WINTER WONDERLAND

It’s been a challenging year, but there’s lots to look forward to as 2020 comes to a close and what better way to get out and about, than walking in a winter wonderland and exploring some fabulous festive events

Image: Castle Howard, York.

LIGHTWATER VALLEY

Be enchanted by the fantastic family-friendly Alice in Winterland giant lanterns display as the sun sets over Lightwater Valley. Embark on a magical journey to meet the Mad Hatter, the Queen of Hearts, and of course, Alice herself as she embarks on an amazing adventure. Dazzling giant illuminated sculptures will illustrate favourite stories from Alice in Wonderland and Alice Through the Looking Glass. Discover a giant chess board, watch the Mad Hatter prepare for his crazy tea party, marvel at the four-metre tall Alice lantern and come face to face with the infamous Queen of Hearts herself. The luminous trail travels through a glowing garden with massive mushrooms, illuminated tulips and fabulous flamingos. Families can enjoy some traditional fairground fun including a spin on the carousel and take to the night sky on the Skyrider. FOUNTAINS ABBEY AND STUDLEY ROYAL WATER GARDEN See three different kinds of wonderful wild deer being fed near St Mary’s Church through the colder season and each weekend in December as the afternoon light starts to fade, make your way to Fountains Abbey and wander through the ruins aglow with bright and colourful lights. HAREWOOD HOUSE

Beautifully lit and festively decorated, explore Harewood’s gardens and grounds during the festive season. Visit the beautiful Bird Garden, purchase pressies in the Courtyard Shop and Harewood’s new Christmas Shop on the Terrace.

CASTLE HOWARD

Enjoy a winter walk in the gardens and grounds. Marvel at the 30 foot outdoor Christmas tree and sparkling tree-lined drive. Let off steam with the little ones at the Adventure Playground. Indulge in some festive late night shopping and eating in the Courtyard. Pick the perfect tree from the Garden Centre and perhaps a wonderful wreath, a gorgeous gift or even some special dog pressies. Plus there’s wood fired pizza, hot dogs, hot chocolate, mulled wine and marshmallow toasting and fabulous

Father Christmas events too.

Images clockwise from top left: Lightwater Valley, Harewood House, Castle Howard and Lightwater Valley.

Images this page: Lightopia at Yorkshire Wildlife Park. YORKSHIRE WILDLIFE PARK

Explore a magical and immersive festival of light this winter at Yorkshire Wildlife Park. The biggest lantern display in Yorkshire will feature over 2,400 metres of illuminated trails filled with awe-inspiring giant lanterns themed as animals, mystical creatures, Jurassic dinosaurs and much more in this shimmering spectacle. A kaleidoscope of colour, magical sculptures and tunnels of light await in the 150 acre park on over 1 1/2 miles of lit pathways, plus delicious festive food and drink to enjoy.

YORK CASTLE MUSEUM

Come in from the cold and into a magical snowcovered world where Christmas is alive at York Castle Museum. Snow has fallen on the famous Victorian street transforming it into a glistening stage where large-scale projections dance across the walls, bringing to life famous characters from the Nutcracker. Oversized Christmas decorations sparkle above, Nutcrackers, ballerinas and toy soldiers adorn the street and festive music plays, immersing all in a new and truly unique Christmas experience.

HARLOW CARR GLOW 2020

See the garden all aglow as enchanting festive illuminations light up Harrogate’s Harlow Carr this winter. Wander through the enchanting trail, marvel at the magnificent trees and shrubs and see some of the garden’s iconic features, including the Queen Mother’s Lake, Winter Walk and Kitchen Garden, shine with festive colour. Treat yourself to a delicious mince pie and hot chocolate from Bettys and discover delightful Christmas shopping opportunities, plus the chance to purchase Christmas trees and wreaths.

CARLTON TOWERS

Step into Christmas at Carlton Towers – there’s Santa Sunday Lunch, Festive Afternoon or High Tea, and Christmas Luncheon with Miss Marina Mae, best known for her wartime tribute show and glamorous and authentic costumes, plus wonderful wreath making and the chance to experience this stunning venue all dressed for Christmas, with the fires lit and dazzling decorations to inspire and admire.

STOCKELD PARK

What was once a simple Christmas tree shop, from this small acorn grew what is now Stockeld Park’s most famous adventure season. Fabulous family fun for all and exciting events invite you into the Enchanted Forest as it comes alive after dusk with wonderful winter illuminations at the home of Christmas magic.

Image and below: Stockeld Park Ice skating and lake. Image and above: Carlton Towers Wreath Making and Christmas with Santa