[@]A Manchester Christmas '21

Skate Manchester

Published: Guide No.16 - Nov '21

Greater Manchester is gearing up for a busy festive season including all your seasonal favourites such as Ice Skating, Christmas Markets, Visiting Santa and even the odd mug of hot mulled wine.

With so many Christmas events happening we have chosen to highlight a few to help keep you and your family entertained and possibly well feed too!

Manchester Christmas Markets

Returning to the city centre, at its new home in Piccadilly Gardens, the ever-popular markets will again fill the streets with festive cheer.

You will find stalls in Cathedral Gardens, Exchange Square, New Cathedral Street, St Ann’s Square, King Street and on Market Street.

The busy market lanes are full of traders selling everything from dazzling Christmas bubbles to tasty German sausages.

They are also great social opportunities for families and friends; discovering new ideas for presents, tucking into foodie delights and chilling out in the bars.

Until 22nd December ‘21

Address: Piccadilly Gardens and across the city centre

Skate Manchester

The Manchester Ice Rink has proved so popular that have doubled its size and added a roof, so at least the rain (maybe snow?) should keep off!

We recommend pre-booking, especially if you are planning on visiting during a weekend. Your ticket includes the cost of skate hire and there are fun skate aids for children under 10 (pre-booking essential).

Tickets available are child, adult, family and season passes, check website for full details. Your Skate Manchester session lasts up to 45 minutes.

Until 3rd Jan ‘22

Address: Cathedral Gardens, Manchester M4 3BG

Web: Skatemanchester.com

East Lancashire Railway Santa Specials

Your Christmas Steam adventure starts at Bolton Street Station transformed into festive Grotto with Christmas trees, sparkling lights, Elves and a bustling Stream Train.

Ideal for all the family, you can enjoy the comfort of your carriage while Santa’s helpers keep your little ones entertained and they get a personal visit from Santa bearing a gift!

Tickets from £20 check website for full details.

Weekends from 27th Nov until 24th Dec ‘21

Address: Bury Bolton Street Station, Bolton BL9 0EY

Web: Eastlancashirerailway.org.uk

One Snowy Night: A Christmas Tale

Tatton Park’s winter gardens are host to a magical event for families this Christmas.

Inspired by ‘One Snowy Night’ from renowned children’s author, Nick Butterworth, the gardens bring to life the tale of friendship and kindness.

Let the beautiful wintery scenes and tasty treat & gift from Percy make you feel festive and full of cheer.

General Admission £8.00 | Family Ticket £27.00 (2 Adults & 3 Children) check website for full details

27th Nov until 3rd Jan ‘22

Address: Tatton Park, Knutsford WA16 6SG

Web: Tattonpark.org.uk

Christmas at Dunham Massey

Dunham Massey’s gardens are transformed into a huge illuminated celebration. Tour the trails and discover sparkling tunnels of light, dancing waterfalls reflections and trees drenched in jewel like colour a real winter spectacular.

Independent food and drink vendors add to the experience as you complete your walk through the gardens with warming snacks, maybe even a glimpse of a busy Father Christmas.

General Admission tickets (pre-booking essential)

19th Nov until 2nd Jan ‘22 (closed Mon/Tues)

Address: Dunham Massey, Altringham WA14 4SJ

Christmas Treasures at Lyme Park

Explore the house and discover the rooms that have been beautifully transformed with festive splendour. Here you will find many of the traditions and treasures of Christmases past.

Join Percy’s Park Keeper winter wander trail, ideal for families. Working with Percy’s animal friends, doing some winter tasks and following clues and notes to find lost items and get jobs done. There will be plenty of fun and games.

General admission applies. Trail packs £2.00

3rd Dec until 24th Dec ’21

Address: Lyme Park, Disley, Stockport SK12 2NR