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Gibside, Heatherslaw Light Railway, Newcastle Cathedral, Playhouse Whitley Bay Gibside, Heatherslaw Light Railway, Newcastle Cathedral, Playhouse Whitley Bay
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December 2022
Reading time 3 Minutes

There’s less than two weeks to go until Christmas!

Whether you want to get amongst the festive lights, laugh out loud at a Christmas panto, or stay cosy at home with some delicious treats – here’s the best way to spend your weekend.
Gibside

Immerse Yourself in Light…
Once again Gibside’s 720 acres of woodland has been transformed into an illuminated wonderland. Follow the trail through sparkling tunnels, around giant sculptures and beneath trees with lights that dance to music – it’s the the ultimate family night out. Click here to read our full review from last year. If you’re based in Yorkshire, you’ll not want to miss Roundhay Park’s magical after-dark illuminated trail. Get your friends and family together to wander through the sparkling tunnels of light, under the giant baubles and the flickering flames in the fire garden. 

Deck the Halls…
If you haven’t already got your Christmas decorations up, this weekend is the perfect time to deck the halls. If you’re after a real Christmas tree, find the perfect places across the North East and Yorkshire to buy yours here. Looking for some festive decor inspiration on how to dress your home to the perfect theme? Check out our top pick of traditional Christmas decorations here, and if colour is more your style, you’ll love these rainbow baubles, wreaths and trees. 

Tis the Season…
Enjoy a train ride on one of Heatherslaw Light Railway’s Santa Specials this weekend. You’ll travel from Heatherslaw to Etal and back, hauled by the steam locomotives Bunty or Lady Augusta, then see Santa who will be waiting for you at Etal station equipped with gifts – it’s the perfect family day out. Or, discover the hidden secrets of the Druid’s Temple at Swinton Bivouac’s Christmas trail around the woodland where you’ll solve clues to win a prize. Don’t forget to stop by the Bivouac’s Bistro Café where a selection of seasonal warming tipples are on the menu (mulled wine is taking our fancy, but you might want to try the mulled cider for something a little different).

Read More: Christmas Comedy Shows that Promise Plenty of Laughter

Heatherslaw Light Railway
Playhouse Whitley Bay

Read More: TV Guide: Everything You Should Watch This Week


See a Show…
Is it really Christmas without a trip to the pantomime? Oh no it isn’t! We’ve picked out our favourite shows the whole family will love. Check out the best North East shows here, and Yorkshire performances here – plus, lots of the performances are on until January so they make great days out even after the big day. 

Give a Gift…
If you haven’t managed to get all your Christmas shopping done yet, fear not as we’ve created the ultimate gift guide for every person in your life. From fitness fanatics to foodies, fashionistas and beauty-lovers (there’s even gifts for pets and the kids too!), discover our guide here and make their Christmas extra special this year. Want something a little personal (and something you can enjoy too)? Try these three easy edible gift recipes which promise everything from indulgent truffles to more-ish fudge. Click here for the recipes

Festive Cheer…
Get into the Christmas spirit this Saturday by heading to Newcastle Cathedral for their Christmas Extravaganza, a spectacular event of Christmas carols performed by the cathedral choir including special guests, Dunston Silver Band. Tickets are available now. You can also get involved in the festivities at Wakefield Cathedral, joining The Yorkshire Philharmonic Choir performing carols from around the world starting at 7pm on Saturday evening.

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