Merry and Bright cont ...
DAYSOUT
THE ALEXANDER CENTRE KNOLE
SISSINGHURST CASTLE GARDEN
promenade and heart-shaped lighting providing an Instagrammable backdrop for guests , the 40-metre-high observation wheel will return once again , showcasing its spectacular views over Bluewater and the surrounding Green Flag status parkland .
The festive fun doesn ’ t stop there , as Bluewater ’ s beloved indoor ice rink is also set to return until 5 Jan 2025 , situated just outside the village beside Winterland . With quiet sessions , parent and toddler sessions for budding skaters and party nights back by popular demand , time spent skating under the festive lights at Bluewater ’ s ice rink will be nothing short of magical this season .
Miracle on 34th Street at The Alexander Centre , Faversham thealex . org . uk ; 13 Dec 2024
This Christmas , The Alexander Centre is hosting a free screening of Miracle on 34th Street alongside its host of seasonal markets , workshops and events . On December 13 from 2-4pm , guests can join the cabaret-style seating inside the centre and enjoy the 1947 American Christmas comedy film . Though the screening itself is free and suitable for all ages , guests who want that extra element of festive charm can purchase VIP tickets for £ 3 per person , which include a complimentary mince pie and glass of mulled wine to enjoy alongside the classic Christmas film .
After the matinee screening , locals and visitors can explore the historic town of Faversham with its 16th-century Guildhall and iconic Shepherd Neame Brewery at the centre of the community . To make a day out of this adventure , visitors can head to nearby Huckleberry Woods and see the micro pigs , alpacas and donkeys , or head for a wintry stroll around Belmont House and Gardens .
An Elizabethan Christmas at Sissinghurst Castle Garden , Sissinghurst nationaltrust . org . uk ; until 5 Jan 2025
To enjoy the festive atmosphere of the quieter months at Sissinghurst Castle Garden , visitors can travel back to the Elizabethan era this Christmas and enjoy displays of traditional decorations , trees , wreaths and yule logs throughout the castle ’ s grounds . Inside , visitors will find a stunning floral installation across the archway , leading into the gardens at the base of the Elizabethan tower . Created by Aesme
Studio , this crafted arrangement of seasonal hellebores and clematis will transform the wintry landscape of the grounds .
For those with little ones , Sissinghurst Castle Garden has an Elizabethan play tent and trail to explore , and The Granary Restaurant and Old Dairy Cafe offer tasty treats and beverages to keep guests warm this season . When you ’ re finished exploring this seasonal escape , nearby attractions include Bedgebury National Pinetum , Dover Castle and Pashley Manor Gardens , each hosting their own arrays of Christmastime adventures .
Christmas Garland-Making Workshop at Knole , Sevenoaks nationaltrust . org . uk ; 10 Dec 2024
At the Knole country house situated on a magnificent 600-year-old estate with courtyards , showrooms , a Gatehouse Tower and acres of expansive parkland , visitors can book a Christmas garlandmaking workshop with Sian Johnson , an award-winning florist with years of expertise . Held in the Hayloft on the top floor of the conservation studio , the workshop will guide guests through how to make a beautiful Christmas wreath
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