Delve into a world of discovery with Leeds Museums and Galleries this festive season.
Father Christmas, decoration-making, arts and crafts, Christmas carols, late-evening openings, special performances, mince pies and much more— it’s all on the menu this Christmas with Leeds’ museums, galleries and visitor attractions. What’s more it’s all served with a good dollop of festive cheer. Here’s a glance at many of the highlights for you to enjoy over the coming Yuletide…
Father Christmas
If children have been good this year, they can catch a glimpse of Father Christmas at Abbey House Museum. You can also see Christmas as it was during Victorian times by taking a stroll through the recreated streets and authentic shops. Normal admission costs to Abbey House itself apply. If you miss Father Christmas at Abbey House Museum you can catch him again when he makes a flying visit into Temple Newsam on Saturday 13th December.
Carol singing
For anyone who likes a good sing-along— whether you have the voice of an angel or are more prone to missing a note or two! Come and have a fabulous time at one of the Christmas carol concerts taking place at Lotherton Hall. The beautiful Edwardian hall will have a programme of both family and traditional carol singing concerts in the grand drawing room.
Something different
If you’re looking for something a bit different this Christmas, escape the hustle and bustle of the high street and head for a great traditional Christmas at Leeds’ museums, parks and estates:
Playtime: Christmas Lotherton Hall
Saturday 6th December
All day. Drop-in. Christmas for children is one of the most special times of the year. Why not join us for arts and crafts such as making a dancing Father Christmas, decorations, cards and much more!
Festive bash Townclose Hills, Kippax
Saturday 6th December
At Townclose Hills there is a wonderful and quite rare wildflower meadow complete with three species of orchid, hundreds of butterflies and even glow worms. Get green fingered and help to conserve the meadow by ‘scrub bashing’. For further info contact 0113 237 5317.
Christmas wildlife walk and Christmas decoration making Middleton Woods
Sunday 7th December, 10am start
Make Christmas decorations with natural materials and join us for a walk at Middleton Woods. For further information contact 0113 237 5268.
Christmas crafts at Lotherton Lotherton Hall
Sunday 7th December, 1–3pm
Visit Lotherton Hall for Christmas crafts in the courtyard. Come along and make your own natural Christmas decorations. Materials provided. Donations only. For more information contact 0113 264 5535.
Visit Father Christmas in his Grotto at Abbey House Museum
Sunday 7th, 14th and 21st December, 10am–12noon, 1–3pm.
No booking necessary, Normal admission applies. Grotto: £3.50 (includes a photograph and present).
Christmas crafts master class Temple Newsam
Tuesday 9th December, 1–3pm
A special master class to learn how to make your own Christmas wreaths and table decorations using materials from the estate. No previous experience required. All materials supplied. Tea/coffee and mince pie included. Tickets £10. Booking required on 0113 264 5535.
Preparing for Christmas Temple Newsam
Wednesday 10th December, 10am–3.30pm
Join us in the courtyard to recreate the Victorian decorations to go up in the House. All materials supplied and no previous experience required!