Uh oh, it’s that time of year again... “Oh no, it’s not!” oh yes, it is! The North of England is home this year to every pantomime you can think of, from Cinderella to Hansel & Gretel, to a very Scouse rendition of Red Riding Hood. We’ve picked out a range of shows from across the North this Christmas for you to enjoy at your leisure. So, grab your tickets, get dolled up like a Dame, and relax for a night of laughs, music and garish costumes.
Don’t worry about getting to any of these productions; we’ve carefully selected a range of theatres that are easy to reach from our stations. So make travelling simple and book a train with Northern for cheaper and easier travel.
Christmas pantomimes in Yorkshire
York
When: 3rd December - 5th January
Where: York Theatre Royal
The York Theatre Royal pantomime returns for another year with a dastardly escapade in the desert: Aladdin. This year's cast is filled with York favourites like Robin Simpson and Paul Hawkyard, who are both back to assume their roles as Dame and Villain, respectively. York’s pantomime is sure to be another show-stopper this year, so head along for a night to remember.
Leeds
When: 29th November - 12th January
Where: City Varieties Music Hall
A switch up from the traditional pantomime, a Rock ‘N’ Roll panto brings a whole new energy to the stage. Expect the same extravagant, high-energy shenanigans on stage, this time with an edgier twist as electric guitars tear through the theatre and make your hair stand on end. With classic rock anthems blaring and ridiculous gags onstage, City Varieties Music Hall is the perfect destination for shenanigans this Christmas period.
Sheffield
When: 6th December - 5th January
Where: Lyceum Theatre
White snow is falling on the ground, and Sheffield has Snow White on the stage. With action-packed, family fun and laughs abound, this promises to be a spectacular show for all involved. Not only is fan-favourite Dame Damian Williams returning, but Catherine Tyldesley, from Coronation Street and Strictly Come Dancing fame, will be your Wicked Queen, striking fear into all who see her. The Lyceum recommend this show for anyone over the age of 4, so even your little ones can enjoy the fun of the pantomime.
Christmas pantomimes in the North East
Newcastle
When: 26th November - 12th January
Where: Newcastle Theatre Royal
After obliterating the box office records last year, Newcastle’s favourite panto is back, bigger, better, and even more ridiculous than last year. After aiming for the stars last year and smashing records, Newcastle is casting its eyes to the deep blue depths in a new stage production of The Little Mermaid. Book early to see what is sure to be Newcastle’s best panto yet and see what goes under the sea, out of our sight and out of our minds.
The Little Mermaid in Newcastle
Sunderland
When: 13th December - 5th January
Where: Sunderland Empire
Our choice for the must-see Christmas pantomime in Sunderland is Jack and the Beanstalk at the Sunderland Empire. With TV star Matthew Wolfenden along with a host of local favourites, this show is sure to amaze and delight everyone who watches. You can expect all the usual pantomime fun in a more intimate venue so that you can laugh, holler, and yell out, “he’s behind you!”. Grab tickets today to secure your spot at Sunderland’s best panto.
Climbing Beanstalks in Sunderland
Darlington
When: 14th December - 28th December
Where: The Majestic Theatre
If you’re looking for something more local and curated, then the Darlington pantomime is the prime spot for you this Christmas. Showing for only a fortnight, Darlington promises to put on a show worthy of the big city. Book your tickets now to support a local institution and enjoy a night comparable to the biggest stages in London.
Christmas pantomimes in Merseyside
Liverpool
When: 8th November - 18th January
Where: Royal Court Theatre
In true scouse fashion, Liverpool has taken a well-known fairy tale and brought it to the extreme with The Scouse Red Riding Hood. Be prepared for naughty jokes, inappropriate actions, and laughter rippling through the theatre. Be advised that this show is only suitable for ages 16+, but it'll be a certified hit that’ll have you in hysterics from laughter. Secure your tickets early to a not-so-family-friendly evening of laughter in Liverpool.
Southport
When: 6th - 31st December
Where: The Atkinson
Delve into another well-loved fairy tale in Southport, with Sleeping Beauty hitting the stage this winter. A traditional family-friendly pantomime, this star-studded cast includes the likes of Blue Peter personality and TikTok star Joel M, along with a host of local favourites. Southport is one of the few stages welcoming the story of Sleeping Beauty this year, so if this is your number one fairy tale, then head on down to Southport to get in on the unforgettable action this winter.
Christmas pantomimes in Greater Manchester and Cheshire
Manchester
When: 14th December - 5 January
Where: Manchester Opera House
Go to the ball this Christmas with Cinderella and enjoy a night of silly jokes, ridiculous moments, and laughter from all around. With big names returning to the stage, this production of Cinderella will have a host of stunning costumes paired with hysterical moments. Let the bell toll for Cinders and the new year, and enjoy a barrel of laughs leading into 2025.
Hartford
When: 6th December - 4th January
Where: The Grange Theatre
Embark on a magical journey to Neverland and see Captain Hook and his pirates square off against Peter Pan, Wendy, and Tinkerbell in this family classic. This is a night you won’t soon forget, so head along and support a local theatre this winter with just as much fun as the big cities.
Chester
When: 5th - 29th December
Where: Storyhouse Theatre
Cheshire’s most magical night is returning with Beauty and the Beast gracing the stage of the Storyhouse theatre this December. Become enthralled by one of Disney’s best stories told in a fun and unique way that’ll have you rolling with laughter. Book now to secure your place at this enchanting night.
Christmas pantomimes in Cumbria
Carlisle
When: 27th November - 7th December
Where: West Walls Theatre
If you find yourself near the Lake District, then Carlisle has a range of pantomimes for you to enjoy this Christmas. For us, we have to choose one of the lesser-done pantomimes: Hansel & Gretel. A classic tale, it’s been brought to life by Green Room Theatre, who, after a successful time last year with Dick Whittington, hope to recreate the magic. Book early to avoid disappointment, as this panto tends to sell out quickly.
Workington
When: 2nd - 4th December
Where: Carnegie Theatre
Featuring catchy tunes, fantastic costumes, and all the corny jokes you could think of, Workington’s pantomime this year will be Aladdin. The show is perfect for schools as well as an excellent outing for the whole family. However, it’s only in town for two days, so make sure you grab your tickets for an unforgettable night.
If any of these Christmas pantos have caught your eye, book your journey with us and enjoy an easy journey to and from your destination. Get into the Christmas spirit with Northern this December!
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Streamline your journey and get tickets straight to your phone. Making your journey contact-free.