10 things to do around the North East in the lead up to Christmas
28th November 20161. Top Gear Karting
Located in Durham, this gives a bunch of great fun for everyone. Drivers must be 16 and over so it may not be for all the family. There is an option of getting catering at Christmas so booking must be done in advance here.
2. Moonlit in Marrakech: Newcastle
For those wanting to spend a little bit more there is an array of entertainment at this holiday hotspot. Everything from acrobatics and fire dancing to a delicious four course dinner. Booking is a must as well and smart attire necessary.
3. Sleeping Beauty: Sunderland Empire Theatre

Dated: 10/10/2016
The cast from the classic tale of Sleeping Beauty who will perform at Sunderland Empire from 9 – 31 December 2016. Left to right, Andrew Agnew (Silly Billy), Amy-Leigh Hickman (Briar Rose), Bobby Crush (Nurse Nelly), Vicky Entwistle (Carabosse) and Faye Tozer (The Good Fairy).
We all love a good pantomime at Christmas. This year Vicky Entwistle (Coronation Street, Les Misérables), Andrew Agnew (CBeebies’ Balamory) and Amy-Leigh Hickman (Tracy Beaker, The Dumping Ground, EastEnders) are bringing this magical pantomime to life. Tickets are sure to sell out quick so booking is a must.
http://www.experienceithere.co.uk/events/sleeping-beauty-0
4. Christmas in Narnia: Newcastle
No pre-booking or ticket fees required. C S Lewis’ famous characters come to life among the stalls this year at Newcastle Castle on the December 10-12. For more information go to http://www.newcastlecastle.co.uk/christmas-narnia-2016
5. Victorian Christmas Market: North Shields
With over 100 stalls around the band stand this year on the December is sure to be great 10-11. There is also fairground rides available as well as other street entertainment. For more information go to http://www.victorianmarket.co.uk/
6. Witches and Wizards: Sunderland Stadium of Light
Masterful sorcery and illusions culminating in a disco with Sunderland AFC’s mascots, Samson and Delilah. A great day out for all the family from the 27 November to 18 December. Pre-booking is a must for this event go to http://www.experienceithere.co.uk/events/witches-and-wizards
7. Santa Sack Workshop: Tyne and Wear
Want to learn how to make your own Hessian sack this Christmas? No problem! Just book your place by 3 December with hot chocolate and all artistic materials included. For more information go to http://www.experienceithere.co.uk/events/santa-sack-workshop-0
8. Chester Le Street: Light Switch On
Grab the family and get on down to see the lights illuminated this year. From choirs and carols to mince pies and mulled wine that is lots to do on the December 1 on that street. For more information go to http://www.thisisdurham.com/whats-on/chester-le-street-christmas-lights-switch-on-p854201
9. Gateshead: Santa’s Grotto
Do you want Santa to hear your Christmas list? Then no need to book or entry fee if you go to http://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/whats-on/family-kids-news/christmas-santa-grottos-north-east-10428420 to find out more information as to where the reindeer will touch down this year in the North East.
10. Beamish
Lots of fun over the Christmas holidays with everything from an ice rink to a traditional Christmas Fair. Enjoy a Christmas to remember as you go back in time while indulging in festive food and exploring the beautifully decorated shops and homes. For more information and booking go to http://www.beamish.org.uk/events/christmas-at-beamish/