Twixmas in North Yorkshire

Keep the Christmas vibes going

Christmas Day may be over, but there is still lots to do in North Yorkshire in the post-Christmas days and through to the New Year.

Head outside and embrace the crisp fresh air on a bracing walk in the countryside or along the coast.  Explore our market towns for post-Christmas sale shopping or keep the celebrations going with a delicious meal at a restaurant or cosy pub, or visit one of our attractions, perfect to fill a day.

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Still in the festive spirit? There are plenty of Christmas events and activities still taking place.

Whether you are meeting up with friends or looking for ideas to delight your house guests a visit to North Yorkshire will keep you entertained long after the big day.

Boxing Day celebrations

There are lots of events happening on Boxing Day so wrap up warm and enjoy the post-Christmas vibes.  Head to the Yorkshire coast to watch the Scarborough Fishermen vs Fireman football match and raft race on the South Bay or see the Whitby Lions Boxing Day Dip from Whitby bandstand. In Knaresborough the Tug O' War sees two pub teams battle it out across the River Nidd.

The Boxing Day Pilgrimage sets out from Ripon Cathedral following in the footsteps of the monks who established Fountains Abbey and ends with a service in the abbey cellarium.

Illuminating light trails

Luminescence – A Winter Light Trail at Swinton Estate

Be enchanted by this magical display as you follow a twinkling trail of lights and illuminations through woodland and by the lakeside at Swinton Estate. Refreshments are available along the route. Runs until February 2027

Glow at RHS Garden Harlow Carr

As dusk falls, the gardens at RHS Garden Harlow Carr turn into a colourful wonderland as they are illuminated for Glow. Grab a hot chocolate and follow the light trails as you explore the gardens in a different light. Open 26 November – 30 December on selected dates.

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Festive fun for all the family

Christmas at Stockeld

Visit Stockeld Park for an illuminating evening. Wander through the Enchanted Forest as it comes alive with sparkling lights, projections, sculptures and installations. Warm up with refreshments along the way Before exploring the illuminated Snowflake Maze as you follow the winding hedges festooned with twinkling lights (until Sunday 3 January) 

Christmas at Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal

There's something for all the family to enjoy during Christmas at Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal. Children can follow the Festive Trail around the estate (until Sunday 3 January) before stepping back in time to a Victorian Christmas inspired by A Christmas Carol in Fountains Hall (until Sunday 3 January). Listen to music in the abbey ruins bathed in coloured lights (Sunday 27 December 2-3pm). 

Step into a world of wonder at Harewood House as you immerse yourself in their Magic at the Mansion event. The house is transformed into a festive wonderland with talking furniture, choral surprises and installations that will amaze you (until Sunday 3 January).

Take to the ice at the covered ice rink in the Valley Gardens for a post-Christmas skate. Book a session, get your skates on and have a great time. (until Sunday 3 January).  

Panto Fun

Enjoy the perfect panto afternoon or evening with all the family as you laugh, boo and sing-along. Harrogate Theatre's Sleeping Beauty runs until 17 January or head over to the Scarborough Spa for their panto, Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood, running until 3 January.

Festive food experiences

Enjoy a Christmas menu aboard the North Yorkshire Moors Railway’s Pullman Dining Train.

Sit down to a three-course meal with a mince pie to finish as the beautiful North York Moors countryside whizzes past your window, or if you fancy fish & chips then hop aboard their new Winter Fish & Chips service.

(Both services run on selected dates until 3 January).

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However you choose to spend the days between Christmas and New Year, you are guaranteed a perfect day out in North Yorkshire.

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