas. See the 13th-century castle sparkle as lights and decorations illuminate the State Rooms, enjoy wintry walks in the world-famous garden, and have fun with all the family on the nature-inspired Hedgehog Trail. e castle, courtyard shop and café will be open until 7pm on 3rd-18th December, so more people can enjoy all this wonderful season has to o er after dusk.

Delight the senses

Passed down through the Herbert family from the late 1500s, with each generation enlisting artists and architects to bring their vision for Powis to life, this comfortable family home is lled with extraordinary paintings, sculptures and tapestries. Visitors will be transported to di erent parts of the world as they explore the beautifully decorated spaces, trees and festive replaces. Drawing on Bellotto’s View of Verona from the Ponte Nuovo (1745-47), the State Dining Room will wow visitors with a Venetian Christmas experience. e Long Gallery, the oldest surviving interior, will re-visit its Elizabethan past, with swathes of holly and ivy and the festive aroma of dried oranges and cinnamon.

‘Tis the season to treat yourself

e castle’s popular festive afternoon tea returns to the Courtyard Café from 1st-23rd December. From £20.95 (or £24.95 with a glass of zz), enjoy delicate sandwiches, delicious cakes and ne loose-leaf teas. Booking is essential, call 01938 551927 to reserve. e Courtyard Shop is well stocked with perfect gift ideas for you and your loved ones. From cosy throws and stylish scarves to festive candles and decorations, there’s everything you need to make this Christmas a special one. e castle is open weekends only in November, noon-4pm. e Christmas display runs from 3rd-18th December, noon-7pm, and then 19th-24th December, noon-4pm. e Baroque Garden is open 10am-4pm throughout November and December.

nationaltrust.org.uk/powis-castle

Who’s for a festive afternoon tea with a glass of fizz?

National Trust Images/Paul Harris

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

11TH-26TH DECEMBER

DID YOU KNOW? Duran liked the phrase New Romantic in a Spandau review and used it in ‘Planet Earth’

FROM BACH TO SPANDAU BALLET

BBC National Orchestra of Wales, 10th November

Gergely Madaras conducts Bartók’s Hungarian Sketches, Elgar’s Cello Concerto and Mendelssohn’s Symphony No 3 ‘Scottish’. 7.30pm. Tickets from £5.

Bach’s Christmas Oratorio, 10th December

Aberystwyth Choral Society together with Sinfonia Cambrensis perform highlights of this Christmas masterpiece, lled with moving and thrilling musical riches. 7.30pm. Tickets from £2.

Calling Planet Earth, 21st December A New Romantic symphony that takes a journey through that great musical era, the electrifying ’80s. With songs from now legendary artists such as Duran Duran, Spandau Ballet, Ultravox, Tears for Fears, Soft Cell, ABC, e Human League and lots more. Tickets £24.50. aberystwythartscentre.co.uk

At Lampeter’s Victoria Hall this Christmas:

LAUGHS AT THE HAFREN

Sarah Millican: Bobby Dazzler, 2nd December

What happens when your mouth seals shut, or you try to lose weight but only lose the tip of your nger? And how awful are oatation tanks! Sarah knows. 8pm. Tickets £29.50.

Demon Dentist, 8th-10th December Strange goings-on in Al e’s town as the tooth fairy leaves odd things under children’s pillows! From £12.

Rich Hall: Shot From Cannons, 15th December

Montana’s messenger returns with new rants, razor-sharp observations and musical interludes. 8pm. Tickets £18. thehafren.co.uk

ON TRACK FOR CHRISTMAS

Enjoy a magical journey by steam train to Santa’s Grotto with Talyllyn Railway on 10th, 11th, 17th and 18th December. See Santa in his sleigh, have your photograph taken and receive a festive gift. Mrs Claus will be baking cookies and mince pies especially for you to enjoy. After you’ve patted the donkeys, climb aboard the train for your journey back to Tywyn. Tickets £17 (under-3s £6). talyllyn.co.uk.

Beauty or the beasts?

Sleeping Beauty, 13th-14th

December A tale of true love’s kiss, a re-breathing dragon and some magic, with lavish sets and amazing e ects. 7pm. From £5.

Welsh Wrestling, 30th December

Enjoy a post-Christmas smackdown with the superstars. 7pm. From £9. vichall.org.uk

•11th December, Illuminated

Christmas Tractor Run,

Welshpool The tractors will be on display at Welshpool Livestock Market and afterwards they’ll leave on a 30-mile round trip through the town and surrounding villages. 2pm.

•12th December, Captain

Calamity, Pavilion Mid Wales, Llandrindod Wells

Family fun featuring balloonbursting, bubbles, silly science, gigglesome games and one or two custard pies. Meet Santa afterwards! 4.30pm. £10. •17th & 18th December, Santa

Specials, Welsh Highland Heritage Railway, Porthmadog

Visit this small but perfectly formed railway at Christmas. Every child will receive a gift from Santa in his grotto. Trains depart at 11am, 1 pm & 3pm. £11.50 (child £10). Call 01766 513402 to book.

•Until 18th December, A Brush

With Nature: An exhibition in loving memory of Sean Milne, Wyeside Gallery, Builth Wells

A tribute to Sean’s deep love for the natural world and the unique talent he demonstrated in representing it in prints, illustrations and original paintings. Normal opening hours. Free.

•26th December, Transport

Through the Years parade, Welshpool

A Boxing Day treat! Cars, buses and lorries of all eras will process down the High Street, with profi ts going to the Addington Fund. 10am. £5 per vehicle to take part.

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

3RD-17TH NOVEMBER

Gifts galore

•3rd November, Joe Topping,

Ebenezer’s,

Crewe The Voice UK semifi nalist infuses traditional folk with Americana and blues at Roots at Ebenezer’s, a regular live (and live-streamed) show. 8pm. £10. •3rd & 17th November, 1st &

15th December, Café Crafts, Grosvenor Museum, Chester

An afternoon of craft and chat. Bring your own project or join in with others. Everyone is welcome, whether you’re a master or a beginner. Spaces are limited so booking is advised. 2pm.

•10th November, The Drowns, The Salty Dog, Northwich An exciting punk/glam live rock performance, with support from Liverpool band Down and Outs. 7.30pm. £10.

•17th November, Stitch a

Christmas Garland Workshop, Toolerstone House, Sandiway

In this fun and easy workshop from Toolerstone, you’ll make a beautiful garland to hang in your home. Simply stitched and decorated, these little stu ed hearts are a unique and individual creation. A sparkling array of beads and buttons are provided, plus motifs to appliqué, lots of ribbons and some jingle bells! 9.30am4.30pm. £95. •17th November, Comedy

Night, Tom’s Tap & Brewhouse,

Crewe Another brilliant night of stand-up, with an amazing selection of beers, ciders, wines and spirits. 7.30pm. £5. Where better to enjoy the run-up to Christmas than Arley Hall and its magni cent grounds? e Christmas Shopping Spectacular on 15th-17th November brings an array of over 60 hand-picked stalls o ering food and exquisite gifts. Preview with a glass of zz on Monday 5.30-9.30pm, £20, then shop on Tuesday and Wednesday 9.30am-3.30pm (£10 for one day, £17 for both).

From 2nd-9th December, the ground oor of the Hall will be decorated with owers and foliage from the gardens, and Gardener’s Kitchen Café will be serving mulled wine and mince pies. Daily 10am-4pm. Tickets from £10 (child £2.50).

Other seasonal treats include festive wreath-making and winter watercolours, afternoon tea and Once Upon A Christmas with Father Christmas. www.arleyhallandgarden.com

SPIRITS OF CHRISTMAS

It’s Christmas Eve at Quarry Bank but old miser Scrooge has one word for the season of goodwill: “Humbug!” Quantum eatre’s new production of A Christmas Carol captures the warmth and humanity – and anguish – of this festive classic, with shows at 12.30pm and 2.30pm on 10th December, featuring live music and lots of action. Tickets £12 (child £9) from quarrybank@nationaltrust.org.uk

Simply wild!

Lighting the way

Chester Zoo will be transformed into a Christmas wonderland from 11th November to 23rd December, full of lights, sparkle, costumed characters and spectacular scenes. Escape to fantastical worlds on a journey like no other! Tickets from £15 (child from £12). Book a timed slot at chesterzoo.org

For the Quiet Hour on 3rd December at 4-5pm visitor numbers will be reduced for guests who need a less busy environment to enjoy the event. Christmas by Candlelight brings a West End cast and incredible live band to Chester Cathedral on 22nd December to perform classic Christmas hits. Sing along with favourites including ‘White Christmas’, ‘Let It Snow!’, ‘Santa Baby’, ‘O Holy Night’ and ‘Winter Wonderland’. is uplifting concert is a brilliant way to celebrate with all the family. 7.30pm. Tickets from £15. chestercathedral.com

MOUSE IN THE HOUSE

e enchanting tale of Awesome Anselm brings to life a medieval carving of a mouse found in the Quire at Chester Cathedral. Enjoy Emma the Elf’s telling of this festive story on 19th-22nd December in the magical setting of the Chapter House – then, if you like, join a short tour to visit the characters. Aimed at ages 5-7, the fun starts at 10am and the £10 ticket includes a small gift. Accompanying adults free. chestercathedral.com

’Tis the season to be merry…

…and to celebrate with loved ones. So you, your family and friends are invited to discover the sparkling Christmas At Bolesworth experience in the heart of Cheshire, from 2nd-24th December.

Bolesworth’s grounds will be transformed into a festive wonderland, festooned in seasonal sparkle and yuletide cheer, for a month of unforgettable winter magic. e enchanted Christmas Lights Trail returns for 2022, featuring an all-new route, a spectacular light show incorporating the castle itself, and a unique water display on the lake. ere’s also a fairground, Christmas markets packed with shopping, food and winter warmers, reindeer encounters and exclusive champagne experiences. ’Snow better place than Bolesworth to get into the festive spirit this year!

Entry is £27 (under-13s £18, under-4s free). For opening times see bolesworth.com/christmas/

DID YOU KNOW? Reindeer antlers are like our fi ngerprints – no two are alike

LET IT GLOW

With over a million lights and a super-festive soundtrack, Christmas At Delamere Forest will bring bundles of festive cheer. From 25th November to 31st December discover glittering tunnels of light, trees drenched in jewel-like colour, and wander beneath larger-than-life illuminations. Book your timed slot at forestryengland.uk/ delamere-forest, prices vary with date.

Christmas at Clonter

Clonter’s ‘Tea With…’ Christmas Special on

7th December

would make a great present or a fabulous festive outing with friends – an hour of Christmas-themed musical entertainment presented by two singers and a pianist, under the swagged red organza and gleaming brass chandelier, followed by a traditional afternoon tea in the Ramsey Room. Tickets from £30. ere’s also a ‘relaxed’ performance on 6th December, adapted to suit people who might require a calmer environment. clonter.org

Made for lovin’ you

Kiss tribute Dressed To Kill are as good as their word – all four members pull out the stops to replicate the rockstar looks and persona of their heroes from 2017’s World Tour. Playing authentic instruments they deliver almost two hours of Kiss hits. eir gig at Northwich Memorial Court on 11th November, supported by Billion Dollar Alice, is not to be missed! Tickets are £15 from brioleisure.org

BRUNCH BUNCH

Head to Congleton Cricket Club on Christmas Eve for a Meet & Greet with the Elves! From 11am on 24th December enjoy games, singing and festive activities. Children can help themselves from a Christmas brunch grazing table with a hot chocolate station, and will receive a gift with a personalised letter. Grown-ups get brunch and tea or co ee. Ticket only! Adult £15, child £35, from allevents.in

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

20TH NOVEMBER –2ND DECEMBER

•20th November, Christmas

Pop-up Market, Crewe

Market Hall A fantastic line-up of local small businesses, where you will be sure to fi nd some fantastic presents and maybe even a treat or two for yourself! 10.30am. Free entry.

•25th November, The Cheatles, The Hive, Winsford Live music from one of the most authentic of the Beatles’ tribute bands. 7pm. £10. •26th November, Christmas

Candle Making Workshop, Capesthorne Hall, Macclesfi eld

Join owner and creator of Ma Lumière, Guillaume, to make your own soy candle (worth £36), and enjoy an exclusive tour around the decorated Hall, with mulled wine or prosecco, and mince pies or cake! 10am, 1pm, 4pm (lasts 2hrs). £45.

•Until 10th December,

Reincarnated Rubbish by Val Hunt, Nantwich Museum,

Pillory Street Artist Val Hunt features sculptural pieces made from recycled materials, showing that beautifu artworks can be created from what we would normally discard. TuesSat 10.30am-4.30pm. Free. •2nd December, OSN Radio

Christmas Party, The Studio,

Nantwich Party night hosted by Stu Allan, dance music DJ at Piccadilly Radio and Key 103 in Manchester in the ’80s and ’90s, whose performances had a major infl uence on the music scene of the times. Over-18s only. 10pm-3am. £7.

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

2ND-10TH DECEMBER

•2nd December, Dan Budd as

Robbie Williams, Shavington

Social Club, Crewe Come and get into the Christmas spirit at this great party night. Threecourse festive meal followed by music from a fantastic tribute act. 7pm. £30. •2nd December,

Sandbach Christmas

Market Enjoy over 100 stalls, choirs singing carols around the tree, brass bands playing, lights twinkling, chestnuts roasting and the aroma of mulled wine. 3pm-8pm. Free entry. Town centre shops will be o ering late night shopping too.

•3rd December, Christmas

Tree Bunting Workshop, Stitch, Mill Street, Nantwich

Learn how to make simple but beautiful bunting, using pretty Scandi fabrics, pegs and twine. 2-4.30pm. £45. •3rd & 4th

December, Knutsford Christmas Market

Featuring over 120 traders selling food, drinks, crafts and gifts, with Santa’s Grotto, incredible live entertainment, and a funfair! Open noon-7pm on Saturday, 11am-4pm Sunday. Don't miss the Santa Parade at 5pm on Saturday, followed by the Christmas Lights Switch On at 6pm. •3rd, 8th & 10th December,

Festive Wreath Making, The Goshawk, Station Road, Chester

Discover how to make your own festive wreath to decorate your front door for Christmas. Run by local experts from Delamere Flower Farm. 7.30pm. £45 including all materials and refreshments.

Tales from the Storyhouse

Chester’s Storyhouse has such a varied o ering over the next two months – something to suit everyone!

Luke Wright, 11th November Luke writes poems that are by turns tender, caustic and romantic, then delivers them with panache. 7.30pm. Tickets £14.

ROH Live: e Nutcracker, 8th

December Accompany Clara to a delightful Christmas Eve party, which turns into a magical adventure once everyone else is tucked up in bed. 7.15pm. From £13.05.

DID YOU KNOW? For £4 a month Storyhouse members get 10% o tickets and priority booking

ea Gilmore, 21st November Among the nest singer-songwriters of her generation, a fearless pursuer of home truths. Unmissable! 7.30pm. £21.50.

e Snow Queen, 10th December – 15th January

e eternally beautiful story of childhood friends Gerda and Cei, torn apart by temptation, reunited by the force of love. From £18. storyhouse.com

Twinkle, twinkle…

e gardens at Dunham Massey will sparkle with over a million lights from 18th November-2nd January. Wander through shimmering tunnels, past dancing re ections, under giant baubles and among trees drenched in jewel-like colour – and glimpse Father Christmas along the way! A crew of talented street-food vendors bring a twist to the treats on o er. Open 4.30-8.15pm, book your timed entry online. Prices from £20.50 (child £14.50), parking £8, family tickets available. seetickets.com

CSI: NYE!

Whilst enjoying the company of your fellow guests over a splendid three-course dinner, a shot rings out and a bloodcurdling scream rends the air… is New Year, you become the detective. A two-night murder mystery break at De Vere Cranage Estate, Holmes Chapel is £420. Full details and booking at

murder.co.uk

Feelgood factor

Celebrate one of the most popular and exciting live rhythm and blues acts in the world when Chester’s Live Rooms host Dr Feelgood on 19th November. e Dr’s special guests are John Otway – ‘Rock and Roll’s Greatest Failure’ – and long-time compadre Wild Willy Barrett. Doors 7pm, show 8pm. For tickets see theliverooms.com

ALL THROUGH THE HOUSE…

At Lyme Park from 2nd-24th December you can experience a child’s memories of a Country House at Christmas through the tales of Phyllis Legh, daughter of Lord Newton. Or join in a thrilling adventure to save Christmas – and meet Father C himself (selected dates, £18.50). Finish with seasonal treats in the cosy Servants’ Hall. 11am-3.30pm. nationaltrust.org

The magic of theatre

Crewe’s beautiful Lyceum eatre has a seasonal programme to delight all ages. Some highlights:

Mum’s the Word, 13th November An uplifting, honest show that will have you roaring with laughter as you reach for the tissues. 7.30pm. Tickets £28.

DID YOU KNOW?

Julia Donaldson A Christmas Carol, As Told by Jacob Marley (Deceased), 4th December How three magical spirits sold 27m books in 2010-19, making her the UK’s top author made Scrooge realise the true value of love and forgiveness. 8pm. Tickets £16.50.

Tales from Acorn Wood, 21st-22nd November Julia Donaldson’s beloved stories are brought to life in an enchanting ‘lift-the- ap’ show. £17 (child £15). Aladdin, 16th December - 8th January With fabulous musical numbers, this fun-packed show is suitable for all. From £25.50. crewelyceum.co.uk

NEW FOR 2022

Bringing even more festive fun and cheer to Chester is the all-new undercover Christmas Market at Carriage Shed, right next to the railway station, on 2nd-4th December. Bring the family along for a weekend packed with live entertainment, a great choice of food and drink and a fabulous range of stalls. Whatever the weather, it’s going to feel a lot like Christmas! Open 10am-8pm (Sunday 10am-5pm). carriageshed.co.uk

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

9TH-18TH DECEMBER

•9th December, StandUp

Macclesfi eld Christmas Special,

RedWillow, Macclesfi eld Main act Tom Binns aka the ‘Psychic Comedium’ is supported by Ivan Brackenbury. MC Jonathan Mayor is deliciously wicked and has toured with Sarah Millican. 7pm. £15. •9th-12th December, 1960s

Festival Break, Alvaston Hall, Middlewich Road, Crewe

A Warner Leisure Hotels weekend featuring Herman’s Hermits, Spencer James from The Searchers, The Pre-Amps with Solid Gold 60s hits, The Remakes, Totally 60s Tribute Show by Michelle Lawson, plus a DJ every night. From £349.

SAIL WITH SANTA

Father Christmas has manage to squeeze a few dates into his diary to take a festive cruise on the River Dee. On 4th, 10th and 17th December, the whole family can join him for a fun one-hour cruise with festive music – and refreshments are included too. Tickets are £12 for adults, £14 for children aged 2-10 (includes a book from Santa), £8.50 for over-11s and just £2 for infants. Advance booking is essential.

chesterboat.co.uk/santa-special-cruise

Hurrah, it’s party time

Join in with some free festive fun organised by Down Syndrome Cheshire, at Coco’s Playbarn, Lady Heyes, Frodsham on 11th December, where children can enjoy the soft play area, share some festive food and say hello to Santa! From 4-6pm, register at dscheshire.org.uk

Watch out!

e Lord of Misrule and his ghoulish friends are at large in Chester on 15th December. e Winter Watch and Saturnalia Parade hits the cobbles with a mischievous coterie of Jack Frosts, re-breathers, devils and skeletons to dance round the city, starting at the Town Hall at 6.30pm.

•10th December, Christmas

Soul, Winnington Park

Recreation Club, Northwich A fantastic night of Northern Soul and Motown. 7.30pm. £4. •10th December, Christmas

Agility Show by Dig It Dog Training, Dubthorn Lane, Sandbach

With agility, jumping and steeplechase classes. Five runs per dog; the agility and jumping courses will be run twice and the best run of the two will count towards the awards. 10am. £15.

•10th, 11th, 17th & 18th

December, Santa’s Grotto, Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre,

Tarporley Combine a visit to Santa with a wander around the farm, with its amazing Shire horses and other enchanting animals. Child ticket includes a present, Santa times must be booked in advance. From 10am. Child £17, under-3s £9.50, adult £11.

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

10TH-31ST DECEMBER

•10th-31st December, Jack

and the Beanstalk, Northwich Memorial Court, Northwich

Anton Benson Productions return with the ‘giant’ of a pantomime you've all ‘bean’ waiting for! Performance times vary. Tickets £19 (child £16). •12th December, Hopes &

Beams Christmas Concert,

Broad Street, Crewe The annual Christmas fundraiser for local charity Hopes & Beams features Crewe Male Voice Choir in a celebration fi lled with Christmas classics – and audience participation! 2.30pm. Admission by donation. •16th-24th December, Beauty

and the Beast, Ellesmere Port

Civic Hall A tale as old as pantomime itself… ABP returns with another sensational family show. Times vary. Tickets £15 (child £13).

•31st December, New Year’s

Eve Comedy Special, Nantwich

Civic Hall This brilliant show has four hilarious top acts followed by music on the dance fl oor to see in the New Year. 7pm. £20. •31st December, New Year’s

Eve Cabaret Spectacular, St Mary's Creative Space, Chester

12 live acts, live music and aftershow dancing with full seating and bar area run by legendary producers Goldust. If you’re looking for a quirky live event with incredible acts and a welcoming atmosphere, then look no further! 7.30pm. Tickets from £40.

Tatton Park, a festive treat

With its beautiful house set in 1,000 acres, Tatton Park is the perfect place to meet up with friends and family. The Autumn Artisan Gift Fair on 5th-6th November and the Christmas Shopping Spectacular on 2nd-4th December are unique shopping experiences held in the Tenants Hall – a wing of the mansion not usually open to the public – with a host of local artisan suppliers selling items such as jewellery, candles, crafts and gin.

Once Upon a Pantomime: The Christmas Mansion, runs from 22nd November to 1st January, taking

DID YOU KNOW?

At the Farm you can make magical reindeer food to leave out on you around the magnificent Christmas Eve! State Rooms on a journey through Panto-land, with dazzling sets and colourful characters. From Jack and the Beanstalk to Cinderella, Aladdin and a panto dame, there’ll be plenty of sparkle and festive cheer.

Other festive events include Father Christmas at the Farm, 26th November-20th December, the Northern Chamber Orchestra’s ‘Romance at Christmas’ concert on 9th December and Carols in the Stableyard on 18th. See tattonpark.org.uk

All the thrills

e Lord Mayor’s Fireworks Extravaganza and Funfair returns to the Roodee in Chester on 5th November. Set to a stunning soundtrack, the display will illuminate the sky over the city for an atmosphere unlike any other. Gates open at 5pm and there’s a junior display at 6.45pm for young ones who might not like big bangs! Main display 7.30pm. Tickets £10 (under-5s free). chester-races.com

Award-winning duo

Alexander’s Live, Chester is host to Lucy Farrell and Andrew Waite on 17th November. Singer/composer Lucy is a BBC Folk Award winner and plays viola, ddle and tenor guitar. Andrew is a Young Traditional Musician of the Year nalist and ne accordion player. Catch them for just £8 and enjoy some quirky melodies, sophisticated songwriting and a bewitching clarity. alexanderslive.com

THIN RED LINE

Prepare to be chilled by Chester Little eatre’s production of Veronica’s Room, directed by Charlie Núñez – a thriller that explores the thin line between fantasy and reality, madness and murder. It runs from 5th to 12th November and tickets are £10 (students £5 on ursday). chesterlittletheatre.co.uk

A WEEK TO GO…

Get the festive feeling at Chester Christmas Market on 18th-21st December, with 70 traders in Town Hall Square, the new arcade and the Forum, surrounding the sparkling tree in the heart of the city. It’s free to enter and opens at 10.30am. Discover unique, locally made produce, handmade crafts, jewellery, accessories and stocking llers.

GET FESTIVE AT THE FLORAL

DID YOU KNOW? ‘Santa Claus’ comes from the Dutch ‘Sinterklaas’ – a form of St Nicholas

e Floral Pavilion in New Brighton has gone all out to make sure you’re in the mood for Christmas!

Fairytale of New York – Coming Home for

Christmas, 22nd November e ultimate feelgood, Irish-inspired Christmas show. 7.30pm. Tickets £27.50.

Christmas Memories, 23rd November Neil Sands presents a spectacular, spirit-lifting afternoon of festive nostalgia, Christmas songs and carols. 2.30pm. Tickets £17. Cinderella, 3rd December-2nd January Starring Steps singing sensation Lee Latchford-Evans as the handsome Prince, and CBeebies presenter Katrina Bryan as Cinderella. Various times. BSL and autism-friendly relaxed performances available, check website. Tickets from £21.50 to £28.50.

Storytime with Santa, 11th-24th December

Children will be captivated by traditional and modern tales and festive songs. Various dates and times. Tickets £17 (child), adults free. Find out more at oralpavilion.com

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

9TH-27TH NOVEMBER

•9th-12th November, A

Christmas Carol: The Musical, Gladstone Theatre, Port

Sunlight West Kirby Musical Theatre Company presents this hugely entertaining new adaptation of Dickens’ classic Christmas tale. Times vary. £16.50 (under-12s £11.50).

•10th-13th November, Wirral

Beer Festival, Hulme Hall

Over 200 beers including 80 real ales and 80 craft beers, as well as continental lagers, ciders and a gin bar, with live entertainment and food from local stallholders, with hot food available at the hall. Times and entry prices vary.

Meet Santa’s reindeer

e Church Farm Santa Experience takes place each December weekend before Christmas, and is a magical family trip that’ll leave you feeling as festive as mince pie! Meet Santa, his friends the elves and Jingle from the North Pole Postal Service on a 60-minute journey around the farm with real reindeer, special e ects, farm animals and a grotto visit. Tickets from £15 must be pre-booked. churchfarmevents.co.uk

A festive fantasy

Poulton Hall’s Winter Wonderland Walks take you into a world of imagination. A witch will usher you through a wardrobe into gardens inspired by Narnia, Neverland, Middle Earth and Camelot. Hot chocolate, squash and gingerbread are included towards the end of the walk, then a storyteller will send you home through the ornamental beech wood. Walks take place on 3rd, 4th and 6th December, from 4.30pm. Tickets £8 (child £5) include refreshments. poultonhall.co.uk

SWEET TREAT

Celebrating its 30th anniversary, Matthew Bourne’s Nutcracker! comes to cinemas for the rst time. You can watch this fresh and charmingly irreverent interpretation of the classic ballet production at Light Cinema, New Brighton on 15th November at 6.45pm and 20th at 2pm. Prices vary. Book at

newbrighton.lightcinemas.co.uk

Just a minute…

Join radio regular Gyles Brandreth on a hilarious romp through British history, at the Neston Club in Parkgate on 3rd November, where he’ll be talking about his new book and signing copies – without hesitation, repetition or deviation! A History of Britain in Just a Minute celebrates key moments, people and places from the past. Organised by Lingham’s, Heswall’s fantastic independent bookshop, the evening starts at 7pm and tickets are £17, which includes a copy of the book. linghams.co.uk

•19th November onwards,

Lunch with Santa at The Mess, Fort Perch Rock, New Brighton

Enjoy a festive lunch followed by a story from Santa and a gift for each child. Check dates and times. Tickets from £12.

•26th November, Christmas

Lights, Market Square, Neston

Illuminated entertainment organised by NCYC, a local charity that operates Neston Community Youth Centre and Neston Civic Hall. 2-7pm. Free. •27th November &

18th December, Wirral Christmas Market, Thornton Hough Village Hall

Browse over 25 fabulous stalls and get your Christmas shopping o to a fl ying start! 11am. Free entry.

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

3RD-21ST DECEMBER

3rd December, Christmas Market, Parkgate & Neston

United Reformed Church The Handcrafted Market brings a fabulous authentic artisan market featuring makers of high-quality crafts from across the North West, plus the Crafters’ Café. 10am. Free entry.

3rd December, Bromborough Village Christmas Fair, St Barnabas’

Church With lots of local crafts on o er, it’s the ideal chance to fi nd some unique Christmas gifts. All money raised is used to enhance the village, including Christmas lights and tree. 10am. Free entry.

4th December, Sunday Serenade, United Reformed

Church, Heswall L’Orchestra dell’Arte perform Sullivan & Burnand’s Cox and Box – a rare opportunity to hear this one-act comic opera. 3pm.

7th December, Christmas Charity Quiz Night, The

Grange, Moreton Put your Christmas knowledge to the test while raising money for local causes. Know the full lyrics to ‘The 12 Days of Christmas’? Why sixpence was put in your Christmas pudding? 7pm. £5 per person, teams of up to 10.

21st December, Katie Mac, Future Yard, Birkenhead

Taking infl uence from the likes of Laura Marling, Joni Mitchell and Regina Spektor, Katie is a singersongwriter from Huyton who has spent the past 10 years turning her hobby into a career. 7.30pm. £11.

DID YOU KNOW?

Walt Disney’s Oscar for Snow White came with seven mini GREETINGS FROM THE GLADSTONE Oscars

Season’s Greetings, 16th-19th November Alan Ayckbourn’s hilarious seasonal comedy follows a couple hosting their extended family over a long weekend… Yikes! 7.30pm. Tickets £10.

Father Christmas Needs A Wee!, 3rd December

e perfect combination of childish humour and fantastic music in this brilliantly bouncy adaptation of Nicholas Allan’s much-loved book. 1pm. Tickets £13.50 (child £11.50).

Curious Christmas Tales and Traditions with

Ken Pye, 4th December. is special, fully illustrated talk takes you back in time to explain why we celebrate Christmas in the many ways that we do. 2.30pm. £12.

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, 9th-31st

December. Find out who is the fairest of them all this Christmas! Various times. Tickets £21.50 (£18 child). gladstonetheatre.org.uk

Twinkle, twinkle…

Star of Wonder is a delightful new show from eatre Porto about three wise gures following a star. Our heroes fall out, get lost, overcome obstacles and nally nd what they are looking for. Made with St Bernard’s RC Primary, Ellesmere Port and Teatro Pomodoro, it runs from 5th-21st December. Tickets from £9. theatreporto.org

Pictures in glass

Ever wanted to try making a beautiful glass mosaic? At this full-day workshop at the Williamson Art Gallery, Birkenhead you will learn to cut and shape glass tiles and develop an understanding of the process of constructing a mosaic, which can then be applied to other projects. Classes run on 5th and 12th November, 10.30am-4pm, and advance booking is essential. e £75 fee includes all your materials. See williamsonartgallery.org

Wish we were there

Heswall Hall is playing host on 9th December to Eclipse – e Pink Floyd Experience, who will perform over two hours of Floyd classics, including music from e Wall, Wish You Were Here, Meddle, Animals and e Division Bell. e second half of the show features their epochmaking album e Dark Side of the Moon, played in full in this intimate setting. e show starts at 8pm, tickets £22. heswallhall.co.uk

A double treat

Dubbed one of the hardest working duos on the circuit by folk guru Mike Harding, Winter Wilson have toured the UK and performed in Australia, Spain, Belgium and Canada. eir album Live & Unconventional was recorded on tour and at Cropredy Festival with folk rock icons Fairport Convention. West Kirby Arts Centre welcomes this creative folk act on 19th November at 7.30pm, when you can see them for just £12. westkirbyartscentre.org.uk

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

2ND-6TH NOVEMBER

•2nd November, Ghost Tour

of Shrewsbury Town Round o spooky season with a guided ghost tour of Shrewsbury, said to be one of the most haunted towns in the country. The tour starts from Shrewsbury Museum, is suitable for all ages (and dogs on leads) and lasts approx. 1.5 hours. 7pm. £9.

•5th November, Bonfi re Night,

Love2stay, Shrewsbury As well as a spectacular display, activities including axe throwing and face painting will be available. Local food vendors will be in the new Winter Village selling treats to keep you warm. Gates 5pm, fi reworks 7pm. £10 (under-5s free).

•5th November, Willow Gallery Craft Fayre,

Oswestry Enjoy a spot of preChristmas shopping or treat yourself with a selection of unique, locally made crafts. 10am-4pm.

•5th November, Bat Box Workshop, The Cut Visitor Centre, Shrewsbury

This free workshop is part of Shropshire Wildlife Trust’s youth project for ages 14-30, and all participants will fi nish with a bat box to take home or leave for use at one of the Trust’s nature reserves. Places must be booked in advance. 10.30am.

•6th November, Severn Jesters Comedy Club, Theatre Severn,

Shrewsbury The hugely popular comedy club o ers up and coming talent as well as the best of the Fringe. November’s line-up includes MC Nik Coppin, Dan Antopolski, Craig Deeley and BBC New Comedy Award fi nalist Steve Harris. 8pm. £12.

Perfectly beastly!

DID YOU KNOW? Samantha Dorrance who plays Beauty won Disney’s talent search You’re The Star

The fabulous festive production at Theatre Severn this year is Beauty and the Beast, written by Telford lad Paul Hendy, starring the legendary dame Brad Fitt and a number of multitalented performers including comedian Tommy J Rollaston, who appeared on Britain’s Got Talent 2022. Brad Fitt is a long-time supporter of Hope House Children’s Hospices, and with generous donations from pantomime audiences from Theatre Severn has been able to donate over £55,000 to support the work of the charity. Due to huge demand, the panto will run from 30th November to 8th January and offers a number of special performances so that everyone can share in the fun. Ticket prices range from £16-£27.50. theatresevern.co.uk

Jog in your jumper

Dress in your festive best as the popular Christmas Jumper Run returns to The Quarry on 27th November. Runners of all ages and abilities are welcome, and you can choose your distance – 2.5k, 5k or 10k. Entry is £12 for adults (£15 for the 10k), £7 for children (£10 for the 10k) and all profits go directly to Severn Hospice. Additional fundraising greatly appreciated. ukacgroup.com

Christmas voices

Shrewsbury Cantata is a mixed voice choir of around 60 members. ey are performing a Christmas repertoire at St Alkmunds Church, Shrewsbury on 17th December, comprising Magni cat by John Rutter and Quatre Motets Pour Le Temps de Noel by Francis Poulenc, a mid-20th century work in four parts based on French church music popular during the Renaissance. 7.30pm. Tickets £12.

shrewsburycantatachoir.org

Readers’ corner

During lockdown, bestselling authors Jodi Picoult and Jennifer Finney Boylan collaborated on a novel, writing alternate chapters and editing each other’s work as they went. Mad Honey is a compelling, challenging and contemporary tale exploring the risks we take in order to become ourselves. Enjoy an afternoon with the authors on 18th November as they discuss the book and their individual writing journeys at the Holroyd Theatre, Oswestry. The event starts at 12.30pm (doors 11.45am) and tickets cost £20, which includes a signed copy of the book. theholroydtheatre.co.uk

Santa’s on safari

Thankfully we’ve been able to track him down to Hawkstone Park, where he’s resting up in the Follies before his real Christmas work begins. On selected dates from 2nd-23rd December, following a warming festive drink in the elegant surroundings of Hawkstone Park Hotel, you can take a trip in a 4x4 to visit him in the spectacular network of caves. Make your way on foot through the fairy-lit tunnels before arriving at the grotto. Return transport is provided. The price is per vehicle, which can accommodate a maximum of six – any combination of adults and children is welcome. Strictly advance bookings only. Daylight ticket £145, twilight ticket £155. hawkstoneparkfollies.co.uk

Choir by candlelight

Ex Cathedra return to St Chad’s, Shrewsbury on 2nd December for an evening of seasonal music and readings. With candlelight providing a magical setting for music old and new, this hugely popular Christmas concert signals a traditional start to the festive season. 7.30pm. Please book in advance, £25 (under-26s £12.50) via TicketSource.

Get set, go 2023!

Celebrate New Year’s Eve as never before… with your trainers on and glow stick in hand, as part of the UK’s only New Year’s Eve midnight run! Join hundreds of revellers setting off from Quarry Park on the strike of twelve to race a 2.5k, 5k or 10k route. Places are limited and booking is essential.

ukacgroup.com

Victorian splendours

It’s hard to imagine a more atmospheric setting for reworks than Blists Hill. e Victorian town has quite a di erent feel after dark, and for the display on 5th November some of the most popular exhibits will be open, plus there’ll be iron-casting demonstrations and refreshments. e impressive display is set to music and the fun starts at 6pm. Advanced booking is essential, tickets £15 (child £10, discount for Pass Plus holders). ironbridge.org.uk

Skate by the lake

Star in your own Christmas card scene with winter ice skating in the scenic surroundings of Alderford Lake, Whitchurch from 24th November to 8th January. Skating will be available no matter the weather on the undercover ice rink, and the price of a 50-minute session includes skate hire and access to walk around the lake (daytime only). Stability aids may be hired at a small additional charge for anyone needing a boost with their balance. Children must be supervised by an adult at all times. Early-bird o -peak tickets cost £10.95 (child £7.95). alderford.com

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

11TH-18TH NOVEMBER

•11th & 12th November, Strictly Abba, Theatre on the Steps,

Bridgnorth One of the most authentic and accurate Abba tributes, with the motto “The winner takes it all”. 8pm. £15.

•13th November, Service of Remembrance, RAF Cosford

A service to remember the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifi ce during their tours of duty, supported by the Military Wives Choir and RAF Cosford. 10.30am. Tickets are free, but must be pre-booked. rafmuseum.org.uk

•18th November, The Greatest Magician, Festival Drayton Centre, Market Drayton

Host of BBC’s Trickster Live, James Phelan performs mindblowing magic directed by the late Paul Daniels, from making people forget their own names to people vanishing from the audience. Family-friendly. 8pm. £14.50 (family tickets available).

•18th November, Gardening Day and Lecture, Dorothy Clive Garden, Market Drayton

With a focus on producing a year-round garden this day course includes lectures and practical sessions, as well as a garden tour and Q&A. Refreshments and lunch provided. 10am-4pm. £100.

•18th November, Much Ado About Jazz, Silvester Horne Institute, Church Stretton

Unique two-man show aimed at those who don’t necessarily like jazz as well as those who do! 7.30pm. £12 (under-18s £6).

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

19TH-30TH NOVEMBER

•19th & 20th November, Apley Christmas

Market All you need to prepare for Christmas, plus tasting and a hot chocolate bar. 10am-4pm. Free entry.

•19th-20th November, Oswestry Antiques Market, Oswestry Showground

Antiques, vintage, collectibles, architectural salvage, midcentury and unique decorative items. Last entry 2pm. £3.50 on the gate (cash only please).

•25th November, Fizz Night,

Ludlow Kitchen Enjoy two hours of bubbles under expert guidance, exploring new sparkling wines and champagne and savouring favourites. 7pm. Over-18s only. £25 (£80 for four).

•26th November, England vs Wales Boxing, The Buttermarket

Enjoy a couple of hours of boxing followed by an after-party

until late. 4pm. £25, VIP options available. Dress to impress!

•30th November, Christmas Wreath Making, MOOand

BOOM, Whitchurch Join in a Christmas craft session creating your own wreath to display at home. 11am-3pm. £35 including festive refreshments.

A Christmas gift from MOOand

Boom – save 15%!

“With all the worry of rising bills, we felt this would help our loyal customers,” says owner Maddie. Spend £10 at MOOand BOOM in Whitchurch and get a stamp; collect 8 stamps for 15% o your Christmas shopping. O er runs until 24th December, and also applies online.

Have the run of the Mill

Shrewsbury Flaxmill Maltings welcomes visitors to its exhibition The Mill, telling the story of this iconic Shrewsbury building. With digital hands-on activities for all ages, it’s a chance to discover the lives and stories of workers, soldiers, engineers and entrepreneurs who all played their part in the mill’s history. On 5th November, a quiet session is planned from 9-10am, where visitor numbers will be reduced for the comfort of those with sensory needs. Entry is £7.50 (child £5, concessions £6).

shrewsburyflaxmillmaltings.org.uk

DID YOU KNOW? Bricks were taxed when the mill was built. To keep costs down they used larger bricks!

Santa comes to Derwen Who’ll be the shining star in Newport?

Get into the spirit

Christmas is starting early at Derwen College, near Oswestry, with a bumper Christmas Fayre on 25th-27th November. ree days of festivities include a Christmas market and an audience with Santa. A host of Shropshire’s top artisan producers will be selling festive food, gifts, crafts and decorations alongside Derwen College’s own Garden Centre and Gift Shop merchandise. Entrance to the fayre is free, but there’s a small charge for Santa’s grotto – please book a place in advance. derwen.ac.uk Newport marks the start of the festive season on 26th November with street entertainment, a winter wonderland grotto and dazzling light display. During the day a festive street market featuring food, drink, crafts and gifts will line St Mary’s Street, then around 6pm the winner of the Christmas card competition has the honour of switching on the Christmas lights, followed by a festive singalong with the Salvation Army. See allaboutnewport.co.uk

Heaven on earth

The UK’s top chocolatiers head for the Shire patch on 19th-20th November for Shrewsbury Chocolate Festival – hurrah! The free festival, held at St Mary’s Church, promotes high quality chocolate and attracts industry experts and awardwinning bean-to-bar producers offering fresh and unique products. A raft of other sweet treats will also be on sale including crêpes, chocolate liqueur and nougat. shrewsburychocolatefestival.co.uk For a festival atmosphere with added seasonal cheer head for Abbeyfest at Shrewsbury Abbey on 18th-19th November, in support of Lingen Davies Cancer Fund. Expect a specially selected array of independently produced beers and gins, plus food stalls, live music and a few other treats. Entry is by ticket only, from £12 (online), with VIP upgrades available. lingendavies.co.uk

DID YOU KNOW? The park is home to the UK’s largest animatronic dinosaur attraction

See nature in a new light

Baby, it’s cold outside… but West Midlands Safari Park will soon be bright with over 1,000 lights. From 11th November-8th January the park will be decorated on a flora and fauna theme for the popular Lantern Festival, giving visitors a chance to experience the walk-through areas as never before. On selected dates (mostly Fridays and weekends) you can follow the lantern trail and enjoy mesmerising displays. The walk-through animal exhibits will also be open, making it a fantastic family evening out. Entry is from 5-7pm, the park closes at 8.30pm. Tickets are £19, under-3s go free. Advance booking advised. wmsp.co.uk

A Christmas favourite

Christmas ballet is a treat for the whole family, and The Nutcracker is a perfect introduction to audiences of any age to the beauty of classical dance. Crown Ballet from Moldova present the fairy tale of a little girl who receives a doll on Christmas Eve and uses her imagination to make magic happen. It’s at The Place Theatre, Telford on 29th November, at 7.30pm. Tickets £23 (child £18). telfordtheatre.com

Stories from Santa Claus

Listen to Santa tell tales of his previous visits to Ludlow from his grotto at Ludlow Farmshop on 3rd-4th December. Each child will get to tell Santa what they would like for Christmas and come away with a special gift. Accompanying adults will receive a hot drink and mince pie too. Please book in advance, child £12.50, adult £2.50 (maximum four adults per child). ludlowfarmshop.co.uk

Forest of lights

e ancient woodland of Weston Park transforms into a magical illuminated forest from 9th-11th December (and further selected dates), celebrating the splendour of the natural world. Towering trees, historic landmarks and hidden surprises are all picked out on the trail. A small Christmas market will be o ering street food, beverages, live music and re pits. is is a hugely popular event and advance booking is essential. weston-park.com

He’s a top cat

Full of catchy rhythms, lush melodies and feline musical effects, Mid Wales

Opera presents a one-act version of

Puss in Boots, by Catalan composer

Montsalvatge at Ludlow Assembly

Rooms on 4th November. Sung in English, the production features five musicians showcasing a new arrangement by Jonathan Lyness. The second half sees a collection of popular tunes. The evening starts at 7.30pm and tickets cost £22 (under-18s £10).

ludlowassemblyrooms.com

Feeling festive on the farm

From 3rd December, enjoy a special Santa Experience at Park Hall Farm. Once your time with the big man has passed, spend as long as you like making the most of the farm’s activities and attractions. e Santa Experience includes elf entertainment, a present for every child, a small edible treat and drink, plus a Christmas show. Timed visits must be booked in advance, and child tickets start from £20.95. parkhallfarm.co.uk

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

1ST-6TH DECEMBER

•1st December, Top Gun: Maverick (12A), Sparc Theatre,

Bishop’s Castle Another chance to see Tom Cruise as Pete ‘Maverick’ Mitchell, as he trains aviation graduates for a special mission. 7pm. From £4.50.

•1st-3rd December, Dick Whittington and his Cat, Whitchurch Civic Centre

Classic family panto to get you in the Christmas spirit. 7.30pm. £15 (£12 concessions).

•1st-4th December, Aladdin, Festival Drayton Centre, Market

Drayton From the stellar team that brought you last year’s panto, Aladdin features Tessa Vale from Horrible Histories and Sarah-Louise Young, plus a magic carpet ride that’s really magic! Times vary. £15 (child £13, family tickets available).

•2nd December, A Snow Princess Christmas, Hoo

Zoo, Telford See the zoo all lit up for Christmas. Even the dinosaurs will be celebrating! Make snowfl akes with the elves, and join in a singalong or storytime with the Snow Princesses. 3-9pm, tickets include full day admission. Adults £5.95-£10.95, children £10-£25.

•3rd December, Much

Wenlock Christmas Fayre With around 150 stalls, the town’s independent shops all decked out and a candle-lit procession fi nishing with carol singing in the square, you’re guaranteed a festive experience. From 10am.

•6th December, Piccadilly Sinfonietta, Shrewsbury Abbey

Virtuoso group perform Chopin, Corelli and Vivaldi by candlelight, including the ‘Four Seasons’. 7.30pm. From £19.

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

8TH-21ST DECEMBER

•8th December, Going Wild in Bishop’s Castle, Bishops Castle Town

Hall A programme of monthly talks on nature and wildlife throughout the winter months includes Midwinter Foraging. 7.30pm. Free, donations welcome.

•11th December, Bella Hardy’s Christmas Show, The Hive,

Shrewsbury BBC Radio 2 Folk Singer of the Year and acclaimed performer Bella Hardy performs local carols and well-loved classics, delivered in her authentic style and crystalline voice. 7.45pm. £16.

•12th December, Shropshire Women in Business Networking Event, Love2Stay, Shrewsbury

Meet and connect with other ambitious women in business in the local area in a relaxed but productive atmosphere. 9.30am. £15 including refreshments.

•20th December, Surprise

Christmas Film (PG),

Kinokulture, Oswestry The title will be announced just before screening; expect anything from a new release to a Christmas classic, or even something unknown. Ticket includes mulled wine and nibbles. 7.30pm. £6.50.

•21st December, A Christmas Carol, The Blue Boar, Ludlow

Award-winning story-teller Jason Buck brings this classic tale to life with comedy and chills, suitable for children and adults alike. 7pm. £9.50 (£6.50 concessions). eventbrite.co.uk

Ideal first fireworks

DID YOU KNOW? The record for the longest display is 1 hr 1 min 32 secs and it rained the whole time!

Two displays are taking place at the West Mid Showground on 5th November. The first, at 6.15pm, has reduced noise levels, making it an ideal first fireworks experience for younger children. The second display at 7.45pm will use traditional fireworks – plenty of bang! flash! wheeeee! for everyone. Proceeds from the evening will go to Shropshire and West Midlands Agricultural Society’s Rural Charity, which supports the showground along with various groups and organisations. Online tickets cost £12 (£5 for children aged 6-15), with camping options for those who want to make a night of it. westmidshowground.co.uk

It’s a small-scale world

Experience life in miniature at Scale ModelWorld, coming to Telford International Centre on 12th13th November. The world’s largest fine-scale model show features thousands of models of every imaginable genre, attracting special interest modelling groups from home and abroad, with more than 140 categories of competition. Tickets can be booked online, from £12 (accompanied under-16s free). ipmsuk.org

Join the Fizztastical parade!

e businesses of Ellesmere stay open late for an evening of festivities and shopping on 25th November. A Christmas market and Santa’s Grotto will appear in the Market Hall, with carols around the Tree of Light in the evening. Santa arrives by boat at e Wharf at 6.30pm, before the Fizztastical Fizzgigs Lantern Parade accompanied by street band at 6.45pm. Find out how to make your lantern at ellesmere.info

All aboard for enchantment

Severn Valley Railway celebrates Christmas with a host of special experiences, starting with Steam in Lights on 18th November. The theme for 2022 is ‘A Journey Around the World’ and for this immersive night-time experience the Severn Valley becomes a colourful trail for the whole family to enjoy. There are three departure times each evening, and tickets for a table of four start from £106. Advance booking is essential. svr.co.uk

Lights of Love

Severn Hospice’s treasured lights ceremony will be in-person for the first time since 2019, taking place at Bicton Heath on 4th December. The 4pm event is a poignant opportunity to remember the lives of loved ones, and maybe dedicate a light on the Christmas tree in their memory. Lights of Love will include reading, music and singing before the tree is lit. Find out how to submit the name of your loved one and donate at severnhospice.org.uk