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Wiltshire's Seasonal Events
SPEND THE FESTIVE SEASON IN WILTSHIRE IN 2011 WITH THESE FANTASTIC EVENTS/OFFERS
VisitWiltshire has launched its annual Christmas web page featuring some of the best things to see and do in the county during the festive season. Full details can be found by visiting www.visitwiltshire.co.uk/christmas but here are some of the highlights:
New For 2011! Visit Longleat This Christmas!
Give the whole family a truly unforgettable day out this Christmas with a day at Longleat which has opened its doors at Christmas for the very first time. Highlights include:
Longleat House
Especially for the festive season an enchantment has been cast over Longleat House where classic fairy tales and Christmas stories come to life. Sleeping Beauty can be found dreaming away 100 years in the exquisite Chinese Bedroom. A hearty feast is set out in the Dining Room ready for when stingy old Scrooge discovers the spirit of Christmas and in the Great Hall Cinderella is whirled across the dance floor by her handsome Prince Charming.
Ice skating comes to Longleat
Located at the front of the house a spectacular floodlit ice rink will be available for all offering an amazing location from which to enjoy this traditional winter activity.
Visits to Santa
Longleat’s special Santa Train will take visitors through the snow covered enchanted woods to where Father Christmas is waiting in his log cabin. He will welcome every child with a special present.
Pre-booking essential and extra charge applies for Father Christmas and ice-skating.
Longleat will be open Friday to Sunday only between 18 November and 11 December and daily from 16 December – 2 January 2012.
The entire attraction is open to the public, including the safari park, although opening times will vary and are subject to weather conditions. The safari drive is also operating a limited route. Tickets are just £10 for adults and £5 for children. Online booking now available at Longleat or by calling01985 844400. Additional charges apply for ice skating and Santa Train – pre-booking essential.
A Dickensian Christmas in Trowbridge
Trowbridge Museumis setting itself out for a vary traditional Dickensian Christmas this year. In-keeping with the era Father Christmas will be dressed in green velvet robes and will be located in a Victorian style grotto. The event will commence on Saturday 3December and run until Christmas Eve. Further details of the event can be found by visiting Trowbridge Museum or calling 01225 751339.
Christmas events for all at Lydiard House
Also going for a traditional style Christmas is Lydiard House near Swindon. The focus is on a Victorian style theme with decorations and the state rooms being laid out just as they would have done for a Victorian family. A children’s quiz trail will be available to keep the younger ones entertained while they learn about how our ancestors would have celebrated the festive season. The house is open from 3 – 23 December. Tickets are £4.50 for adults and £2.25 for children. For more information call 01793 770401 or visit Lydiard Park. Additional events will also be held on selected dates/times including:
Beautiful Baubles – Friday 2 December, 1.30 to 3pm. Craft session to hand craft a Christmas decoration. Booking required, cost £5 person includes mince pie & coffee!
Angelic Decorations - Sunday 4 December, 12 to 3pm. Make an angel to hang on your Christmas tree. Drop in – no booking necessary - £3 per child
Wreath Making - Sunday 11 December, 11am to 12noon, 12.30 to 1.30pm, 2 to 3pm. Family activity to make a Christmas wreath using greenery from the park. Booking required, please call 01793 770401 - £4 per wreath made.
Christmas Cracker Brewery Tour, Devizes
A guided evening tour of the Wadworth brewery followed by the special Christmas cracker menu and a couple of pints! The brewery tour commences at 7pm followed by the dinner from 9pm. The tours/dinner are available on Thursday and Friday evenings throughout December 2011. Tickets are £25 for Christmas Cracker Tour. Limited to 20 people. Wadworth or call 01380 732277.
Festive Cookery Day, The Bistro and Cookery School, Devizes
This day will be packed with fun and inspiring ideas on making Christmas 2011 something a little different food-wise. This class is ideal for anyone looking for some inspiration for this forthcoming Christmas. There will be lots more interesting tips and ideas as well as dishes with a difference such as a hot Christmas pudding soufflé or roasted sprouts. Participants will be taught by a Michelin starred chef. The course takes place on Sunday 4th December 2011, 11am – 4pm. The Bistro Devizes 01380 530203.
Tinsel Cycle Ride, Swindon
A family-friendly, fun bicycle ride starting from Coate Water Café near Swindon. This two hour long cycle is rounded off with well deserved mince pies and coffee. www.visitwiltshire.co.uk, 07717 696672, acipullo@swindon.gov.uk.
Christmas Fun at the Farm, Roves Farm, Swindon
Mischievous elves will be around every corner, guiding visitors to Bethlehem’s Stable to meet the donkeys, before following thousands of fairy lights to Santa’s magical grotto. Each child visiting Santa will get a wrapped gift! In Mrs Christmas’ Post Office, children can write and post their letters, or give them to Father Christmas himself, when they go to visit him in his grotto. Glittery Kids Craft runs throughout the day, where children can snip, stick and decorate sparkling Christmas cards, lanterns and tree decorations to take home, leaving the mess with us! There are traditional nativity plays performed throughout the day with over 60 costumes of all shapes and sizes available, including Mary, Joseph, angles, kings and shepherds! The farm’s Highland cow, donkeys, sheep and llama all have key roles to play! The fun runs throughout December on Saturday 3rd - Sunday 4th December, Saturday 10th - Sunday 11th, December Saturday 17th - Friday 23rd December inclusive. Other dates available for groups during December. Children under 3 yrs - £4.50*, Children 3 yrs & over - £8.50*,Adults - £6.50 (*includes all activities & a gift from Father Christmas.) Roves Farm, 01793 763939.
Stourhead Christmas Events
Stourhead Christmas Emporium
Exquisite and unusual. Different gifts and treats each day. Come and be inspired! 18th November to 23rd December 2011, 11:00am to 5:00pm. Stourhead, 01747 841152.
The Christmas House
Get into the Christmas spirit as we reveal some of the showrooms beautifully decorated for the festive season. 9 dates between 2nd December 2011 and 18th December 2011. Stourhead, 01747 841152.
Stourhead 10k Reindeer Run and 1km Santa Chase
A multi - terrain route that will take you through the stunning Stourhead estate. 4th December 2011 10:30am, Adult £8 (10km Reindeer Run), Child £3 (1km under 16's Santa Chase). Booking essential. Stourhead, 01747 841152.
Stourhead Christmas Craft Fair
If you are looking to be inspired and searching for that special gift for family and friends, Stourhead has plenty to offer everyone this Christmas.
Stourhead’s annual Christmas craft fair will be held on the weekend of Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 December 2011 between 10am and 4pm at Stourton Memorial Hall.
With over 15 stalls offering a varied range of local items, visitors can soak up the festive atmosphere and will discover an array of local crafts and gifts available for purchase, making ideal Christmas presents for all the family.
Festive mulled wine and warming mince pies will be available from the Ice Cream Parlour in the Spread Eagle courtyard at Stourhead.
For the first time at Stourhead, visitors can also explore ‘Christmas at the Studio,’ to be held at the First View art gallery. Specialist designers and craft makers will be displaying a range of objects throughout December until Friday 23 December, including pottery, ceramics, silver jewellery and festive table decorations.
Stourhead’s Trust shop is also an ideal place to pick up some Christmas presents, with everything from books and gardening accessories to luxury food and treats on offer.
The team at Visitor Reception will also be happy to help with National Trust gift memberships; a memorable present that will last the whole year.
For more information about Stourhead’s Christmas events, please call 01747 841152.
The Magic of Christmas at Bradford-on-Avon, Westbury Gardens, 10th – 24th December 2011
Amid the lantern lights and Christmas cheer you will find a little bit of magic in the centre of Bradford-on-Avon. As you step into the past and days gone by you will find an Original Toy Shop filled with traditional toys, some made by the children in the town. Meet the Toy Maker, a jolly man with Oh so much to do, and still the giant spinning top to finish! A Toy Maker’s work is never done!
On to the Little Theatre - The scene is set… for Ebenezer Scrooge is about to meet the Ghosts of Christmas Past and Christmas Future.
Read about the play in your programme, listen to the characters and choose to join the life size puppets.
There is a hive of activity back in the Parlour where all the family are gathered for the festivities. Cornucopias, crackers and cards all still to be made. Don’t forget your programme to find the templates and help build the giant cornucopia.
The Time Machine - Based on a structure from the HG Wells film. Find your password inside the programme and climb inside to find a celebration of past, present, and future with activated audio film projections and historic facts. Listen to the past as spoken by the ancient old oak tree and dream of the future. Choose your message to write for 2012 and let it travel.
Last but not least the majestic Tree - Help decorate Queen Victoria's Christmas Tree with coloured ribbon - write your name on and attach to the last link - watch the chain grow.
On your way round find the little Bears and create your own Bear hunt. There is, of course, one big one – find him if you can, and the other twenty nine!
Programmes for the Event will be available from 29 November 2011 from:Fat Fowl, Silver Street, Bradford-on-Avon, Wiltshire, BA15 1JS. 01225 863111 Fat Fowl
Winter Wonderland
Take part in the King Winter procession at the Salisbury Arts Centre and also help Hoodwink prepare for Winter Wonderland. Ideal for children. Saturday 26th November, 10am - 3pm. Tickets: 01722 321744 or info@salisburyarts.co.uk
Salisbury Amateur Operatic Society presents The Sound Of Music
No introductions are needed for this wonderful show which tells the story of Maria and the von Trapp family with wonderful songs. A West End and Broadway spectacular, you are guaranteed to be entertained. Salisbury City Hall. Tuesday 29th November - Saturday 3rd December 7.30pm (plus Saturday Matinee 2.30pm). Tickets: 01722 434434 or online City Hall Salisbury
Carol Concert For Groups
Enjoy a carol concert for a group at Salisbury Cathedral. 6th December 2011/15th December 2011, 2:30pm – 3:30pm. Group booking information can be found from Hannah Paye on 01722 555124 or email: groups@salcath.co.uk.
Royal Air Forces Association Concert, Salisbury Cathedral
The 2011 Royal Air Force Christmas concert takes place in Salisbury Cathedral on Thursday 8th December at 7:30pm. There are performances from The Central Band of the Royal Air Force, Salisbury Cathedral Choir and soprano Joanne Pullen with a mixture of festive songs and classical pieces commemorating the past and present Royal Air Force. For further information visit the Cathedral’s website: Salisbury Cathedral, 01722 555148.
Salisbury Musical Society Concert - Handel Messiah
Fabulous performance by the Salisbury Musical Society and Chelsea Opera Group Orchestra, directed by David Halls. Saturday 10th December 2011, 7:30pm. For further information visit the Cathedral’s website: Salisbury Cathedral, 01722 555148.
Let’s Misbehave.
Celebrating the songbook of Cole Porter, the songs of this Broadway legend sparkle with wit, wisdom, and a genuine joie de vivre. Enjoy a musical celebration perfect for the festive season, which includes classic songs such as You’re The Top, It’s De-Lovely, Night and Day, Ev’ry Time We Say Goodbyeand of course, Let’s Misbehave, sung by West End performers. All seats £17. Held at the Salberg Studio, Salisbury. 01722 320333 Salisbury Playhouse.
Choral Foundation Concert - Bach Christmas Oratorio
J S Bach's Christmas Oratorio is performed at the Salisbury Cathedral by its choir and La Folia. Wednesday 14th December 2011, 7:30pm. For further information visit the Cathedral’s website: Salisbury Cathedral, 01722 555148.
Al Murray The Pub Landlord - Barrel of Fun Extra
Following the huge success of his 2010 tour, Al Murray The Pub Landlord is for the second time extending his Barrel of Fun Tour. Britain’s best-known Pub Philosopher is serving up a room full of banter. Barrel of Fun Extra will see the Guv going back to basics returning to intimate venues where he made his name. Thursday 15th December 2011, 7:30pm. Tickets £25.50. 01722 434434 City Hall Salisbury.
Carol Concert For BBC Wiltshire
Christmas favourites at a special carol concert being recorded by BBC Wiltshire for playing over the airwaves during Christmas. Songs and music to be performed by Salisbury Cathedral Choir, Salisbury Cathedral Junior Choir, The Band of the Prince of Wales's Division plus participation by the audience. Saturday 17th December 2011, 3pm be seated for 3:30pm start. For further information visit the Cathedral’s website: Salisbury Cathedral, 01722 555148.
London Community Gospel Choir
Highly sought-after throughout the world, this special evening by the London Community Gospel Choir will be full of songs and spirituals that will soothe the mind, heal the spirit, uplift the soul and cheer your heart. Sunday 18th December 2011, 6pm at the Salisbury Playhouse. Tickets £16/£18. 01722 434434 City Hall Salisbury.
The Cast of Christmas Trail
A special Christmas themed trail hunting for angels, kings and shepherds and other Christmas story figures. Collect a free trail leaflet at the Salisbury Cathedral entrance from Saturday 17th December until Christmas Eve, except during a service. On completion collect a lovely glittery sticker from the shop. Suitable for all ages. For further information visit the Cathedral’s website: Salisbury Cathedral, 01722 555148.
Christmas Story Time
Hear a new story every day at Salisbury Cathedral by the crib scene. Monday 19th December to Friday 23rd December from 12:30pm-12:45pm. Free with everyone welcome. For further information visit the Cathedral’s website: Salisbury Cathedral, 01722 555148.
Young at Art: All Things Christmassy
An imaginative feast of Christmas arts and crafts getting everyone in the festive spirit. Sessions are held in the Education Centre from 10:00am – 12:00pm each day from Monday 19th December – Friday 23rd December. For ages 5-12 years, or younger if supervised by an adult. Booking is advised. Call 01722 555180 or email education@salcath.co.uk, Salisbury Cathedral.
Robin and the Big Freeze
A fabulous festive feast of a show with fantastic puppets, live music and even birdwatching! With suitcases and satnavs the birds are getting ready to leave town. Robin remains; he's got lots to do like tweeting at anyone who comes near his patch and posing for Christmas cards. But the snow is on its way and lots of it... is everyone ready for the big freeze? Suitable for families and anyone aged 4+. Salisbury Arts Centre, Tuesday 20th December 2011, 11:00am. Tickets £7.50, £6.50 concessions, £24 family of four. Salisbury Arts Centre, 01722 321744.
Carols for Busy People
Celebrate Christmas with a 20 minute service with popular carols followed by mince pies and mulled wine. Tuesday 20th December 2011, 1:10pm. St Thomas Salisbury, 01722 322537.
That'll Be The Day - Christmas Show
Prepare for a party this Christmas as the UK’s most successful touring rock ‘n’ roll production, the legendary That’ll Be The Day, returns with a Brand New 2011 Christmas Show. Celebrate the festive season with a combination unique comedy routines mixed with a non-stop line up of all the best Christmas hits. Tickets £21.50 and £20.00. Thursday 22nd December 2011, 7:30pm. 01722 434434 City Hall Salisbury.
Salisbury Cathedral Christmas Eve Services
7:30am Morning Worship with Holy Communion
4:00pm A Family Service for Christmas Eve
6:00pm Choral Evensong
11:30pm Midnight Mass
For further information visit the Cathedral’s website: Salisbury Cathedral, 01722 555148.
Salisbury Cathedral Christmas Day Services
8.00am Holy Communion
10.30am Sung Eucharist
3.00pm Festal Evensong
For further information visit the Cathedral’s website: Salisbury Cathedral, 01722 555148.
Jack and the Beanstalk
“Fe-Fi-Fo-Fum”. Experience a fantastic traditional family pantomime at the Salisbury Playhouse, with loads of laughs, original songs and loads of audience participation. There’s even a game for the children on the website. Salisbury Playhouse, Wednesday 7th December 2011 - Saturday 7th January 2012 (various times). Tickets: 01722 320333, £11 - £19. Salisbury Playhouse
The Christmas Procession, Salisbury Cathedral, Salisbury
This is the Cathedral’s carol service with readings interspersed between carols. The focus of the procession is the Christmas Crib and the story of the birth of Jesus. Wednesday 21st - Thursday 22nd December 2011. The services begin at 7.00pm (doors open 6.00pm). Admission is free and no tickets are required. Those who wish to arrive early will be able to queue under cover in the Cloisters where seasonal refreshments are available before both the Advent and Christmas services. Please note there can be no admission once all seats are taken. There is no public parking in The Close however parking is available for Disabled Blue Badge holders. For further information visit the Cathedral’s website: Salisbury Cathedral, 01722 555148.
Midwinter solstice walk, Stonehenge
On the eve of the shortest day, join guide Peter Sturt to explore the ancient Stonehenge landscape. This is a walk of around three miles. Meeting at the Stonehenge Car Park (not NT) by the two 'touching stones' at the top of the slope towards the Stonehenge Cafe. Please dress for the weather - wrap up warm! - and wear stout footwear. 21st December 2011, 1pm – 3:30pm. www.visitwiltshire.co.uk, 01980 664780.
Festive Family Fun Trail, Old Sarum, Salisbury
We need your help to solve our festive mystery! Bring along the whole family to crack the clues and earn your prize. 3rd – 4th December 2011, 11am – 4pm. Adults £3.70, Children £2.20, Members are free. www.visitwiltshire.co.uk, 01722 335398.
Salisbury City Walk
New Year’s Day walk around Salisbury. Meet at the Salisbury TIC Fish Row, Salisbury. Sunday 1st January 2012, 11:00am. Cost Adults £4.00 Children £2.00. www.visitwiltshire.co.uk
Salisbury City Ghost Walk
New Year’s Day walk around Salisbury. Meet at the Salisbury TIC Fish Row, Salisbury. Sunday 1st January 2012, 6:00pm. Cost Adults £4.00 Children £2.00. www.visitwiltshire.co.uk
New Year Viennese Spectacular, Salisbury
Celebrate the start of the Olympic and Diamond Jubilee year with this stunning show. Exploding with excitement, atmosphere and a host of favourites including Blue Danube, Radetzky March, Tritsch Tratsch Polka, Morning Papers Waltz and many more... 7th January 2012, 7:30pm. Tickets: £26.60, £20.50, £17.00 and £11.50
Under 16's £8.00. City Hall Salisbury, 01722 434434.
Salisbury Cathedral, The Epiphany Procession
This service commemorates the journey of the Magi travelling from the East to worship the baby Jesus, and follows him through his early life and into manhood. Sunday 15th January 2012, 4:30pm. Salisbury Cathedral, 01722 555148.
For general information about Christmas events in Wiltshire visit www.visitwiltshire.co.uk/chrsitmas Here you will find a host of details about events, shopping, dining and accommodation.
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