Twixtmas is a time for rest and celebration, as we recover from Christmas and we look forward to the new year ahead. Most businesses will be closed (Two IP certainly is), so assuming that you do not plan on spending the entire time watching box sets in your PJs, we have put together a few suggestions of things you might like to do.
The Midlands
“Start a new tradition this year at Warwick Castle this Christmas as you enjoy a truly magical Stories with Santa, glide, spin and twirl upon our open-air ice rink and discover our brand-new dazzling light trail for 2023. You’ll also be enchanted by twinkling trees, dazzling decorations and festive flourishes at every turn and the delightful winter food & drink village. With all of this and more set across 64-acres of stunning grounds, you’re sure to feel the magic of Christmas at Warwick Castle.”
Planet Ice Coventry – 3 Day Learn to Skate Course (starts 27th December)
“The perfect Summer Holiday activity! Learn how to skate in just 3 or 5 days! Our lessons run for 30 minutes each morning over three or five consecutive days during the school holidays. You will then have access to the public skate session after to practice your skills you have learned.”
The Box of Delights – Royal Shakespeare Company, Stratford upon Avon
“A magically festive production for all the family in the Royal Shakespeare Theatre this winter. Orphaned schoolboy Kay Harker is caught up in a battle between two powerful magicians. Can he save Christmas? This production is based on the original stage production first produced by Wilton’s Music Hall and Hero Productions at Wilton’s Music Hall.” Performances run until 7th January.
An array of festive pantomimes
This year we are spoilt for choice with a variety of pantomimes in the area for a day out of traditional family fun!
Jack and the Beanstalk at the Birmingham Hippodrome
Cinderella at the Belgrade Theatre in Coventry
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at the Royal & Derngate Theatre in Northampton
Jack and the Beanstalk at the Oxford Playhouse
London
“Located in London’s iconic Hyde Park, Winter Wonderland is the world’s ultimate destination for festive fun. Running for six magical weeks from 17th November 2023 to 1st January 2024, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland offers a variety of attractions, activities, entertainment, food, drinks, and so much more.”
Christmas at Hampton Court Palace
“Get into the festive spirit at Hampton Court Palace this Christmas. Savour historic Tudor cookery, revel in festive tunes from the past, and see if you can spot courtiers and guards from the Tudor court as they roam Henry VIII’s famous palace.”
The Nutcracker at the Royal Opera House
“Discover the enchantment of ballet with this sparkling festive treat for the whole family.”
Hansel and Gretel at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre
“A beautifully epic new version of The Brothers Grimm’s fairy tale, Hansel and Gretel, by Poet Laureate Simon Armitage, transforms the Globe Theatre this winter.”
Ice Skating in London
There is an array of options if you would like to step onto the ice in London this Twixtmas, Venues surrounded by iconic scenery include:
Edinburgh
Christmas at the Botanics Light Trail
“Enjoy the Garden after dark and be captivated by awe-inspiring light installations and seasonal sounds which fill the air with festive fun.
Discover sparkling tunnels of light and dancing lakeside reflections, immerse yourself within bouncing lines of light in the Laser Garden, then walk under giant baubles and beneath glistening trees drenched in jewel-like colour.”
Scottish Ballet’s Cinders!, Festival Theatre
“A magical new Cinderella story from Scottish Ballet – this festive favourite returns for the winter season with a new name, glittering new designs, and a charming twist to the tale.
Scottish Ballet’s playful new production of Cinders will have a surprise in store each night for audiences as the curtain rises: on some nights, Cinders will be a woman, swept off her feet by her Prince, and on others, Cinders will be a man, swept off his feet by his Princess!
Choreographed by Christopher Hampson, with stunning art-nouveau-inspired set and costumes designed by Elin Steele, and Prokofiev’s irresistibly melodic score, performed live by the Scottish Ballet Orchestra, Cinders is everything you adore about the enchanted fairy tale – made sparkling, fresh and new.”
George Street Open Air Ice Rink
“Get your skates on and glide all the way up and down Edinburgh’s famous George St on the magnificent alpine ice rink, sponsored by Lidl GB, in partnership with Essential Edinburgh.”
A visit to The Dome, George Street
An Edinburgh Christmas institution, The Dome’s Christmas lights are spectacular, outside and in. Drop in for coffee in the Club Bar, afternoon tea in the Georgian Tea Room or (if you want to experience Christmas at the Dome’s over-the-top max) drinks in the Grill Room.
Torchlight Procession, 29th December
Join 20,000 people on the torchlight procession from The Meadows to the City Centre. Carry a flaming torch and enjoy the carnival atmosphere and music, and help raise money for homelessness charity Social Bite projects in Edinburgh and across Scotland. This is one of our favourite Twixtmas activities anywhere. Ever.
