NewcastleGateshead.com/winterfestival
NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 14 The festive season is always a special time in NewcastleGateshead with festivals, Christmas markets, and a host of other unique events to bring some warmth and colour to the chilly winter days and nights. Kick starting this year’s Winter Festival celebrations is Ouseburn Open Studios and the popular cultural shopping weekend. Pick up some unique Christmas gifts and enjoy a glimpse behind the studio doors of NewcastleGateshead based designer-makers. Take your pick of festive performances across the region, from Get Santa at Northern Stage to Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at Theatre Royal Newcastle. You can strap on your ice skates at Life Science Centre, step back in time and experience Christmas Evenings at Beamish or see The Alnwick Garden Sparkle during the festive season. And let’s not forgot the amazing New Year’s Eve Winter Carnival – an early evening celebration the whole family can enjoy. In Saltwell Park artists will be unveiling some beautiful installations as part of this year’s Enchanted Parks (Wednesday 10 – Sunday 14 December). Taking inspiration from the stars and planets, this year’s after-dark adventure in Gateshead’s Victorian Park will bring to life the tale of Estella, who lived inside Saltwell Towers and dreams of a life amongst the stars. Our popular New Year’s Eve Winter Carnival will be moving to the NewcastleGateshead Quayside this year as we celebrate the arrival of Rugby World Cup 2015. Help us welcome in a year of Rugby in England with a special parade involving sports clubs, community groups and a few surprises along the way! Support your team on the Quayside and cheer in 2015 with our early evening Winter Carnival and firework display - don’t miss out on your chance to celebrate New Year with a bang (or two). “One of the best bits of my job is curating the Winter Festival programme and helping you enjoy the best NewcastleGateshead has to offer this winter. From discovering amazing art commissions that are part of Enchanted Parks to enjoying a traditional panto, we have it all. Thank you for picking up a copy of our Winter Festival brochure and don’t forget to send a copy to family and friends who live further afield so they can see what amazing things we have on offer here.
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Ouseburn Open Studio Buy original work and unusual gifts from local artists
Festive Shopping From one off events to late night shopping
Festive Markets Search for unique gifts and local produce
Festive Activities Get into the festive spirit
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Festive Performances Entertainment for all ages
Pantomimes Look out, he’s behind you
Enchanted Parks A magical after-dark experience
Sage Gateshead Celebrating its 10th birthday
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Festive Events Plenty of inspiration to get you in the Christmas spirit
New Year’s Eve See in 2015 in style on the Quayside
Taste Club Pick up some locally produced tasty treats
Whatever you do this festive season, have a brilliant time exploring and enjoying NewcastleGateshead’s Winter Festival.” Carol Bell, head of culture and major events at NewcastleGateshead Initiative
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NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 14
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Sat 29 – Sun 30 Nov, 10am – 5pm | www.ouseburnopenstudios.org The Ouseburn Valley is the creative heart of Newcastle. On the last weekend of November the Ouseburn Open Studios event sees venues open their doors, offering a unique chance to take a glimpse into the working world of over 200 artists and designer-makers. There’s a huge variety of affordable and original work to buy; from paintings, ceramics, sculpture, jewellery, furniture, prints, and much more to suit everyone’s taste. With live music, delicious food and interactive workshops, head to Ouseburn for some seasonal spirit and Christmas stocking goodies. 1 Biscuit Tin Studios T: 0191 261 1103 W: thebiscuitfactory.com @biscuitinstudio Just what do artists do all day? Come and visit the Biscuit Tin Studios and find out. The Biscuit Tin is home to a diverse mix of artists, designers and makers. Ouseburn Open Studios is a chance to meet the artists and find out more about their work. You might want to have a go at drawing a life model or decorating glass or maybe just buy a unique Christmas present direct from the artist. 2 36 Lime Street T: 0191 261 5666 W: 36limestreet.co.uk @36LimeStreet Open Studios 2014 promises to be extra special at 36 Lime Street with a fundraising art raffle featuring covetable letterpress tickets hand-printed by Hole Editions with prizes including an original signed ink drawing by Turner Prize nominated artist George Shaw. The gallery is hosting a pop-up café and an interactive photography exhibition. Visit and buy original work from the studios of a range of professional artists and creative practitioners working in paint, glass, wood, ceramics,
print, books, music, jewellery, words and more. Check the website for regular updates and surprises. Open from 10am until the later time of 6pm both days. 3 The Biscuit Factory T: 0191 261 1103 W: thebiscuitfactory.com @biscuit_factory Tis the season to find beautiful pieces for your home, your loved ones and yourself. Meet and buy from our studio artists from their unique creative workspaces then head upstairs to the gallery for more seasonal treats. Whether you’re looking for stocking fillers or something that extra bit special, with free gift wrapping , seasonal music, Christmas gift idea ‘pods’ throughout the gallery and comfort food on our menus we have everything to make your Christmas shopping a pleasure this year. 4 Toffee Factory T: 0191 375 9000 W: toffeefactory.co.uk @ToffeeFactoryUK Ouseburn Cuppa - Fancy a brew amidst all that shopping? Then pop down to Toffee Factory over the Open Studios weekend to explore the history
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of the Ouseburn area and the surrounding communities. Everyone welcome to get hands-on with objects, peruse photographs and watch film footage from the heritage collections of Ouseburn Trust, Byker Lives and Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums. Local artist Lindsay Duncanson will be running a drop-in print workshop and there will be free tea and biscuits on offer too, kindly supported by The Malings, a development by Carillion Igloo. 5 Northern Print T: 0191 261 7000 W: northernprint.org.uk @NorthernPrint A warm welcome awaits at Northern Print where you can tour our gallery and studio, learn all about original printmaking from some of our talented artists, see the presses in action, stock up on bespoke Christmas gifts at our shop and even produce your own hand-printed masterpiece to take home. In the gallery you can browse and buy from our lovely selection of original prints and catch our latest exhibition ‘If all the world were paper…’
5 6 Mushroom Works T: 0191 224 4011 W: mushroomworks.com @mushroomworks Preview: Fri 28 Nov, 6pm – 8pm The studios at Mushroom Works are home to a wide range of creative people from furniture and jewellery makers, painters to printmakers, and graphic designers to potters. The open studios weekend offers a rare opportunity to chat to studio holders about their work; learn what goes on behind their studio doors and buy or commission work direct. We’ll have our very special 20x20 show where you’ll be able to buy original artwork for only £20! Our gallery will have a wide range of affordable work adding a touch of sparkle to the tedium of Christmas shopping. When you’ve done all that sit down with a cup of tea and a slice of cake or grab a colouring pencil and fill in one of our children’s fun packs. There’s plenty to do regardless of age.
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NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 14
ESTIVE SHOPPING NewcastleGateshead has everything you need to get all your Christmas shopping done in one go. From huge shopping malls and high street brands to quirky gifts and local artist one-off pieces, you’re guaranteed to find the perfect gift for all your friends and family. And don’t forget, Newcastle city centre is Alive after Five, with late night shopping and free car parking after 5pm, giving you more time to track down the perfect Christmas present. BALTIC SHOP Christmas Discount Weekend Sat 8 - Sun 9 Nov BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, Gateshead Quays 0191 440 4947 balticmill.com With an amazing collection of statement jewellery, designer home ware, children’s toys and books, artist prints and posters, BALTIC’s the best place to pick up something unique for that someone special. And you even get 15% off your shopping! Christmas at intu Metrocentre From Sat 8 Nov Gateshead 0191 493 0219 intumetrocentre.co.uk Europe’s largest shopping and leisure centre has everything you could possible need in the run up to Christmas. Santa’s Grotto (FREE) will be open from Sat 8 Nov. And don’t miss their Black Friday Discount Shopping Extravaganza (Fri 28 Nov – Mon 1 Dec) and take advantage of massive discounts and a few surprises. The Elf Run (Sun 7 Dec) sees a 1km race for all ages to become Santa’s helper for the day. Also performing a traditional Christmas pantomime and family favourite, the Metrognomes will be in Exhibition Square at intu Metrocentre over the festive period.
Festive Season at intu Eldon Square From Sun 23 Nov Northumberland Street, Newcastle upon Tyne 0191 261 1891 intu.co.uk/eldonsquare It’s Shrek-tastic for the Eldon Square Christmas Lights Switch On (Sun 23 Nov) and there will be daily Carol Singing in the malls to keep you in the festive spirit. And don’t forget to take advantage of the Christmas wrapping service (Fri 12 – Wed 24 Dec) on behalf of The Children’s Foundation.
National Glass Centre Christmas Shopping Weekend Sat 29 – Sun 30 Nov National Glass Centre, Liberty Way, Sunderland 0191 515 5555 nationalglasscentre.com Support local artists and find a unique gift this Christmas in the relaxing atmosphere of National Glass Centre. Over the weekend, you can benefit from 10% off all purchases and even a free gift wrapping service! NewcastleGateshead Visitor Information Centre From Thurs 20 Nov Market Street, Newcastle upon Tyne 0191 277 8000 shopNewcastleGateshead.com Pop into the VIC for the very best in Geordie gifts. From prints and photographs, to jewellery, cards and local, handmade chocolates. You’ll find the perfect present for your favourite Geordie!
Christmas at Fenwick From early Nov Northumberland Street, Newcastle upon Tyne 0191 232 5100 fenwick.co.uk Christmas in Newcastle wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Fenwick on Northumberland Street. Each year the iconic department store unveils a beautiful Christmas themed window, with moving characters, a bespoke soundtrack and twinkling lights. This year the store has also created an incredible Christmas Wonderland. The 12,000 square foot area contains all of the gifts and decorations that you will need to make the 25th of December truly magical!
Christmas at Trinity Square Thurs 27 Nov – Wed 23 Dec Trinity Square, Gateshead 0191 500 7050 trinitysquaregateshead.co.uk Head down to Trinity Square for a programme of festive family. You’ll find a Christmas photo booth, characters from Frozen, Father Christmas and Elf face painters. A programme of performances, music, arts activities and events to entertain, engage and have fun, as well as shop!
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Now shop online intu.co.uk/eldonsquare
intu.co.uk/metrocentre
Love Christmas even more Get that warm fuzzy feeling with our beautiful collection of stores and restaurants, plus lots of lovely festive goodies for all the family. From 27th November we are open 9am – 9pm weekdays, 9am – 7pm Saturdays and 11am – 5pm Sundays… even more time to kiss your Christmas list goodbye.
Love Christmas shopping even more We’re Europe’s largest shopping centre, with the biggest selection of shops in the North East and thousands of brands to keep you happy this festive season. If you’re looking for something more than shopping, we have the only IMAX cinema in the region, and you’ll discover even more restaurants and coffee shops to satisfy the most adventurous of appetites. From 17th November we are open 9am – 10pm weekdays, 9am – 8pm Saturdays and 11am – 5pm Sundays… even more time to kiss your Christmas list goodbye. Go to intu.co.uk/metrocentre for all the latest trends and offers.
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NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 14
ESTIVE MARKETS
It wouldn’t be Christmas without the hustle and bustle of a good market or two. There are loads to choose from right across the region and the perfect place to pick up a unique gift, tickle your taste buds and support our local artists, designers and food producers.
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International Market Sat 15 - Sat 29 Nov Grey’s Monument, Newcastle upon Tyne A truly international market with stalls from Germany, France, Belgium, Holland and Spain turning the Monument area into a continental market place with stalls packed full of unusual Christmas gifts and festive foods.
Christmas Arts & Craft Market Sat 6, 13 & 20 Dec Grainger Market, Grainger Street, Newcastle upon Tyne A fabulous array of high quality crafts available from local traders selling a range of items including photographs, Christmas patchwork and quilted goods, jewellery, wooden Christmas decorations, bags and wood-turned items.
Alnwick Garden Christmas Market Sat 29 – Sun 30 Nov / Sat 6 – Sun 7 Dec / Sat 13 – Sun 14 Dec (£) Alnwick, Northumberland alnwickgarden.com/christmas Enjoy your Christmas shopping in a magical location. The market hosts a selection of handmade, artisan and traditional gifts, and offers shoppers the chance to indulge in festive nibbles and live carolling.
Festive Farmers’ Market Sat 6 & Sat 20 Dec Gibside, Rowlands Gill, Gateshead nationaltrust.org.uk/gibside Buy tasty seasonal foods and high quality Christmas gifts direct from local producers in an atmospheric festive market with live music and mulled wine. Free entry to market.
Winter Christmas Market Wed 3 – Sun 7 Dec Grey’s Monument, Newcastle upon Tyne Local producers, designers and craft makers will be selling everything from alpaca hats and gloves to boozy Christmas cakes, locally brewed beers, fantastic mirrors, beautiful pottery and gorgeous handmade jewellery. The market also incorporates the monthly Farmers Market on Friday 5 December – Father Christmas will also be paying a visit to welcome visitors to the market and local choirs will add to the festive cheer.
North Shields Victorian Christmas Market Sat 13 – Sun 14 Dec Northumberland Square, North Shields victorianmarket.co.uk Now in its 16th year, the North Shields Victorian Christmas Market will see stallholders offering a wide variety of goods including festive gifts for loved ones, crafts and food. There will also be entertainment, music and a small fairground for the children.
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Shop at the Shipley
Skating@Life 8 November - 22 February
Christmas Shopping Mornings
Saturday 6, 13, 20 December (11am-1pm) Browse, shop and relax with a FREE hot drink and a mince pie in the beautiful surroundings of the Shipley. New ranges of handmade jewellery, ceramics and textiles by local artists and designers are available to buy.
Free entry Shipley Art Gallery, Prince Consort Rd, Gateshead NE8 4JB www.shipleyartgallery.org.uk Tel: (0191) 477 1995
Supported by:
Festive fairs and markets in Newcastle
International Christmas Market (including Santa's grotto) Saturday 15 November to Saturday 29 November 2014 Grey's Monument, Grey Street and Grainger Street. Christmas Market(including our farmers market on Friday 5 December and Santa's grotto) Wednesday 3 December to Sunday 7 December 2014 Grey's Monument, Grey Street and Grainger Street. Grainger Market Arts and Craft Market Saturday 6, 13 and 20 December 2014 Grainger Market (Grainger Arcade), Grainger Street. Visit the Grainger Market Every Monday to Saturday plus Sunday 14 and 21 December 2014 Quayside Sunday Market Every Sunday from 9.30am to 4pm Quayside Road from the Swing Bridge to the Law Courts.
The Exhibition of Real Human Bodies
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NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 14
estive Activities Winter in NewcastleGateshead is packed full of seasonal activities for the whole family to enjoy. Book up now and create your own magical memories this festive season. Skating @ Life Sat 8 Nov 2014 – Sun 22 Feb 2015 (£) Times Square, Life Science Centre, Newcastle upon Tyne 0191 243 8210 life.org.uk Take a spin (or a wobble!) around Newcastle’s only open-air ice rink. This year skaters can upgrade to a combo ticket and enjoy Night at the Toy Store, Life’s new Christmas 4D Motion Ride! Find out exactly what the toys get up to when the shoppers head home... Seven Stories Winter Wonderland Sat 8 Nov – Sun 4 Jan (£) Ouseburn Valley, Newcastle upon Tyne 0845 271 0777 ext 300 sevenstories.org.uk Drop in to Seven Stories and create stunning decorations, festive cards, listen to stories and write a letter to Father Christmas. We’ve been told that the big man himself will be making a very special appearance. Blow a Christmas Bauble Weekends throughout Nov / Dec (£) National Glass Centre, Liberty Way, Sunderland 0191 515 5555 nationalglasscentre.com Start a new family Christmas tradition and create a truly unique decoration to take pride of place on your Christmas tree for years to come. These popular workshops fill up fast. Booking essential.
Ice Mayhem Sat 13 Dec Discovery Museum, Blandford Sq, Newcastle upon Tyne 0191 232 6789 discoverymuseum.org.uk There’ll be wintery science experiments, magical special guests, winters tales and cool as ice crafts. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the shops and enjoy a Christmas treat for all the family.
Medieval Christmas at the Castle Fri 12 – Sun 14 Dec Castle Keep and Black Gate, Castle Garth, Newcastle upon Tyne 0191 230 6300 oldnewcastle.org.uk Time and Tide Events will be taking over the Castle for a truly medieval celebration of Yuletide! With craft stalls, food and drink, music, poetry, storytelling and more, there will be something for all ages inside and outside the Castle!
Blue Yonder by Steve Newby Thurs 27 Nov - Jan 2015 Trinity Square, Gateshead Saltwell Park isn’t the only Enchanted place in Gateshead this winter. Visit Trinity Square and gaze into artist Steve Newby’s Blue Yonder infinity sculpture – some say it’s just a clever trick of the eye, others are convinced it’s a portal to the stars…
The Great Tyneside Christmas Quiz Thurs 18 Dec (£) Tyneside Cinema, Pilgrim Street, Newcastle upon Tyne 0845 217 9909 tynesidecinema.co.uk Do you know your Home Alone from your Home Alone 2: Lost in New York? Your Scrooge from your Scrooged? Your National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation from your Ernest Saves Christmas? Then you are ready to take on The Great Tyneside Christmas Quiz. Have yourself a merry little Quizmas! Winter Warmer Wander - Doon the Quay Sat 27 – Sun 28 Dec (£) Guildhall, Quayside, Newcastle upon Tyne 0191 277 8000 A one hour informal walk around the Quayside. Meet at the Guildhall and finishing at St Mary’s with seasonal refreshments. £2 in advance. Booking essential.
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NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 14 © Snowman Enterprises Ltd. 1982, 2014
ESTIVE PERFORMANCES
There are plenty of festive performances to choose from across NewcastleGateshead. From magical shows to excite and amaze children of all ages to Christmas Carols and charity concerts in stunning surroundings. Make sure you book your tickets now, these shows are sure to sell out fast. The Christmas Grump Sat 15 Nov - Sat 3 Jan 2015 (£) Northern Stage, Barras Bridge, Newcastle upon Tyne 0191 230 5151 northernstage.co.uk Mr Scratch owns a toyshop. He is very, very rich, but very miserable. Miserable, mean and miserly. Scratch goes to bed on Christmas Eve in his cold, empty house. But there’s a stirring in the toyshop... Inspired by Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, Mr Scratch is about to find out the true meaning of Christmas from some very determined toys. Get Santa Mon 1 – Sat 27 Dec (£) Northern Stage, Barras Bridge, Newcastle upon Tyne 0191 230 5151 northernstage.co.uk A jolly Christmas play full of songs, slapstick, puppetry and fun for children aged seven and over and their families. Rejoice! with Royal Northern Sinfonia Sat 6 – Sun 7 Dec (£) Sage Gateshead, Gateshead Quays 0191 433 4661 sagegateshead.com Blue Peter presenter Helen Skelton hosts this family favourite, with the best carols and tunes to get into the Christmas mood.
Christmas at the Cathedral 2014 in aid of Teenager Cancer Trust Wed 17 Dec (£) St Nicholas’ Cathedral, St Nicholas Sq, Newcastle upon Tyne 0191 277 8030 newcastlecityhall.org A spectacular seasonal celebration featuring North East celebrities and special guests. Previous year’s performers have included Tim Healy, Emmerdale’s Charlie Hardwick and Chelsea Halfpenny, Vera’s David Leon, Helen Skelton and X Factor’s Amelia Lily. This year’s line-up promises to be just as strong. Driving Home for Christmas with Joe McElderry Fri 21 Dec (£) Mill Volvo Tyne Theatre, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne 0844 493 9999 millvolvotynetheatre.co.uk There is only one Joe McElderry, and there is only one night for you to see this incredible singer performing songs from his Classical Christmas Album and some festive favourites.
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The Snowman Mon 22 – Wed 24 Dec (£) Sage Gateshead, Gateshead Quays 0191 433 4661 sagegateshead.com Enjoy the magical experience of watching Raymond Briggs’ classic animated film accompanied by Royal Northern Sinfonia. A Christmas family favourite. Sing-a-long Frozen Spectacular Mon 29 – Tue 30 Dec, Sat 3 – Sun 4 Jan (£) Seven Stories, Ouseburn Valley, Newcastle upon Tyne 0845 271 0777 ext 300 sevenstories.org.uk Come dressed in your best royal finery, enjoy the popcorn and Frozen themed drinks and snacks and enjoy this special sing-a-long screening of the popular Disney blockbuster. Booking essential. £5 per person in addition to admission fee.
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© Snowman Enterprises 1982, 2014
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SagegateSheaD.Com
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0191 443 4661
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NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 14
ANTOMIMES
Get ready for the best family entertainment as theatres across the region prepare for Panto season. Expect buckets of laughter, a handful of glitter and masses of audience participation! Look out, he’s behind you...
Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs Tue 25 Nov – Sun 18 Jan 2015 (£) Theatre Royal, Grey Street, Newcastle upon Tyne 08448 11 21 21 theatreroyal.co.uk 2014 sees Clive and Danny celebrating ten years of pantomime magic at the Theatre Royal. Don’t miss this spectacular production which promises to be the fairest panto in all the land! Cinderella Fri 5 – Tue 30 Dec (£) Mill Volvo Tyne Theatre, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne 0844 493 9999 millvolvotynetheatre.co.uk This heart warming rags to riches classic tells the romantic story of Cinderella and her enchanting journey to find her Prince Charming. A family favourite! Snow White Fri 12 Dec – Sun 4 Jan 2015 (£) Sunderland Empire, High Street West, Sunderland 0844 871 3022 atgtickets.com/venues/sunderlandempire Take a dashing Prince, one hilarious side-kick, seven dwarfs, a sprinkling of glitter and oodles of comedy capers
and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a spectacular family panto. Beauty & the Beast Sat 13 Dec – Sun 4 Jan 2015 (£) PLAYHOUSE Whitley Bay, Marine Avenue, Whitley Bay 0844 248 1588 playhousewhitleybay.co.uk Join Emmerdale star, Roxanne Pallet and Hollyoaks and Holby favourite Jeremy Edwards, as they tell A Tale As Old As Time, packed with great songs, amazing dance routines and plenty of laughter. This is a spectacular show for all the family you won’t want to miss and it’s never too early to book! The Suggestibles Impro Pantso Thurs 18 Dec (£) Northern Stage, Barras Bridge, Newcastle upon Tyne 0191 230 5151 northernstage.co.uk No script. No score. No fear! The legendary comedy troupe is back to wreak havoc. Your suggestions inspire the whole Christmas extravaganza. You might expect goodies, baddies and a few fairies, but best to expect the unexpected! Strictly for naughty big kids!
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NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 14
WHEN: Wed 10 - Sun 14 Dec, from 4.30pm WHERE: Saltwell Park, Gateshead TICKETS: Adults £7, Under 18s £1, Children aged 3 and under FREE BOOK: EnchantedParks.com
The striking roofline of Saltwell Towers, with its cluster of fairytale turrets, is often dismissed as Victorian Gothic whimsy. There is, however, a more intriguing explanation for its design. Built by William Wailes in 1862, the roof was intended as an unconventional schoolroom and playground for his youngest and most beloved daughter Estella. Estella was a determined but isolated child who, from a young age, had an obsession with stargazing. Keen to keep her close, Wailes had Saltwell Towers designed such that its roof could be her observatory. Over time Estella’s passion for the stars grew. She studied, observed, measured, drew and collected with a growing mania for astronomy and astrology. From her diaries we know that she was preoccupied with finding a way to fly into space where she felt she could live more freely. To many Estella was misguided, a dreamer searching for meaning in the mythology of the stars. However, others say she was decades ahead of her time and even claim that she succeeded in launching a rocket from Saltwell Park. There are certainly accounts of a stormy night over Gateshead when a ball of light was seen hurtling into the sky with a deafening roar. But space travel in Victorian times is impossible to imagine… …isn’t it?
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To book Tickets for Enchanted Parks are on sale from 12noon, Monday 3 November. Booking is available online at www.EnchantedParks.com. A limited number of tickets will also be available to buy in person from NewcastleGateshead Visitor Information Centre and Saltwell Towers. We are not able to take bookings over the phone. Tickets for Disabled Adults who need a carer companion to attend the event must also be booked at the adult rate of £7 (the carer ticket will be free of charge, but you must email enchantedparks@ ngi.org.uk to book). How to get there We strongly recommend the use of public transport to get to Enchanted Parks. There are excellent links from Gateshead town centre and Newcastle city centre. There is very limited car parking on site at the Joicey Road Car Park (£3 per car). Priority will be given to Blue Badge Holders. Up to date travel information is available from the Enchanted Parks website. This an outdoor evening event, so please wear suitable warm clothing and footwear. Due to the nature of the event and time of year, some paths may be uneven and there may be darker areas of the park. Enchanted Parks is suitable for all ages and is wheelchair accessible. Enchanted Parks is commissioned by NewcastleGateshead Initiative, in partnership with Gateshead Council and creative producer Pinwheel.
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NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 14
ESTIVE EVENTS Kielder Winter Wonderland Leaplish Waterside Park, Kielder, NE48 1BT Sat 5 Nov – Mon 22 Dec (£) kielderwinterwonderland.com Your adventure to Kielder Winter Wonderland begins when you follow the Winter Wonderland star which leads you to the magical enchanted forest where a special surprise awaits. Discover Father Christmas, Mrs Christmas and their festive friends. There’s a whole host of wonderful festive activities throughout the day for you to share with your family and friends. This event is always a sell out - check dates and availability on the website. Newcastle Christmas Lights Switch On Thurs 20 Nov Grey Street, Newcastle Don’t miss this popular Christmas lights switch on, lighting up Newcastle city centre to celebrate the festive period. Gateshead Christmas Lights Switch On Thurs 27 Nov Trinity Square, Gateshead Musician May Arcade will be joined by a wintery cast of panto performers, The Salvation Army band, choirs and stilt walkers as Gateshead is illuminated with the switching on of their Christmas lights.
Christmas Dinky Disco Sat 6 Dec (£) Dance City, Temple Street, Newcastle upon Tyne 0191 261 0505 dancecity.co.uk Put on your fancy dress costume and shimmy and shake your groovy thing at the Christmas Dinky Disco, with even a visit from the man himself. Suitable for 0 – 4 year olds. Older siblings are welcome too! It’s a Wonderful Life film showings Fri 19 – Wed 24 Dec (£) (various times) Tyneside Cinema, Pilgrim Street, Newcastle upon Tyne tynesidecinema.co.uk Grab a mince pie and a glass of mulled wine and enjoy a screening of this timeless masterpiece in which James Stewart’s loveable everyman George Bailey is shown just how much his life is worth living by Clarence, an angel trying to earn his wings. Ghost Stories for Christmas – Dickens’ Feast of Festive Frighteners Sat 20 Dec (£) Belsay Hall, Castle & Garden, nr Morpeth 01661 881636 english-heritage.org.uk Dickens’ ghost stories are always a treat at Christmas. Enjoy some of his classics in an evening of storytelling as you gather in Belsay’s beautiful library surrounded by nostalgia.
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NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 14
ESTIVE EVENTS Northumberland Chase Christmas Race Day Sat 20 Dec (£) Newcastle Racecourse, Gosforth Park, Newcastle upon Tyne 0191 236 2020 newcastle-racecourse.co.uk Take a break from the Christmas shopping and enjoy a great day’s racing. Prices start from just £15 or treat yourself to a festive hospitality package. Go on, it’s Christmas! Yule Festival Fri 5 – Sun 7 Dec Bede’s World, Church Bank, Jarrow 0191 489 2106 bedesworld.co.uk Join Time and Tide Events at Bede’s World for a weekend of fun and music to shop by. With loads of unique gift, craft and goody stalls, there will be something for all ages, personalities and even something for your furry friends; as well as free entry to the Museum and Farm. Christmas Evenings at Beamish Fri 5, 12, 19 Dec (£) Beamish Museum, County Durham 0191 370 4000 beamish.org.uk/christmas Beamish will open its doors for three extra special evenings in the Edwardian Town and Pit Village and the chance to experience Georgian twelfth night celebrations at Pockerley Old Hall. Indulge yourself with roasted chestnuts, mulled wine and entertainment from the times. Take a turn on the Ice Rink and visit Father Christmas in his magical fireside grotto.
Great North Festive Fayre Sat 6 Dec Great North Museum, Barras Bridge, Newcastle upon Tyne 0191 208 6765 greatnorthmuseum.org.uk Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas and the Snowman will be joined by Snow Dog, making special appearances throughout the day, plus there’ll be reindeer on the front lawn, chance to make your own Christmas decoration, decorate a Gingerbread man, storytelling and carolling. Christmas Carnival Wed 17 Dec (£) Live Theatre, Broad Chare, Newcastle upon Tyne 0191 232 1232 live.org.uk Join Santa as he makes his descent into the underworld’s chaotic masquerade where all is not what it seems. Rudolf is drinking Dionysus underneath the table, and the worker elves, in revolt, have stolen the sleigh to deliver presents to all the naughty children. A night of debauched abundance. Lantern Parade Sun 21 Dec (£) Alnwick Garden, Northumberland 01665 511350 alnwickgarden.com Make a beautiful enchanted willow lantern (various dates in November and December) and receive a free ticket to join Alnwick Garden’s lantern parade led by ‘Spark’, a magical live music, light and movement spectacular, finishing in front of the Grand Cascade to create a stunning display.
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NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 14
INTER CARNIVAL NEW YEAR’S EVE
2012 was the year of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. 2014 saw Glasgow host the Commonwealth Games. Now it’s Newcastle’s turn for its moment in the spotlight as we get ready to welcome Rugby World Cup 2015. We’re celebrating the arrival of 2015 and a year of rugby in Newcastle with a BRAND NEW Winter Carnival Parade that will ring in the New Year in style. Meet us in the city centre where our carnival parade will welcome you to sway, stomp and dance your way down to the Quayside. Down by the River Tyne is where the party really gets started. We’re celebrating all things rugby with music, performance and a dazzling firework display to light up the Quayside. It might be cold along the Tyne but we’ll have some
amazing musicians on hand to keep your feet moving and add to the lively New Year’s Eve atmosphere. This family friendly early evening celebration is commissioned by NewcastleGateshead Initiative in partnership with Newcastle City Council Arts Team, working with creative director Jeanefer Jean-Charles and produced by award-winning outdoor arts specialists Walk the Plank. Approximate Timings From 5pm 5.30pm 6pm
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Music and carnival performance around Monument The parade leaves Monument for Newcastle Quayside Fireworks finale on Newcastle Quayside
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NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 14
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Fine, festive food & drink from the North East
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The North East & Cumbria boasts an abundance of fine food and drink all year round, but it’s a particularly special place to eat, drink and be merry over the festive season.
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Whether you’re looking to treat a loved one to a luxury hamper, stock the cupboards with local produce for your Christmas lunch or enjoy a festive feast at one of the region’s top eateries, TASTECLUB should be your go-to place for all things food and drink. Why not visit www.tasteclubhq.com, particularly our online store, giving you the chance to buy fantastic locally produced food and drink. And while you’re there, you can also sign up to become a TASTECLUB member – providing you with a range of bespoke benefits. 1 Northumberland Sausage Company 01434 270657 northumberlandsausage company.com Gourmet sausages made in the heart of the Northumberland countryside. Christmas flavours such as cranberry & chestnut, Santa’s sausage, Rudolph’s revenge and spicy sprout! Corporate & Private sausage making experience parties available at Brocksbushes farm shop perfect for Christmas parties! 2 Ringtons Limited 0800 052 2440 ringtons.co.uk Ringtons Christmas gifts are available online or via your doorstep Salesperson and include an extensive range of tea, coffee, biscuits, sweet treats, seasonal specials and gift boxes.
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3 Mallsgate Hall Estate 01697 7488504 order@mallsgate.co.uk mallsgate.co.uk Organic lamb and beef, delivered to your door. Home-grown and grass-fed on species rich hay-meadows. Flavour is second to none. Perfect for Christmas: whole or half lambs butchered to your specification.
5 Tyne Bank Brewery 0191 265 2828 tynebankbrewery.co.uk An award-winning brewery based near the Ouseburn Valley. The on-site shop sells a great range of bottled beers including Bourbon Barrel Aged Heavenly Porter in 750ml swing top bottles, a limited release of speciality ales, gift packs and merchandise.
7 Northumberland Cheese Company 01670 789798 northumberlandcheese. co.uk Shop for the perfect gift this Christmas from a selection of charming cheese hampers brimming with delicious goodies, from festive chutneys to crisp crackers and beautiful cheese knives set to impress.
4 North Chocolates 07896 859445 northchocolates.co.uk Specialising in award-winning gourmet chocolate bars from Ginger & Fennel to seasonal Mulled Spice, let North Chocolates take the strain this Christmas with gifts from cracking hampers to a Rudy Red Nose lolly.
6 Lottie McPhees Cupcakes 0191 447 9632 lottiemcphees.com This family-run bakery offers a wide range of freshly baked goodies, from a wide range of cupcake flavours and traybakes, to personalised birthday cakes, celebration cakes as well as creating that perfect wedding cake.
8 J R Jams 0191 229 0333 jrjams.co.uk Distinctive, soft set jams, curds, marmalades and chutneys, freshly prepared by hand in small batches, using the best of ingredients. These artisan jams, with no additives and high fruit content are enjoyed by many discerning jam lovers.
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NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 14
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Thank you for picking up this guide. We would really appreciate a few minutes of your time to let us know how useful you found it. In return we will enter you into a prize draw for the chance to win £100!
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jOIN uS FOr A CONvIvIAL FESTIvAL OF INDOOr ADvENTurES IN FOOD. EAT! NEWCASTLEGATESHEAD rETurNS IN ITS WINTEr COAT AND WITH A brAND NEW bAG OF FAbuLOuS EvENTS CELEbrATING NOrTH EAST FOOD CuLTurE. SEE EATNEWCASTLEGATESHEAD.COM FOr DETAILS
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10 Other than the brochure, how do you search for events and things to do during the Winter Festival? Winter Festival website NewcastleGateshead email Facebook (which pages?) Twitter (which feeds?) Other websites Council websites Press coverage Other
Return your completed questionnaire (no stamp required) before Friday 30 January 2015 to be entered into a prize draw to win £100. FREEPOST RSGZ-KJHR-SCAG, NewcastleGateshead Initiative, 9th Floor, Baltic Place East, South Shore Road, Gateshead, NE8 3AE 38 d for more details visit NewcastleGateshead.com/winterfestival
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COMMISSIONED BY:
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NEW YEAR’S EVE WINTER CARNIVAL IN PARTNERSHIP WITH:
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NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival is developed and produced by NewcastleGateshead Initiative as part of its events and festivals programme Published by: NewcastleGateshead Initiative 9th Floor, Baltic Place East, South Shore Road, Gateshead NE8 3AE Whilst every care has been taken in the accuracy of producing this guide, the publisher is not liable for any errors or omissions which may inadvertently occur. All information in this publication is subject to change. Details are correct at time of going to print - Oct 2014. Design: ncjMedia
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