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Our favourite top 10 things to do in York this Christmas

15th November 2019

The Christmas lights were officially switched on in York last night meaning Christmas is just around the corner. York has a fantastic variety of things to do this festive season. From wandering the medieval cobbled streets, Christmas shopping and dining to Carol singing in York Minster. We have created a list of our favourite things to do this Christmas including some hidden gems.

 

1. York Christmas Market - St Nicholas Christmas Fair

York’s award-winning Christmas market is something not to be missed this winter. Enjoy live performances from choirs to buskers whilst sampling the sizzling street food and warm winter spiced drinks. The ‘Yorkshire Yuletide Village’ is where local and regional craft producers sell unique gifts- pick up your traditional Christmas presents here! The stalls are even open late Thursday, Friday and Saturday therefore, head over to Thor’s Tipi Bar after for an evening drink or two during your stay!

 

2. Living North Christmas Fair

Located at York Racecourse, Yorkshires largest shopping and social event is taking place this weekend from the 14th until the 17th November. The Living North Fair always brings the best artisan food products, retail and talented designers to help you find the perfect gift for family, friends or yourself this Christmas. The Fair is a great opportunity to bring friends and family together for a day of festive food and drinks. There is a reason why this annual event has an unrivalled reputation year upon year.

 

3. Thor’s Tipi Bar

Out of all the pop-up’s in York, ‘Thor’s Tipi’ is a festive favourite. The cosiest bar in York is back with open fires, Mulled Wine, Cosy Fur’s and draft Ales. This Viking themed bar fits perfectly with York’s Viking heritage and it is the ideal spot for a quick Christmas shopping break.

 

4. Something new for 2019 - York’s Mansion House transforms into a Gingerbread House

Set within the heart of St Helens Square, this historic home was once home to York’s Lord Mayor which has been transformed into a magnificent Gingerbread House. You will be able to see the Mansion House as it never was before, bursting with Christmas spirit. Bring your youngsters so that they can take part in a special Gingerbread trail, whilst you make your way round the residence and discover its dazzling makeover. Encounter a feast for the senses as inviting seasonal aromas envelope the whole Gingerbread House.

 

5. Goddard’s House and Garden

Spend Christmas within the home of the famous Terry’s Chocolate Family, which is part of York’s notorious Chocolate heritage. Located just outside of York alongside the Racecourse, it is a nice break from the hustle and bustle of the City Centre. Spend the afternoon here having afternoon tea in the dining room or enjoy a festive three course meal over the Christmas period from the 28th November until the 15th December.

Continue your chocolate adventure and stay in one of our popular Cocoa Suite rooms in York, situated within the old Terry’s Chocolate Factory itself. These have been refurbished into remarkable apartments.

 

6. Treasurer’s House

Built in the late 1800’s, Treasurer’s house situated behind York Minster is not all as it seems. A unique affluent Yorkshire man Frank Green spent his life evolving the properties interior to what it is today. During November and December, the house is decorated throughout with wreaths and garlands ready for Christmas. Something for the sweet tooth- the award-winning Christmas pudding scone is a renowned addition to your visit over the Christmas period.

 

7. Only in York – York Minster Carol services

A Christmas Carol service on the 12th and 13th December is the perfect occasion to put you in the Christmas spirit. Located in one of the world’s most magnificent Cathedrals, watch York’s Minster Choir perform a combination of classical and contemporary Christmas Carols and even join in yourself! If you’re fortunate you will even bump into some celebrity guests.

 

8. Christmas at the Theatre

The theatre, in our opinion, has always been something that appeals to all members of the family, from Grandparents to Children. York has no shortage of Christmas Shows and Panto’s, A Christmas Carol, A Nativity for York, and The Nutcracker is to name a few! The entertainment of the Theatre never fails to provide festive cheer and laughter throughout, with over 7 Theatres in and around the centre of York, you have plenty of options during your stay here.

 

9. Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience

Step into the paintings of the world’s biggest artistic masterminds. This is done through 360-degree digital images, virtual reality, music and optical illusions all within York’s St Mary’s Church located next to the Jorvik Centre. The comprehensive experience will take you through his life, artwork and secrets. This unique experience is taking place all the way up until the 5th January 2020.

 

10. Something a bit further afield- Castle Howard

This is something extraordinary which we could not leave off our list! Castle Howard (only 15 miles away from York) at Christmas is something not to be ignored when spending time here in York this festive period. 2019 is the year of ‘Christmas Masquerade’ themed interior and décor. The experience is truly magical as you walk around the House’s grand state rooms with open lit fires. On top of this there is even live music playing throughout. Head to the grand entrance where you can see Castle Howards traditional 25-foot Christmas tree with over 3000 baubles!

 

Amongst all the excitement, head back after a day of exploring what York has to offer at Christmas to one of our Boutique holiday properties. Conveniently all within the centre of York, it’s a perfect excuse to come and take a break in York this winter.

We still have several properties left to book within the run up to Christmas, if you’re looking for a 1 bed, 123 Nunnery Lane is a beautiful apartment south of York's city walls. Set right near Bishopthorpe Road, home to independent shops, cafes and businesses and just a few minutes' walk into the heart of the city.

Looking for something to fit all the family? Apartment 1 at 21 Clifford Street sleeps up to six people. This property is quite possibly the finest example of holiday let apartments in York. No expense has been spared in the development of these properties to ensure they are anything less than first class.

Give us a call on 01904 466146 to discuss your perfect Christmas break!