What to Do Between Christmas and New Year

Good Morning Hampshire!

I can’t quite believe that Christmas is this Wednesday! It feels like it’s come around so quickly this year. Whatever you’re up to, I hope you have a magical time filled with love, laughter, and maybe a few mince pies.

This week’s newsletter is a bit different. With not many specific events on, I’ve shared a few ongoing activities you can enjoy between Christmas and New Year. There are also some articles to read over if you’re looking for inspiration or just fancy putting your feet up with a cuppa.

There won’t be a newsletter next week, as I’m taking some time off to recharge. With the weather looking mild (sadly, no white Christmas for us!), we’re planning to get outdoors after the festivities to burn off the Christmas treats. The New Forest is calling, along with a few other places I’ve been meaning to explore. If you’re venturing out too, let me know where you’re heading - I’m always up for new recommendations!

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! 🎅✨

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This Week’s Weather

Mon 23rd – 8°C ⛅ | Tue 24th – 13°C ☁️ | Wed 25th – 12°C ☁️ | Thu 26th – 11°C ☁️ | Fri 27th – 10°C ⛅ | Sat 28th – 8°C ⛅ | Sun 29th – 8°C ⛅

Photo of the Week, by Gary Stoner

This week's photo is a true festive delight, showcasing the Christmas spirit with a captivating portrait of a charming robin in Hampshire. Captured by the skilled Gary Stoner, this close-up perfectly highlights the robin's delicate beauty and character.

Hampshire Twixmas: What to Do Between Christmas and New Year

While there aren’t as many specific events during this period (except for Christmas, of course—because it doesn’t get much more eventful than that!), Hampshire still has plenty of ways to make the days after Boxing Day feel special.

Here’s a quick round-up of ideas for things to do across Hampshire during this festive in-between period.

Historic Adventures and Timeless Tidings

• Portsmouth Historic Dockyard: Open from 27 December, step back in time with its festive offerings, which continue through to 5 January. Explore Christmas through the ages while discovering maritime history.

• Milestones Museum, Basingstoke: From 27 December to 5 January, stroll through charmingly decorated streets and tackle the family-friendly jigsaw challenge—all while staying snug indoors.

• Beaulieu: Until 5 January (including Boxing Day), enjoy Victorian decorations at Palace House and a fun Montagu Bear Christmas Trail.

• Winchester Science Centre: Reopens on 27 December, with the Space Station Science event running through to 6 January 2025.

• Royal Armouries Fort Nelson: From 27 December to 5 January, join A Christmas Wish and explore this beautifully restored Victorian fort.

Festive Trails in Hampshire’s Great Outdoors

Whether you prefer a brisk walk through the countryside or a magical themed trail, Hampshire’s parks and National Trust properties have you covered:

• Queen Elizabeth Country Park: A Festive Forest Adventure awaits from 26 December to 5 January.

• Staunton Country Park: Explore Owl’s Winter Woodland Trail between 26 December and 5 January.

• National Trust Trails:

  • A Nutcracker Christmas at Mottisfont (26 December – 5 January).

  • Wonderland Christmas at The Vyne (26 December – 5 January).

  • An Enchanted Christmas at Hinton Ampner (27 December – 5 January).

For those in Southampton city, don’t miss Southampton’s Snow Window Trail, running until 31 December (excluding Christmas and Boxing Day).

Pantomime Fun for the Whole Family

Twixmas wouldn’t be complete without the magic of panto. Here’s where to catch a show (there are a few seats left):

• Jack and the Beanstalk at Mayflower Theatre, Southampton (26 December – 5 January, excluding New Year’s Day).

• Mother Goose at Theatre Royal Winchester (26 December – 5 January).

• Beauty and the Beast at New Theatre Royal, Portsmouth (26 December – 5 January, excluding New Year’s Day).

• Dick Whittington at Kings Theatre, Portsmouth (27–31 December).

• Sleeping Beauty at The Anvil, Basingstoke (26 December – 5 January, excluding New Year’s Day).

Get Your Skates On

Enjoy outdoor ice skating at:

• Westquay on Ice, Southampton (Boxing Day – 5 January).

• Portsmouth on Ice, Guildhall Square (Boxing Day – 5 January).

Dazzling Winter Light Trails

Brighten the season with these illuminating experiences:

• Light Up at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens (27 December – 1 January).

• Glow Marwell at Marwell Zoo (27–30 December).

• Steam Illuminations on the Watercress Line (27–28 December for Christmas classics; 29 December – 4 January for pop hits, excluding New Year’s Day).

• West Green House near Hook: Follow the yellow brick road with A Wizard of Oz Christmas adventure (27–29 December).

I hope you enjoyed that slightly different newsletter. I’ll be back in your inbox in the New Year with more Hampshire gems to discover. Until then, have a wonderful Christmas and a joyful start to 2025. Here’s to making magical memories! 🎄✨

Hannah

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