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 Chirstmas wreath.
Check out all their Chirstmassy events here
Victorian Christmas at York Castle Museum
Experience the festive traditions of years gone by with the York Castle Museum. Rooms will be decorated in the Victorian style, learn the traditional Victorian gingerbread recipe and enjoy the Christmas cheer.
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
For the first time, Mother Shipton’s is opening at Christmas for a spectacular event. Children can meet Santa and choose a gift, make a wish to hang on Mother Shipton’s wishing tree and post a letter to the North Pole. There’s also going to be a pop up Christmas shop full of gift and decoration ideas.
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:
- Jack and the Beanstalk in Harrogate
- The Grand Old Dame of York and Cinderella in York
- Peter Pan and Robin Hood in Scarborough
- Cinderella in Leyburn
- Sleeping Beauty in Richmond
- 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: 22nd November – 29th December (Thursdays to Sundays 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 Nativity Trail
Follow the stars around this gorgeous historic site and discover kings, angels and donkeys along the way. See if you can find all the life-size wooden sculptures created by local artist Shane Green.
Date: 26th November – 16th December
Time: 10am – 4pm
Place: Fountains, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 3DY
Link: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events/26bc3546-f639-4bbd-b4b3-3ea83a43fd25/pages/details
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: 22nd and 23rd December
Time: 11am – 4:15pm
Place: Brimham Moor Road, Summerbridge, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG3 4DW
Link: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events/c237d11c-2f9d-4789-b0c9-3bc4774c2b63/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!