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Northamptonshire
www.primarytimes.co.uk Winter Issue 108 14 November 2022 - 5 February 2023
Northamptonshire’s only what’s on and where to go guide covering the whole county... BRACKLEY. CORBY. DAVENTRY. KETTERING. NORTHAMPTON. RUSHDEN. TOWCESTER. WELLINGBOROUGH
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WINTER ISSUE 2022/23
CONTENTS
HELLO READERS!
Hello and welcome to our Christmas issue, packed full of sparkling inspiration to help you plan some fun as the festive season quickly approaches! Whether it’s the joy of seeing Santa, staring in awe at twinkling Christmas light displays or visiting enticing winter wonderlands, Christmas should be a time for both heart-warming traditions and family gatherings, without breaking the bank. We’ve pulled together all the best events in the region, for all budgets, which offer the best of both – browse through our festive and diary pages to help navigate your way through the superb variety of Christmas countdown activities and destinations with your children! Finally, as we come to the year end, we would like to say an enormous thank you to all teachers, school staff and our advertisers who help make Primary Times the great magazine that it is – we couldn’t do it without your constant and enthusiastic support.
2 CHRISTMAS QUIZ 4 LOCAL KNOWLEDGE 7 FESTIVE TREATS 11 WHAT’S ON WHERE 14 FAMILY THEATRE GUIDE 15 COMPETITION 15 WINTER RECIPE
Have a truly fabulous Christmas creating happy family memories for years to come, and we look forward to seeing you in again in 2023! Ne issu xt Febr e out ua 6th ry
Published by Moonscape Media Ltd • T: 0118 972 4980 • E: office@primarytimesmag.com Editor: Michelle Dilger • Production: Nathan Pretlove • Advertising: Niki Whitwell & Suzanne Mason Listings Editor: Suzanne Watson • Features Editor: Helen Chitham Primary Times is independently published and distributed free through primary schools in Northamptonshire. It aims to inform families and children about current educational issues, forthcoming events, courses, attractions and to give teachers, pupils and parents the opportunity to participate in the magazine by adding to its contents or by joining in the competitions. It is NOT our intention to publish any racist, sexist or politically based material whatsoever. We also undertake not to carry any advertising which we would consider to be offensive to young families or harmful to the best interests of young children. Primary Times would like to thank all the schools in Northamptonshire for their assistance in distributing the magazine and for their contributions to its contents. We would also like to thank all the advertisers who have supported this publication and therefore made it possible. Please support their endeavours when and where you can. The copyright on all written material, logos and advertising artwork produced by our studio remains with Primary Times or with the relevant contributor. Primary Times is currently publishing over 2 million copies per issue under franchise licences throughout the UK. Primary Times Northamptonshire is operated under franchise licence.
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WINTER ISSUE 2022/23
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PARENTS LOCAL KNOWLEDGE FOR & TEACHERS
BILLING BROOK ARE LOOKING TO RECRUIT TEACHERS TO JOIN THEIR VALUED TEAM
NORTHAMPTONSHIRE MUSIC AND PERFORMING ARTS TRUST’S CONCERT SEASON 2022-2023 HAS BEGUN!
Billing Brook is a vibrant all age (4-18 years) school for pupils with a range of special educational needs. These range from severe to significant learning communication difficulties. They are looking to recruit resilient staff to add to their valued team of multi-talented and skilled staff. Resilience and high levels of sustained energy help them support pupils’ needs which include adapting teaching and learning, motivating pupils to engage in learning and preparing pupils for adult life. They are currently recruiting for one teaching vacancy and a number of permanent teaching assistant posts. So please look out for their advert in this edition of Primary Times or visit the school website. W: www.billingbrook.co.uk
Sunday 13th November saw the Trust’s five new senior ensembles perform at Youth in Concert, on the prestigious Derngate stage. Looking ahead, the Autumn Festival of Music takes place at Spinney Theatre, Northampton School for Girls, on Saturday 19th November, where junior and training level County Ensembles will showcase their first term’s work. Towards the end of term, the Chamber Concert at Christ Church provide an opportunity for older students to develop their small ensemble playing skills, Choirs at Christmas brings together singers from across the county, and the End of Term Concert draws the autumn term to a close. Tickets for all events can be purchased in advance, from the NMPAT Office, or on the door, depending on availability: 01604 637117 (£7.50 adults, £5 children). W: www.nmpat.co.uk/events
HEALTH ADVICE AND SUPPORT WHENEVER AND WHEREVER YOU NEED IT Did you know that if you or your family need urgent health care you can get help and support whenever you need it? NHS 111 is free to use and available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and because it’s available online, you can leave your child to rest while you get the advice and reassurance you need. If needed, a healthcare professional will call you straight back. And the best part is, if your child does need to see a health professional, NHS 111 will offer you a timeslot (an allocated time for you to arrive at a service, it does not mean you will be seen at that time) at the local health service which is best placed to treat them - that could be an Urgent Treatment Centre, a General Practice, pharmacy or emergency dentist. Saving you time and the stress of hanging around waiting areas. All you need to do is answer a few questions. The easiest way to use NHS 111 is by logging onto 111.nhs.uk
NURSERY COMMUNITY SESSIONS AT NORTHAMPTON HIGH SCHOOL Northampton High School are delighted to open the doors of their state-of-theart Nursery facility to parents and children (boys and girls) aged 0-5, for dedicated sessions with specialist teachers at their Community Sessions. Taking place Monday to Friday during term time, each session has a particular focus which makes the most of the expert facilities at Northampton High. The sessions currently offered include: Explore & Grow, Create & Grow, Play & Grow, Dance & Grow, Splash & Grow and Learn & Grow. Northampton High School - turning ‘Can We?’ into ‘We Can!’ For more information regarding these sessions and to book your place, please head to northamptonhigh.co.uk or call 01604 765765. 4
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WINTER ISSUE 2022/23
WHEN YOU OR YOUR CHILD NEEDS THE NHS CONTACT 111 FIRST Free and open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year – either by calling 111 or visiting 111.NHS.UK Quick, convenient and reassuring without needing to leave your home
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WINTER ISSUE 2022/23
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Breakfast with Santa
Santa Specials
27th November, 3rd & 4th, 10th & 11th and 17th & 18th December
Friday 23rd December
Price £15 per person 10am – 12pm Enjoy a full buffet breakfast (full English and continental) with a surprise visit from Santa himself. A morning full of delicious food, games and festive fun
We recommend all guests to arrive at 10am to avoid missing any of the entertainment. Subject to availability. Full pre-payment and pre booking required. All payments are non-refundable.
Holiday Inn Corby - Kettering A43 | Geddington Road, Corby, Northamptonshire, NN18 8ET Tel: 01536 401020 Web: www.hicorby.com Email: events@hicorby.com @holidayinncorby
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WINTER ISSUE 2022/23
SANTA SPECIALS STEAM INTO NORTHAMPTON & LAMPORT RAILWAY THIS CHRISTMAS Fancy a magical Christmas encounter? Then wrap up and head out to visit Santa in his Magical Grotto and then take a relaxing train ride along the Northampton & Lamport Railway from Pitsford and Brampton station. Don’t forget, as there are a large number of children who want to meet Santa, you’ll need to make an appointment with the big man himself! Appointments start at 10.00am until 4pm. There will be a frequent train service operating each day so once you’ve seen Santa there will be a minimum delay before you can board the train and enjoy the ride. Every child will receive a present, soft drink and biscuits, while every adult can enjoy a glass of sherry and a delicious mince pie. Check out their website for dates and times.
FESTIVE TREATS CONTENTS Christmas is always a special time of the year, but what makes it so magical is family time, festive activities and traditions that are enjoyed and live on. Create your own ways to celebrate by planning a visit to some of these twinkling destinations – all geared up to make this your merriest Christmas yet!
T: 01604 820327 W: www.nlr.org.uk
CHRISTMAS IN KETTERING ENJOY A FEAST OF FESTIVE FUN IN CORBY TOWN CENTRE THIS CHRISTMAS! SANTA SPECIALS STEAM INTO RUSHDEN RAILWAY STATION Head off to Rushden Railway Station and enjoy a ride on their diesel Santa Special followed by a visit to Mr & Mrs Claus in their grotto. Children will receive a good quality present in their age range - please choose the correct age bracket when booking. Tickets also include a complimentary juice drink and biscuits for children and for adults, it’s tea or coffee with a mince pie. Ticket price is £7 for adults and £12.50 for children; babies with a present is £5, or free without a present. Tickets must be booked in advance online at www.ticketsource.co.uk/rhts .
Visitors to Corby will be able to enjoy a bumper Christmas events programme, including a traditional Santa’s grotto, Santa’s sleigh and real reindeer, free craft workshops, festive walkabout characters and live music. Christmas trees and decorations will adorn the town centre including a giant illuminated ‘Happy Santa’, as well as a snow family in Willow Place – perfect for a seasonal selfie shot! Look out for the selfie competition and the chance to win a great prize! Santa’s Grotto will be open on Saturday 10th, Sunday 11th, Saturday 17th, Sunday 18th and Friday 23rd December. Admission is £3 to include a gift. Please check website for dates and times. No booking required.
Kettering Christmas Lights BIG Switch On event will run from 4-8pm on Thursday 24th November at Kettering Market Place. The festive celebrations will include live performances from local dance group Starlight Dance, No Angels band on stage, to the stars of Sleeping Beauty Pantomime at The Masque Theatre, Barton Seagrave, plus a funfair, Kettering Lions’ Santa Sleigh, street performers, and Christmas gifts, food & drink Market, Festive Fair at St. Peter and St. Paul’s church, and much more! Support your local town centre with Christmas Markets on Kettering Market Place on Saturdays 26th November 3rd, 10th and 17th December with lots of gift ideas, refreshments and festive family entertainment. Also, from Saturday 26th November to Saturday 24th December, why not have a go at the 12 Days of Christmas Trail around Kettering town centre? Grab a trail sheet from Kettering swimming pool and explore the town centre to find 12 clues in different shops and claim your treat at the end. W: thisiskettering.com/Christmas
VISIT SANTA IN HIS GROTTO AT GULLIVER’S LAND MILTON KEYNES RESORT! Enjoy a fabulous festive adventure at Gulliver’s this Christmas. Hop aboard enchanting rides, discover festive attractions and magical entertainment across the site. Look forward to a day out that’s bursting with Christmas surprises! Great value packages are available for visits starting from Saturday 3rd December 2022. Bing and Flop will be making special appearances each day, so there’s even more reasons to book your visit! W: gulliverslandresort.co.uk
W: willowplace.co.uk
For more information email administrator@rhts.co.uk or call 0300 302 3150.
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FESTIVE TREATS
SANTA COMES TO CALL AT BOSWORTH’S GARDEN CENTRES THIS CHRISTMAS Magical Christmas events return to Bosworth’s Garden Centres this year! In Burton Latimer, don’t miss their enchanting Santa’s Grotto. Visit Santa and get a photo with him beside his cosy fireplace, before heading over to the toy workshop to choose your very own toy! Open from the 26th November to 24th December, with quiet Santa sessions available too. Booking is required, costing £11 for the first child, with additional children for £10. The picturesque Elton store is hosting an exclusive Breakfast with Santa where, for just £11, children can enjoy a hot breakfast, a visit from Santa and a gift. The renowned Christmas displays in Burton Latimer are free to wander through and from the first week of December, a visit to the famous singing reindeers is a must! W: www.bosworthsgc.co.uk
MAKE AND CREATE ALL THINGS CHRISTMASSY AT SULGRAVE MANOR Head out for Christmas fun at Sulgrave Manor on Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th December from 11am to 4pm. They will have Christmas Crafts, Face Painting, a Christmas Activity Trail, you can visit the Manor House, listen to Pop Up Talks and, of course, visit Santa’s Grotto. Entry to the Family Fun Day is £6 per child and £8 per adult. A visit to Father Christmas is only £10 per child including a gift and craft item (charged in addition to entry). When booking for the Grotto you choose a morning or afternoon slot when booking online. You will then be contacted to confirm your 5-minute visit time. W: www.sulgravemanor.org.uk/whats-on
WESTON FAVELL PRESENTS SANTA! The star of the show is BACK! Santa will be headlining Christmas at Weston Favell Shopping centre from Saturday 19th November to Saturday 24th December. Welcome Santa on Saturday 19th November from 12:30pm as he heads through the centre on his sleigh, to the sparkly grotto on the upper mall. Then, as we countdown to the big day, enjoy other fun activities and live acts throughout the centre! Two elves and their ‘Goodometer’ are checking to find out who’s been naughty and who’s been nice over the past year. Meet a rather cheeky talking post-box, Celebrity reindeer, wish fairies and so much more! Visit online to book tickets for Santa’s Grotto. W: westonfavellshopping.com T&C’s apply. Booking fee applies. Ticket includes entry with gift.
THUNDERBOWL KNOWS HOW TO GET A PARTY STARTED – BOOK NOW FOR SOME FAMILY FUN! The friendly staff at Thunderbowl Kettering are always ready for a party! Whether you’re getting together with family, friends or colleagues, their Party Nights Package is perfect for all occasions. It includes 2 games of bowling, a delicious basket meal and drink voucher for £22 per person on their standard lanes, or £25 per person in the VIP area. If you’re looking to add extra time, why not look at their other amazing facilities? These include Adventure Golf, Pool Lounge, Amusement Arcade, Escape Rooms and Interactive Darts! Booking is essential for Bowling and Escape Rooms. Cosmic Bowling is every Friday and Saturday evening from 7pm. T: 01536 414004 W: www.thunderbowl.co.uk
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WINTER ISSUE 2022/23
WELLINGBOROUGH CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON Gather the family on Saturday 26th November from 2:30pm – 5:30pm for the Wellingborough Christmas Lights Switch On! There will be live entertainment on stage on Market Street outside Costello Lounge on the Mosaics floor area. The event includes local community performances, local singer Odette, Northamptonshire Music and Performing Arts Trust, Dynamix Dance Company, Wellingborough Rotary Clubs with Santa and his sleigh, Wellingborough Carnival Committee plus the Stars from the Castle Theatre Pantomime ‘Jack and the Beanstalk,’ followed by a brilliant fireworks display. Anyone at the event also has a chance to win family panto tickets to see Jack and The Beanstalk, plus a chance to turn on the Christmas lights!
FESTIVE TREATS
Mad Hatter Christmas Day Lunch Spend the most magical day of the year with us at the Holiday Inn Corby with a joyful atmosphere with entertainment, a visit from Santa and a delicious three course meal! Includes an arrival drink, entertainment, three course meal, festive novelties, a visit from Santa, gifts for the children, freshly brewed tea and coffee and a selection of cakes. Ensure you book early to secure your place as dates fill up fast! £75.00 per adult £37.50 per child To find out more or book please contact the Hotel directly on 01536 401020 or email Christmas@hicorby.com
Merry Christmas! Holiday Inn Corby - Kettering A43 | Geddington Road, Corby, Northamptonshire, NN18 8ET Tel: 01536 401020 Web: www.hicorby.com Email: events@hicorby.com @holidayinncorby
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FESTIVE TREATS
VISIT LAMPORT HALL’S MAGICAL WINTER WOODLAND FOR FESTIVE FUN
MAKE YOUR CHRISTMAS MAGICAL THIS YEAR AT WICKSTEED
FESTIVE FAMILY FUN AT DELAPRE ABBEY ,
Uncover the wonder at Wicksteed when you join their cheeky elves through their magical experience. Start your journey by boarding the festive train ride where you get to meet Santa’s reindeer, Dancer & Prancer! You may even get the lucky chance to feed them some specialty reindeer food! After that you’ll be escorted to an incredible Christmas theatre where you get to enjoy an exclusive Christmas show starring Mrs. Claus, and then you’ll get to meet the main man himself, Father Christmas. Finish off this wonderful experience by choosing a special gift from Santa’s workshop before having fun on the rides including their fantastic BRAND-NEW attraction! Pop in to say Merry Christmas to their Farmyard animals. Make your Christmas Magical this year!
With 900 years of exciting history to explore, the Abbey will be open for general admission alongside a fun events programme. Delapré’s hands-on approach to bringing history to life makes it a unique family day out. Discover an array of magical light installations throughout the grounds with the Winter Light Trail, enjoy a great day out for all the family at the Christmas Fair, plus meet Father Christmas and his elves at Santa’s Grotto. Visitors can also hear festive stories on a special Candlelit Tour of the Abbey on various dates in November and December. You’ll have to be quick though as the Abbey’s popular family events sell out fast. See dates, times, and book tickets online.
W: wicksteedpark.org
W: delapreabbey.org
New Years Eve
Mad Hatter Family Party Want to enjoy New Years Eve with the kids? We make New Years Eve special for families. Relax with a family friendly party with a 7 item finger and dessert buffet, arrival drink and DJ entertainment. Arrival drink from 6:30pm and buffet will be served from 7pm followed by a night of dancing and fun until 1am and you and your family will bring in the bells in true style with our amazing Bagpiper.
£45.00 per adult, £22.50 per child Holiday Inn Corby - Kettering A43 | Geddington Road, Corby, Northamptonshire, NN18 8ET Tel: 01536 401020 Web: www.hicorby.com Email: events@hicorby.com @holidayinncorby
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The halls are being festively decked at Lamport Hall to welcome in the season with an exciting calendar of Christmas events. On the 3rd & 4th December, from 10am-4pm you can enjoy Lamport’s Christmas Market with over 90 amazing stalls of gifts, crafts and produce – you’re sure to find something special. For little ones, visiting Santa’s Grotto in the magical Christmas winter woodland, meeting his reindeer together with festive activities is a must! Pre-booking to meet Santa is essential. On the 10th December at 6pm, author Nancy Campbell digs deep into the meanings and myths surrounding snow throughout the world, with an evocative talk entitled ‘Fifty Words for Snow’. Event details can be found online. W: www.lamporthall.co.uk
FAMILY LIFE
WHAT’S ON WHERE ONGOING Daventry Country Park Daventry Country Park is a popular park ideally situated in the urban fringe of Daventry, within one mile of the town centre and easily accessible by car, bicycle or on foot with the benefit of cycle ways and footpaths from the surrounding areas. Daventry Country Park, NN11 2JB. W: www.daventrydc.gov.uk/
Daventry Leisure Centre The centre is open with a reduced list of activities and available spaces. W: www.everyoneactive.com/
Superworm Arrives!
Redwell Leisure Centre
Brand new Superworm family trail at Salcey Forest and Fineshade Wood. The trails showcase the unsung heroes of the forest based on the book by Julia Donaldson. Purchase a trail from the visitor welcome points for £3.50. www.forestryengland.uk/activities/ superworm-activity-trails
Redwell and Waendal Leisure Centres in Wellingborough offer local residents the chance to stay fit and active. Visit www.Placesleisure.org
Gruffalo Sculptures at Fineshade Wood If you venture into the deep dark wood, you may bump into Gruffalo and his creature friends from Julia Donaldson’s classic story. See handcrafted sculptures of fox, mouse, owl, squirrel and snake alongside the Gruffalo. Head to the trails to find them all on your next visit. www.forestryengland.uk/ fineshade-wood/gruffalosculptures-fineshade-wood
Trilogy Leisure Cripps recreation, Danes Camp, Duston Sports, Lings Forum and Mounts Baths are open for family fun and pre-booked holiday activities. W: www.trilogyleisure.co.uk for full details.
Walking Trails at Salcey Forest Situated just 7 miles from Northampton, Salcey Forest has walking trails to keep the family fit and active. Details are on their website. W: www.forestryengland.uk/salceyforest/
SPLAT Holiday Club A fun and exciting childcare option during every school holiday at Lodge Park Sports Centre, Corby. For children in Year 1+, Ages 5-12 Years. T: 01536 400033
Candlelit Tours Experience the Abbey by candlelight on this wonderfully festive, special outof-hours tour. Tours at 5pm, 6pm and 7pm. £15 per person, price includes mulled wine and mince pies. Delapre Abbey. Various dates in November and December. W: www.delapreabbey.org
Christmas at Gulliver’s Land Milton Keynes Look forward to a magical Christmas adventure this December at Gulliver’s Land Milton Keynes and see Santa in his grotto! Selected dates throughout December 2022. W: www.gulliverslandresort.co.uk/ christmas-at-gullivers
NOVEMBER Friday 18th
Aesop’s Fables Cheeky Creature Christmas Quest Find the hidden clues with animals from the stories across the winter walk and the decorated rooms in the house. Collect your cheeky creature activity pack upon arrival at Visitor Reception, £3 per child, normal admission applies. Runs on selected dates in November and daily from 2nd-24th December. Upton House, Warwickshire. W: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/
Winter Light Trail Discover an array of magical light installations throughout the stunning grounds of the Abbey. 4-8.40pm. Running until 2nd January. Delapre Abbey. Find out more and book tickets at delapreabbey.org
Resilient Teaching Assistants (TA) wanted for our school We are a busy special educational needs school and looking to recruit fantastic Teaching Assistants to work across all age groups to support and motivate all our pupils. Billing Brook strives to give all our pupils the best education support and that’s how you can fit in. Our TA posts are suitable for those who are really passionate about working with pupils who have special educational needs and making a real difference to their lives. Previous experience would be desirable but not essential but your willingness to learn is vital to your success at Billing Brook School. We welcome applications from experienced candidates or those who are starting out their career and are willing to learn and grow within the school. We will also consider applications from new graduates who want SEND experience before embarking on their future teaching career with us. Please scan the QR code for further details.
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WINTER ISSUE 2022/23 11
FAMILY LIFE Saturday 19th
Santa’s Grotto Share the magic of Christmas at Stanwick Lakes this winter. With the help of his elves, Santa will welcome children and families into his grotto to work out who has been naughty or nice on selected dates in November and December. Each child will get to make their own natural Christmas decoration before meeting Santa. W: www.stanwicklakes.org.uk
Autumn Festival of MusicNorthampton Music and Performing Arts Trust The first opportunity for all new Junior and Training County Groups to showcase their first terms work at Spinney Theatre, Northampton. Tickets £7.50 (£5 children) available from 01604 637117 or www.nmpat.co.uk/events
Christmas In Kettering
Christmas Fair
Kettering Christmas Lights BIG Switch On event will run from 4pm-8pm and will be hosted by local community radio station Shire Sounds. Kettering Market Place. Featuring live performances. Santa Sleigh, Festive Fair. W: www.thisiskettering.com/ christmas
Pick up unique, handmade gifts from a variety of carefully selected stalls. 10am-4pm, £1 plus a food donation. Also on November 27th and December 3rd/4th. Delapre Abbey. Find out more and book tickets at delapreabbey.org
Friday 25th
A Tudor Family Caroling Join in with singers from Eboracum Baroque with a festive programme of music and family favourites in the Green Dining room at Lyveden. 5-6.30pm. Lyveden New Bield National Trust. W: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ lyveden
Saturday 26th
Weston Favell Presents Santa! Santa will be headlining Christmas at Weston Favell Shopping centre from Saturday 19th November to Saturday 24th December. Welcome Santa on Saturday 19th November from 12:30pm as he heads through the centre on his sleigh, to the sparkly grotto on the upper mall. Bookings: westonfavellshopping.com
Thursday 24th
Victorian Christmas at Rockingham Castle On a guided tour, visitors will be transported back to Christmas Eve in 1849, to the reign of Queen Victoria, as the Watson family gather for their traditional Christmas celebrations. With the Castle rooms decorated as it would have been at the time, guests will be entertained by the housekeeper, governess, butler or footman, who will share delightful stories of Victorian family life. 24th-27th November and 1st-4th December. W: www.rockinghamcastle.com or T: 01536770240
Christmas at Warwick Castle Featuring stories with Santa, Ice-skating and a light trail. Runs until 2nd January. W: www.warwick-castle.com
Christmas at Bosworth Garden Centre Meet Santa and get a photo with him beside his cosy fireplace, before heading over to the toy workshop with his elves to choose your very own toy! Runs at Burton Latimer until 24th December. The picturesque Elton store is hosting the most exclusive Breakfast with Santa, for just £11 your little one can enjoy a hot breakfast, a visit from Santa and even a gift! W: www.bosworthsgc.co.uk/
Daventry Christmas Market An array of festive stalls selling unique Christmas inspired gifts, crafts, decorations, clothing, plus food and drink to get you into the festive spirit. Daventry High Street. W: www.daventrytowncouncil.gov.uk/
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Christmas Markets in Kettering Christmas Markets will take place on Kettering Market Place on Saturdays 26th November 3rd, 10th and 17th December with lots of gift ideas, food, drink with festive entertainment for the whole family. W: www.thisiskettering.com/ christmas
Magical Wicksteed Park Board the Festive train to visit Dancer and Prancer. Meet Mrs Claus and visit Santa’s workshop where you’ll receive a special gift of your choice. Bookings: www.wicksteedpark.org
Christmas Fair Popular Christmas Fair at Abington Park Museum. A wide range of artisan producers and crafters offering quality gifts, decorations and festive food and drink. 11am4pm. Free entry. Also on 27th November. W: www.northamptonmuseums.com/
12 Days of Christmas Trail Running from 26th November to Saturday 24th December, the 12 Days of Christmas Trail will run around Kettering town centre. Grab a trail sheet from Kettering swimming pool and explore the town centre to find 12 clues in different shops and claim your treat at the end. W: www.thisiskettering.com/Christmas
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Wellingborough Christmas Lights Switch On The event includes local community acts performances, local singer Odette, Northamptonshire Music and Performing Arts Trust, Dynamix Dance Company, Wellingborough Rotary Clubs with Santa and his sleigh, Wellingborough Carnival Committee plus the Stars from the Castle Theatre Pantomime ‘Jack and the Beanstalk,’ Followed by a fireworks display. 2.30-5.30pm. W: www.thisiskettering.com/ Christmas
Sunday 27th
Meet Santa in Kettering this Christmas! Meet Father Christmas and his Elves in the magical setting of Santa’s Lapland Lodge this Christmas. Enter a wonderland of snow and trees, before you go in to meet Santa himself in his inner lodge. Every child will receive a present. 10am-4pm. Running until 24th December. Late night openings 9th,16th, and 23rd December. Kettering Market Place. W: www.ketteringtowncouncil.gov.uk or T: 07432 441147.
The Christmas Experience Running until 24th December at West Lodge Rural Centre. W: www.westlodgeruralcentre.co.uk/ events/
Santa Specials Santa Specials run on Saturdays and Sundays until 18th December. All tickets include a meet with Santa, a present for children and complementary on-train refreshments. Appointments start at 10.30am. Northampton and Lamport Railway. W: www.nlr.org.uk or T: 01604 820327
FAMILY LIFE
DECEMBER Thursday 1st
The Magical Wood Trail Take your little festive pixies to Canons Ashby to try the Magical Wood Trail. Running from 1st 24th December. W: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ events
Winter Wonderland
Santa’s Grotto
Saturday 17th
Visit Lamport Hall’s Winter Woodland, home to Santa and his Grotto for the weekend of 3rd and 4th December. Enjoy the woodland walk, learn about reindeer, engage in festive activities, have a festive family photo on Santa’s sleigh, and visit Santa himself in his enchanted lodge. Prebook your visit at www.lamporthall.co.uk
Santa’s Grotto will be open on December 10th, 11th, 17th, 18th and 23rd. Admission £3 to include an age-appropriate gift. Please check website for dates and times. No booking required. Corby Town Centre and Willow Place Shopping. W: willowplace.co.uk
A Viking Yule
Tuesday 7th
Santa’s Grotto Meet Father Christmas, receive a present lovingly wrapped by his elves and hear a Christmas story. £8 per child, £5 with an annual pass. Various dates in December. Delapre Abbey. Find out more and book tickets at delapreabbey.org
A Christmas Quest Experience a magical Christmas visit at Canons Ashby with festive decorations inspired by Arthurian wizards, knights, dragons, and the wonderful myths that surround them. Running from 1st - 24th December. W:www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ events
Chamber Concert County Flute Choir, County Clarinet Choir and County Training Clarinet Ensemble, string quartets at Christ Church Northampton. Tickets £7.50 (£5 children) available from 01604 637117 or www.nmpat.co.uk/events
Aesop’s Fables- Christmas Evenings at Upton House Christmas decorations and storytelling at Upton after dark for all the family. Runs Wednesdays in December 4.305.15pm. Pre-booking essential. Upton House, Warwickshire. W: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/
Friday 9th Saturday 3rd
Santa Special Take a ride on the Santa Special and visit Mr and Mrs Claus. Tickets include a diesel train ride, refreshment, and a present for all children. Adults £7, children £12.50. Rushden, Higham and Wellingborough Railway. Also on 4th December. W: www.ticketsource.co.uk/rhts or 0300 302 3150
We take great care to ensure this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip … or promise!
The Knight Before Christmas Candlelit After Dark Tour of Canons Ashby National Trust Property. W: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ events
Saturday 10th
Corby Town Centre Festive Fun Visitors to the town will be able to enjoy a bumper Christmas events programme staged by the town centre team, including a traditional Santa’s grotto, Santa’s sleigh and real reindeer, free craft workshops, festive walkabout characters and live music. W: www.willowplace.co.uk
Christmas at Sulgrave Manor Christmas crafts, face painting, a Christmas activity trail, you can visit the Manor House, listen to a Pop Up Talks and visit Santa’s Grotto. 11am-4pm. Also on 11th December. £6 per child and £8 per adult. A visit to Father Christmas is only £10 per child including a gift and craft item (this is charged in addition to entry). W: www.sulgravemanor.org.uk/ whats-on
Sunday 11th
A winter’s evening of music and entertainment with The Bifrost Guard Viking re-enactors. With dressing up, craft activities, live fights, and a tug of war there will be plenty for the family to enjoy. The celebration’s climax will be a procession around our fire-lit Solstice Lake for a flaming finale! Stanwick Lakes, Northampton. W: www.stanwicklakes.org.uk
Sunday 18th
Small Space Mrs Santa Special Enjoy a special day, with songs, stories, games, and the whole Centre for the under 5s to explore. National Space Centre, Leicester. W: www.spacecentre.co.uk
Friday 23rd
Breakfast With Santa Enjoy a full buffet breakfast with a surprise visit from Santa including morning games and festive fun. 10am-12noon. £15 per person. Holiday Inn Corby. W: www.hicorby.com/
Free Craft Workshops Free children’s Christmas craft workshops are available on a walk-in basis on 11th and 18th December, 11am-2pm. 53 Corporation Street, Corby. W: www.willowplace.co.uk
Sunday 25th
Mad Hatter Christmas Day Lunch Enjoy a magical Christmas Day at the Holiday Inn Corby with a joyful atmosphere, entertainment, a visit from Santa and a delicious 3 course lunch. W: www.hicorby.com/
Wednesday 15th
Choirs at Christmas NMPAT Singers, County Senior Chamber Choir, Guys & Dolls, County Youth Choir and the NMPAT Community Choir will be performing at Northampton Cathedral. Tickets £7.50 (£5 children) available from 01604 637117 or www.nmpat.co.uk/events
Saturday 31st
New Years Eve Mad Hatter Family Party Relax with a family friendly party featuring a buffet, arrival drink, and DJ entertainment. 6pm-1am. £45 per adult, £22.50 per child. Holiday Inn Corby. W: www.hicorby.com/
Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/Northamptonshire for thousands more great days out
WINTER ISSUE 2022/23 13
FAMILY THEATRE GUIDE
Welcome to the world of fairy tales, where our poor hero Jack and his dotty Mum Dame Trott are tricked into selling their beloved cow Daisy for a useless bag of beans. Laugh at Silly Simon, boo and hiss the wicked Fleshcreep and cheeron our hero Jack as he tries to rescue his sweetheart Jill from the nasty giant’s castle in the clouds. Friday 9th-Saturday 10th December
THE POLAR EXPRESS Feel part of the action as you see the film, are served hot chocolate and a certain Saint Nicholas may even be making an appearance, along with a few other festive surprises.
www.royalandderngate.co.uk
SLEEPING BEAUTY
www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk
JACK AND THE BEANSTALK
ROYAL AND DERNGATE
www.masquekettering.co.uk/ Saturday 17th -Monday 19th December
CASTLE THEATRE Saturday 3rd-Saturday 31st December
MASQUE THEATRE
THE CORE www.thecorecorby.com Wednesday 7th-Sunday 11th December
THE POTTED PANTO Seven classic pantomimes in 70 hilarious minutes! The Olivier Award nominated festive celebration Potted Panto is back in Corby ahead of a West End season. Monday 12th-Saturday 24th December
SANTA’S CHRISTMAS RESCUE An interactive show that you and your little ones will be invited to join in with, full of songs, laughter, and festive fun.
Wednesday 25th January
Thursday 5th- Sunday 8th January
SPIRIT OF THE DANCE
DICK WHITTINGTON
The international smash hit Spirit of the Dance celebrates 25 fabulous years as one of the most popular dance shows ever .
Get ready for an adventure at The Core as Corby Amateur Theatrical Society returns with the purrr-fect festive treat.
King Cactus and Queen Marigold are delighted to invite you all to the christening of their beautiful baby girl, Aurora, at the Masque Theatre this December. All seems well in the kingdom until someone turns up who isn’t on the guest list... Friday 30th December-Monday 2nd January
GOLDILOCKS AND THE THREE BEARS
NMPAT- YOUTH IN CONCERT Northamptonshire Music And Performing Arts Trust presents the first major event of the season, Youth in Concert, with performances by the five award-winning senior ensembles of NMPAT: County Youth Concert Band, County Youth Choir, County Youth Brass Band, County Youth Big Band and County Youth Orchestra.
Get your tickets for the multi award winning Kettering Youth Theatre Group’s performance of the classic pantomime.
Friday 22nd NovemberSaturday 31st December
Saturday 21st January
Having enchanted children at Christmas time for more than 200 years this popular festive poem bursts into life in a magical production for under 7s and their grown-ups. Watch in amazement as Father Christmas and his reindeer fly through the starlit sky on their busy Christmas Eve journey ensuring that every present is delivered on time!
FIVE CHILDREN AND IT Based on the classic novel by Edith Nesbit, ‘Five Children and It’ tells the story of five siblings who move to the countryside and find a sand fairy. With plenty of wishes to choose from, the children could have anything that they desire, but things aren’t always as they seem.
THE OLD SAVOY www.theoldsavoy.co.uk Friday 9th-Saturday 31st December
SNOW WHITE CHRISTMAS FAMILY PANTO Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs will be spectacularly brought to life with an abundance of comedy, sensational song and dance numbers, fabulous costumes, and stunning scenery. Saturday 10th-Saturday 24th December
FAMILY AFTERNOON TEA WITH FATHER CHRISTMAS AND HIS ELVES Set in Santa’s workshop, tuck into a delicious spread of festive food and enjoy story times and activities with Santa’s Elves who will gift you a Christmas craft activity from their workshop to take home. Saturday 11th February
THE LITTLE MERMAID FAMILY PANTO Will Melody the magical mermaid find her voice, which was stolen by the Evil Sea Witch in order to ensure she can be with her one true love and live happily ever after. Full of beautiful scenery, sparkling costumes, and lots of fun for all the family. 14 Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/Northamptonshire for thousands more great days out
Sunday 13th November
WINTER ISSUE 2022/23
THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS
Friday 9th December-Monday 2nd January
JACK AND THE BEANSTALK Vocal powerhouse Keala Settle, star of global blockbuster movie The Greatest Showman, stars as Fairy Sugarsnap, alongside Horrible Histories and Swashbuckle’s Richard DavidCaine as the baddie. Saturday 21st January
CBEEBIES-OCEAN ADVENTURE WITH THE BBC CONCERT ORCHESTRA Favourite CBeebies characters JoJo and Gran Gran are on board with a Gran Gran plan, and Andy has his submarine pod at the ready. Join the crew to search for endangered creatures, find out fascinating facts, and collect sounds and pictures for your very own musical ocean scrapbook. A magical multi-media event featuring CBeebies theme tunes, classical music favourites, live action film and animation and a few surprises along the way.
We take great care to ensure this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip … or promise!
COMPETITION To enter the competition please email competitions@primarytimesmag.com. When you enter make sure you give us your name, address, email, age and school. Closing date is Friday 9th December. Please note Primary Times Northamptonshire will only use your details to contact the competition winners.
WIN TICKETS TO MEET SANTA IN KETTERING THIS CHRISTMAS!
Go along and meet Father Christmas and his Elves in the magical setting of Santa’s Lapland Lodge this Christmas. Enter a wonderland of snow and trees, before you go in to meet Santa himself in his inner lodge. Every child will get a present at the end of the visit, specially selected for their age group by Santa’s expert Elves – plus the chance to have their photo with Santa. The grotto, which is being run by Kettering Town Council and North Pole Productions, will be in Kettering Market Place and will be open during weekends and throughout the school holidays from Sunday 27th November to Saturday 24th December, from 10am to 4pm. There are also late-night opening slots on Fridays 9th, 16th and 23rd December, until 8pm. Tickets to the Lapland Lodge cost £7 per person and booking is essential. You’ve also got a chance to win a Family Ticket for 6 people to meet Santa! To win, simply answer the following question: What are Santa’s helpers called? a) Shelves
b) Elves
c) Elvis
Send us your entry marked “Grotto” and all correct entries will be placed into the prize draw. Closing date is Friday 9th December. For more details visit www.ketteringtowncouncil.gov.uk or call the box office on 07432 441147, open from 9am to 7pm daily.
Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/Northamptonshire for thousands more great days out
WINTER ISSUE 2022/23 15
Join us at Lamport Hall to celebrate the festive season with a varied and exciting calendar of Christmas events 26th November, 6pm
A Cheesemonger’s History of the British Isles A Cheese and Wine Tasting with Ned Palmer
Cheesemonger Ned Palmer takes us on a delicious journey through time across Britain and Ireland to uncover the histories of cheese, including cheese tasting, with complementary wines. 3rd & 4th December, 10am-4pm
Lamport’s Christmas Market
Get into the festive spirit by visiting our Christmas Market. Come along to shop at over 90 stalls of gifts, crafts and produce – you’re sure to find something for all the family. Visit Santa’s Grotto in the magical Christmas woodland, and meet his reindeer. Pre-booking to meet Santa is essential. 10th December, 6pm
Fifty Words for Snow – A Christmas Talk with Nancy Campbell
In this evocative talk, the author Nancy Campbell digs deep into the meanings and myths surrounding snow throughout the world.
Booking details for all our events are on our website www.lamporthall.co.uk
Come and visit Lamport Hall’s Winter Woodland, home to Santa and his Grotto for the weekend of 3 and 4 December Enjoy the woodland walk, learn about reindeer, engage in festive activities, have a festive family photo on Santa’s sleigh, and visit Santa himself in his enchanted lodge. Prebook your visit at www.lamporthall.co.uk
Lamport Hall, Northamptonshire, NN6 9HD | www.lamporthall.co.uk
