Six Things to do in Manchester and Cheshire this Christmas

England’s Northwest is brimming with attractions to keep visitors of any age entertained, especially over the festive season. Best Western Cresta Court is conveniently located for those in search of a comfortable and stylish base from to take in the region’s best sights and entertainment. The market town of Altrincham being just a twenty-minute tram ride from Manchester City Centre and a short journey from the rolling Cheshire countryside, it is the ideal place to visit for a spot of pre-Christmas shopping and sightseeing.

At this time of year, the region is alive with seasonal gatherings, illuminated with spectacular light shows and you’re never far from a festive chorus of carol singers. Here, Jane Haselden, General Manager, from the Best Western Cresta Court picks some of the best things to do in Manchester and Cheshire this Christmas.

1 Watch The Snowman with a Live Orchestra

This Raymond Briggs classic is a Christmas tradition for many families and is even more special, when accompanied by a live orchestra. None other than the world-renowned Halle orchestra will form the musical accompaniment to this family favourite on Thursday 22nd and Friday 23rd December.

Tickets start at £17.50. Visit https://www.halle.co.uk/whats-on/the-snowman-dec-2022/ for more information and to book.

2 Sing Christmas Carols in the Stableyard at Tatton Park

Tatton Park boasts some fifty acres of gardens and landscaped parkland, with a stunning 18th Century mansion at its centre. It’s an enchanting place to spot roaming deer and get into the Christmas spirit with a host of events this festive season. Our top pick is the annual carol service, which takes place in the stable yard on the 18th of December. It is free to attend and there’s no need to book, simply turn up with your best singing voice. A host of festive fayre will be available from the Stables Restaurant and the gift shop will be open for last minute Christmas shopping.

Visit: https://www.tattonpark.org.uk/events_at_tatton_park/event-listings/2022/december/christmas-carols-in-the-stableyard.aspx for more information.

3 See the Light at Lightopia, Heaton Park

There are so many stunning lights shows to choose from across the region at this time of year, each as spectacular as the next. Lightopia is an award-winning event and this year it is set to be brighter and bolder then ever before with all new trails and installations. Focusing on hope, new beginnings and rebirth the NEW light trail will take you on an illuminated adventure through Manchester’s Heaton Park.

Prices start at £14.50 for children and £22.50 for adults with funfair rides and food available.

https://manchester.lightopiafestival.com/

4 Enjoy a Festive Afternoon Tea in Townfields Restaurant

Afternoon tea is served with a festive twist throughout December at Best Western Cresta Court in Altrincham. Relax in the stylish and sophisticated Townfields Restaurant and indulge in a selection of freshly prepared finger sandwiches and sweet treats. Brie and cranberry, roast turkey, honey glazed ham fingers sandwiches, minced pies, scones, and lemon cheesecake are among the tasty treats on offer, all washed down with a seasonal mulled wine or prosecco.

The festive afternoon tea starts at £19 per person. Visit https://www.cresta-court.co.uk/christmas-parties-venues-in-manchester-2022/ for more information on this and all of the venue’s Christmas events.

5 Have Some Snow Fun at Chill Factore

If you’re dreaming of a white Christmas, then it’s an odds-on bet at the Chilll Factore snow park. Have fun sliding down the slopes on the Downhill Doughnuts, Luge Mats, and Sledges with snow fun for the whole family.

Entry is from £20 for an hour long, peak season snow pass which can be booked here: https://www.chillfactore.com/family-days-out/snow-park

6 A Timeless Christmas at Lyme

Join in on an enchanted adventure throughout the stunning National Trust setting of Lyme Park, to help save Christmas! A 45-minute spellbinding interactive adventure ends with an opportunity to meet Father Christmas and tell him a Christmas wish.

Tickets start at £18.50 for both children and adults. Visit https://sneakyexperience.digitickets.co.uk/event-tickets/42620?catID=42607 for more information and to book.