It’s about hearing your first Christmas song on the radio (normally Mariah Carey, are we wrong?)
It’s about never knowing what to buy your parents for Christmas every single year.
It’s about having a 16 week old puppy and being fearful about putting up the Christmas tree, for it to be pulled down a few hours later. (Tell us, this hasn’t happened to you?)
And let’s not forget, it’s about eating copious amounts of sugary treats, having an eggnog or two* and spending quality time with your loved ones.
So, why don’t you take a Jaunt this festive season and make some magical memories with your loved ones, by visiting one of these unique and festive experiences in several locations across the UK.
Elfingrove, Scotland’s biggest Ice Rink – Glasgow
Let’s start with the magical ice experience at Elfingrove, where you can skate around Scotland’s biggest ice rink in the beautiful grounds of Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. This is a must do experience for the festive season.
Alnwick Gardens Light Trail and Tobaggan Ride – Northumberland
Alnwick, the home to Alnwick Castle and where Harry Potter was filmed, has the north east’s biggest and brightest light trail at Alnwick Gardens!
Why don’t you immerse yourself in the glittering carnival of light and sound, and take a trip to where magic awaits you around every corner. If you’re more of the daring type, there’s also the opportunity to glide down a towering toboggan ride and take in the sights of Alnwick!
Christmas at Tyneside Cinema – Newcastle
In Newcastle, there’s the well-known Tyneside Cinema, which has a treat in store for film fans this festive season. With lots of Christmas movies showing from late November and throughout December, there’s something for everybody on the line-up.
From festive classics like It’s A Wonderful Life and Miracle on 34th Street, to Christmas comedies including Elf and National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.
As well as lots of kid-friendly movies like How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Home Alone and The Muppet Christmas Carol, it’s festive film fun for all the family!
Christmas at Beamish – County Durham
Why don’t you get yourself and your family along for Christmas at Beamish and truly enjoy the traditional celebrations at the museum!
From Georgian times right the way through to the 1950s, hop aboard one of Beamish’s traditional trams or buses and be wrapped up in Christmas throughout time. Start your own special family traditions and tick off important Christmas to-dos before the big day.
Stockleld Park – Nordic Ski Trail – York
Enjoy the Forest Winter Illuminations from a different view by taking the 1.2km Nordic Ski Trail route!
Strap on some cross-country skis and set off through a fairy tale forest trail. It’s an activity that is great fun for all the family but especially the kids and big kids amongst us! (Suitable for everyone over the age of 6.) The Ski Trail is open all day, so whatever time you head down you’ll be able to enjoy the fun.
Wollaton Hall, Gardens and Deer Park – Nottingham
Ever been to a deer park? Since the fourteenth century, herds of deer have roamed Wollaton’s 500 acres of parkland, which is home to all kinds of habitats.
There are two play areas, a beautiful lake and Wollaton Hall which is the notorious home of batman, also known as Wayne Manor, which was used during the filming of The Dark Knight Rises (Personally, our favourite batman film.)
So, hold on for deer life (See what we did there!) Please visit their website for more information and opening times.
Santa Safari at West Midlands Safari Park – Birmingham
Nothing says Christmas more than a Safari Park full of exotic animals. West Midlands Safari Park host a four mile safari with a visit to see Santa in his grotto. You will be greeted in the Discovery Trail by one of his helpful Elves who will show you to the sleigh and where you will be magically transported to the North Pole and into Santa’s Grotto!
Festive activities at Belvoir Castle – Grantham
Fancy stepping into the magic of Cinderella this Christmas at Belvoir Castle? Take a stroll through the lavishly decorated spaces, for an unforgettable family Christmas experience. Admire the exquisite gardens, adorned with a spell-binding path of twinkling lights that transport you to the Engine Yard for shopping, Christmas-themed food and more.
Christmas at Bletchley Park – Milton Keynes
This is a great time to visit Bletchley Park and get into the festive spirit by submerging yourself in a very vintage Christmas. Step back in time and experience a vintage Christmas with stunning 1940s decorations, festive food and family activities. Also discover the incredible achievement of Britain’s World War Two Codebreakers, in the place where it all happened. So, with activities for children and families, Christmas is a great time to visit Bletchley Park!
Hippodrome Christmas Spectacular Circus and Water Show – Great Yarmouth
Great Yarmouth is hosting this Christmas Spectacular. With Jack Jay and Ben Langley, plus an incredible international circus cast, combines the festive spirit with the breath taking magic of the circus. There’s no Christmas show quite like this one and a completely new alternative to the traditional pantomime.
With so many exciting events happening around the UK this month it’s time to hit the road. No sleigh (aka car), no problem. You can get short-term insurance straight from your mobile and be on the road in minutes. With cover for up to 28 days, you’re able to nominate a designated driver or even share a car over the holiday season.
Yule be sorry to miss out!
*or three, but don’t drink and drive!
