The weather outside is frightful, but these places are so delightful!
If you’re looking for the perfect outing this winter, then look no further. Here’s 10 of our favourite places to visit over the Christmas period.
We hope you have a holly, jolly time!
💰- Cheap and cheerful
💰💰- Affordable and fun
💰💰💰 – Perfect as a treat
Artisan Christmas Markets at The Stoller Hall
The much-loved Artisan Christmas Markets are back and in full swing once again this winter, creating the perfect shopping experience for those seeking a unique gift for their loved ones.
Ditch the bustling high-street shops and choose locally crafted gifts that have been made with love as you take in the beautiful surroundings of Stoller Hall’s breathtaking atrium. Afterwards, you can relax with a hot drink and take a stroll through central Manchester.
Who? Those looking for a unique gift this Christmas
Age? All ages
Price? 💰💰
The Lanterns at Chester Zoo
Ready for an evening of magic and illumination? The Lanterns are back at Chester Zoo for another spectacular event! Until the 23rd of December, the zoo will be transformed into a beautiful sea of light showcasing a range of different animals that you might find there. It’s a truly unmissable experience to be enjoyed by everyone, young and old.
For the little ones, there’s even an opportunity to meet Santa Claus on his illuminated sleigh. See the zoo in a whole new light and take some wonderful pictures that you can cherish forever.
Who? Magic-lovers and animal fans alike!
Age? All ages
Price? 💰💰
Ice skating at Wilmslow’s Bank Square
Head down to Wilmslow’s Bank Square for a glide along their synthetic ice-skating rink, which is open to the public from early December. Whether it’s date night or you’re just looking for a fun activity for the kids, wrap up warm and get your skates on this festive season!
There will also be a Christmas market as well as other attractions to keep you entertained. Keep your eye out for the upcoming 12 days of Wilmslow Christmas, which will see different festive activities taking place across various venues, businesses, schools, and community groups throughout the town.
Who? Those who just LOVE Christmas!
Age? All ages
Price? 💰
Christmas dining at The Pheasant Inn, Tattenhall
Looking for decadent dining this Christmas? The Pheasant Inn will keep you cosy and warm this winter as you dine on a delectable two or three-course festive menu from one of Cheshire’s finest gastro inns around.
Whether you’re gathering with friends, family or work colleagues, you’ll be sure to have a pleasant evening. From salmon and crab roulade to braised beef bourguignon, Christmas pudding to white chocolate and cherry cheesecake and everything in between, there’s something for everyone at The Pheasant.
Who? For the festive foodies
Age? All ages
Price? 💰💰
Christmas Spectacular at The Mere
On the 16th and 17th December, The Mere Resort & Spa in Knutsford will be transformed into an all-singing, all-dancing festive spectacular, featuring a glass of fizz and canapés on arrival as well as a three-course dinner with entertainment throughout. As well as live performances from an incredible seasonal band and a DJ to play through to the late hours, guests will be able to capture all their Christmas celebrations inside the must-visit photo booth. Put on your best clothes, this is sure to be a celebration to remember!
Who? For a glitz and glam Christmas
Age? Adults only
Price? 💰💰
Christmas Day at Didsbury House
Wake up to a cosy and festive Christmas morning following a fantastic night’s sleep at Didsbury House Hotel. Later, take the stress out of Christmas dinner by tucking into a delicious and beautifully presented four-course meal, complete with buck’s fizz.
Once you’re full, you can snuggle up by the fire with a glass of wine and breathe a sigh of relief – there’ll be no pots to wash this Christmas! What’s more, children can enjoy their Christmas meal for half price. It would be rude not to, really…
Who? For a relaxing, decadent Christmas
Age? All ages
Price? 💰💰💰
Jack & the Beanstalk at Waterside Arts
Nothing quite says ‘family time’ at Christmas like a local pantomime. The award-winning Sale Nomads will be returning to Sale’s Waterside Arts theatre for the annual panto, ready to make you laugh, cheer and boo!
This classic tale is fun for all the family and is sure to give your little ones a good giggle. Family tickets can be purchased for two adults and two children, and 2-for-1 tickets are available on Friday 13th, Wednesday 18th and Thursday 19th January.
Who? For a good laugh this Christmas!
Age? Youngsters & families
Price? 💰💰
Murder Mystery NYE Weekend at De Vere Cranage Estate
Step into your very own murder mystery this New Year’s Eve with this encapsulating event by Joy Swift’s Murder Weekends. You’ll arrive at the beautiful Cranage Estate in Holmes Chapel and enjoy a three-course dinner before the night is turned on its head and you must find out who the culprit is.
This two-night stay includes accommodation, breakfast, dinner on both nights, a New Year’s Eve Celebration party, cream tea AND a full weekend of suspenseful murder mystery activities.
Who? For a criminally good Christmas!
Age? Adults only
Price? 💰💰💰
Santa Special at ChesterBoat
Take a cruise along the River Dee this Christmas and meet Santa whilst you’re at it! ChesterBoat, The Lady Diana, will be adorned with festive lights and tinsel for this family-friendly event. The ChesterBoat elves will be ready and waiting to greet you with refreshments and fun activities.
Tickets include mulled wine or tea/coffee for adults, cordial for children, a mince pie or gingerbread man per person, an age-appropriate book for those aged two to 10 and sweets for older children. You’ll also enjoy a one-hour cruise with festive music to sing along to.
Who? For an extra special visit
Age? Youngsters & families
Price? 💰
Santa Dash at Chester Riverside Campus
Practise your ho ho hos and dig out your Santa hat – one of Chester’s most anticipated charity events is back! Supporting the Hospice of the Good Shepherd and the Countess Charity, the Chester Santa Dash returns to Chester Riverside Campus as thousands of Santas run across the city streets.
Each participant will receive a Santa suit and a medal for taking part and there will be entertainment throughout to keep you in high spirits. It’s all for a good cause!
Who? For those who like to give back at Christmas
Age? All ages
Price? 💰💰
