DEC-JAN WHATS ON 2016

WHAT’SON
D E C E M B E R / J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 6 / 1 7 { F R E E }
{ C H E S T E R C H E S H I R E W A R R I N G T O N N O R T H W A L E S }
Available online at www.visitchester.com and www.discovercheshire.com
In This Issue
christmasinchester.com
Chester Christmas Market • The Lanterns at Chester Zoo
A Gloriumptious Christmas Mansion, Tatton Park
Christmas Floral Extravaganza, Arley Hall & Gardens
Christmas Tree Festival, Chester Cathedral
Blakemere's Christmas Woodland
Gospel@Clonter • Santa Cruises, Anderton Boat Lift

2
STYLISH SHOPPING IN THE HEART OF CHESTER
thegrosvenorcentre.co.uk GSCChester GSC_Chester
* whilst stocks last

WHAT’SNEW
4
15
9
17
It’s the most wonderful
time of the year…
Especially with so many amazing things to do around the North West and
North Wales.
Read on for all the best music, art, culture and food the region has to offer. Plus
there are listings of all the Christmas shows and pantos (oh, yes there are!), days
out, festive shopping and family fun you need to see you into the new year.
In this issue we’re also looking forward to 2017, which will see the opening season
of the new star in Chester’s cultural scene, Storyhouse. And speaking of stars, the
legendary Sir Elton John will be navigating a course to Widnes.
Must-Sees for
Dec / Jan...
Until 18th December
Chester Christmas Market
www.christmasinchester.com
1st December
Lantern Parade, Chester City Centre
www.visitchester.com
1st December – 1st January
Let’s Skate
www.theatrclwyd.com
2nd – 4th, 9th – 11th & 16th – 18th
December
A Gloriumptious Christmas Mansion
www.tattonpark.org.uk
2nd & 3rd, 9th – 11th and 16th –
23rd December
The Lanterns at Chester Zoo
www.chesterzoo.org
3rd December, 7pm
Gospel@Clonter - The London
Adventist Chorale
www.clonteropera.com
3rd, 4th, 10th, 11th, 17th & 18th
December
Father Christmas at The Farm
www.tattonpark.org.uk
3rd & 4th, 10th & 11th, 17th & 18th
December
Santa Cruises
www.canalrivertrust.org.uk
3rd, 4th, 9th, 11th, 16th, 17th &
23rd December
Elf Adventures at The Ice Cream Farm
www.theicecreamfarm.co.uk
3rd – 8th December
Christmas Floral Extravaganza
www.arleyhallandgardens.com
3rd – 23rd December
Blakemere's Christmas Woodland
www.blakemerevillage.com
3rd – 23rd December
Father Christmas Story Time
www.chesterzoo.org
8th December
Winter Watch Parade
www.visitchester.com
14th December
Will Young presents The Soi Dog
Foundation Carol Concert
www.chestercathedral.com
15th December
Winter Watch and Saturnalia Parade
www.visitchester.com
Until 8th January
Christmas Tree Festival
www.chestercathedral.com
Get out there and enjoy it!
Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy contained in this guide, Marketing Cheshire cannot accept responsibility in
respect of any error or omission which may have occurred.
Editorial/Pictures/Advertising:
Leanne Eaton
Tel: 01244 405632
Email: l.eaton@marketingcheshire.co.uk
{ 3 }

CHRISTMAS IN
CHESTER
Spend your Christmas in the beautiful city of Chester this festive
season! From the quintessentially British Christmas Market, to
fabulous shopping, Europe’s largest walk-in Christmas Tree and an
evening of festive lanterns, there is so much to discover to create your
#perfectchester Christmas!
Chester Christmas Market
Wrap up warm and enjoy a festive
evening at Chester Christmas Market.
Until Sunday 18th December, over 70
traditional, timber chalets are situated in
the heart of the city, sat against the
backdrop of the iconic Christmas tree,
historic Town Hall and beautiful
Cathedral.
Pick up a delicious, hot mulled wine and
browse the unique, locally produced
treats and gifts. With handmade crafts,
jewellery, clothing, local food produce
and more, you’re sure to find the perfect
presents at Chester Christmas Market.
Make sure to enjoy a tasty hog roast bap
and stop in the Real Ale Bar for a festive
cocktail or a pint of regional cask ale
before you leave!
The market is open daily from 10am to
6pm, with late-night shopping on
Thursdays (open until 8pm), Fridays and
Saturdays (open until 7pm), ensuring you
can fulfil all your festive shopping needs.
www.christmasinchester.com
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#perfectchester
WHAT’SNEW
ChesterXmas
facebook.com/
chesterchristmasmarket
A shopper’s
dream
Grosvenor Shopping Centre is a
fantastic Christmas shopping
experience located within the City
Roman Walls in Chester, and is
home to over 60 stores, with
brands such as Boss, Build-a-Bear,
L.K.Bennett and H&M.
You're sure to find your perfect
party dress in Topshop and shoes
to dance the night away in
Debenhams, as well as gifts for
even the fussiest family members.
We have your #perfectchester
Christmas all wrapped up. For
more information about Christmas
in Chester, visit
christmasinchester.com.
Alternatively, like us on
facebook.com/ChesterChristmas
Market or follow us on Twitter
@ChesterXmas.
A Festive
Day Out
Not just a great place to pick up your
Christmas gifts, Cheshire Oaks Designer
Outlet has a whole host of fantastic
festivities over the Christmas season.
Europe's largest walk-in Christmas Tree
will be on show from 9th November - 1st
January. Standing as tall as 7 buses and
with over 100,000 baubles it's a sight that
cannot be missed! Inside the tree you'll be
able to marvel at the thousands of
twinkling lights!
Visit Christmas Corner, the après ski
themed area with German bar selling
beers and gluhwein, carousel, festive
swing grill, hot chocolate, crepes, sweets
and more.
Not to forget shopping! The perfect gifts
are just waiting to be found at over 140
fantastic, designer stores with up to 60%
discount and late night shopping on
weekdays until 10pm.
Family
Festive Fun
The enchanting Lanterns at Chester
Zoo are back to chase away the winter
blues... Watch your children’s eyes light up
and their imagination run wild, as they
take the zebra crossing through a
constellation of stars and on to see the
magnificent animal lanterns.
On weekends during December, there will
be a whole host of lantern and puppet
characters to see. Take a stroll through the
enchanted forest and catch a glimpse of
Santa on his sleigh.
{ 5 }

1
12 MONTH
DRIVING
EXPERIENCE
VOUCHERS
FROM
£89
AGES
FROM
11-17
Oulton Park Driving Gifts
Give your loved one the joy of driving at a worldfamous
racetrack. They can follow in the wheeltracks
of legends in a BMW M4 and a sensational singleseater
racing car, or head off-road in a Toyota GT86
rally car for some muddy good fun!
Drive!
Children aged 11 and over can learn to
drive at Oulton Park in a new MINI One
with YoungDrive! - GIFT VOUCHERS £85
BUY DIRECT FROM OULT
TON PARK FOR THE BES
Call 0843 453 1000
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Calls will cost 7p per minute plus your telephone t
company’s access charge.
The UK’s most picturesque racing circuit
cuit
– located off the A49 at Tarporley in Cheshire
e

Christmas in style
As the big day approaches, the halls are
decked and the decorations are hung at
Chester’s Grosvenor Shopping Centre.
This year there’s a distinctly Victorian feel
to proceedings. Discover the giant popup
book, an amazing traditional tree and
ornaments. Enter into the festive spirit
with Christmas competitions, giving you
the chance to bag exclusive prizes.
An animatronic Santa Claus reading his
Christmas story will entertain young and
old, and a ‘window full of wonder’
showcases illuminated miniatures.
It’ll be a magical end to a year which has
seen the Grosvenor Centre host loads of
competitions and events, from the
‘cheesiest chat-up line’ contest on
Valentine’s Day, to fashion shows and a
book launch for Alex Staniforth’s Icefall.
This summer the centre was overtaken
by life-sized dinosaurs and a ‘dino trail’,
with fun and competitions, culminating
in a prehistoric race thanks to ‘Jurassic
Jockeys’.
For more information visit
www.thegrosvenorcentre.co.uk
Experience Christmas in Chester
The magic of Christmas is set to sweep
across Chester city centre as
CH1ChesterBID’s popular ‘Chester
Kidsmas’ festival returns for 2016,
bursting with family-friendly activities.
With the help of Santa’s friendly elves,
children are invited to write their
Christmas wish list, join in with festive
crafts and colouring activities, and even
meet Santa himself, who will be making
special appearances at Santa’s Workshop
on Northgate Street.
Santa, and Chester’s very own elves
ChELFie and Elfie, will also be making
stops at various locations across Chester
bringing festive cheer to the young and
the young at heart handing out
holographic glasses.
A unique addition this year is the giant
sparkling CheSTAR located at Chester
Cathedral. Standing 23ft high by 23ft
wide the illuminated showstopping city
decoration features more than 1,500
twinkling lights. 2016 also introduces
Chester’s Christmas Voices Music Festival
showcasing a series of pop-up
performances across the city centre by
choirs of all generations.
Family favourite movies including Frozen
and Happy Feet are being shown free at
the Grosvenor Museum providing a
festive cinematic atmosphere in Chester.
Experience a truly memorable Christmas
in Chester with a packed programme of
family-friendly activities to complement
the fantastic range of shops and
restaurants in the city centre. Chester is
the perfect place to come together to
celebrate the wonders of the festive
season, and the best place to shop, dine
and play this Christmas.
Find out everything you need to know
about Christmas at
www.experiencechester.co.uk
Nights (and days) at Opera
The table is set for a stylish and sumptuous Christmas at Opera Grill in
Chester. Set in the grand interior of a former church, lovingly redesigned
to include a raw bar, cold counter, wood-fired oven and charcoal grill,
Opera launched earlier in 2016.
From 7pm every Thursday evening this winter you can escape the cold,
relax with a cocktail in the Music Lounge or with dinner in The Gallery
and enjoy listening to The Collective, featuring former X Factor
contestant Kiera Weathers.
And on Sunday afternoons you can soak up the sounds of the Sing Out
Gospel Choir, performing a mix of pop, gospel and soul, with songs from
Coldplay to Candi Staton. Live on stage in The Gallery from 2pm – 6pm.
For reservations email opera.grill@individualrestaurants.com or call
01244 343888.
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3
Northgate Arena
Thursday 8 December 2016
9.30am - 11.30am
With a special guest appearance from Brio Bear
£5.00 per Child (Adults free)
Includes a free present, toast and
drink per child.
Join us for for a morning of lots
of festive fun!
Book early as there are limited places!
Tickets are available at Reception.

© MelanieEscombe
Elton John is coming to Widnes...
Legendary British music star Sir Elton John will perform his
first ever show in Widnes on 18th June 2017.
2016 saw Elton release his 33rd album, Wonderful Crazy
Night, to rapturous applause. He wowed audiences across
the UK with his epic live show, culminating in performances
at Hyde Park in London for BBC Radio 2 and at the Apple
Music Festival.
From Longleat to Leicester, Edinburgh to Exeter, Elton John
brought his unmistakable showmanship to the stage. The
Guardian called it ‘a hit parade of peerless pomp’.
And now fans in Cheshire can look forward to one of the
music events of the year, as the global Wonderful Crazy
Night Tour comes to the Select Security Stadium in Widnes
on Sunday 18th June.
Accompanied by his band, Elton will perform songs from his
latest album as well as his most-loved hits from his
entire career.
A resounding name in the history of popular music, Elton
John has done it all! He’s been awarded multiple Grammys
and BRITs, and even an Oscar and a Tony Award.
From the days of Crocodile Rock and Pinball Wizard, through
the Lion King soundtrack and Candle in the Wind right
through to now, his songs have soundtracked several
generations, and sold more than 250 million copies
worldwide.
Elton John has racked up more than 4,000 performances
since he launched his first tour in 1970, taking in the world’s
most famed venues along the way, including more than 40
stadium and arena shows in the North West.
Tickets are available from online ticket retailers like
Ticketmaster, Ticketline, Seetickets and Gigantic.
Hospitality packages are available from
www.selectsecuritystadium.co.uk/Elton
Traditional Christmas joys
Step into a traditional Christmas in the
Jacobean splendour of Arley Hall in
Cheshire.
From Saturday 3rd – Thursday 8th
December, visitors can explore the rooms of
the stately home, decked out in spectacular
style with magnificent floral displays from
local and regional florists, students and the
Knutsford Floral Design Club.
Visitors have the chance to pick up some
top tips from much-loved florist Carl
Wilde on the 6th December, with floral
demonstrations at noon, 1pm and 3pm.
The sessions fill up fast, so make sure to
pre-book (for £13.50, including entry to
the hall).
Warm the cockles at one of Arley
Hall’s carol evenings, on the 5th
and 7th December at 6pm.
Explore the Grade II listed Arley
Chapel, and take in the
Christmas trees decorated by
local schools in the Cruck Barn,
before feasting on festive treats
in the Gardener’s Kitchen café.
Daily entry to Arley Hall to enjoy
the floral displays is £7.50, and
Carol Evening tickets are £9
when pre-booked.
To book in advance or for
more information call 01565 777353 or
visit www.arleyhallandgardens.com
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37
www.hackgreen.co.uk
A unique and fascinating day out for the family.
Discover the secret world of underground nuclear
government. Declassified in 1993, the 35,000 sq ft
bunker contains authentic equipment in original
settings to fire the imagination.
Nantwich, Cheshire. Sat Nav: CW5 8AL
Info Line: 01270 629219
24
Wonderful surprises await you!
4

Christmas at Gladstone’s Library
Venue Cymru
Venue Cymru in Llandudno will be
finishing this year on a magical high
with their Christmas panto. Join
Aladdin on his magic carpet and soar
through an evening of classic
pantomime fun, with Luke Higgins from
E4’s Stage School in the lead role.
Better known for his magic on the field,
Welsh rugby superstar Gareth Thomas
will be transformed into the Genie of
the lamp.
Llandudno’s favourite comedian John
Evans is back as Aladdin’s hapless
brother Wishee Washee, in his 10th
consecutive Venue Cymru Christmas
panto appearance! The pantomime
runs from 10th December right up until
31st December 2016.
Venue Cymru will ring in the new year
with its busiest programme yet, jampacked
with musicals, gigs and plays
throughout the year.
2017 highlights will include Sunny
Afternoon from 14th–18th February, a
musical based on the music and lyrics
of the Kinks, followed in March by
crowd-pleasers Ghost: The Musical and
The Full Monty.
Summer 2017 will see the National
Theatre bringing their award-winning
production of The Curious Incident of
the Dog in the Night Time, and the West
End hit The Play That Goes Wrong will
be smashing its way through Venue
Cymru too.
For full line-up information and to book
tickets visit www.venuecymru.co.uk
or call 01492 872 000.
A roaring fire, home-cooked mince pies
and a gloriously dressed Christmas tree
taking pride of place in the common
room? Christmas is coming to
Gladstone’s Library!
From Thursday 1st December until
Sunday 18th December, enjoy Christmas
Lunch served in the beautiful bistro from
12pm – 2pm. Choose two or three
courses from the tasty menu including
succulent honey roast gammon, roast
turkey with all the trimmings, butternut
squash and goat’s cheese pithivier,
traditional Christmas pudding and more!
Treat yourself to a special sweet or
savoury Christmas Afternoon Tea, with
mince pies and a glass of Prosecco,
throughout December.
Make the most of free entry to the everpopular
Christmas Craft Fair on Sunday
11th December, 10.30am – 4pm. Browse
stalls from well-loved local crafters,
bursting at the seams with gifts and
treats. Or discover a range of books in the
Library’s very own bookstore, Gladbooks.
Take a long weekend to explore the
themes of Film and Theology at this
year’s final residential from 6th – 8th
Fun at the Ice Cream Farm
December, which
includes screenings
of The Lady in the
Van, 45 Years,
Spotlight, Carol
and Mad Max:
Fury Road.
Plus, right now
you can take
advantage of a
special twofor-one
offer
on B&B
accommodation!
Stay at the Library with a friend
or family member in a Double or Twin
room any time until 31st January 2017,
and only pay the price of the equivalent
single room. (Quote ‘FRIEND16S’ for a
standard room or ‘FRIEND16E’ for an en
suite room.)
Bookings must be made in advance for
Christmas Lunch and Christmas
Afternoon Tea.
For further details about any of the
above, please visit
www.gladstoneslibrary.org, call 01244
532350 or email enquiries@gladlib.org
The Ice Cream Farm is the stuff dreams are made of. Not only can you visit
the Guinness World Record-holding World’s Largest Ice Cream Shop, and
enjoy loads of play experiences and a magical snowing ice cream tree, you
can indulge in 50 varieties of their very own Cheshire Farm Ice Cream, which
has been scooping award after award for the last 30 years.
As if all that wasn’t enough, this Christmas there’s extra fun thanks to the Elf
Adventure Challenge, on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays throughout
December. It’s a festive family experience, perfect for kids aged 2-10 and their
grown-ups. Santa’s elves will take you on a magical journey, filled with
adventures, games and loads of fun. Booking is essential. Visit
www.elfadventurechallenge.com for tickets and more information.
Open all year, Honeycomb Canyon is a sensational indoor sand and water
play area, perfect for escaping the British weather.
Outside, Daisy’s Garden is a spectacular free play area, Strawberry Falls is a
mouth-watering ice cream-themed adventure golf course and Scoop JCBs
give children the chance to operate their own digger.
Ice Cream Farm Play Passes are a great gift for friends (or yourself!), giving
access to all the attractions at amazing value. Passes start at £12.
For full information visit www.theicecreamfarm.co.uk or follow The Ice
Cream Farm on Facebook: facebook.com/icecreamfarm.
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21

Little Red and the
Big Bad Wolf
Enjoy a magical family show this January
at Whitby Hall in Ellesmere Port. Little
Red and the Big Bad Wolf is a funny,
imaginative take on the fairy-tale. It’s full
of music, dance and song - perfect for
little ones and families.
The show runs at Whitby Hall Studio
Theatre from Thursday 12th - Sunday
15th January, following a run of shows in
Liverpool. It’s the fifth annual Christmas
show produced by a collaboration of two
acclaimed theatres: Ellesmere Port’s
Action Transport Theatre and Liverpool’s
Unity Theatre.
Previous shows have been called ‘a
genuine Christmas treat’ and ‘a
masterclass in sophisticated storytelling.’
With an original score and a brand new
script, created with children and families
in mind, it’s a perfect way to banish the
January blues and spend some magical
family time together.
Tickets £8, children £5, family ticket £20
(family of four, at least one adult). For
tickets or more information visit
www.actiontransporttheatre.org or
call 0151 357 2120.
‘New Year, new you?’ Yeah, right!
How many times have you heard that
before? The promise of ripped muscles,
sleek bodies, diets offering instant
results...
We’ve got news for you. That isn’t how
healthy bodies are made.
Brio Leisure have helped hundreds of
local people reshape their bodies, and
their lives. Losing weight and keeping fit
isn’t easy, but Brio know it can be fun,
and they’re here to show you how.
And New Year for Brio Leisure means
brand new equipment, new timetables
and more new classes!
Whether you love dancing to the latest
chart hits, pushing your limits in Metafit,
stretching and strengthening with yoga
and pilates, melting calories in spin
classes, or getting a total body workout
with Body Combat, a membership with
Brio Leisure will give you access to over
450 classes, available across the whole of
Cheshire West and Chester, to keep you
motivated.
And if you’d rather hit the gym, Brio’s free
gym induction and personalised
program will give you one-on-one time
with fitness experts to ensure you’ve got
everything you need to hit your Goals.
Get a full body workout in the pool with
unlimited casual swimming, or grab a
friend and book in for squash or
badminton — all available as part of
Brio’s Premier Membership, available at
Northgate Arena, Christleton Sports
Centre, Ellesmere Port Sports Village and
other venues.
For more information and the find your
nearest centre visit www.brioleisure.org
If you pay upfront for 12 months, you get
the first two months free!
‘Wok ‘n’ Roll’ at Theatr Clwyd
Come and join Theatr Clwyd for some really exciting festive
treats this Christmas…
The season kicks off with the ever-popular rock ‘n’ roll panto,
perfect for all ages. But this year it’s Aladdin: The Wok ‘n’ Roll
Panto. Complete with over 20 classic rock and soul songs,
played by a multi-talented cast of actor-musicians, Aladdin
runs from 25th November – 21st January.
As the snow falls upon the Theatr Clwyd’s outdoor winter
wonderland, bundle up and enjoy taking to the ice rink, then
warm up with a hot chocolate and mince pie. Why not join in
with the children’s show, The Nutcracker? Inspired by the
classic story, this interactive play is packed with storytelling,
puzzles and music, perfect for children aged 11 and under.
Performances from 14th – 31st December.
If it’s comedy you’re after, The Tommy Cooper Show returns by
popular demand from the 20th – 31st December. Complete
with all the legendary gags and
magic, all brought to life just like
that by West End actor, Daniel
Taylor.
And what would Christmas be
without music? Come along and
enjoy the magic of world-class
guitarist Richard Durrant at his
Candlelit Christmas concert on 11th
December. Amongst wintry solos Richard is
joined by guests Amy Kakoura & Nick Pynn.
All this in a picturesque setting among the North Wales hills,
just a stone’s throw from Chester. Plus there is plenty of free
parking.
For full information and bookings visit www.theatrclwyd.com
or call 01352 701521.
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11
AT GLADSTONE’S
LIBRARY
Christmas Lunches and Afternoon Tea
Served ed 1st - 18th December. Booking essential.
Free Christmas Craft
Fair
Sunday, , 11th December | 10.30am - 4pm.
Offers on cosy winter accommodation
See website for details.
Meeting rooms with character
7
www.gladstoneslibrary.org
5

WHAT’SNEW
Something for
everyone at
Chester Cathedral
They’re back - from the end of
November more than 40 majestic
Christmas trees will return to the
cloisters of Chester Cathedral for their
annual Christmas Tree Festival. The
trees, decorated by local schools and
businesses, transform the space into
spectacular tree-lined winter walkways.
The perfect way to escape the hustle
and bustle of Christmas shopping.
Also at the cathedral this Christmastime,
there will be special services to mark
one of the holiest times in the Christian
calendar, including an Advent
procession and carol service by
candlelight on 26th November, and a
crib service for all the family on
Christmas Eve.
Christmas at the cathedral wouldn’t be
complete without a feast of festive
music. Expect carols and seasonal
readings from Chester Cathedral Choir at
‘A Choral Christmas’ concerts on 10th
and 17th December. Join singing
superstar Will Young as he hosts a
charity carol concert on 14th December.
Our good friend The Snowman returns
on 3rd December, as the classic
Raymond Briggs animation is
accompanied by a live 25-piece
orchestra as part of Carrot Productions’
family-friendly Christmas concert,
included in The Guardian and The
Times’ ‘Top things to do at Christmas’.
This year the musical extravaganza
includes a retelling of Cinderella with
orchestral accompaniment.
Need a hand with your Christmas
shopping? The Falconry and Nature
Gardens is the ultimate gift experience
for nature fans and bird lovers! The lucky
recipient can handle a golden eagle, be a
falconer for a day or get up close and
personal with our owls.
For more information, visit
www.chestercathedral.com
Storyhouse opening season
It’s nearly here. After a decade without a
cinema and theatre space in Chester’s
city centre, Storyhouse is set to open its
doors in May 2017. Storyhouse -
currently the UK’s largest regional arts
project under construction - will kick off
with a run of four home-produced shows,
performed in rep by a company of 26 of
the country’s finest actors.
The theatre will open with a riotous new
musical based on The Beggar's Opera,
rewritten with a brand new score
especially for Storyhouse. Alongside
that, the premiere of playwright Glyn
Maxwell’s joyful new adaptation of Alice
in Wonderland, Shakespeare’ s brutal
political thriller Julius Caesar and
comedy A Midsummer Night’s Dream. All
of the productions will premiere on the
500-seat wrap-around “Storyhouse
Stage”– one of two formats for the main
theatre.
The entire run, from 11th May – 27th
August, presents one of the UK’s most
ambitious theatre seasons. The four
shows are spread right across the
summer and, uniquely, audiences will be
able to choose between seeing
productions in the new theatre, and in
Storyhouse’s award-winning Grosvenor
Park Open Air Theatre. Alice, A
Midsummer Night’s Dream and Julius
Caesar will move into Grosvenor park
during the height of summer, whilst The
Beggar’s Opera continues inside.
Storyhouse has been lovingly carved out
of the Grade II listed shell of the former
Odeon cinema, alongside a new brick
and translucent glass extension. The
Storyhouse library, restaurant and
independent cinema are housed in the
former Odeon’s streamlined art-deco
interior. The uniquely flexible 800/500
seat auditorium, 150-seat community
studio and rooftop bar are housed in the
remarkable new extension.
Tickets are on sale now. See you there in
spring 2017?
For full show information and tickets visit
www.storyhouse.com
{ 1 5 }

New Year’s Eve with Red Hot Opera
Opera, rock and musical theatre hits starring ‘Duets and Piano’ - Kate
Radmilovic, famous for her role in the West End’s ‘Phantom of the
Opera’ along with tenor Richard Coxon (ENO), widely known
for his appearance at music festivals and on BBC radio.
Beautifully accompanied on piano by Frazer Graham.
Your evening will include a glass of Champagne on arrival,
wine, a Champagne midnight toast and dancing into 2017
with our resident DJ.
£139 per person
Call 01244 324024 or email Events@ChesterGrosvenor.com
Terms and conditions apply at www.ChesterGrosvenor.com/NYE-RHO
9
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1 14/11/2016 15:28:56
6
SantaCruises
at Anderton Boat Lift
December 2016 - 3rd, 4th, 10th, 11th,
17th & 18th, 22nd to 24th
Adults
£5.75
Children
£7.75*
*includes a gift
Join Santa Claus and his festive crew on a jolly cruise
along the River Weaver Navigation at the Anderton Boat
Lift this December. Embrace the season with singalongs
and Christmassy stories on the 50-minute cruise.
Book your tickets now on 01606 786777 or pop into our
Visitor Centre, Anderton Boat Lift, Lift Lane, Anderton,
Northwich, Cheshire CW9 6FW
www.canalrivertrust.org.uk/anderton
Anderton.Lift
@AndertonLift

WHAT’SON {Listings}
W W W.v I S I T C H E S T E R .C O M
2nd & 3rd, 9th – 11th and 16th – 23rd
December, 4pm – 7.30pm
Chester Zoo, Upton, Chester, CH2 1EU.
Tel: 01244 380280
THE LANTERNS AT CHESTER ZOO
Watch your children’s eyes light up and their imagination run
wild. Stroll through the enchanted forest where you’ll meet
our colourful festive characters and catch a glimpse of Santa
on his sleigh – the perfect Christmas outing for all
generations.
Tickets: Adults £10 - £15, Children £9 - £12.50,
Infants 2 & under free
*
EDITOR’S
CHOICE
1st December, 7pm
From Forum Shopping Centre, Northgate
Street, Chester, CH1 2BY
LANTERN PARADE (A)
Chester city centre will be lit by hundreds
of children as they parade through the
streets carrying handmade lanterns for
this annual parade.
Free
1st December – 1st January,
various times
Theatr Clwyd, Mold, Flintshire, CH7 1YA.
Tel: 0845 330 3565
www.theatrclwyd.com
LET’S SKATE (A)
Snap on your blades, glide across the real
ice, warm up with a hot chocolate and
cake and maybe even catch one of our
amazing theatre shows. Have fun with
family and friends this Christmas!
Tickets: £5 - £8
1st – 28th December,
6.15pm – 9pm
Carters Green Farm, Jack Lane, Weston,
Crewe, Cheshire, CW2 5LE.
Tel: 01270 586754
WESTON CHRISTMAS
LIGHT DISPLAY
A working dairy farm with a difference! For
the fourth successive time the house, farm
buildings and garden will be turned into a
magical community event with a visit from
Santa every Fri, Sat & Sun evening and a
chance to have a 'sleigh selfie' with the
North Pole celebrity. All in aid of 'The
Donna Louise Children's Hospice'.
2nd December, 7.30pm
Venue Cymru, The Promenade, Llandudno,
LL30 1BB. Tel: 01492 872000
www.venuecymru.co.uk
THE SHIRES (A)
Tickets: £21.50
2nd & 3rd December,
7.30pm
St Mary’s Without-the-Walls, Handbridge,
Chester, CH4 7HL. Tel: 01244 375662
CHESTER OPERATIC
SOCIETY PRESENT
COUNTDOWN TO
CHRISTMAS
A seasonal selection of Christmas carols,
both traditional and new, plus a selection
of uplifting and toe-tapping festive songs.
Tickets: £12.50 (incl mince pies &
mulled wine)
2nd – 4th, 9th – 11th & 16th
– 18th December 11am -
4pm (last entry 3pm)
Tatton Park, Knutsford, Cheshire,
WA16 6QN. Tel: 01625 374400
www.tattonpark.org.uk
A GLORIUMPTIOUS
CHRISTMAS MANSION (A)
The Mansion’s staterooms and servants’
quarters will be decorated with fresh
foliage and greenery – most sourced from
the estate. Traditional music will
accompany your visit as you also enjoy the
decorating and kitchen demonstrations.
Tickets: Mansion only Adults £9.50,
Children (4 – 15yrs) £5.50
(T) = TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM TOWN HALL VISITOR CENTRE
(A) = ADVERTISER WITHIN OUR GUIDE...PLEASE SUPPORT (IT’S HOW WE ARE ABLE TO KEEP THIS GUIDE FREE!)
{ 1 7 }

18

WHAT’SON {Listings}
W W W.v I S I T C H E S T E R .C O M
3rd December, 7pm
Clonter Opera, Swettenham Heath,
Congleton, CW12 2LR. Tel: 01260 224514
www.clonteropera.com
GOSPEL@CLONTER - THE
LONDON ADVENTIST
CHORALE (A)
Hailed as one of the world’s greatest
gospel choirs, conducted by Ken Burton,
the London Adventist Chorale returns by
popular request, to perform their annual
Christmas special.
Tickets: £16 - £30, U16s £8
3rd December, 7pm
Venue Cymru, The Promenade, Llandudno,
LL30 1BB. Tel: 01492 872000
www.venuecymru.co.uk
SUPER FURRY ANIMALS (A)
£30
3rd, 4th, 10th, 11th, 17th &
18th December, 11am -
4pm, last entry 3pm;
Weekends only
Tatton Park, Knutsford, Cheshire,
WA16 6QN. Tel: 01625 374400
www.tattonpark.org.uk
FATHER CHRISTMAS AT
THE FARM (A)
See Prancer and Dancer, Father Christmas’s
two adorable reindeer and there will be
live music plus festive food and drink to
enjoy.
Tickets: Adults £6, Children £6 (ages 4 -
15), car & mini-bus £6 park entry charge
3rd – 8th December,
11am – 5pm
Arley Hall & Gardens, Northwich,
CW9 6NA. Tel: 01565 777353
CHRISTMAS FLORAL
EXTRAVAGANZA
Visit the Hall and see each room decorated
with hundreds of fresh flowers and foliage
from the Arley Gardens.
Tickets: Adults £8.50, Children (5 – 16yrs)
£2.50
3rd & 4th, 10th & 11th, 17th
& 18th, 22nd – 24th
December, 10am, 11am,
12.30pm, 1.30pm & 2.30pm
Anderton Boat Lift, Anderton, Northwich,
CW9 6FW. Tel: 01606 786777
www.canalrivertrust.org.uk
SANTA CRUISES (A)
Join Santa and his crew for a festive cruise
along the River Weaver Navigation this
Christmas, sharing songs, stories and a gift
for each child.
Tickets: Adults £5.75, Children £7.75
3rd, 4th, 9th, 11th, 16th,
17th & 23rd December
The Ice Cream Farm, Drumlan Hall Farm,
Tattenhall, Chester, CH3 9NE.
Tel: 0800 133 7000
www.theicecreamfarm.co.uk
ELF ADVENTURES AT THE
ICE CREAM FARM (A)
Featuring performers, games and
creativity to deliver the ultimate
interactive Christmas experience. Children
and their families will learn about how the
elves help Santa get ready to deliver his
magic every year.
Tickets: £8, Family of 4 £28, Siblings 18
months & under free
3rd, 16th & 17th December
ChesterBoat, River Dee, The Groves,
Chester, CH1 1SD. Tel: 01244 325394
CHRISTMAS PARTY
NIGHT AFLOAT
A great night out to celebrate your work
Christmas party, hen party, birthday party
and just about any other occasion you can
think of. Have fun and dance the night
away on board Chester’s famous disco
cruise.
Tickets: £22.50 (online bookings),
£25 (booked via office/phone)
3rd – 17th December
(Sat only) 12pm – 4pm
ChesterBoat, River Dee, The Groves,
Chester, CH1 1SD. Tel: 01244 325394
CHESTER CITY CRUISE
HALF HOUR TOUR
Enjoy a half hour cruise along the tranquil
River Dee. Take a break from your
Christmas shopping on one of our fleet.
Tickets: Adults £6.50 (Online), £7
(Quayside), Concs £6 (Online), £6.50
(Quayside), Children (5 – 15yrs) £2.25
(Online), £2.50 (Quayside), U5s free
3rd – 23rd December
Blakemere Village, Sandiway, Northwich,
Cheshire, CW8 2EB. Tel: 01606 883261
BLAKEMERE'S
CHRISTMAS WOODLAND
A magical journey through the woods to
discover Father Christmas hidden in his
hide away. Fascinating characters in this
theatrical outdoor performance lead you
on a Christmas journey for all the family to
enjoy. Also includes a children's craft
workshop, meeting Snowy the owl, a ride
on Santa's Express as well as a traditional
carousel ride.
Tickets: £27.50pp
(T) = TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM TOWN HALL VISITOR CENTRE
(A) = ADVERTISER WITHIN OUR GUIDE...PLEASE SUPPORT (IT’S HOW WE ARE ABLE TO KEEP THIS GUIDE FREE!)
{ 1 9 }

12
New Year’s Eve
at The Bridgewater Hall
A Night
Oscars
at the
The Bridgewater Hall
International Concert Series 16|17
The Choir of King’s College, Cambridge
Stephen Cleobury conductor | Richard Gowers organ
Hollie Bangham mezzo soprano | Eliza Carew cello
Tuesday 13 December 7.30pm
Programme includes: Fauré, Duruflé, Howells and a selection of carols
St. Petersburg Philharmonic Orchestra
Yuri Temirkanov conductor | Nicolai Lugansky piano
Friday 27 January 7.30pm
Khachaturian Excerpts from the ballet ‘Spartacus’
Rachmaninov Rhapsody on a theme of Paganini
Rimsky-Korsakov Scheherazade, Symphonic Suite
Manchester Camerata
Tim Redmond conductor
Louise Dearman & Oliver Tompsett soloists
Saturday 31 December 2016
Box Office: 0161 907 9000
www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk
Box Office: 0161 907 9000
www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk
Craig Ogden’s Guitar Weekend 2017
20-22 January
Join us for a weekend of guitar events including concerts, free performances,
workshops, family events and a film screening. Highlights of the Weekend:
Bach to the Beatles
Craig Ogden & Royal Northern Sinfonia
Friday 20 January 7.30pm
A journey through time to reveal popular guitar repertoire from Bach to new
arrangements of songs by The Beatles.
Musicwood: Film screening
Friday 20 January 5.00pm & Sunday 22 January 11.00am
Follow a band of famous guitar-makers on their conservation mission to the
rainforest, accompanied by a soundtrack including Steve Earle.
Craig Ogden & Jacqui Dankworth
Cosmo Rodewald Concert Hall, University of Manchester
Saturday 21 January 8.00pm
Jazz singer Jacqui Dankworth joins forces with classical guitarist
Craig Ogden in a programme of songs including Paul Simon,
James Taylor, Henry Mancini and Michel Legrand.
Craig’s Big Guitar Jamboree
Sunday 22 January
Join our massed guitar orchestra for a morning rehearsal, then play
onstage in the afternoon concert or just watch this unique performance.
Box Office: 0161 907 9000
www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk

WHAT’SON {Listings}
W W W.v I S I T C H E S T E R .C O M
3rd – 23rd December
Chester Zoo, Upton, Chester, CH2 1EU.
Tel: 01244 380280
FATHER CHRISTMAS
STORY TIME
Join us for a magical, funny and
inspirational wildlife storytelling
experience told by Father Christmas
himself in the Sumba school house on
Islands.
Tickets: Normal Adm charge plus £6.50pp
5th December, 7.30pm
Venue Cymru, The Promenade, Llandudno,
LL30 1BB. Tel: 01492 872000
www.venuecymru.co.uk
TALE OF TALES (A)
Comprising three wildly fantastical stories,
including a queen who gives birth after
falling asleep in an enchanted forest and a
proud king who raises a flea as his child,
these are tales that your parents never
dared tell you. Set in an epic landscape
filled with a host of bizarre characters.
Tickets: £6
5th & 7th December,
6pm – 9pm
Arley Hall & Gardens, Northwich,
CW9 6NA. Tel: 01565 777353
CANDLELIGHT & CAROLS
See the hall lit by candlelight and listen to
the choir sing as you meander around
each room.
Tickets: £10
8th December, 7pm
From The Forum Shopping Centre,
Northgate Street, Chester, CH1 2BY.
WINTER WATCH PARADE
Karamba Samba as the Winter Watch
parades through Chester city centre, led
by the Lord of Misrule! There will be
dancers, fire breathing and sword fights
along the way.
Free
8th December, Doors open
7pm; concert begins 8pm
Tatton Park, Knutsford, Cheshire,
WA16 6QN. Tel: 01625 374400
www.tattonpark.org.uk
NORTHERN CHAMBER
ORCHESTRA 'CHRISTMAS
IN VIENNA' (A)
Allow the Northern Chamber Orchestra to
whisk you off to old Vienna and a magical
world of waltzes, polkas and marches,
including music by the Strauss family.
Tickets: £22, £18; 18s & Under £12
8th December,
9.30am - 11.30am
Brio Leisure, Northgate Arena, Victoria
Road, Chester, CH2 2AU. Tel: 01244 380444
www.brioleisure.org/topsytumbles
TOPSY TUMBLES
CHRISTMAS PARTY (A)
Bring your tots and toddlers along to this
Christmas party and there’ll be plenty of
fun, games and soft-play activities for all.
There’ll also be a special guest appearance
from Brio Bear with a gift for every child!
Spaces are limited, so book early to avoid
disappointment.
Tickets: £5
9th December – 6th
January, various times
Forum Studio Theatre, Hamilton Place,
Chester, CH1 2BH. Tel: 01244 341296
JACK & THE BEANSTALK
Boo and hiss the baddies, cheer the
heroes, laugh along with the corny jokes
and tap your toes to the memorable and
popular songs.
Tickets: Adults £11, Concs £9, Family
(2 Adults & 2 Children) £36
10th December, 5.55pm
Theatr Clwyd, Mold, Flintshire, CH7 1YA.
Tel: 0845 330 3565
www.theatrclwyd.com
MET – L’AMOUR DE LOIN
(A) (T)
Commissioned by the Salzburg Festival,
where it was first seen in 2000, it will now
finally have its Metropolitan Opera
premiere in a dazzling new production by
Robert Lepage, featuring glimmering
ribbons of LED lights that extend across
the length of the stage and over the
orchestra pit.
Tickets: £17, Concs £15
10th December, 7.30pm
Clonter Opera, Swettenham Heath,
Congleton, CW12 2LR. Tel: 01260 224514
www.clonteropera.com
THE RAT PACK AT
CHRISTMAS (A)
Purveyors of Cool swing into town with
The Greatest Music of the 20th Century.
Wonderful memories of classic Las Vegas,
Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy
Davis.
Tickets: £17, £21, £23
(T) = TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM TOWN HALL VISITOR CENTRE
(A) = ADVERTISER WITHIN OUR GUIDE...PLEASE SUPPORT (IT’S HOW WE ARE ABLE TO KEEP THIS GUIDE FREE!)
{ 2 1 }

22
Bursting with
fun and flavour,
whatever the
weather!
Play. Indulge. Enjoy.
www.TheIceCreamFarm.co.uk
/icecreamfarm
theicecreamfarm
@icecreamfarm

WHAT’SON
W W W.v I S I T C H E S T E R .C O M
10th & 17th December, 7.30pm
Chester Cathedral, 12 Abbey Square,
Chester, CH1 2HU. Tel: 01244 500969
www.chestercathedral.com
A CHORAL CHRISTMAS AT
CHESTER CATHEDRAL (A)
Join Chester Cathedral Choir for a festive
evening of carols and seasonal readings.
Tickets: £5 - £17.50
10th & 11th, 17th & 18th
December, 8.15am –
10.30am
Blakemere Village, Sandiway, Northwich,
Cheshire, CW8 2EB. Tel: 01606 883261
BREAKFAST WITH SANTA
Santa mingles with guests whilst a hearty
full English breakfast is served. With a
festive story and picture taken with Santa
while he hands out small gifts to each
child.
Tickets: £10.95pp
10th – 31st December,
various times
Venue Cymru, The Promenade, Llandudno,
LL30 1BB. Tel: 01492 872000
www.venuecymru.co.uk
ALADDIN (A)
Starring Welsh Rugby star Gareth Thomas.
Packed with all of the traditional
pantomime ingredients audiences expect,
Aladdin features laugh out loud comedy,
stunning scenery, beautiful costumes and
plenty of boos and hisses.
Tickets: £22 - £15
11th December, 10am
Tatton Park, Knutsford, Cheshire,
WA16 6QN. Tel: 01625 374400
www.tattonpark.org.uk
YULE YOMP (A)
A great pre-Christmas 10k cross country
run for all runners, including those seeking
course PBs and winning positions, club,
novice and recreational runners raising
money for local charities starting at Tatton
Park and finishing at the Egerton Youth
Club.
11th December, 7.30pm
Theatr Clwyd, Mold, Flintshire, CH7 1YA.
Tel: 0845 330 3565
www.theatrclwyd.com
RICHARD DURRANT
CANDLELIT CHRISTMAS
(A) (T)
Musical midwinter charm from the UK’s
favourite barefoot, stand-up, un-classical
guitarist – a world class virtuoso,
compelling storyteller and genial host.
Tickets: £19, Concs £17
13th December, 7.30pm
The Brindley, High Street, Runcorn,
WA7 1BG. Tel: 0151 907 8360
www.thebrindley.org.uk
CHRISTMAS GOTHIC (A)
Dyad Productions resurrects a Victorian
tradition by presenting three seasonal
tales of terror to scintillate the gooseflesh
for dark Christmas nights.
Tickets: £15, Concs £13
14th December, 7.30pm
Chester Cathedral, St Werburgh Street,
Chester, CH1 2DY. Tel: 01244 500969
www.chestercathedral.com
WILL YOUNG PRESENTS
THE SOI DOG
FOUNDATION CAROL
CONCERT (A)
With performances by a local performing
arts choir from The Hammond School, and
readings by selected friends of the Soi Dog
Foundation. All proceeds will go to the
charity.
Tickets: £10
14th December, 7.30pm
St Mary's Creative Space, Chester,
CH1 2DW. Tel: 0333 666 3366
THE AURORA ENSEMBLE
Chester Music Society present a Celebrity
concert with the Aurora Ensemble playing
music by Rossini, Walton, Vivaldi, and
more.
Tickets: £18 (includes buffet) at the door,
from Chester VIC or from the number
above
14th & 15th December, 7.30pm
Theatr Clwyd, Mold, Flintshire, CH7 1YA.
Tel: 0845 330 3565
www.theatrclwyd.com
THE CHRISTMAS BOOK
(A) (T)
See your Christmas favourites brought to
life, by our talented Trap Door Performing
Arts Students. Come and share an evening
filled with Christmas cheer, with music,
song and dance and fabulous acting. A
festive showcase to remember!
Tickets: £10, Concs £8
(T) = TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM TOWN HALL VISITOR CENTRE
(A) = ADVERTISER WITHIN OUR GUIDE...PLEASE SUPPORT (IT’S HOW WE ARE ABLE TO KEEP THIS GUIDE FREE!)
{ 2 3 }

Theatr
Clwyd
Family Festive Fun
Hwyl Yr Ŵyl i Deuluoedd
Let’s Skate
Dewch i Sglefrio
Aladdin
The Wok ‘n’ Roll Panto
1 Dec/Rhag - 2 Jan/Ion £8 - £5
25 Nov/Tach - 21 Jan/Ion £25 - £20
The Nutcracker
In A Pickle
14 - 31 Dec/Rhag £10
10 - 21 Jan/Ion £10
Year of Adventure
Blwyddyn Antur
01352 701521 | theatrclwyd.com
8

WHAT’SON
W W W.v I S I T C H E S T E R .C O M
14th – 31st December,
various times
Theatr Clwyd, Mold, Flintshire, CH7 1YA.
Tel: 0845 330 3565
www.theatrclwyd.com
THE NUTCRACKER (A) (T)
Step into a magical world of bizarre
contraptions, creative games and puzzles
as you meet Billy, son of ice rink
impresarios Barry and Francine, and help
him find his confidence and creativity!
Tickets: £10
15th December, 7pm
From Eastgate Street, Chester, CH1 1LG
WINTER WATCH AND
SATURNALIA PARADE
Experience the special evening that
merges two fantastic parades. The
Saturnalia parade sees the Roman legion
light up the streets with a torch-lit parade
and the Winter Watch is a historic event
when the city leaders would hand over the
keys to the city watch.
Free
15th December, 8pm
The Brindley, High Street, Runcorn,
WA7 1BG. Tel: 0151 907 8360
www.thebrindley.org.uk
JENNY COLQUITT (A)
Singer/songwriter Jenny Colquitt is a local
musician with big dreams. Inspired by the
spellbinding vocal talents of some of the
greats, this acoustic session offers a
pastiche of the soulful sounds of Eva
Cassidy and the raw rock edge of Alanis
Morissette.
Tickets: £11
Every Thursday & Saturday
until 15th December, 2pm
Town Hall Visitor Information Centre,
Northgate Street, Chester
THE CHRISTMAS TOUR,
CHESTER
Stroll around the city centre with your
guide and explore the meaning behind all
those rituals, customs and beliefs at this
special time of year:
Tickets: Direct from the Guide on the day -
Adults £7, Concs £6, Family £16
16th – 19th December,
various times
The Brindley, High Street, Runcorn,
WA7 1BG. Tel: 0151 907 8360
www.thebrindley.org.uk
SANTA SAVES CHRISTMAS
(A)
A festive, interactive, song-filled family
show particularly suitable for 2-7 year olds.
Tickets: £12
17th December – 15th
January, various times
The Brindley, High Street, Runcorn,
WA7 1BG. Tel: 0151 907 8360
www.thebrindley.org.uk
CINDERELLA (A)
With the usual spectacular scenery,
dazzling costumes, hilarious jokes,
singalong songs and fun for all the family.
Tickets: Adults £20, Children £16, Concs
£19, Family £65 (2 adults, 2 children)
18th December, 7.30pm
The Brindley, High Street, Runcorn,
WA7 1BG. Tel: 0151 907 8360
www.thebrindley.org.uk
CHRISTMAS WITH BLAKE (A)
Join Brit-Award winning vocalists Blake for
their Christmas show, featuring festive
songs in beautiful trio harmony, video
projections & the groups famous fastpaced
comedy banter.
Tickets: £24
18th December, 3pm - 4pm
Tatton Park, Knutsford, Cheshire,
WA16 6QN. Tel: 01625 374400
www.tattonpark.org.uk
FAMILY CAROLS IN THE
STABLEYARD (A)
Tickets: Park entry charge only
18th December, 7.30pm
Theatr Clwyd, Mold, Flintshire, CH7 1YA.
Tel: 0845 330 3565
www.theatrclwyd.com
ALINA IBRAGIMOVA,
VIOLIN (A) (T)
A solo recital in which a Bach Sonata and
Partita are set alongside solo sonatas by
the great Belgian violinist and composer
Eugene Ysaye. A special evening of
virtuosic violin performance is in prospect.
Tickets: £17, Concs £15
(T) = TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM TOWN HALL VISITOR CENTRE
(A) = ADVERTISER WITHIN OUR GUIDE...PLEASE SUPPORT (IT’S HOW WE ARE ABLE TO KEEP THIS GUIDE FREE!)
{ 2 5 }

13
Less than
2 miles from Chester City
Short
drive
to North Wales Coast
Close to Liverpool & Manchester Airports
11
month holiday season
5 star
quiet, prestige park
Stunning countryside setting
Idyllic River walks
Beau tifu
lly landscaped gardens
Fir Trees Caravan & Lodge Park; Ferry Lane, Chester CH1 6QF
01244
398365
- www.firtreescaravanp
a rk.com

WHAT’SON
W W W.v I S I T C H E S T E R .C O M
Until 18th December
Town Hall Square, Northgate Street,
Chester, CH1 2HJ.
CHESTER CHRISTMAS MARKET
Shoppers are in for a magical time with over 70
traditional wooden chalets situated in the heart of
Chester, all wrapped around a sparkling Christmas
tree. There will be an abundance of festive treats
and gifts on offer, including quality local and
regional products, crafts, clothing, accessories,
jewellery, unique gifts and stocking fillers.
Free
*
EDITOR’S
CHOICE
19th December, 7.30pm
The Brindley, High Street, Runcorn,
WA7 1BG. Tel: 0151 907 8360
www.thebrindley.org.uk
THE BIG BAND AT
CHRISTMAS (A)
Swing ‘n’ sing-along into Christmas - with
the unique Five Star Swing Big Band show
– as featured at London’s Leicester Square
Theatre and BBC Children in Need.
Tickets: £18, Concs £16
19th & 20th December,
7.30pm
Chester Cathedral, St Werburgh Street,
Chester, CH1 2HU. Tel. 01244 500959
www.chestercathedral.com
CHRISTMAS CRACKERS (A)
Chester Music Society Choir present a
concert for all the family with guest
presenter 'The Bard of Barnsley' Ian Mc
Millan and Chester Philharmonic Orchestra
conducted by Graham Jordan Ellis.
Tickets: £8, £16 (from Cathedral ticket
desk or number above)
20th – 31st December, 7.45pm
& Sat Matinee 2.45pm
Theatr Clwyd, Mold, Flintshire, CH7 1YA.
Tel: 0845 330 3565
www.theatrclwyd.com
THE TOMMY COOPER
SHOW (A) (T)
The legendary gags, magic and story of
Tommy Cooper are brought to life by West
End – and former Clwyd Youth Theatre
member – actor Daniel Taylor.
Tickets: £15, Concs £13
29th December, 6.30pm
The Brindley, High Street, Runcorn,
WA7 1BG. Tel: 0151 907 8360
www.thebrindley.org.uk
TURKEY TINSEL (A)
Turkey Tinsel tells the tales of those whose
past must not be forgotten, but treasured
as gifts - not just for Christmas!
Tickets: £13, Concs £11
3rd January, 7pm
Venue Cymru, The Promenade, Llandudno,
LL30 1BB. Tel: 01492 872000
www.venuecymru.co.uk
NT LIVE: NO MAN'S LAND (A)
Broadcast live to cinemas from Wyndham’s
Theatre, London.
Tickets: £12, Concs £11
(T) = TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM TOWN HALL VISITOR CENTRE
(A) = ADVERTISER WITHIN OUR GUIDE...PLEASE SUPPORT
(IT’S HOW WE ARE ABLE TO KEEP THIS GUIDE FREE!)
Until 8th January, open daily
Chester Cathedral, St Werburgh Street,
Chester, CH1 2DY. Tel: 01244 500969
www.chestercathedral.com
CHRISTMAS TREE
FESTIVAL (A)
The cloisters will be filled with more than
40 majestic Christmas trees. Don’t forget
to vote for your favourite!
Free adm
11th & 20th January, Wed
7pm, Fri 4pm
Theatr Clwyd, Mold, Flintshire, CH7 1YA.
Tel: 0845 330 3565
www.theatrclwyd.com
RSC LIVE – THE TEMPEST
(A) (T)
Simon Russell Beale returns to the RSC
after 20 years to play Prospero in this
ground-breaking production directed by
Artistic Director Gregory Doran.
Tickets: £15, Concs £13
{ 2 7 }

CHEYNEY RD
GARDEN LN
BOUVERIE ST
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37

W W W.v I S I T C H E S T E R .C O M
11th January, 7.30pm
St Mary's Creative Space, Chester,
CH1 2DW. Tel: 0333 666 3366
DANIEL SHELVEY
BARITONE AND DYLAN
PEREZ PIANO
Chester Music Society present a celebrity
concert with Daniel Shelvey baritone and
Dylan Perez piano performing music by
Vaughan Williams, Samuel Barber,
Schumann and Schubert.
Tickets: £15 at the door, from Chester VIC
or number above
18th January, 7.30pm
St Mary's Creative Space, Chester,
CH1 2DW. Tel: 01244 678589
YOUNG MUSICIANS
RECITAL
Chester Music Society present a Recital by
winners of the Society's Chester Young
Musician Competition.
Tickets: £5 at the door
20th January, 7.30pm
The Brindley, High Street, Runcorn,
WA7 1BG. Tel: 0151 907 8360
www.thebrindley.org.uk
THE TINA TURNER
EXPERIENCE (A)
This fully live energetic show charts the life
and career of one of the world’s iconic
performers
Tickets: £20, Concs £19
“A Vision of Beauty
and Tranquillity”
Ness Gardens Reviewed by Phil S
Plan your perfect
Cheshire trip
Until 21st January,
various times
Theatr Clwyd, Mold, Flintshire, CH7 1YA.
Tel: 0845 330 3565
www.theatrclwyd.com
ALADDIN – THE WOK ‘N’
ROLL PANTO (A) (T)
With over twenty classic rock and soul
songs served up with a generous helping
of mad gags, shock frocks, knockabout
and slapstick, it’s the sizzling Clwyd rock ‘n’
roll panto – a seasonal feast for all the
family.
Tickets: Various prices
22nd January, 12pm & 5pm
The Brindley, High Street, Runcorn,
WA7 1BG. Tel: 0151 907 8360
www.thebrindley.org.uk
SLEEPING BEAUTY - A
MAGICAL BALLET STORY (A)
Performance by the ballet pupils of A.T.
School of Dance & Footloose Theatre
School.
Tickets: £11, Concs £9
24th January, 7.30pm
Venue Cymru, The Promenade, Llandudno,
LL30 1BB. Tel: 01492 872000
www.venuecymru.co.uk
I'M SORRY I HAVEN'T A
CLUE (A)
BBC Radio’s multi award-winning antidote
to panel games with Barry Cryer, Tony
Hawks, Tim Brooke-Taylor, Jeremy Hardy
and host Jack Dee. Don’t miss this evening
of inspired nonsense. Colin Sell provides
piano accompaniment.
Tickets: £26
25th January, 7.30pm
Venue Cymru, The Promenade, Llandudno,
LL30 1BB. Tel: 01492 872000
www.venuecymru.co.uk
ROSS NOBLE:
BRAIN DUMP (A)
Everybody's favourite randomist is back.
As always Ross has lots of stuff backing up
in his head and it's time to let it all out.
Famed for his super quick freewheeling
style and highly imaginative flights of
fancy, a Ross Noble show is always an
unmissable event.
Tickets: £25
25th – 28th January, 7pm
The Brindley, High Street, Runcorn,
WA7 1BG. Tel: 0151 907 8360
www.thebrindley.org.uk
HAMLET (A)
Present by VML Drama. The team who
brought you Bouncers, bring
Shakespeare’s tragedy to life with some
fine local actors.
Tickets: £8, Concs £5
29th January, 7.30pm
The Brindley, High Street, Runcorn,
WA7 1BG. Tel: 0151 907 8360
www.thebrindley.org.uk
MACCA – THE PAUL
MCCARTNEY STORY (A)
Starring West End leading man Emanuele
Angeletti (‘Let It Be’) as Paul McCartney,
this is a celebration of the life and music of
a legend…
Tickets: £25, Concs £23.50
(T) = TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM TOWN HALL VISITOR CENTRE
(A) = ADVERTISER WITHIN OUR GUIDE...PLEASE SUPPORT (IT’S HOW
WE ARE ABLE TO KEEP THIS GUIDE FREE!)
{ 2 9 }

≥
CHRISTMAS CONCERTS
AT THE BRIDGEWATER HALL, MANCHESTER
Celebrate Christmas with the Hallé
at The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester
Saturday 3 December, 7.30pm
Handel’s Messiah
Friday 16 December, 7.30pm
Winter Wonderland with Clare Teal
Saturday 17 December, 3pm
Sunday 18 December, 3pm and 7.30pm
The Hallé’s Traditional
Carol Concerts
Tuesday 20 December, 1.30pm and 4pm
Wednesday 21 December, 11am and 1.30pm
The Snowman
screening with live orchestra
The concert also includes Paddington Bear’s First Concert
Friday 23 December, 7.30pm
Christmas at the Movies
Thursday 29 December, 7.30pm
Queen: A Rock and
Symphonic Spectacular
Friday 30 December, 7.30pm
An Evening with 007
Saturday 7 January, 3pm
A Viennese New Year Celebration
www.halle.co.uk • 0161 907 9000
10

14
2016
Christmas
Tree Festival
SATURDAY 26 NOVEMBER 2016 - SUNDAY 8 JANUARY 2017
Back for a fourth year, Chester Cathedral
cloisters will l be filled with more than
40 majestic Christmas trees.
Escape from the hustle and bustle of the
fe estive e period a
nd lose yourself in ou
r
astonishing tree-lined winter walkways.
Open daily | Free admission
www.chestercathedral.com

Jodrell Bank
Discovery Centre
Home of the world-famous
Lovell Telescope
PERFECT
FOR
FAMILIES
15
EXHIBITIONS | CAFE | SHOP | TALKS | EVENTS | GARDENS
Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre, Macclesfield, Cheshire, SK11 9DW
01477 571766 | jodrell.visitor.centre@manchester.ac.uk
Open Daily, 10am - 5pm. www.jodrellbank.net