Discover the magic
Discover the magic of the festive season in North Yorkshire!
Explore charming market towns filled with independent shops and festive Christmas markets offering one-of-a-kind gifts and delicious treats.
Be mesmerised by glittering events like Scarborough Lights, find festive treasures at the Harrogate Christmas Fayre, or enjoy quality time together at pantomimes and musical shows.
From unique experiences such as the Whitby Krampus Run to colourful events like Scarborough Sparkle, there’s family fun for all ages. Meet Father Christmas and his helpers at special events, and marvel as incredible lights displays and switch ons illuminate the county.
When it’s time to unwind, indulge in delicious meals and refreshments at the many restaurants, bars, and pubs across North Yorkshire. Treat yourself to special gift experiences and enjoy luxury accommodation where you can welcome in the New Year in style.
Credit: Sony Music
Around the Yorkshire Dales
Discover the charm of the Yorkshire Dales, where quaint towns and charming villages nestle among breathtaking scenery.
Set in the stunning Nidderdale National Landscape, Pateley Bridge boasts an award-winning High Street with antique and gift shops alongside a variety of welcoming eateries.
Visit Skipton’s Christmas market featuring artisan makers and live music. Wander through the ginnels and side streets before stepping into Craven Court, home to over 25 stores, and take a break at traditional cafes and vibrant restaurants. Skipton Castle, beautifully decorated for the season, offers a historical backdrop to the town’s festivities. Venture into the countryside to visit the dramatic ruins of Bolton Abbey’s priory, explore the depths of Ingleborough Cave, or ride the scenic Embsay & Bolton Abbey railway.
Picturesque Settle is brimming with charm and history, set on the edge of some of England’s most dramatic limestone landscapes. Time your visit with the Christmas Lights Switch On and market on 30 November, and explore a thriving range of independent shops. Tuck in at bustling tea rooms and welcoming pubs after a day shopping or exploring the fells.
The small village of Malham offers cosy inns and pubs set among stunning scenery, the perfect escape after a winter walk, while pretty Grassington comes alive on 30 November and 7 December with a traditional market and Christmas lights.
Hawes is a treasure trove of independent shops and cafes. Call into the Dales Countryside Museum to learn about the area’s history or stop by the Wensleydale Creamery before exploring the scenery and waterfalls like Aysgill Force and Hardraw Force.
Set on the Wensleydale Railway heritage line, Leyburn is packed with unique shops and quirky cafes. Pick up a bargain at Tennants auctioneers and browse the luxurious Winter Wonderland Christmas Fair, or the Leyburn Christmas Festival on 30 November at Thornborough Hall.
Wensleydale Christmas Craft Fair
The Market House, Hawes, DL8 3QX 16 - 17 Nov | 10am - 4.30pm
Pick up art and handmade crafts created by local and regional makers including handmade soap, jewellery, knitwear and pottery at this two-day show.
Christmas in Skipton
High street, Skipton, BD23 1FD
Christmas Lights Switch On | 24 Nov | 10am - 5pm
Cheer on the Santa Fun Run at 11am, featuring live entertainment, food stands and shopping stalls, before the light switch on at 5pm.
Christmas Market | 1 Dec and 8 Dec | 10am - 5pm
Browse festive stalls featuring some of the region’s top artisan makers, sing along with live music and tuck into delicious food and drinks.
Winter Wonderland Christmas Fair at Tennants Garden Room
The Auction House, Harmby Road, Leyburn, DL8 5SG 29 - 30 Nov | 10am - 4pm
Curated with Living magazine, this luxury shopping event brings together independent designers and artisans showcasing a range of wares from cashmere and leather goods, to festive decorations and stunning gifts.
Santa’s Grotto at Ingleborough Cave
Clapham, Lancaster, LA2 8EE
Weekends between 7 - 23 Dec | 10am - 4pm
Join Santa’s Elves on an enchanting journey through magical underground passages into a winter wonderland, where Santa awaits with a huge table of presents! Entry also includes access to Inglebrorough Estate Nature Trail.
Settle Christmas market and Lights Switch On
Market Place, Settle, BD24 9EX | 30 Nov
A lively market with an array of local produce, food and drink, and gift stalls selling wreaths, skincare and more - perfect for completing your Christmas shopping. Enjoy family entertainment and live music before the Lights Switch On at 5pm.
In the heart of North Yorkshire
At the heart of the county you’ll find family attractions and stunning heritage sites dotted between welcoming towns and villages.
As North Yorkshire’s only city, Ripon is a treasure trove of culture and cuisine. Wander through cobbled streets lined with independent shops and eateries, and marvel at the stunning medieval cathedral. Don’t miss the Christmas Fair on 22 - 23 November, or the Little Bird Artisan Christmas Market for a unique outdoor shopping experience on 24 November and 22 December. Nearby Boroughbridge is home to Roman ruins and inviting cafes, pubs and shops.
Knaresborough’s Market Place becomes the heart of the Christmas market on 7 - 8 December, while the town’s high street and side streets are brimming with shops and eateries. A short bus or train ride away, the spa town of Harrogate offers a vibrant mix of restaurants, bars and luxury shopping. The Christmas Fayre brings over 50 stalls, a giant Ferris wheel and road train to the town between 29 November - 15 December, and you’ll find a range of accommodation to relax in when it’s time for some R&R.
The market town of Bedale extends a warm welcome with its cosy pubs and cafes. Enjoy a scenic ride into the Dales on the Wensleydale Railway or explore the stunning grounds of Thorp Perrow Arboretum. Nearby Masham boasts two breweries off the elegant Edwardian marketplace, perfect for a pint after browsing the antique shops.
Richmond serves as a gateway to the Yorkshire Dales, impressing visitors with its Georgian architecture, awe-inspiring Norman Castle, and one of England’s largest cobbled market places. In Northallerton, you’ll find a delightful mix of independent shops and traditional tea rooms on the award-winning High Street, with scenic countryside right on your doorstep.
Known as Herriot country, Thirsk features a cobbled square edged by shops, pubs and cafes - visit on 29 November to see the square lit up for the festive season. Nearby Easingwold is a charming market town renowned for its picturesque streets and friendly atmosphere.
At the southern end of the county, Selby’s magnificent Abbey stands as the town’s centrepiece and is the hotspot for Christmas celebrations on the weekend of 30 November. Across the area, discover local artisan makers and producers, and call into nearby Tadcaster for riverside walks and traditional pubs set among pretty countryside.
Christmas at RHS Garden Harlow Carr
Crag Lane, Harrogate, HG3 1QB
Bath House Gift Shop: Christmas Crafts
7 Nov - 23 Dec | 10am - 3pm
Start your Christmas shopping with unique gifts and decorations to bring a sparkle to your festive season.
GLOW 2024
Selected dates between 21 Nov - 28 Dec | 4.30pm - 8.30pm
Be immersed in a kaleidoscope of festive colour and light displays on an enchanting walk around the gardens at dusk with this dazzling spectacle.
Christmas at Harewood House
Harewood House, Leeds, LS17 9LG
Mischief at the Mansion | 15 Nov - 5 Jan
Enjoy a spellbinding experience for all the family, plus enjoy afternoon tea, or a winter walk and curated shopping experience in the beautiful grounds.
Father Christmas experiences
Selected dates between 30 Nov - 24 Dec
Big kids will love this behind the scenes tour of the Christmas workshop, while under 4s can meet the Big Man in the atmospheric Old Library.
Christmas at Stockeld Park
Stockeld Park, Wetherby, LS22 4AN
The Christmas Adventure | 16 Nov – 6 Jan
Wander through the Enchanted Forest adorned with twinkling lights, navigate the Snowflake Maze, meet Santa Claus, or glide on the ice rink.
Santa’s Arrival Weekend | 16– 17 Nov
Santa and Mrs. Claus will arrive in spectacular style on a Unicorn drawn carriage, marking the start of the Christmas Adventure.
Visit Santa’s Grotto | 16 Nov – 24 Dec
Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus in their cosy log cabin.
A Toy’s Story | Selected dates from 16 Nov – 24 Dec
Become honorary Christmas Elves in this fun-filled 30 minute show.
Christmas in Ripon
Ripon Christmas Lights Switch On
Market Square, Ripon, HG4 1BW | 16 Nov | 1pm - 6pm
Meet Santa and his reindeer as they make a special visit to Ripon to spread some magic, with fairground rides and live entertainment before the switch on at 6pm.
Ripon Cathedral Christmas Food & Gift Fair
Minster Road, Ripon, HG4 1QT | 22 Nov - 23 Nov 9.30am - 4.30pm
Explore 100 fantastic stalls brimming with Christmas gifts, food and drink at the beautiful Ripon Cathedral. Savour mulled wine and festive treats while enjoying Christmas music.
Real Christmas Market at Ripley Castle
Ripley Castle, Harrogate, HG3 3AY | 24 and 8 Dec 10am - 3pm
Held in the courtyard of the historic Ripley Castle featuring a fabulous line-up of local and speciality producers and makers.
Christmas in Harrogate
Harrogate Theatre - Beauty and the Beast
Oxford Street, Harrogate, HG1 1QF | 27 Nov - 19 Jan
This mesmerising tale is as old as time as the Beast tries to find true love in this magical family pantomime that serves up sparkle and festive family fun.
Harrogate Christmas Fayre
Cambridge Street and Market Place, Harrogate 29 Nov - 15 Dec
Harrogate’s famous Christmas Market returns with festive shopping from local and European traders selling unique gifts and decorations. Live carol singing and entertainment will fill the air, providing the perfect accompaniment as you tuck into a tasty treat from the market or in one of Harrogate’s many bars, restaurants and cafes.
Getting around is easy with the Candy Cane Express road train, transporting you around town on Fridays to Sundays during the Fayre. Take a ride on the giant 33m Ferris wheel for stunning views of Harrogate’s Christmas lights and illuminations from above.
Please note, trading dates and times may be subject to change.
Little Bird Artisan Market in Valley Gardens
Valley Gardens , HG1 2SZ
Weekends between 29 Nov and 15 Dec Sat 10am - 5pm & Sun 10am - 4pm
Highlighting fantastic homegrown traders and producers, the market offers a vibrant atmosphere and stalls offering jewellery, homeware and fragrance, clothing and handmade crafts, plus street food vendors serving up mulled wine and tasty snacks. Find other Little Bird Markets across the county throughout the festive season.
Christmas at Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal
Fountains Abbey, Ripon, HG4 3DY
Winter Tales storytelling sessions
Weekends from 7 – 29 Dec | 11am & 12pm
Gather round and immerse yourself in Winter Tales.
Live choirs | Weekends from 30 Nov – 29 Dec (except 8 & 15 Dec) | 2pm – 5pm
See the abbey aglow with rainbow colours as you listen to live choirs and bands.
Carols by Candlelight | 8 & 15 Dec | 3pm - 4pm
Sing along to carols accompanied by Ripon City Band, surrounded by the glow of candles in the cellarium.
Christmas in Selby
Selby Abbey and Market Place, Selby, YO8 4PU
Christmas Fayre and Lights Switch On | 30 Nov | 10am - 5pm
Enjoy the Christmas Lights Switch On with entertainment from local choirs, browse over 40 stalls offering gift ideas and delicious food and drink, and make a visit to Santa’s Grotto.
Richmond Christmas Market
Market Place, Richmond, DL10 4QL | 3 Dec | 9am - 4pm
Richmond’s traditional market offers a selection of local crafts, festive foods, and Christmas gifts in the heart of the town.
Knaresborough Christmas Market
Knaresborough Market Place, HG5 8AG 7 - 8 Dec | 10am - 5pm (4.30pm on Sunday)
Soak up the festive atmosphere with shopping stalls, live music and a firework finale on Sunday.
St John’s Christmas Tree Festival
Vicarage Lane, Knaresborough, HG5 9AE 7 - 22 December
Enjoy 70 beautifully decorated Christmas trees on display at St. John’s Church.
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Around the North York Moors
A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, the North York Moors are blanketed with heather moorlands, abbey ruins, and timeless villages.
Osmotherley offers easy access to stunning hikes and welcoming pubs for a cosy pint or meal. Head to Sutton Bank for walking and cycling adventures, and to marvel at the iconic White Horse of Kilburn.
Pretty Helmsley is a gateway to the National Park, and the start of the Cleveland Way National Trail. The town’s bustling market square is filled with boutiques and cafes - visit on 29 November for the lights switch on - while nearby Rievaulx Abbey is a fascinating day out with stunning views. Explore picturesque villages of the Howardian Hills including Hovingham and Terrington, stroll around the Yorkshire Arboretum and marvel at the regal rooms of magnificent Castle Howard.
Yorkshire’s Food Capital, Malton is renowned for its artisan producers and eateries. The market place comes alive on 7 - 8 December when the Christmas market comes to town, with over 100 stalls showcasing local produce, festive foods, and unique gifts.
Famed for its medieval castle, Pickering is also the starting point of the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. Enjoy a scenic journey through beautiful moorland calling at rural villages like Grosmont and Goathland which offer scenic walks and a relaxed way of life. Don’t miss a visit to picturepostcard Thornton-le-Dale, complete with tea rooms and a pretty stream. Take on the ridge walk at the Hole of Horcum or explore the depths of Dalby Forest with miles of cycling tracks.
Christmas at Castle Howard
Castle Howard, York, YO60 7DA | 15 Nov - 5 Jan
Tumble down the rabbit hole into a Christmassy wonderland like no other as Castle Howard’s regal rooms are transformed into a psychedelic world. Tuck into an elegant Mad Hatter’s Afternoon Tea, select special mementos from the Bauble Emporium, toast giant marshmallows by the Christmas Tree, and visit Santa in his grotto or at the boathouse.
Christmas Shopping Weekends - North York Moors
Danby Lodge National Park Centre, Danby, YO21 2NB
16 Nov - 17 Nov, 14 Dec - 15 Dec | 11am - 3pm
Sutton Bank National Park Centre, YO7 2EH
23 Nov - 24 Nov, 14 Dec - 15 Dec | 10.30am - 4pm
Enjoy a relaxed Christmas shopping experience with food tastings, music and more, plus save 10% when you spend £30. Enjoy seasonal treats in the tea room and special offers in Sutton Bank Bikes.
North Yorkshire Moors Railway
Pickering Station, Park Street, Pickering, YO18 7AJ
Various dates from 26 Nov - 5 Jan
Santa Specials
Meet Father Christmas, and every well-behaved child will receive a special gift from Santa himself on this magical train ride. Before boarding, don’t miss the festive signal box and explore stalls brimming with holiday treats.
Festive travel and treats
Indulge yourself with delicious festive food packages including afternoon tea, the Christmas Pullman service and more, with a range of Christmas offerings onboard the heritage railway.
Helmsley Christmas Lights Switch On
Market Place, Helmsley, YO62 5BL | 29 Nov | 5pm
Sing carols with Helmsley Arts Centre Singers and Swinton & District Excelsior Band before the lights are switched on by the Town Crier.
Malton Christmas Festival
Market Place, Malton, YO17 7LX | 7 Dec - 8 Dec 9am - 3.30pm
This two-day extravaganza is packed full of scrumptious street food vendors, gift stalls serving up tasty treats and unique presents, music and festive fun for all the family centered around the market place.
Hovingham Christmas Market
Hovingham VIllage Hall, Main Street, YO62 4LF 21 Dec | 10am - 1:30pm
This popular market see over 40 stalls serving up fresh produce, artisanal delights including local wines and chutneys, and unique arts and crafts.
On the Yorkshire coast
Discover the Yorkshire coast, where stunning landscapes meet charming seaside towns and coastal villages.
Whitby, famous for its dramatic abbey ruins and literary history, offers gorgeous scenery and charm in abundance. The town’s cobbled streets host an array of artisan makers and unique shops, and there’s no shortage of places to eat - including plenty of seafood restaurants for your fish and chips supper. Bring the whole family along to the Christmas Festival between 15 - 17 December and don’t miss the unique Krampus Run on 7 - 8 December.
Scarborough is a popular spot year round. Head up to the castle for breathtaking views of the coastline, while in the town you’ll discover a wide range of places to eat and shop. Take a stroll in peaceful Peasholm Park or South Cliff Gardens to soak up the fresh sea air. Enjoy a range of lively shows at Scarborough Spa, and be wowed as Scarborough Lights illuminates the town across the festive season.
Browse Filey’s independent shops and call in for a warming drink at a cafe after a brisk stroll on the promenade. The town’s Christmas Lights Switch On event on 7 December is a highlight, bringing the community together to admire the unique ‘Fishtive’ tree. Walk for miles along the beautiful beach or head to Filey Brigg to spot marine birds and seals.
Lace up your hiking boots and explore the stunning trails of the Cleveland Way National Trail which winds its way along the rugged coastline into the North York Moors, showcasing breathtaking views at every turn.
The coastal villages are perfect for a peaceful Christmas escape. Robin Hood’s Bay hosts a Victorian weekend in December, complete with traditional costumes, crafts, and entertainment, while Staithes and Runswick Bay offer picturesque settings for winter walks, and cosy pubs to retreat to for a warming meal. Browse galleries and independent shops and admire the gorgeous coastline.
Christmas in Scarborough
Scarborough Lights
Various dates between 15 Nov - 22 Dec
Scarborough will dazzle you this Christmas with a range of free and affordable displays. Be wowed as South Cliff’s Rose Garden is illuminated with a fire and light trail and daring fire performances.
Marvel at the sparkling town centre displays including Westborough’s LED light tunnel and interactive musical light sculpture, and ‘Ships Ahoy’ at the harbour. Tour streets across the town as communities light up their neighbourhood in the Live Advent Calendar.
St Mary’s Church will be the scene for thought-provoking installations, while Scarborough Spa’s Sun Court will be transformed into an Aquarium of Lights.
Boyes Santa Arrival
Scarborough Harbour, South Bay, YO11 1NU 16 Nov from 11am
(Grotto - selected dates in Nov - Dec)
Santa will forgo his traditional sleigh and make a grand entrance by boat into Scarborough Harbour, welcomed by local choirs and a Christmas band. Join his parade as he heads to the Boyes Grotto.
Scarborough Sparkle
Scarborough Open Air Theatre, Scarborough, YO12 6PF 29 Nov - 1 Dec
Experience a magical Christmas wonderland with fairground rides, entertainment, and live music. Warm up in the cosy Tipi with mulled wine or toasted marshmallows, take a land train ride around North Bay, then browse stalls for gifts and tasty treats.
Christmas in Whitby
Whitby Christmas Festival
Marina (Front) Car Park, Langbourne Road, Whitby, YO22 4AG | 15 Nov - 17 Nov
Full of festive cheer with craft stalls, live bands and choirs, kids entertainment, plus a fireworks display on Saturday.
Whitby Krampus Run
West Pier, Pier Road, Whitby, YO21 3PU
7 Dec - 8 Dec | Saturday: 12pm - 5pm Sunday: 2pm
Watch as the mythical Krampus parade the streets of Whitby alongside St. Nicholas and other festive characters, blending European traditions with local folklore in this unusual celebration.
Made in Whitby Christmas Market
Whitby Brewery, Whitby, YO22 4JR | 14 Dec - 15 Dec From 11am
Featuring local artists and crafters, plus live music, overlooking the iconic Whitby Abbey.
Filey Fishtive Tree
Coble Landing, Filey, YO14 9LF | 7 Dec
Admire this unique Christmas tree made from crab and lobster pots, decorated with LED lights and topped with a leaping salmon. The tree is lit during a special event with carol singers, followed by a firework finale.
Robin Hood’s Bay Victorian Weekend
7 Dec - 8 Dec
Don your Victorian costume and marvel at the beautifully decorated village. Enjoy unique Christmas shopping, carols on cobbled streets, and festive window displays. Kids will love Punch and Judy shows, duck races and visiting Santa‘s grotto.
Plan your visit
Rail - There are train stations served by cross-country trains in York, Harrogate, Knaresborough, Northallerton, Malton, Selby, Thirsk, Settle, Skipton, Whitby and Scarborough.
Bus - North Yorkshire’s market towns, coastal resorts and natural attractions are easily accessible by bus, making traveling the region an affordable and scenic option. Until 31 December 2024, a single bus journey is capped at £2 on most routes across England, while young people aged 19 and under can travel for just £1 per single journey on bus routes across North Yorkshire.
Visit traveline.info to plan your journey.
Driving - The A1(M) and A19 are the busiest and quickest routes to North Yorkshire, running through the middle of the county. Other main roads include the A171, which will take you along the coastal towns and villages; the scenic A64 travels between York and the coast; and the A170 skirts the southern end of the North York Moors National Park.
In the west, take the A61 between Harrogate and Thirsk; the A59 leads between Harrogate and Skipton; and the A65 along the western edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Electric vehicle charging points are widespread throughout the county.
Little Bird Artisan Markets
Discover unique Christmas gifts and festive inspiration at Little Bird Artisan Markets across North Yorkshire. Pick up gifts or a treat for yourself and browse handmade jewellery, homeware, tasty cakes, dog accessories, artisan cheese and much more, and support small businesses.
Find out more at littlebirdmade.com
Save the date
Knaresborough Castle | 2 Nov | 10am - 3pm
Harrogate Valley Gardens | 30 Nov, 1, 7, 8, 14 & 15 Dec | 10am - 3pm
Easingwold Market Square | 9 Nov & 14 Dec | 9am - 2pm
Wetherby Market Place | 17 Nov & 8 Dec | 10am - 3pm
Ripon Market Place | 24 Nov & 22 Dec | 10am - 3pm
Thirsk Market Place | 17 Nov & 15 Dec | 10am - 3pm
Leyburn Market Place | 23 Nov | 9am - 3pm
Harewood House, Leeds | 7 – 10 Nov | 10am – 4pm
