For those of you in the North of England or travelling to visit family and friends, here is the low down on what is taking place this Christmas season throughout the region.

Christmas lights in trees in York

Image: York

Find gifts and get into the spirit with local markets

The North of England is a huge area that covers the county of Yorkshire as well others – so there is no end to things to do!

Here are a selection of the markets taking place in the region.

For some unique homemade gifts, visit Durham Christmas Market. Take advantage of the market’s free accessible taxi service, which are suitable for folding wheelchairs. The Marquee itself is wheelchair accessible and assistance dogs are allowed to join you. There is an entry fee for the market, with carers included in the costs. You’ll also find accessible toilets on Palace Green.

One of the biggest events in the North East is the York Christmas Market, otherwise known as St Nicholas Market. All stalls and concessions are accessible and raised structures feature access ramps, allowing for easy access. There maybe the chance to visit during a designated quiet period, which takes place during weekday mornings, check with the organisers before travelling.

There is blue badge parking throughout the city, but city centre streets will be closed to vehicles for the duration of the market, you can find information on car parks and the nearest Blue Badge spaces online here  and Park and Ride services.

Considered one of the most accessible Christmas market events in the UK, Manchester Christmas Market is back for 2024. There are accessible bathrooms available throughout the market area, as well as changing rooms and a selection of stalls and chalets that are accessible to all.

Elsewhere, Liverpool’s Christmas Market has a dedicated wheelchair accessible entrance located at Lime Street. The majority of the market is over cobbled streets, which can cause difficulty, but has been extended to incorporate flatter and level areas. There are a number of Blue Badge spaces and there is provision for a Blue Badge drop off point, as well as accessible toilet facilities. Changing Places facilities can be found at Liverpool Lime Street Station and within the World Museum, which will be open during the event.

Enjoy some of the region’s top attractions

Jump on board the Santa Special at North Yorkshire Moors Railway throughout December and meet Santa on board! This year, there will be accessible ‘fuss-free’ coaches - part of its long-term initiative to make the heritage railway attraction accessible to all thanks to funding secured from the Yorkshire’s Magnificent Journey project. This includes welcoming all on board the festive Santa Specials services running on 30 November and 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 20 to 24 December.

The festive adventure begins at the beautifully decorated Pickering Station with twinkling lights, real Christmas trees and the joyful sounds of Christmas music. Take a Christmas selfie, visit the charming Christmas tea rooms, or browse the Christmas Emporium for unique Christmas gifts.

There is dedicated wheelchair space in the fuss-free carriage with fold down seats for travel companions. To book call 01751 472508, Monday to Saturday 09.30 - 15.00.

For more information, visit www.nymr.co.uk/santa.

Elsewhere in the region, Hemsley Walled Garden is hosting a Winter Celebration, which is accessible for all. The gardens, Orchard House, shop, café and facilities will all be open and are wheelchair accessible. The event can get very busy, so for quieter times and advice on the best time to visit, get in touch.

At WWT Martin Mere, hitch a ride on one of their boats to visit Santa on his island. The boats are wheelchair accessible and your trip includes a visit to the island, a gift and the chance to join in festive crafts.

Will you be exploring any festive events over the next month?

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