As we all know, Christmas can be an incredibly busy and stressful time of the year, but among the panic of present hunting and scouring the supermarkets for the finest biscuits, it is important to immerse yourself in the joy and festivities that Christmas brings with it.
I have chosen a variety of the best places to go to enjoy a festive day-out, both in and beyond the city of Cardiff, to help you make the most of this Christmas period!
Cardiff Christmas Market
A truly magical experience. Even if you have no ambition to purchase anything, it is just as enjoyable to walk around with a hot chocolate and observe the d├®cor, the lights, and the goods available.
The Theatre
Regardless of whether you see a play, musical or pantomime, the theatre is always a great place to visit at Christmas time. If you are looking for something a little extra Christmassy, CardiffÔÇÖs New Theatre will be┬áshowcasing A Christmas Carol ÔÇô the Musical, from 29th November to 3rd December. The New Theatre will also be hosting the Christmas panto, this yearÔÇÖs showing being Peter Pan, from 10th December to 8th January, and with David Hasselhoff making an appearance as Captain Hook tickets are selling out fast!
Doctor Who Experience
Not intrinsically Christmassy, but what better way to relax over this festive period than exploring the props and sets of one of the nationÔÇÖs favourite television series?
Cardiff Winter Wonderland
This yearÔÇÖs Winter Wonderland gives you the opportunity to relax and immerse yourself in the spirit of Christmas. With reasonably priced attractions, stalls, hotdogs, and a giant indoor ice rink covered in fairy lights whatÔÇÖs not to love?
Coca Cola Tour
And then of course there is the coca cola truck! YouÔÇÖve seen the adverts, why not experience the magic of Coca-ColaÔÇÖs advertising campaign in real life? The truck is travelling from city to city, so keep an eye out!
Cardiff Castle
Why not spend the day exploring Cardiff Castle this Christmas time? ThereÔÇÖs plenty to see and do for all agesÔÇô including a SantaÔÇÖs grotto to keep any younger ones entertained- so why not visit and discover the magic behind
its walls.
Cribbs CausewayÔÇÖs Winter Wonderland
If youÔÇÖre planning to go the extra mile (literally) this Christmas, I cannot recommend Cribbs CausewayÔÇÖs Winter Wonderland enough! Wonderfully decorated, Bristol are offering the largest outdoor ice rink in the South West, an ice castle, and guaranteed lots of grub.
Gloucester Victorian Christmas Market
If you fancy trying something new this Christmas, the Victorian Christmas Market is the perfect opportunity. Located against the background of GloucesterÔÇÖs historic docks, this event promises a real Victorian experience with entertainment, characters, musicians, markets, and steam engines all from the era.
So, if you’re looking for something to do this festive period, make sure to check out some of these great locations! They will not disappoint.
By Bethany Griffiths