PT STAFF_WIN18

42,000 COPIES FOR FAMILIES 

OF PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN 

www.primarytimes.co.uk 

Staffordshire & 

Stoke on Trent 

DAYS OUT • EDUCATION • COMPETITIONS • FAMILY FUN 

NOVEMBER WINTER ISSUE ISSUE NO 109 

26 NOVEMBER 26 NOV 2018 - 

TO 4TH JANUARY 2019 

PT STAFF_WIN18.indd 1 20/11/2018 17:15


Contents 

4 News 

Dear Readers, 

WINTER 

2018-2019 

WELCOME 

6 WOW: Family events 

8 Early Times 

10 WOW: Family events 

18 Fun Activities 

22 Focus on Education 

27 Box Office 

30 Competitions 

Welcome to the winter issue of Primary Times! With Christmas, 

Hanukkah, and more right around the corner, it’s a wonderful 

time of year full of celebrations and cheer for the whole family. 

There are so many festive activities and events on in the 

upcoming weeks, there’s sure to be something for everyone. 

Many of these listed events are free or low cost – which might 

be especially helpful at this time of year! 

There are lots of opportunities to meet Father Christmas before 

he travels the world on Christmas Eve. Make sure you check 

out our What’s On Where pages to see where he’ll be so you 

don’t miss him! 

Plus, the holidays wouldn’t be complete without a fun 

pantomime or show! Our Box Offi ce pages are fi lled with 

brilliant performances; check to see what’s on local to you. 

We’ve got everything from Puss in Boots to Aladdin. 

From everyone here at Primary Times, we wish you happy 

holidays and a fantastic start to the new year. 

With very best wishes, 

The Primary Times Team 

Publishing Director: 

Nuria Macdonald 

nuria.macdonald@ 

primarytimes.co.uk 

Sales: Kerry Howard: 

kerry.howard@ 

primarytimes.co.uk 

Tel: 01733 385307 

Production: Kathy Wright 

kathy.wright@primarytimes.co.uk 

Design: Owen Mooney 

Primary Times is independently published and distributed free through national primary schools in SchoolName . It aims 

to inform families and children about current educational issues, forthcoming events, courses, attractions and to give 

teachers, pupils and parents the opportunity to participate in the magazine by adding to its contents or by joining in 

the competitions. It is NOT our intention to publish any racist, sexist or politically based material whatsoever. We also 

undertake not to carry any advertising which we would consider to be offensive to young families or harmful to the 

best interests of young children. Primary Times would like to thank all the schools in SchoolName for their assistance 

in distributing the magazine and for their contributions to its contents. We would also like to thank all the advertisers 

who have supported this publication and therefore made it possible. Please support their endeavours when and where 

you can. The copyright on all written material, logos and advertising artwork produced by our studio remains with 

Primary Times or with the relevant contributor. Primary Times is currently publishing over 2 million copies per issue under 

franchise licences throughout Britain. 

Primary Times in Staff ordshire is 

published by: Schools Publishing Limited 

Unit 1A, Thamesview Industrial Estate, 

Newtown Road, Henley on Thames 

RG9 1HG Telephone: 01491 411848 

www.primarytimes.co.uk/Staffordshire 

The UK’s biggest free ‘what’s on’ 

magazine for parents! Primary 

Times in Staffordshire distributes 

42,000 copies seven times a year, 

and is part of a national network 

distributing more than 2.7 million 

copies in 59 regions across the 

UK and Ireland 

www.primarytimes.co.uk/staffordshire | WINTER 2018 3 


Primary Times Staffordshire 

WHAT’S ON WHERE 

WOW! 

what’s on where 

26 Nov – 30 Nov 

Pirate Trail 

Gladstone Pottery Museum ST3 1PQ 

www.stokemuseums.org.uk 

Can you find pirate pictures hiding around 

our site? Free pencil and entry into a prize 

draw for everyone who takes part. £1 plus 

admission. Tuesdays to Saturdays during 

November. 

26 Nov – 23 Dec 

Meet Father Christmas 2018 

Planters Garden Centre B78 2EY 

www.plantersgc.com 

Step inside our Christmas village and visit 

our post offi ce, then meet Mrs Claus in 

the kitchen and help mix up some magic 

reindeer food to take home. Afterwards 

you’ll visit the Grotto where you’ll find Father 

Christmas, pose for a photo taken by our 

cheeky elf and then visit the toy workshop 

where you can choose a gift to take home. 

26 Nov – 24 Dec 

North Pole Adventure 

National Forest Adventure Farm DE13 

9SJ 

www.adventurefarm.co.uk 

Receive a personalised ticket from Father 

Christmas. Check-in and collect your Elf 

Coins before setting off. Journey through 

the magical portal to the North Pole. Help 

the Elves sort the parcels in the post 

offi ce. Meet our talking Polar Bear under 

the Northern Lights. Decorate festive 

Gingerbread Men with Mother Christmas. 

Enjoy a special meeting with Father 

Christmas and choose a gift, and more! 

Santa’s Grotto 

Wolseley Bridge ST17 0YA 

www.wyevalegardencentres.co.uk 

Bring the kids along to meet Santa and 

receive a gift. Book online. 

Breakfast or Tea with Santa 



This Christmas 2018, come along to 

Breakfast or Tea with Santa for lots of 

festive fun! 

Festive Lunch 



Love traditional festive food? Then don’t 

miss the very special Christmas menu at 

our restaurants, featuring all your favourites 

and some extra-special treats the whole 

family will love. 

Trentham Fairy Trail 

Trentham Garden Centre ST4 8JG 

www.trentham.co.uk 

Keep your eyes peeled as you walk around 

our beautiful mile-long lake, and through 

the woodland and garden, where the fairies 

at Trentham live. We have a new fairy 

“Dancing with Dandelions” who’s flown in 

to the Rivers of Grass to visit her Trentham 

fairy friends. She’s only here for a short 

while, so make sure you don’t miss her, and 

watch her hover gently in the breeze! 

Nature in Bronze 

Trentham Gardens ST4 8JG 


There’s bronze pheasants rising from prairie 

planting, leaping salmon, and a giant tree 

frog emerging from the undergrowth. Come 

and see what you can find! 

Breakfast or Tea with Santa 

Gailey Dobbie’s Garden World ST19 5PP 

www.dobbies.com 

Make it a Christmas to remember and see 

your little ones eyes light up as they tuck 

into breakfast or tea with Santa. Our popular 

family events includes a hot or cold meal, 

fun activities and a gift from Santa himself. 

These events are suited to families with 

children aged 12 and under. To relax and 

fully enjoy the experience families will be 

seated and served at their own table. Book 

online. 


Gailey Dobbie’s Garden World ST19 5PP 

www.dobbies.com 

Santa’s Grotto is one of our most exciting 

festive experiences at Dobbies. Bring your 

little ones along to explore the magical 

setting, be welcomed by Santa himself and 

receive a toy of your choice. Book online. 

26 Nov – 31 Dec 

Drayton’s Magical Christmas 

Drayton Manor Theme Park B78 3SA 

www.draytonmanor.co.uk 

Magical Christmas opens on 17 November 

and is open for selected dates right up until 

31 December. Book online. Please note 

that Father Christmas is only with us until 

24 December and then it is park only from 

27 - 31 December. 

Santa’s Winter Wonderland 

Snowdome B79 7ND 

www.snowdome.co.uk 

Santa’s returning to the SnowDome with his 

magical Winter Wonderland in the snow. As 

well as his reindeer he’ll be bringing all of 

his friends for some serious festive fun the 

weather cannot spoil. With all the real snow, 

real animals and all new Winter Wonderland 

show, it’s the ultimate Christmas adventure 

for all the family! Full details online. 

26 Nov – 5 Jan 

Christmas at the Nicholson 

Nicholson Museum and Art Gallery ST13 

6DW 

www.staffsmoorlands.gov.uk 

The much anticipated annual Christmas 

Gift Bazaar at Leek’s Nicholson Museum 

and Art Gallery returns for another year. 

Festive activities include choirs and family 

entertainment alongside visits from a 

VIP (sshhh it’s Father Christmas!) and the 

chance to enjoy mince pies. 

26 Nov – 6 Jan 

Christmas Tree Festival 

Red House Glass Cone DY8 4AZ 

www.dudley.gov.uk 

A free community festival displaying trees 

decorated by local schools, charities and 

organisations. 

26 Nov – Ongoing 

Teddytastic 

Lower Drayton Farm ST19 5RE 

www.lowerdraytonfarm.co.uk 

Want to take home a lasting memento of 

your visit to Lower Drayton Farm? Visitors 

now have the option to create their very 

own ‘teddytastic’ cuddly toy and take him or 

her home with them at the end of the day. 

For full details see online. 

Wollaton Hall Tours 

Wollaton Hall NG8 2AE 

www.wollatonhall.org.uk 

Wollaton Hall has been the permanent 

home of Nottingham Natural History 

Museum since 1926. Behind the museum’s 

cases and dioramas there lies a rich past 

and a labyrinth of corridors and rooms that 

speak of Wollaton’s hidden history. Please 

note: this tour involves over 300 steps and 

is unfortunately not suitable for those with 

limited mobility. 

28 Nov 

Alrewas Hayes Christmas Market 

Alrewas Hayes DE13 7DL 

www.lichfielddc.gov.uk 

Join us at Alrewas Hayes for our annual 

Christmas Market, in aid of the Holly Prince 

Trust and The Holly Trust. Browse over 50 

stalls, ranging from homewear, gifts, food 

and drink, to the all important Christmas 

goodies! 

Christmas Launch 

Trentham Shopping Village ST4 8JG 


Packed full of treats for you and your loved 

ones, this is Christmas Shopping made easy. 

The switch on brings our twinkling village to 

life and adds sparkle to the festive season. 

This year’s Christmas parade is based on 

children’s story books with characters. 

28 Nov – 19 Dec 

Baby Birds - Parent and Toddler 

group 

RSPB Sandwell Valley B43 5AG 

www.rspb.org.uk 

Baby Birds is a weekly parent and toddler 

group - come along and meet other parents 

who love to have fun outside with their 

children. Each session we go out on to the 

reserve, whatever the weather. Our group 

aims to involve and encourage children 

to take an interest in nature and the 

environment through a mixture of outdoor 

and indoor activities and crafts. 


Nature Tots 

The Wolseley Centre ST17 0WT 

www.staffs-wildlife.org.uk 

Come and explore with us! Fun nature 

themed activities for under 5s and their 

parents/carers. Each session has a different 

natural theme and includes crafts, outdoor 

exploration, story-time and free play. All 

children welcome, though activities are 

most appropriate for those aged 18 months 

- 5 years. 

29 Nov 

Wildlings 

Highgate Common DY7 5BS 

www.staffordbc.gov.uk 

Parents/carers must attend with child, but 

we’ll be encouraging parents to take a step 

back and observe their kids ‘in the wild’. 

Families can get involved for just £5 per 

child and £3 for additional siblings. A healthy 

snack and a drink will be included for all 

children and adults will also be provided 

with a hot drink. Activities will be mostly 

appropriate for children aged 6+ months 

to 5 years. 

29 Nov – 13 Dec 

Santa Paws: Pet Grotto 



Merry ‘Woof’mas! - you’d be barking mad to 

miss this opportunity for your pet to meet 

Santa. Back for 2018 by popular demand. 

We invite you to bring your beloved pets to 

see Father Christmas in our Santa Paws Pet 

Grotto. Your pets will enjoy a visit to Father 

Christmas, receive a Christmas treat and 

have their photo taken. 


Forest Tots 

Lichfield Cathedral School WS13 7LH 

lichfieldcathedralschool.com 

Bring your little ones along to forest tots. 

Wildlings 

Highgate Common DY7 5BS 


Give your children the chance to explore, 

get mucky and play independently in the 

beautiful outdoors. Parents/carers must 

attend with child, but we’ll be encouraging 

parents to take a step back and observe 

their kids ‘in the wild’. Activities will be 

mostly appropriate for children aged 6+ 

months - 5 years. 

30 Nov 

On The First Day Of Christmas 

Calke Abbey DE73 7LE 

www.nationaltrust.org.uk 

Father Christmas and his reindeer are 

paying a special visit to Calke this year. 

Watch them arrive at the mansion, say 

hello to Father Christmas and his reindeer, 

then join him for a lantern-lit walk up to the 

Stableyards. Enjoy a magical evening of 

lights and illuminations, festive fayre in the 

Riding School and Christmas activities in 

Squirt’s Stable. 

30 Nov – 16 Dec 

Christmas Sleepovers... 

Beaudesert Activity Centre WS15 4JJ 

www.beaudesert.org 

Fully catered activity package, Christmas 

campfire, Christmas lunch, accommodation 

for one night, and visit to Santa. Full details 

and booking online. 

Visit Santa... 



Follow the trail to find Santa. Includes a trail 

to follow to find the grotto and visit to Santa, 

gift and our fantastic Christmas lights. Book 

online. 


Wildlings 

The Wolseley Centre ST17 0WT 


Give your kiddos a chance to experience 

fire, get mucky and play independently 

in our outdoor classroom. Parents/ 

carers must attend with child, but we’ll be 

encouraging parents to take a step back 

and observe their kids ‘in the wild’. 

1 Dec 

Christmas Campfire... 



Includes hot drink and mince pies, walk 

4 

WINTER 2018 | www.primarytimes.co.uk/staffordshire 



NEWS 

Do you have news to celebrate? 

Dates to share? 

We’d love to hear from you! 

NEWS 

Real Christmas Tree Sales 

at Sherwood Pines 

With something for all the family 

to enjoy and plenty to see and do, 

visit Sherwood Pines Forest to make 

buying your real Christmas tree a 

memorable part of your festive fun 

this year. The Forestry Commission 

offer a huge range of sustainably 

grown real Christmas trees and 

with every tree purchased, you will 

receive a free spruce sapling to 

take home. 

While you are there selecting your 

Christmas tree take a family photo 

St. Dominic’s Priory school 

St. Dominic’s Priory school is a warm, 

friendly, highly successful Catholic 

independent co-educational school, 

educating students from Pre-School 

to 16 years and of all faiths. 

Our aim is to educate the whole 

person; to find the strengths of 

each boy and girl and enable 

them to succeed. Our students are 

encouraged to have a sense of 

purpose, which enables them to be 

confident, independent and ready to 

face life’s adventures. They combine 

a sense of fun with a determination to 

achieve, grow and learn. 

Our Prep school prides itself on its 

friendly family atmosphere, and in 

April of this year we opened our new 

36-week Pre-School that currently 

accommodates children eligible to 

start Reception class in September 

2019. This offering is staffed by 

Statfold Barn Railway, located in 

Tamworth, is home to a significant 

collection of narrow gauge 

locomotives and the old Burton to 

Ashby Tram. 

As well as public open days, Statfold 

offer private hire, school educational 

tours and themed events. 

The site has recently undergone 

development introducing the new gift 

shop and diner. 

There is plenty to see and do for all 

at the seasonal selfie scene or enjoy 

festive food and drink from food 

stall. Extend your stay and take the 

family on the Christmas trail through 

the woodland. Capture all the magic 

that Christmas has to offer this year 

by visiting Sherwood Pines. 

qualified and experienced early 

years’ teachers and practitioners, 

in newly refurbished facilities. Any 

new students are welcome to join us 

throughout the academic year. 

Our students travel from far and 

wide and to accommodate their 

transportation requirements, we 

operate a fleet of modern minibuses. 

We also provide wraparound care 

from 7.30am through to 6.00pm. 

Please do visit our website: www. 

stdominicspriory.co.uk for more 

information on our school. 

Every day is an Open Day at St. 

Dominic’s and we would be proud to 

show you around our school at a time 

convenient for you. 

Please call 01785 814181 ext 2 for 

more information or to make an 

appointment. 

New local attraction opens its doors 

ages with events running throughout 

the year. Why not come along and 

enjoy the ‘Statfold Experience’. 

Contact us on 01827 830389 or see 

our website www.statfoldbarnrailway.co.uk 

for details 

FREE ‘Sleeping Beauty’ pantomime 

tickets for disabled children 

Caudwell Children, the Staffordshire 

based charity that provides practical 

and emotional support to disabled 

children and their families, has 

announced that it is offering disabled 

children and those with additional 

needs in Staffordshire, FREE family 

tickets to three performances of the 

classic fairy tale, Sleeping Beauty. 

Not only that each family will be 

given a FREE goody bag containing 

refreshments and chocolate donated 

by Thornton’s. 

The performances will take place 

from 1pm-3pm at the following 

venues: 

· Sunday 2nd December, 2018, 

Queen Street Community Centre, 

Queen Street, Burton-on-Trent, DE14 

3LW 

· Sunday 23rd December, 2018, The 

Northfield Centre, Magnolia Avenue, 

Stafford, ST16 3DU 

· Sunday 6th January, 2019, Bradnop 

Village Hall, School lane, Leek, ST13 7ND 

Tickets are now available for children 

and young people aged 8-18, and with 

Family-of-Four tickets usually priced 

at £22 charity bosses are advising 

interested parents to book their FREE 

tickets now to avoid disappointment. 

North Pole Adventure 

Join us on a magical Christmas 

journey to the North Pole to meet 

Father Christmas and his friends. 

After receiving a personalised ticket 

from Father Christmas, children 

check-in and collect their Passport 

and Elf coins before journeying 

through the magic portal to the 

North Pole. You will explore the 

Victorian High Street and sweet 

shop, help the elves sort the parcels 

and meet our interactive talking polar 

bear under the Northern Lights. In 

Mother Christmas’ kitchen children 

will decorate festive gingerbread 

The show, funded by Staffordshire 

Council as part of their Aiming High 

programme, developed to provide 

disabled children with fun activities 

outside of school, will be delivered 

by Odd Socks Entertainment who 

specialise in touring Pantomimes. 

Sarh-Jane, director of Odd Socks 

Entertainment, is delighted to be 

involved. 

The production is part of Caudwell 

Children’s programme of activity days 

for disabled children. They have been 

devised to develop skills, confidence 

and self-esteem, whilst having fun. 

If you live in Staffordshire you can 

book tickets through Aiming High on 

0300 111 8007 (option 5). 

Families outside the Staffordshire 

border can book their tickets directly 

through Caudwell Children, by 

ringing Julia on 01782 433730. 

men. There’s also Elf Training, a 

NEW music room experience and 

of course a special meeting with 

Father Christmas in his grotto before 

children can choose a present from 

the workshop. 

North Pole Adventure tickets also 

include entry the National Forest 

Adventure Farm the day of your visit. 

Selected Dates 17november – 24 

December. 

www.adventurefarm.co.uk 

info@adventurefarm.co.uk 

01283 533 933 





through our fantastic Christmas lights and 

visit to Santa. Book online. 

Christmas Craft Fair 

St Chads Church ST16 2HP 


Free to attend. Come along and see what’s 

on offer! 

Middleport Pottery’s Christmas Lights 

Switch On 

Middleport Pottery ST6 3PE 

www.stoke.gov.uk 

Join us for Christmas Stories on the boat, 

traditional carol singers and period costume 

all in our beautifully lit Victorian pottery 

factory. 

Victorian Christmas Fun Day 



Start the Christmas season in style and 

join us for a day of festive fun for the 

whole family. Enjoy seasonal stories from 

characters from Dickens’ Christmas Carol, 

join our naughty elves in a snowball fight 

and take part in Christmas craft activities. 

There may even be a very special visitor in 

a red suit! 

Victorian Christmas Lights Switch On 


www.middleportpottery.org 

The start of our Victorian Christmas 

Programme. Join us for Christmas tales on 

the boat, traditional carol singers and period 

costume all in our beautifully lit Victorian 

pottery factory. 

Celebrate the Season 

Emma Bridgewater Factory ST1 3EJ 

www.emmabridgewaterfactory.co.uk 

Enjoy the sights, sounds and scents of 

Christmas the Factory. Meet our reindeer 

friends, learn to make Emma’s Christmas 

pudding, come to a wreath making 

demonstration with Carol Siddorn, make 

clay decorations in the studio and have a go 

at our free festive trail to win a treat. Free 

entry, no booking required, £2.50 charge for 

clay activity only. 

1 Dec – 2 Dec 

Christmas at a Victorian Mill 

Etruria Industrial Museum ST1 4RB 

www.etruriamuseum.org.uk 

During steaming weekends the mill will 

be in steam from 12:30-4:30pm with 

the engine starting on the hour. Guided 

tours commence at 20 minutes past the 

preceding hour. Please be in the engine 

house 10 minutes before each steaming 

starts. 

Christmas Food and Gift Fair 

National Memorial Arboretum DE13 7AR 

www.thenma.org.uk 

Enjoy exploring the beautiful wintry 

landscape of the Arboretum before 

browsing for those perfect handmade 

Christmas gifts and tasty festive treats at 

our Christmas Food and Gift Fair. Children’s 

craft activities are also available and tasty 

festive snacks and meals will be available in 

our restaurant. 

The Johnson Family Christmas 

Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum WS13 

6LG 

www.samueljohnsonbirthplace.org.uk 

Enjoy the historic house decorated for 

Christmas, with activities for all ages and 

events throughout the weekend including 

carol singing, storytelling, mulled wine, 

magic and special moving displays! 


Winter Wonderland...Beaudesert 

Activity Centre WS15 4JJ 


Activities include a range of indoor and 

outdoor activities, Christmas lunch, a visit to 

Santa, campfire and our fantastic Christmas 

lights. Book online. 

Father Christmas’s Grotto 

Kedleston Hall DE22 5JH 


Visit Father Christmas in his magical 

Christmas Grotto and enjoy some craft 

activities with his little helpers. Father 

Christmas has called into Kedleston’s 

stables this year. Your experience will 

include a gift from Father Christmas as well 

as the craft activities which we will have 

taking place. Please note that advanced 

booking is essential, please book the most 

suitable slot for you. There may be a little 

wait but Father Christmas will see you within 

this time slot. 



Cannock Chase Forest WS15 2UQ 

www.forestryengland.uk 

Santa’s Grotto will be open to the public on 

Weekends (open at 10am and queue closes 

at 3pm) between Saturday 24th November 

and Sunday 16th December. The Grotto will 

also be open on late nights on Thursday 

6th and Friday 7th December (open at 4pm 

and queue closes at 7pm). See online for 

confirmed venue and bookings. 

Christmas Lantern Workshop 

Shugborough Estate ST17 0XB 


Create your own special lantern in 

preparation for our magical lantern parade 

later in the month. Book a slot or drop by to 

craft your very own paper pyramid lantern. 


Crafty Christmas Cookies 



Come along and make your very own 

2019 calendar. Order a hot chocolate and 

a cookie and collect a craft pack to make 

up your very own calendar for 2019. All 

children must be supervised by an adult 

at all times. 

Christmas at Shugborough 



Join us at this magical time of year when 

the estate is showing off its seasonal best 

inside and out. Be delighted by themed 

decorations that adorn the Mansion, 

Servants’ Quarters and Park Farm House, 

and treat yourself to some warming 

indulgences from our tea-room. 

Christmas Tree Sales at Kedleston Hall 



This December, choose your ideal 

Christmas tree from a wide range of British 

sustainably grown trees, with a size to suit 

your home. All proceeds go towards caring 

for the parkland at Kedleston Hall. 


December Christmas Wish List 

The Potteries Museum and Art Gallery 

ST1 3DW 


Ozzy has written his Christmas wish list. Try 

and find all the items on his list. £1 per trail 

and includes a free pencil. 


Santa’s Enchanted Village 

Amerton Farm ST18 0LA 

www.amertonfarm.co.uk 

Visit Santa’s Grotto in the enchanted village, 

hidden away in the woods. Full details and 

booking online. 

Family Christmas Crafts 



Come along and drop in for some bird 

themed Christmas crafts in the Stables. 

Normal admission charges apply to the 

park for non National Trust members. 

Twelve Days of Calke’s Christmas 



Christmas weekends at Calke are a magical 

time to make memories with the family. 

Find inspiration at the Christmas gift and 

food markets in the Riding School, then 

explore the grounds to discover twelve 

festive displays, telling stories from Calke’s 

past. As darkness falls, follow a twinkling 

trail of lights and illuminations through the 

Pleasure Grounds to the church, and catch 

a glimpse of the house lit up in festive 

lights. Squirt’s Stable will be open for 

Christmas crafts. 

Father Christmas in his Grotto 



Father Christmas is returning to his magical 

stable grotto this year! Tell him just how 

good you’ve been this year and what 

special gifts you are hoping to receive on 

Christmas morning, then Father Christmas 

will give you an early Christmas present. 

Online booking is essential. 

Santa Specials 

Foxfield Railway ST11 9BG 

www.foxfieldrailway.co.uk 

A truly fun packed Christmas awaits 

on board Santa’s magical train journey, 

delivering an abundance of festive cheer 

and merriment. Gently winding through the 

scenic Staffordshire countryside enjoy a 5 

1/2 mile round trip festive train ride. Book 

online. 

The Churnet Valley Railway: 

Santa and Steam 2018 

Churnet Valley Railway ST10 2HA 

www.churnet-valley-railway.co.uk 

Get Christmas off to a magical start by 

riding the Santa Express. Sit back and enjoy 

the Santa Express as it steams through 

the Staffordshire Moorlands. Santa strolls 

through the train bearing wonderful gifts for 

each little boy and girl whilst Mum and dad 

can relax and enjoy a mince pie and a glass 

of sherry in garland filled coaches which will 

delight all. 

Breakfast with Father Christmas 



Enjoy a wholesome cooked English 

breakfast in the great kitchen with tea/ 

coffee or squash. Father Christmas will 

be making an appearance and he will be 

joining you to hand out presents to all of 

the children. Why not capture this special 

memory with a photograph of your family 

and Father Christmas. Booking required. 

Christmas Lapland Experience 

Blithbury Reindeer Lodge WS15 3HY 

www.blithburyreindeerlodge.co.uk 

Join us at Blithbury Reindeer Lodge in 

the lead up to Christmas and get into 

the festive spirit. Meet and feed our 

beautiful herd of reindeer, visit Father 

Christmas in his traditional Scandinavian 

style Grotto, explore our soft play area 

and be entertained by our Punch and 

Judy performance with a Christmas twist! 

Additional activities are also available. 


Breakfast With Santa 



Enjoy a festive Christmas breakfast with 

Santa! Full details and booking online. 

Santa Specials 

Brownhills West Station, Chasewater Country 

Park WS8 7NL 

www.chasewaterrailway.co.uk 

Santa will visit you on the train and his 

helper’s will give out presents. All trains will 

be steam hauled, subject to availability, and 

the whole train will be festively decorated. 

Book online. 

Christmas in the Home 

Black Country Living Museum Trust DY1 4SQ 

www.bclm.co.uk 

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas. 

Stroll around 26 acres of shops and houses 

and get a snapshot of Christmas past. From 

Victorian lavishness to wartime Christmas 

on the ration, visitors can enter the homes 

of the past as characters prepare for the big 

day. See online for full details. 

Santa Hunts 

Black Country Living Museum Trust DY1 4SQ 


Children and adults alike can join the 

fun-filled search for Santa, alongside the 

museum’s festive costumed guides, in 

an unforgettable Christmas experience. 

Meeting a series of characters along the 

way, children can solve enchanting clues, 

sprinkle “magic dust” on reindeer shoes and 

even send letters up the chimney to Santa’s 

workshop. Book online. 


Christmas Crafts and Activities 

Sudbury Hall and National Museum Of 

Childhood DE6 5HT 


Join us at Christmas in the beautiful 

surroundings of Sudbury Hall to make 

something special to take home. 

Christmas Activities 




Discover Regency pop-up activities along 

the Hall visitor route. Spark your imagination 

and get hands-on with table-top activities 

or dress up with props and costumes. 

Children must be accompanied by an adult. 

1 Dec – 6 Jan 

Christmas Tree Festival 

Lichfield Cathedral WS13 7LD 

www.lichfield-cathedral.org 

A wonderful array of real Christmas trees 

decorated by schools, charities and 

businesses. Vote for your favourite! Open 

daily except 25 December. 

2 Dec 

Christmas Family Day 

Museum Of Cannock Chase WS12 1TD 

www.museumofcannockchase.org 

Our annual Christmas Family Day 

returns with festive fun for everyone. 

Free admission, small charges for some 

activities. Visit Father Christmas in his 

twinkly cottage. 

Christmas Fayre 2018 



Drop into the visitor centre any time 

between 11am-3pm to make your own 

Christmas crafts! Frosted pine cones, 

woolly sparkle sticks and log fire bundles 

to hang on your Christmas Tree. There will 

be festive stalls, some scrumptious festive 

6 







treats to enjoy and some caroling too. If you 

have a gander round the reserve, you might 

even find a special Christmas visitor... 


Santa’s Magical Garden 

Curborough Countryside Centre WS13 8ES 

www.curboroughcountrysidecentre.com 

This Christmas our garden is going to be 

transformed into a magical Christmas 

garden with Santa visiting throughout on 

December. For full details see online. 


Santa’s Christmas Carvery 2018 

The National Brewery centre DE14 1NG 

www.nationalbrewerycentre.co.uk 

Join us every Sunday in December for a 

sumptuous two course carvery followed by 

a visit to Santa with a special gift for all the 

children. Whilst you’re here why not visit the 

elves workshop an help them with their arts 

and crafts. 


Santa Baby! 



Step inside our Christmas village and visit 

our post offi ce, then meet Mrs Claus in 

the kitchen and help mix up some magic 

reindeer food to take home. Afterwards 

you’ll visit the Grotto where you’ll find Father 

Christmas, pose for a photo taken by our 

cheeky elf and then visit the toy workshop 

where you can choose a gift to take home. 

3 Dec - Ongoing 

Wildlings 

The Roaches ST13 8UA 


Nature based activities for 6 months - 5 

years. Join us for FREE Wildlings sessions 

at The Roaches. Give your children a 

chance to explore, get mucky and play 

independently in this beautiful woodland. 

Parents/carers must attend with child, but 

we’ll be encouraging parents to take a step 

back and observe their kids ‘in the wild’. 

4 Dec 

Nature Walk 

Westport Lake ST6 4RZ 


Come and enjoy an hour walk around 

Westport Lake, with a different nature 

theme each session. Led by a Staffordshire 

Wildlife Trust guide. Free for all ages and 

abilities. Also runs on 18 December. 


Weekday Christmas Lapland 

Experience 



As an alternative to visiting the farm at 

the weekend, on a number of dates in 

December you can join us after school to 

enjoy the Christmas Experience at Blithbury 

Reindeer Lodge. Meet, feed and fuss 

the reindeer, visit Father Christmas in his 

Grotto, explore our soft play area and be 

entertained by our singing reindeer! Book 

online. 

Toddler Days 



The magic at the lodge will be the same 

as our Christmas Lapland Experience, but 

during weekdays in term time you will find 

the Lodge quieter and more relaxed. You 

will get the opportunity to meet, feed and 

fuss the reindeer, visit Father Christmas in 

his Grotto and explore our soft play area. 

Book online. 


Christmas at home with the 

Edwardians 

Black Country Living Museum Trust 

DY1 4SQ 


Experience an Edwardian style Christmas at 

our sister Museum, The Locksmith’s House 

in Willenhall. Step back in time and see 

what Christmas was like for the Hodson 

family. Explore their home and meet the 

volunteers and characters who will tell 

you all about life in the Locksmith’s House. 

Book online. 

6 Dec – Ongoing 

Wildlings 

Lyme Park NT SK12 2NR 



years. Join us for free Wildlings sessions at 

Lyme Park. Give your children a chance to 

explore, get mucky and play independently 

in this beautiful woodland. Parents/ 

carers must attend with child, but we’ll be 

encouraging parents to take a step back 

and observe their kids ‘in the wild’. 

7 Dec 

Artisan Market 

High Street Biddulph ST8 6AP 

biddulph.co.uk 

The Biddulph Artisan Market. A variety of 

craft and food stalls by artisans and traders 

who love what they do. With the ethos of 

enhancing the High Street this monthly 

delight will have something for everyone. 

Carol Evening 



Celebrate the festive season with a 

traditional carol evening in the magical 

setting of Shugborough’s historic Park Farm 

Yard. Mince pies and warming drinks will 

be served from Park Farm cafe during the 

interval. 

Little Saplings Sensory Play 



Our Little Saplings Sensory Play and 

storytelling is designed to help our 

youngest visitors enjoy the Arboretum and 

heighten their development and enjoyment 

of learning. Sounds, colours, textures, 

auditory sensory activities and other 

hands-on elements will add to the week’s 

chosen story. 


Father Christmas’s Grotto for the 

little ones 



Book to visit Father Christmas in his magical 

Christmas Grotto and enjoy some craft 

activities with his little helpers. The Grotto is 

suitable for children aged 0-5 years. 

Christmas Crafts for Pre-Schoolers 



Drop in for some bird themed Christmas 

crafts aimed especially at under 5s and 

their grown ups. Normal admission charges 

to the Park also apply to non National Trust 

members. 


Twilight Christmas Adventure 



Experience our magical enchanted 

woodland under the sky. Full details and 

booking online. 

8 Dec 

British Sign Language Tours 


DY1 4SQ 


Specialist Tours including British Sign 

Language and Audio Descriptive guides. 

Those on the tour will discover the inspiring 

stories of real people, their homes, work 

and daily lives, so you too can see, taste, 

feel, smell, and join in 300 years of Black 

Country history. Book online. 

The Moon at Christmas 

The Potteries Museum and Art Gallery ST1 

3DW 


With rumours that the Russians were 

planning to launch a cosmonaut to the 

Moon it was decided in August 1968 to 

launch the first crewed Saturn 5 mission 

to the Moon. The first time humans would 

venture away from Earth. A presentation 

full of the excitement and drama of the first 

manned moon flight. Family friendly. 

Festive Family Funday 

The Brewhouse Arts Centre DE14 1EB 

www.brewhouse.co.uk 

Come and marvel at our handmade 

decorations and then create your own gifts, 

treats and baubles with the help of our 

team of elves and fairies. We’ll have stories 

around the “fireplace” and a whole host of 

hands on yuletide activities and treats, we 

even have a special visit from the main-man 

himself! 


Lichfield Christmas Food and Drink 

2018 

Litchfield City Centre 

www.lichfielddc.gov.uk 

Each year this event just gets bigger and 

better! Takes place in and around Lichfield 

City Centre. This event is still fabulously 

free! Expect over 160 amazing high end 

food, gift and drink stalls to tickle those 

tastebuds and to solve any last minute 

Christmas present buying all around the 

Lichfield city centre. 

Christmas Artisan Market 

World of Wedgwood ST12 9ER 


Our December monthly market is a two 

day Christmas Market. With over 50 stalls 

of local food and handcrafted products, 

you’re sure to find some festive treats and 

gift inspiration. 

Professor Custard’s Toy Workshop 

Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum WS13 

6LG 


Hands-on activity session for the festive 

season, make a selection of traditional 

toys to take home! Children must be 

accompanied by an adult, booking 

essential. 

Christmas Gift and Food Market 



Find festive inspiration with a range of 

gift ideas alongside local, warming food 

and drink. Discover traditional, vintage, 

contemporary and handmade gift ideas 

in the Riding School, alongside plenty of 

festive food and drink all sourced within a 

20-mile radius of Calke Abbey. 


Santa at the Cone 

Red House Glass Cone DY8 4AZ 

www.dudley.gov.uk 

Bring along your little one to meet Santa, 

receive a gift, do a craft and follow our trail. 

Book online. 

Children’s Victorian Christmas Santa 

Trails 

Tamworth Castle Grounds B79 7NA 

www.tamworthcastle.co.uk 

As you hunt through the Castle on your 

Santa trail you will meet the Victorian 

household readying themselves for the 

annual visit of our very special guest. 

Visitors will join in with a series of activities 

by helping the cook to make Christmas 

pudding, the mistress to decorate the 

castle, the stablehand to find the reindeers 

carrots, before entering Santa’s grotto to 

receive a surprise gift. 


Biddulph Grange Garden ST4 8FR 


Join us for breakfast and meet Father 

Christmas! He’ll be there to sing a song 

and to wish you a Merry Christmas. His little 

helper will escort you over to the Garden 

Room to sit in front of the fire and have your 

own family magical moment telling Father 

Christmas your Christmas wish list. Each 

child will receive a small toy. 


Tale Trail to the Wind in the 

Willows 

New Vic Theatre ST5 0JG 

www.newvictheatre.org.uk 

From a deep and cosy burrow to a thrilling 

journey through the Wild Wood, join Ratty 

and Mole for plenty of picnics, as they try 

to keep up with an adventurous Toad and 

prove their friendship. But they can’t do it 

without you! They need brave adventurers 

to help them follow Toad on this journey 

and save their friend from getting into any 

trouble. Can you help them? A 45 minute, 

immersive theatre-experience, Tale Trail 

invites children aged 3-5 and their families 

to journey into the world of a classic 

children’s story. 


Sandwell Swans - Wildlife 

explorers 2018 



Sandwell Swans Wildlife Explorers Club 

are wild about nature; involving and 

enthusing children about wildlife with fun 

and engaging outdoor activities, games, 

arts and crafts. The club’s activities are 

aimed at children aged 8-12 years old and 

are designed so that parents can leave 

if they wish; children under 8 years old 

are welcome if accompanied by an adult 

throughout the meeting. Full details online. 

9 Dec 

Santa Dash 

Hanley Park ST1 4DX 

www.alicecharity.com 

Are you ready for Santa Dash 2018? It’s that 

time of year again! If you’re a Christmas 

lover, and want to do your bit for vulnerable 

and disadvantaged children living in Stoke 

and Newcastle this festive season, enter 

our annual Santa Dash today. Join in with 

our 5k, fully marshalled fun-run or chattystroll. 

Chairman’s Carol Service 

St John’s Community Church WS7 1LR 

www.burntwood-tc.gov.uk 

The town council chairman traditionally 

organises an annual carol service which is held in 

one of the town’s churches. All welcome. 

Living Nativity 

Emma Bridgewater Factory ST1 3EJ 

www.emmabridgewaterfactory.co.uk 

The perfect way to see, hear, feel and 

smell the Christmas story when the ‘Farm 

on Wheels’ visit the Factory. Come along 

8 







in your nativity play costume for a great 

seasonal picture opportunity and receive a 

tasty treat. Free entry, no booking required, 

£2.50 charge for clay activity only. 

Christmas Lantern Service 



Sung by our Cathedral Choir, this service 

for people of all ages will include a Lantern 

Procession around the Cathedral and the 

lighting of the Christmas Tree. 

Santa Sunday Lunches 

The George Hotel WS13 6PR 

www.lichfieldgarrick.com 

Come and have some festive family fun 

with lunch and a magic show on the 9 

and 23 December! This year take a break 

from the Christmas rush and meet up with 

friends and family for a delicious three 

course festive lunch in our Garrick Suite. 

After lunch you can sit back and relax while 

the children enjoy an entertaining magic 

show, and there will also be a visit from 

Santa himself with a gift for all the children! 

Stone Civic Carol Concert 

St Michael’s Church ST15 8AA 


The Civic Carol Service takes place at 3pm 

at St. Michael’s Church, Stone. Free. 

10 Dec – 12 Dec 

Tea with Santa 

Six Arches Restaurant ST4 8JG 


Get into the festive spirit as you enjoy a 

traditional Christmas dinner with Santa at 

the Six Arches Restaurant! Remember to 

bring along your Christmas wish list and visit 

the grotto where you’ll receive a special gift. 

12 Dec 

Messy Museum 

The Potteries Museum 

and Art Gallery ST1 3DW 


Join us at The Potteries Museum and Art 

Gallery for a messy midweek session for 

pre-school children. £3 per child. 

These monthly sensory sessions will take 

place outside in our Secret Garden so 

please dress for the weather. Each session 

is based on a different theme. Booking 

essential - please ring 01782 232323. One 

adult per participating child. 

12 Dec – 21 Dec 

Illuminated Arbetorum 



A stunning and awe-inspiring immersive 

experience, this event will see the 

Arboretum and some of its memorials 

‘shown in another light’. 

13 Dec – 18 Dec 

Storytelling at the Crib 



Join us at the crib as we tell the story of 

the birth of Jesus Christ. Please check 

the website for availability. Free. Booking 

essential. 


Wildlings 

Hem Heath Woods ST4 8FR 



year olds. Join us for free Wildlings sessions 

at Hem Heath Woods, every second and 

fourth Thursday of the month. Give your 

children a chance to explore, get mucky 

and play independently in this beautiful 

woodland. Parents/carers must attend with 

child, but we’ll be encouraging parents to 

take a step back and observe their kids ‘in 

the wild’. 

Toddler Thursday 



Learn, play and explore in our sessions 

especially for under 5s and their parents or 

carers. Take part in crafts, rhymes, singing 

and play. £1 per child but normal admission 

applies if you wish to visit the rest of the 

museum. Booking essential. Ages 0-4. 

15 Dec 

Festive Fun Day at the Locksmith’s 

House 

The Locksmith’s House WV13 2DA 


Step back in time and see what Christmas 

was like for the Hodson family at our sister 

Museum – The Locksmith’s House in 

Willenhall. Book online. 

Stafford Makers Market 

Stafford Town Centre 

www.staffordshire.gov.uk 

Discover our foodie, gourmet, creative, 

quirky, design led and artistic event in 

the heart of Stafford. The market features 

specifically selected specialists, who 

source, grow, rear, bake, make and create 

the products they sell, which ensures their 

goods are unique, original and designed 

to inspire. 

‘Tis the Season to be Jolly Talk 



Join us for a seasonal talk by Kath Reynolds. 

Take a look back at some of our Christmas 

traditions, celebrations, food and favourite 

toys! 

December Wildlife Watch 



From tiny insects to mammals and 

amphibious water loving creatures, the 

Arboretum is home to a wide variety of 

wildlife, trees and flowers. Nature loving 

young visitors can discover more about just 

some of these amazing living things at our 

monthly interactive Wildlife Watch sessions. 

Doctor Darwin’s Birthday Bash 

Erasmus Darwin House WS13 7AD 

www.erasmusdarwin.org 

Help us celebrate Erasmus Darwin’s 

birthday. Festive events, birthday cake and 

a pop up tea room. 

Christmas by Candlelight 



Lichfield Cathedral Choir presents an 

evening of Christmas music with that 

unique Lichfield flavour. Celebrate the 

peace and joy of Christmas with our varied 

programme of much-loved carols. 

Christmas Wishes 

Museum Of Cannock Chase WS12 1TD 

www.museumofcannockchase.org 

Poor Mrs Christmas has lost the ingredients 

to her cake and we need your help! Your elf 

guide will lead you on an interactive journey 

around the museum site, stopping at the 

North Pole postroom, the Parlour and the 

Elves Workshop as you try to find all of the 

ingredients. 

15 Dec – 16 Dec 

Santa Specials – First Weekend 

Apedale Valley Light Railway ST5 7LB 

www.avlr.org.uk 

Santa Specials. These trains are very 

popular, and tickets must be booked in 

advance. 

Christmas Country Food and Drink Fair 



Christmas is a time to enjoy the best local 

food and drink. Discover local produce, 

handmade chocolate, cheese and wine, 

irresistible baking, deli and farm shop 

produce, and artisan food in the Riding 

School. With live cooking demonstrations 

from the Calke chefs, the Christmas 

country food and drink fair will get you in 

the festive spirit! 

Santa Paws! 



Santa Paws is really coming to town! Bring 

along your delightful doggies to meet 

Santa Paws and receive a gift! Enjoy the 

festive fun and help support Jerry Green 

Rescue dogs this Christmas! For full details 

see online. 

Christmas in the Coutyards 



Join us for Christmas readings and carols, 

mulled wine, mince pies and festive fayre 

in the cafes. Have a go at our Christmas 

games and family activities and don’t forget 

to grab that last minute Christmas present. 

15 Dec – 23 Dec 

A Christmas Carol 




An adventure that weaves the classic 

characters from this story into the very 

surroundings of Sudbury Hall. Scrooge’s 

journey will guide audiences from the 

exterior of the grounds to the spectacular 

interiors, with the tale coming to life before 

their very eyes. 

16 Dec 

Caudwell Children’s Elf Run 

TBC 

www.caudwellchildren.com/elfrun 

Join Caudwell Children on our festive Elf 

Run in 2018! Run, walk, hop, skip or jump 

5km - fun for the whole family! Festive 

Fancy dress is highly encouraged! See 

online for confirmed venue. 

Stafford Borough Civic Carol Service 

St Mary’s Church ST16 2AP 

www.staffordshire.gov.uk 

The Civic Carol Service takes place at St. 

Mary’s Church, Stafford. 

Family Christmas Market 



Meet the ‘Victorian’ Potters! Last minute 

gifts from our Artist Market or create your 

own handmade gifts and decorations. 

Enjoy mulled wine and mince pies, roasted 

chesnuts and hog roast. Listen to the music 

by Stoke-on-Trent Accordion Band, Carol 

Singers, steam Engine and... the REAL 

Father Christmas! 

Christmas Event 

Ford Green Hall ST6 1NG 

www.fordgreenhall.org.uk 

See the Hall prepared for Christmas 

celebrations. Make a Pomander Mulled 

wine and mince pies! Normal Admission 

applies. Extra charge for Pomander making 

and refreshments.Family Christmas Market 

16 Dec – 23 Dec 

Father Christmas’s Grotto 



Father Christmas has called into 

Kedleston’s stables this year. Your 

experience will include a gift from Father 

Christmas as well as the craft activities 

which we will have taking place. Please 

note that advanced booking is essential, 

please book the most suitable slot for 

you. There may be a little wait but Father 

Christmas will see you within this time slot. 

Signing Father Christmas 



Book a special session with signing Father 

Christmas designed to be autism-friendly 

and provide an enjoyable space for those 

children who are D/deaf or hearing 

impaired, and for those with additional 

needs such as autism. 

17 Dec 

Wintry Indoor Storywalk 

Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum 

WS13 6LG 


Following the popularity of the last 

storywalk, we’re doing it again! Four 

storytellers, four traditional wintry tales, 

four rooms from the cellar kitchen to the 

attic – come and experience the museum in 

a very different way as our guides lead you 

through the house to hear stories sparkling 

with winter frost and glowing with fireside 

warmth! 

17 Dec – 22 Dec 

Cathedral Illuminated 



The multi-award winning Christmas 

illuminations and installation is back for 

2018. The illuminations are an annual light 

and sound installation that take place in and 

around Lichfield Cathedral and its grounds. 

Book online. 

18 Dec – 23 Dec 

The Real Father Christmas 


www.middleportpottery.org 

Meet Father Christmas and Mary in a 

traditional grotto, set in our atmospheric 

Victorian Pottery factory. Includes a lovely 

gift and a personalised approach for your 

child. A truly magical experience. Booking 

required: 01782 499766. 

20 Dec – 23 Dec 




Start your day with a hearty breakfast and 

enjoy a visit from Father Christmas, who 

will be stopping by with gifts for all good 

boys and girls. He’s a busy man this season, 

so bookings are essential for this festive 

breakfast. 

21 Dec 

Messy Church 



Come along to the cathedral for an 

afternoon of worshipping, learning and 

having fun. We sing, pray, learn about 

Bible stories and get messy exploring their 

meaning through crafts and activities. No 

need to book, just come and join in. Please 

note that all children must be accompanied 

by an adult responsible for them. 

Winter Solstice Lantern Walk 



Bring along a lantern and join us for a walk 

through the park as it begins to get dark. 

Enjoy a seasonal stroll and watch the sun 

set on the shortest day of the year, then 

finish off at our fire pit for some Christmas 

Carols. Need a bite to eat? We will have 

10 




hot and cold refreshments available to 

purchase as you enjoy listening to the 

carols by the fire. 

Small Space Santa Special 

The National Space Centre LE4 5NS 

www.spacecentre.co.uk 

Join us for a very special pre-Christmas 

Small Space day, including a visit from a 

very jolly chap en route from the North 

Pole! Combining stories, songs and trails, 

this is a fun and interactive way for young 

children to continue their early educational 

development. 

21 Dec – 22 Dec 

Shugborough Lantern Parade 



Join us on a special lantern lit experience 

of Shugborough Estate. You will journey 

across the estate and be immersed in light 

and sound and learn about what makes 

Shugborough special, whilst enjoying a 

festive evening with friends and family. 

22 Dec 

Carols by Candlelight 



Join us in the beautiful winter surroundings 

of the National Memorial Arboretum for our 

annual Christmas Carol Concert. 

22 Dec – 23 Dec 

Santa Specials – Second Weekend 



Santa Specials. These trains are very 

popular, and tickets must be booked in 

advance. 

Christmas Eve 



Christmas Eve is the most important 

evening of the year for some of our 

reindeer, so join us before they set off on 

their travels and if you haven’t already, pop 

in and visit Father Christmas too. You will 

have the opportunity to meet, feed and 

fuss the reindeer, enjoy performances of 

our singing reindeer, and explore our indoor 

soft play area throughout the day. 

Family Crib Service 



A celebration of Christmas in drama 

and song. Come and take part – you 

are encouraged to come dressed as a 

character from the nativity story – Mary, 

Joseph, Angels, Shepherds 

Santa Paws Pooch Parade 



Join Santa Paws for a festive walk around 

Kedleston’s Park with your pooch. Get all 

the family involved on Christmas Eve and 

join our Santa Paws Pooch Parade. All dogs 

wearing a festive costume or accessory will 

get a treat, and the best dressed pooch will 

be awarded a rosette at the end of the walk. 

26 Dec 

Boxing Day Walk: Meetings with 

Ancient Trees 



Join our Head Gardener Richard for a 

guided post-Christmas walk around the 

periphery of the estate and work off that 

Christmas lunch. 

27 Dec 

Explorer Thursday 



Every Thursday in school holidays we 

will be holding our Explorer Nature days. 

Each week there will be doing guided den 

building, campfire cooking and crafts. Bring 

a picnic, and enjoy our natural playground 

across the reserve. Book online. 

27 Dec – 31 Dec 

Winter Warmers 

Churnet Valley Railway ST10 2HA 

www.churnet-valley-railway.co.uk 

Enjoy a 20 mile return journey through 

Staffordshire’s hidden valley, before 

venturing onto the steeply graded Cauldon 

Branch with its contrasting moorland 

scenery. 

29 Dec 

Mince Pie Specials 



Mince Pie Trains – blow out those seasonal 

cobwebs! Diesel trains from 1130 to 4pm. 

Standard fares apply. 

1 Jan 2019 

New Years’ Winter WarmersChurnet 

Valley Railway ST10 2HAwww.churnetvalley-railway.co.uk 

Come and enjoy the first trains of 2019 

on the scenic Churnet Valley line and the 

steeply graded Cauldon Lowe Branch. 

Dates and prices available closer to the 

event. Jan 

Cooking Demonstrations 


DY1 4SQ 


We will be demonstrating seasonal recipes 

being cooked in some of the houses around 

the museum. We are currently cooking 

recipes such as bread pudding, coddled 

cheese pie and grey paes. 

Epiphany Carol Service 



The Feast of the Epiphany is when we 

celebrate the coming of the wise men 

to the child Jesus with their gifts of gold, 

frankincense and myrrh. 12 Jan 

Dr. D’s Science Club: Astronomy: 

why we love it 

Erasmus Darwin House WS13 7AD 

www.erasmusdarwin.org 

You’ll love astronomy even more after this 

exploration of stars and space. This event 

is aimed at children aged 7-11. Children are 

fully supervised, but adults may attend with 

their children if they wish. 

3 Feb 

Candlemas Carol Service 



Candlemas (properly known as the Feast 

of the Presentation of Christ in the Temple) 

signals the real end to the Christmas 

season. This carol service, sung by the 

Cathedral Choir, celebrates the joy of Jesus, 

‘the word made flesh’, coming to us as a 

human being at Christmas and invites us to 

look forward to the rest of the story. 




0231513 


BOX OFFICE 

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Your family theatre guide... 

Arena Birmingham 

B1 2AA 

www.barclaycardarena.co.uk 

18 Jan – 21 Jan 

Strictly Come Dancing Live 

The Strictly Come Dancing UK Arena 

Tour is waltzing back to Brum in January 

for six supersized sequin-filled shows! 

The 2019 tour will be directed once 

again by the FAB-U-LOUS Strictly TV 

Judge Craig Revel Horwood and feature 

many of the celebrities and professional 

dancers from the highly anticipated 16th 

series of the award-winning BBC One 

show. Casting announcements will be 

made over the coming months. 

27 Jan 

Basketball Cup Final 2019 

There is a buzz around British Basketball 

right now and one of its biggest events 

is returning back to Arena Birmingham 

for 2019. Now the home of the British 

Basketball Cup Finals, the 2019 edition 

will see another spectacular event and 

fans are being urged to grab their tickets 

and be one of the first to guarantee they 

get closer to the action. 

Beaudesert Activity Centre 

WS15 4JJ 


16 Dec 

Carol Service 

Our free community Christmas Carol 

Service takes place in the Chapel, 

followed by warm mince pies and hot 

drinks in the Cal Day cafeteria. We’ll 

also be taking a collection towards our 

annual charity of Toilet Twinning and 

there will be a Christmas Raffle. 

Black Country Living 

Museum Trust 

DY1 4SQ 


16 Dec 

A Christmas Carol Service 

Join the Friends of the Museum as they 

bring the 1837 Darby Hand Chapel to life 

for a traditional candlelit carol service 

conjuring up all the atmosphere of 

Christmas past. The service takes place 

in the Museum’s historic Darby Hand 

Chapel and includes a traditional carol 

service. 

Crewe Lyceum Theatre 

CW1 2DA 

www.crewelyceum.co.uk 


Dear Santa 

Santa is determined to deliver the 

TICKET 

Christmas present to our little hero 

Sarah. With the help of his cheeky 

Elf, he finally settles on something 

‘perfect’, just in time for Christmas Eve. 

All the ingredients of Rod Campbell’s 

ingeniously simple and charming style 

are brought to life on stage, plus a 

whole lot more. Plus, the opportunity to 

meet Santa himself and after the show! 

Ages 2-7. 

2 Dec 

Joint Crewe Churches 

Community Carol Service 

Traditional carols with the TCTC group 

brass band and guest speaker J John. 

Everyone is welcome. Tickets £3. 


Jack and the Beanstalk 

The legendary Cannon and Ball star in 

this year’s must-see production of Jack 

and the Beanstalk in their third Crewe 

Lyceum pantomime alongside star of 

stage and screen and Britain’s Got Talent 

winner George Sampson as our panto 

hero Jack Trot! 

Dudley Town Hall 

DY1 1HP 

www.boroughhalls.co.uk 

11 Dec 

Magic of the Musicals with Too 

Darn Hot. Christmas Special! 

Sit back and enjoy a wonderful selection 

of songs from such classic musicals as 

My Fair Lady, Guys and Dolls, Phantom 

of the Opera, Les Miserables, Westside 

Story, Cats, Top Hat, 42nd Street and 

Anything Goes to the more recent hits 

of Wicked, Jersey Boys and Mamma 

Mia. They’ll also be spreading some 

Christmas cheer by performing some 

swinging festive favourites such as 

White Christmas, Baby It’s Cold Outside, 

Winter Wonderland and Let it Snow! 

Gladstone Pottery Museum 

ST3 1PQ 


14 Dec 

Christmas Carols Evening 

The award winning museum will be 

opening its doors free of charge for 

Christmas Carols by Twilight. There will 

be demonstrations of pottery skills by 

lamplight. The finale will be outdoor 

Christmas carols, accompanied by a 

brass band. 

Landau Forte Academy 

Quems 

B79 8AH 

www.tamworthartsandevents.co.uk 

13 Dec – 23 Dec 

Dick Whittington 

This year the Tamworth Pantomime 

Company are taking their show to a 

fantastic new venue. They will create 

an amazing theatrical experience with 

a purpose built performance area at 

Landau Forte Academy QEMS as they 

present the hilarious pantomime Dick 

Whittington. Join some of your favourite 

local performers as you sing, dance and 

laugh along with the cast of the funniest 

Christmas adventure this side of London. 

Lichfield Cathedral 

WS13 7LD 

www.carrotproductions.com 


Advent Carol Service 

A beautiful thought-provoking service 

with readings, carols and hymns that 

helps us begin the Advent journey. 

Starting in darkness, the Cathedral is 

gradually lit by thousands of candles as 

the first of the Advent Candles is taken in 

procession through the church. 

19 Dec 

The Snowman Live Orchestra 

As featured in The Guardian, The Sunday 

Times and The Telegraph. Experience 

the magic of The Snowman film this 

Christmas – brought to life with a 

big screen and live orchestra. Carrot 

Productions are proud to be the most 

prolific production company in the world 

to tour with The Snowman. 

22 Dec 

Shopper’s Carol Services 

Take a break from your Christmas 

shopping and have a short time of 

peace and reflection with some popular 

readings and Christmas carols. 

Lichfield Garrick 

WS13 6HR 


29 Nov – 31 Dec 


Sam Rabone and Ben Thornton are back 

at the Lichfield Garrick for one of the 

most traditional Pantomimes around 

joined by CBeebies star, Katrina Bryan! 


Elf and Reindeer’s Christmas 

Cracker 

A naughty elf has lost his job for being 

very silly at the North Pole and a 

hardworking reindeer is sad she didn’t 

make Santa’s sleigh-pulling team. Join 

them on their fun filled journey to see if 

both the elf and the reindeer can fulfil 

their Christmas wishes this winter-time. 

Mitchell Arts Centre 

ST1 4HG 

www.mitchellartscentre.co.uk 


Puss in Boots 

As always our fun-packed shows have 

music, dance, side-splitting traditional 

comedy, and of course, lots of audience 

participation, and this year a gloriously 

messy slapstick kitchen scene that 

has to be seen to be believed! With a 

fantastic live band, a tremendous cast 

of 50, dazzling costumes and incredible 

scenery, this is a family show not to be 

missed! 

3 Dec 

The Royal Ballet Live: The 

Nutcracker 

The Nutcracker has long been one of 

the most delightful ways to discover 

the enchantment of ballet – and 

makes for a delicious seasonal treat 

for all the family. Tchaikovsky’s muchloved 

music is matched to a magical 

adventure on Christmas Eve for Clara 

and her Nutcracker doll. 

17 Dec – 31 Dec 

Cinderella 

There’s a New Panto in Town. Starring 

Den Siegertsz from BBC Radio Stoke, 

and Victoria Cook from CBBC. 

National Memorial Arboretum 

DE13 7AR 


22 Dec 

Carols by Candlelight 

Join us in the beautiful winter 

surroundings of the National Memorial 

Arboretum for our annual Christmas 

Carol Concert. 

New Vic Theatre 

ST5 0JG 

www.newvictheatre.org.uk 

22 Dec 

The Froncysyllte Male Voice 

Choir 

They’ve appeared at the New Vic every 

Christmas for more than 30 years –a 

remarkable tradition that means as 

much to the Choir as it does to us. Spine 

tingly, moving and unforgettable, join us 

to celebrate the festive season amongst 

friends with this unforgettable evening. 

Tickets are always in high demand so 

please book in good time. 

9 Jan 

The Pasadena Roof Orchestra 

The internationally-acclaimed, Pasadena 

Roof Orchestra, hit the road to celebrate 

their 50th anniversary! A vintage dance 

band in every sense of the word! For 50 

years the Pasadena Roof Orchestra have 

been re-creating the sounds of a golden 

era of music from the 1920s and 1930s. 

Prince Of Wales Theatre 

WS11 1DE 

www.princeofwales.live 


The Ugly Duckling 

Don’t miss this brand new version of the 

well-loved story. Can the ugly duckling 

and her friends save Santa and Rudolph 

in time for Christmas? 

9 Dec 

Santa in Love 

Have you ever wanted to know a secret? 

A Christmas secret! Maybe you’d like 

to know the biggest secret of all… the 

one about Santa and what he secretly 

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loves best! 

22 Dec – 30 Dec 


Come along for our pantomime! Check 

online for perfomance times. 

St Editha’s Church 

B79 7BX 

www.tamworthartsandevents.co.uk 

5 Dec 

Tamworth Voices Christmas 

Concert 

Tamworth Voices delight us with a 

Christmas Concert that is sure to bring 

Christmas cheer into the heart of all 

who attend, with their own twist on 

contemporary songs and Christmas 

anthems. Concert is in aid of the Mayor’s 

charity. 

St Michael’s Church 

ST15 8AA 


9 Dec 

Stone Civic Carol Concert 

Come along to our carol concert. 

Stafford Gatehouse Theatre 

ST16 2LT 

www.staffordgatehousetheatre.co.uk 


Dear Santa 

Santa is determined to deliver the 

Christmas present to our little hero 

Sarah. With the help of his cheeky 

Elf, he finally settles on something 

‘perfect’, just in time for Christmas Eve. 

All the ingredients of Rod Campbell’s 

ingeniously simple and charming style 

are brought to life on stage, plus a 

whole lot more. Plus, the opportunity to 

meet Santa himself and after the show! 

Ages 2-7. 

Stoke Repertory Theatre 

ST4 2TR 

www.decaversmilltheatre.co.uk 


Aladdin 

Join us for our next journey into the 

enchanting world of pantomime. Our 

story follows Aladdin on a whirlwind of a 

tale from Egypt to China and back again 

as he battles the evil Abanazar. He has 

the Genie and Spirit of the Ring to help 

along with some colourful and hilarious 

characters. 

Stourbridge Town Hall 

DY8 1YE 

www.boroughhalls.co.uk 

Ballet Cymru prides itself on 

being different and Cinderella will 

be no exception, with a specially 

commissioned music score and circus 

elements combined with the finest 

classical dance. Ballet Cymru will be 

working with award-winning composer 

Jack White and Circus Company Citrus 

Arts to conjure a surprising world of 

wonder and magic. 

15 Dec 

Sing-a-Long-a Frozen 

Disney’s hugely popular musical fantasycomedy 

film Frozen gets an extra 

special sprinkling of ‘Sing-a-Long-a’ fairy 

dust. Get dressed up as your favourite 

character and join in the fun, with lyrics 

appearing on the big screen throughout 

the film so you can sing along and 

become the stars of the show! 

Tamworth Castle Grounds 

B79 7NA 

www.TamworthPanto.co.uk 

13 Dec – 23 Dec 


Come along to our pantomime 

production of Dick Whittington! 

The Brewhouse Arts Centre 

DE14 1EB 

www.brewhouse.co.uk 

27 Nov – 2 Dec 

Into The Woods 

Fairytales come to life in the most 

unlikely of places. Stephen Sondheim’s 

classic musical, Into the Woods, 

brings together well-known fairy tale 

characters, but ‘Happily Ever After’ turns 

out to be far from the end of the story. 

28 Nov – 30 Nov 

Mimbre: The Exploded Circus 

Step into the moment where an 

explosion has been frozen in time, the 

remnants of a big top caught mid-air - 

with everything from circus ring, sequins 

and fairground horses suspended above 

ground. Featuring a breathtaking mix of 

acrobatics, surprising aerial feats and 

masterful juggling, The Exploded Circus 

weaves a story told without words, 

where six female performers have to 

come together to seek order in the 

chaos and create a new normal. 

6 Dec 

Casson and Friends: Choreocracy 

A new dance and technology 

collaboration that puts the audience in 

control! Record Breaking Dance Artist 

Tim Casson and BAFTA award-winning 

Digital Artist Seb Lee-Delisle, will 

guide you through the show, and using 

innovative mobile technology, will give 

you control over the three highly-skilled 

dance performers in real-time! 

special visit from the main-man himself! 

8 Dec 

Alice in Wonderland 

Stephanie Parrott School of Dance 

present their annual performance with 

themes of Alice! Featuring all pupils 

in the school a matinee and evening 

performance to enjoy. 

13 Dec 

Festivities with Friends 

Come join us for this much loved and 

very popular evening of Christmas songs 

and carols guaranteed to get you in the 

festive spirit. 

15 Dec 

Performing Stars Academy: 

Christmas Show 

After the success of their summer 

production of ‘Annie Jr’, the Performing 

Stars Academy students present a 

showcase of songs, dances and short 

plays that will guarantee to have you 

entertained! Come and see the students 

of PSA Burton for one night only! 

19 Dec 

The Santa Show 2018: Santa’s 

Christmas Party 

Santa’s Christmas Party is a 45 minute, 

interactive family show, particularly 

suitable for 2-7 year olds, after which the 

adventure continues as each child gets 

the chance to receive a special present 

from Father Christmas in our popular 

meet, greet and treat! 

21 Dec 

A Christmas Carol (U) 

Join us in our cosy cinema this Christmas 

for the tale of everyone’s favourite bitter 

old miser Scrooge. We will be showing 

the classic 1951 take on the classic 

novel ‘A Christmas Carol’ by Charles 

Dickens starring Alistair Sim. Get in to the 

Christmas spirit and help us celebrate 

the ghost of Christmas past, present 

and future... 

The George Hotel 

WS13 6PR 



Christmas Voices 

Intimate Theatre presents an 

entertaining compilation of lighthearted 

poetry, music and drama for 

the festive season. The show combines 

old favourites with originals and humour 

with pathos to evoke the true spirit of 

Christmas 


Robin Hood 

Join the most heroic outlaw of them all 

as the arrow-shooting hero Robin Hood 

strives to win the hand of the beautiful 

Maid Marion while he and his trusty band 

of Merry Men outwit the evil Sheriff of 

Nottingham in a show packed full of 

comedy, action, adventure and plenty of 

glitz and glamour! 

14 Jan – 20 Jan 

019 Dance: Hope! 

Creative Learning Stoke-on-Trent 

presents 019 Dance: Hope! 019 Dance 

will see dance companies from all 

over Staffordshire, Cheshire and the 

Mid-West take to The Regent Theatre 

stage to perform new innovative dance 

routines creating a celebration of hope 

in a world that is forever changing. 

24 Jan – 26 Jan 

Moscow City Ballet presents 

Swan Lake 

Moscow City Ballet returns with the 

stunning Swan Lake, presented in 

classic Russian style with full orchestra. 

The epic story of Prince Siegfried and his 

doomed love for Odette is magnificently 

brought to life in all its original splendour 

by Tchaikovsky’s hauntingly familiar 

score. 

BOX OFFICE 

28 Nov – 30 Nov 

8 Dec 

The Mary Stevens Hospice 

presents Cinderella 

Come along to our pantomime 

production of Cinderella! 

8 Dec 

Ballet Cymru presents 

Cinderella 

Festive Family Funday 

A family friendly festive funday! 

Come and marvel at our handmade 

decorations and then create your own 

gifts, treats and baubles with the help 

of our team of elves’ and fairies. We’ll 

have stories around the “fireplace” 

and a whole host of hands on yuletide 

activities and treats, we even have a 



COMPETITION TIME 

Win! 

Win a Family Ticket (4 tickets) 

for Elf & Reindeer’s 

Christmas Cracker on Saturday 

8 December @ 9.30am 

To enter these competitions please go to... 

www.primarytimes.co.uk/SchoolName/competitions or 

via Facebook at www.facebook.com/primarytimesSchoolName 

Win a Family 

Ticket to Blithbury 

Reindeer Lodge’s 

Christmas Lapland 

Experience 

A naughty elf has lost his job for being very silly at the 

North Pole and a hardworking reindeer is sad she didn’t 

make Santa’s sleigh-pulling team. Join them on their fun 

filled journey to see if both the elf and the reindeer can 

fulfil their Christmas wishes this winter-time. 

This original production, full of imaginative magical 

storytelling, comedy and festive cheer is especially designed 

to engage and inspire the young audience members and is a 

cracking great experience for all the family. 

For your chance to win, answer this question: 

Santa’s sleigh is pulled by eight ______________________ 

a) Cats 

b) Reindeer 

c) Badgers 

Closing date – 05/12/2018 

Experience the true magic 

of Christmas as the lodge is 

transformed into a breathtaking 

winter wonderland, 

filled with twinkling lights, 

Christmas trees, Santa and 

his little helpers and, of 

course, reindeer and sleigh rides. Feed and fuss our reindeer, 

sing along with the singing reindeer, spend story time with 

the Head Elf, explore the new toddler and tots play barn 

and embark on a visit to meet Santa in his grotto and enjoy 

access to his toy workshop! 

For a chance to win a Family Ticket* to Blithbury 

Reindeer Lodge answer the following question: 

How many reindeer does Santa have to pull his sleigh?? 

Closing date – 05/12/2018 

WIN! 

Win a family ticket to 

Pinocchio at the 

Torch Theatre, Milford Haven. 

The Torch Theatre is offering one lucky family (2 adults, 

2 children) the opportunity to see Pinocchio on Friday 21 

December at 6.00pm. 

Win a tree of your 

choice up to 6ft tall. 

The tree must be collected in person, from Sherwood Pines 

(Notts)/Delamere 

Forest (Cheshire) bringing along proof of ID 

For your chance to win, answer this question: 

Closing date –10/12/2018 

Trees must be collect before 16th December, if you collect on the 16th 

please be aware there may be very limited choice. Winner will also need to 

be prepared to have their picture taken with the tree and have it used on 

socila media or other promotional material. 

To be in with a chance of winning the family ticket, all you need 

to do is answer this question: 

What grows when Pinocchio tells a lie? 

A. His ears 

B. His nose 

C. His feet 

The winners tickets will be available for collection at the Torch 

Theatre’s Box Office on the night of performance. Tickets are 

non-transferable and hold no cash value. 

The lucky winner will be selected at random on 12/12/2018 

14

PT STAFF_WIN18

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