Nothing screams limbo more than the days between Christmas and New Year. It’s the one time of year that we have absolutely no concept of time, no inkling as to what constitutes as an acceptable calorie intake, or even when we’re meant to be back at work – which is exactly why we need to get out of the house instead of waste the days away. From beautiful winter walks to the Christmas attractions staying open for ‘Twixmas’, here’s our guide to the best things to do between Christmas and New Year.
1. Flamingo Land
While Flamingo Land’s rides may be closed for the winter, their fantastic zoo is still open between Christmas and New Year, making for the perfect family day out.
Winter at Flamingo Land sees a number of fun animal exhibits alongside keeper talks, where guests can see how the animals live day-to-day and learn much more about their species. Find out more here. Flamingo Land, Kirby Misperton, Malton, YO17 6UX.
2. Yorkshire Wildlife Park
Yorkshire’s most popular zoo will be welcoming visitors during the Twixmas period, closing up for Christmas Day only (however, of course, the team will be on-site caring for the animals).
Focusing on the conservation of its thousands of animals, the wildlife park has expanded rapidly this year alone, with the new introduction of The Hive shopping complex and its new immersive Evolution restaurant. Get tickets here. Yorkshire Wildlife Park, Auckley, Doncaster, DN9 3HQ.
3. Yorkshire Sculpture Park
Offering the perfect place to potter with family, Yorkshire Sculpture Park is home to a number of fantastic artworks, including a wonderful piece of famous Yorkshireman, Captain Sir Tom Moore.
Found on the outskirts of Wakefield, the stunning landscaped park features both British and international artists, including Henry Moore, with over 100 pieces to see along the way. Yorkshire Sculpture Park, Wakefield, WF4 4LG.
4. Shop the sales at Meadowhall
If shopping is your thing, there’s nowhere quite like Meadowhall for a day out. Housing basically every national chain worth shopping in, the massive shopping centre will be hosting the annual Boxing Day sales this year, with discounts running for weeks after Christmas. Meadowhall, Sheffield, S9 1EP.
5. Roundhay Park Magical Illuminated Trail
Roundhay Park’s gorgeous illuminated trail will be running past Christmas Day, with dates remaining up until January 1st.
There, guests can stroll through gardens twinkling with beautiful Christmas lights, alongside glittering tunnels, glowing trees and a flickering fire garden. Once you’re done, kick back with a delicious hot chocolate or spiced winter warmer – the perfect way to end the festive season on a high. Get tickets here.
6. Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland
Fancy a family skate? Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland will remain open until Sunday 9th January, meaning there’s plenty of time left to enjoy the Christmas pop-up.
Boasting a massive ice rink, a vintage funfair and an alpine cafe, visitors can extend the festivities a little on the North of England’s biggest real ice rink before heading back to real life – with York’s Designer Outlet next door once the fun is over. Find out more here. Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland, St Nicholas Ave, Fulford, York, YO19 4TA.
7. Stockeld Park Christmas Adventure
Stockeld Park’s Christmas Adventure will extend to the 3rd January, giving guests plenty of time to enjoy the fantastic, family-friendly winter activities.
From the glowing, illuminated trail to activities such as ice skating, Nordic skiing, and the Snowflake Maze, there are absolutely tons to do that’s sure to fill your days between Christmas and the New Year. Find out more. Stockeld Park, Wetherby Rd, Wetherby, LS22 4AN.
8. Scarborough’s Festive Ice Rink
Scarborough’s new festive ice rink will remain open until January 3rd, with a number of slots left between Christmas and New Year.
The real ice rink boasts a shelter from the elements, alongside music and colourful lighting, with quiet sessions providing a low-sensory experience for those who prefer more of a peaceful skate. Book it here.
9. Retreat to Thor’s Tipi for a drink before it goes
Thor’s Tipi won’t be around for much longer, so best believe we’ll be making the most of it while it’s still around.
Taking up residence at The Principal York and at two Leeds City Centre locations, guests can enjoy one last mulled wine during Twixmas, with the locations closing on 1st January.
Enjoy beers, festive tipples, boozy hot chocolates and more, alongside the absolutely delicious Yuzu Street Food. Find out more here.
10. Crazy Golf
Offering budding witches and wizards a magical crazy golf experience, The Hole in Wand can be found on Coppergate Walk, right in York’s historic city centre.
Playing to York’s slight resemblance to the Wizarding World, The Hole In Wand boasts 9 magical holes that all ages can enjoy, with little nods to the Harry Potter movies, tons of mystical sets, and even magical potions to enjoy at the end. Get tickets here. The Hole In Wand, 14-16 Coppergate Walk, York, YO1 9NT.
11. Ninja Warrior
Think you’ve got what it takes to take on Ninja Warrior UK? Suitable for all ninjas over the age of 4, the fun challenge sees guests take on a number of obstacles throughout the course, testing both strength and agility of all those who try to conquer.
Ninja Warrior UK has locations in both Leeds and Sheffield, and you can pre-book here.
12. Northwood Magical Fairy Trail
England’s very own Fairy Sanctuary can be found in Nunnington, nr York, providing a fantastic family-friendly walk that’s perfect for the winter.
Boasting over 100 acres of magical woodland, the nature trail displays a number of fairy artifacts and treasures for all to enjoy, including little fairy doors, bridges and walkways and so much more.
13. Try Papa’s ‘Hog in a Duvet’ before it’s gone
Papa’s Fish and Chip’s mega Hog In A Duvet is back for 2022, and trust us when we say, it’s a carb-lover’s dream.
Running right through January last Christmas, those wanting to try the epic deep-fried pig in a blanket had better visit ASAP. After all, it’s the perfect taste of Christmas to ease our way out of the festive period.
Papa’s operates chip shops in Kingswood, Bilton, Hull, Willerby, Scarborough and Whitby, with shops in Bridlington and Sheffield coming in the future. Find your local here.
14. Enjoy a cosy pub lunch in the countryside
Fancy a chilled one this Twixmas? We don’t blame you. After the stress of Christmas shopping, getting everything wrapped and hosting the family on the big day, nothing sounds nicer than putting your feet up somewhere warm and cosy.
Whether it’s a trip to the Yorkshire Dales or the North York Moors you fancy, we’ve got recommendations coming out of our ears for you.
15. Wander around one of Yorkshire’s abandoned villages
A region full of mystery, Yorkshire houses a number of curious abandoned villages – all hiding their own secrets of bygone eras.
Think abandoned Medieval churches, underwater houses, and even abandoned castles – which can all be found with our guide to Yorkshire’s abandoned villages.
Read more: 8 Of The Most Wonderful Winter Walks To Try In East Yorkshire
