Christmas may seem like a long way off (unless you’re reading this in a department store), but one of the North East’s major attractions is already preparing for a visit from the festive season’s main man.
Father Christmas has pencilled in November 15 for his annual trip to Beamish, marking the start of the Museum’s Christmas festivities which will see thousands of children pay a visit to his magical fireside grotto.
And if that wasn’t exciting enough, this year, for the first time he’s bringing some of his reindeer with him who will be hanging around for the duration.
Their extended Beamish stay will give visitors a great opportunity to enjoy an up-close audience with these magical animals, as well as the chance to feed them with some of their special reindeer moss gathered from a forest floor in Norway.
Every weekend visitors will be able to step into Christmas past and join in the traditional celebrations in the delightfully decorated Town, Pit Village, Pockerley Old Hall and 1940s Farm at the Museum.
There’s also the option of taking a spin around the ice rink in The Pit Village, enjoying a ride on the fantastic steam Gallopers an steam train, or indulging in mouth-watering festive food offerings.
Each Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday throughout the Christmas season half price day tickets will be available for anyone who wants to enjoy a stroll in the crisp winter air.
And of course Beamish’s signature trams will also be running so there’s no excuse not to discover the delights of The Town and Pit Village, from the beautiful decorations and delicious traditional food to the aforementioned festive grotto headed up by Father Christmas and his reindeer.
Meanwhile from December 26 until January 4, there’s a flurry of traditional Twelfth Night Celebrations to take part in - a perfect post-Christmas outing before the youngsters go back to school. Who’s feeling Christmassy now?
Christmas at Beamish runs from November 15 to January 4. For full details of opening times and admission charges visit www.beamish.org.uk
