sparkles at this time of year. Dubbed England’s Christmas Capital, the city’s streets throng with shoppers while visitors to the Cathedral’s Christmas Market (on until December 22) browse rows of quaint chalets brimming with gorgeous gifts and delicious food and drink, and the air is scented with mulled wine, roast chestnuts and dried orange garlands. To see the city at its glittering best, head for a viewpoint: climb up St Giles Hill, visit Westgate Museum’s rooftop or take a Cathedral Tower Tour.
The Cathedral is also playing host to a programme of Christmas concerts including: a Christmas Carol Service raising funds for Naomi House & Jacksplace, hospices for young people, a Festival of Choirs and Benjamin Britten’s A Ceremony of Carols (December 19). In addition, the Cathedral is running seasonal workshops such as candle making, glass fusing and silversmithing. More arty-crafty Christmassy workshops can be found at The Colour Factory, creative hub and artists’ studios in the old park keepers lodge near River Park.
An imaginative programme includes wreath making, etched baubles, ribbons using botanical dyes, decorations from natural materials with added sparkle, and subtly festive earrings. Round off your tour of shopping, viewing and doing with something to eat or drink. There’s plenty of choice.
However, if you want somewhere cosy try The Vine, an inviting inn with a warm glow overlooking the Cathedral grounds, or The Wykeham Arms, a traditional inn with log.