With winter winds nipping your face wherever you go and the shine of ice on the streets, there’s no doubt about it – Christmas is right around the corner. If you're on a tighter budget this festive period, enjoy cheaper travel across the North of England to all your favourite destinations with Northern. We've got a range of great deals to get you there for less.
Discover our pick of the best things to do this December across the North, from ice skating to winter walks and more. If you're looking for more Christmas activities, check out our selection of small-town Christmas markets or Christmas pantomimes to enjoy this season.
1. Christmas chocolate bar making @ York Cocoa House
Nearest station: York
Make your Christmas even tastier by visiting the York Cocoa House and learning how to create your own bars of chocolate. Throughout the workshop, you’ll learn where chocolate comes from, how Cocoa House makes its treats, and, of course, taste a range of its premier bars. If you’re looking for something slightly more challenging, then the Cocoa House also offers a chocolate cottage-making workshop so you can really test your chocolatier abilities.
2. Museum of Liverpool
Nearest station: Liverpool Lime Street
Learn everything there is to know about one of Britain’s most culturally rich cities, from music acts that defined generations, to Liverpool’s foundation as a settlement, there are more than 6,000 objects from throughout the city’s storied history to learn about. Exhibits include a miniature cityscape of Liverpool, the King’s Regiment archive, and many more. The museum is fully accessible and includes an exhibit about the impact of disabled people on Liverpool and its history.
3. 
Lightwaves festival, Manchester
Nearest station: Salford Crescent
Can’t get enough of the lights at Christmas? Then look no further than the Lightwaves festival, which will once again be adorning the Salford Quay with an impressive range of light installations. You’ll see art from established creators on a national scale all the way to newcomers to the scene looking to make a splash. The festival will only be running from the 7th to the 10th of December, so get down to experience the spectacular displays as soon as you can. There is also the Monad installation, which will be held until the 22nd of December.
4. Enchanted @ Knowsley Safari
Nearest station: Prescot
Embark on an enchanting walk through the park’s Foot Safari and wander through illuminated sculptures, from tall giraffes to ferocious wolves. Whilst on your journey, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to snack on festive treats and toast your own marshmallows over the fire. This year, Santa’s Grotto will be replaced by the electric Santa Panto filled with magic, music, and laughter. The perfect family day out, Knowsley Safari will be filled with festive fun this December.
5. 
Ice skating @ Life Science Centre
Nearest station: Newcastle
Fancy ice skating in Times Square but don’t want to travel all the way to New York? Then try skating at the Life Science Centre situated right in Times Square, Newcastle! Glide as gracefully as you can around the ice for only £15 per person. Open all of December, excluding Christmas Day and Boxing Day, you’re sure to have a ball whether you're a pro of just finding your feet on the ice. Get into the festive spirit this year at the Life Science Centre.
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