Updated for 2019
If you’re spending Christmas in Yorkshire, congratulations! There’s so much happening in the county this December, you’ll be spoiled for choice when you’re planning what to do with your time off. Take a look at some of the things we’re most excited about this Christmas in Yorkshire.
Make sure you check out our guide to the markets and fayres too.
Burton Constable events
There are some amazing events to go along to at Burton Constable. You can explore the hidden parts of the mansion at their Christmas Cobwebs and Cream Teas event, or try your hand at making your own willow Christmas wreath.
Check out all their Christmassy events here
Take a Christmas walk
There are some truly beautiful places to go for a walk around North Yorkshire this Christmas. We couldn’t possibly name them all, but a few of our favourites are to wander round Fountain’s Abbey and the Studley Royal deer park, take in the sights on the walk between gorgeous Helmsley and Rievaulx Abbey, and the dramatic coastal walk between Grosmont and Whitby.
Take a ride on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway
The North Yorkshire Moors Railway is special any time of year, but at Christmas it really is magical. Book your place on one of their Santa Specials and get to meet the man himself, hear Christmas stories, enjoy festive foodie treats and meet baby reindeer.
Image credit: North Yorkshire Moors Railway
Magical Mother Shipton’s Christmas experience
Following from last year’s success, there are lots of wonderful Christmas events at Mother Shipton’s. Help Acorn to make some traditional wooden toys to fill up Santa’s sleigh before his Christmas Eve journey. Children get a festivity pack, present and their picture taken with Santa.
Check times and prices and book online
Watch a Pantomime
Pantomimes are a great place to get some festive fun. There are lots of awesome shows happening across North Yorkshire, so make sure you check out your local theatres. To name just a few, you can book to see:
- Snow White in Harrogate
- Cinderella, Treasure Island, Jack and the Beanstalk and The Wizard of Oz in Scarborough
- Aladdin in Leyburn
- Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs and Sleeping Beauty in York
- Jack and the Beanstalk in Knaresborough
- Aladdin in Richmond
- Cinderella and an over 16s Jack and the Beanstalk in Bridlington
Harlow Carr Illuminations
See Harlow Carr in a new light this Christmas. Wander around the illuminated trail and enjoy the seasonal glow of the lights that are shining on the spectacular garden.
Date: 21st November – 28th December (Thursdays to Saturdays only)
Time: 4:30pm – 8pm
Place: RHS Garden Harlow Carr, Crag Lane, Harrogate, HG3 1QB
Link: https://www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/harlow-carr/viewevent?EFID=947&ESRC=CMS
Head out on a Christmas cruise
Take to the water this Christmas in York for a seasonal experience you’ll never forget. There are lots of different cruises to choose from. You can meet Santa, escape down the river with a mince pie or enjoy a 3 hour boat party.
Choose your event and book tickets
Fountains Abbey Music and Lights
After you’ve seen Santa and taken part on the Christmas family trail, enjoy music and lights in the cellarium. Rainbow lights will fill the space and you can enjoy the music from a range of special guests throughout November and December.
Date: 23rd November – 29th December
Time: Singing from 2pm – 3pm, open between 10am – 5pm
Place: Fountains, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 3DY
Link: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/fountains-abbey-and-studley-royal-water-garden/features/festive-family-fun-at-fountains-abbey
Midwinter story telling at Brimham Rocks
Come along and celebrate local myths and folklore inspired by the season in the dramatic landscape of Brimham Rocks. The story telling sessions last around 15 minutes before you can head off and explore the amazing rock formations.
Date: 28th – 29th December
Time: Available slots between 11am and 4pm
Place: Brimham Moor Road, Summerbridge, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG3 4DW
Link: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events/df11aea8-8e18-4eb0-b35f-bdc91470341e/pages/details
Spending Christmas in Yorkshire is magical. There’s so much going on all over the county that you’ll find it hard to choose where to go next. Enjoy your time off and have a lovely festive season!