Winchester makes a bid to be England’s most Christmassy city

It may well be that the ancient city of Winchester is the most Christmassy city in England. With ice skating to the sounds of the Cathedral's choristers, Christmas markets selling fresh local produce and crafts and the fabulous Wizard of Oz pantomime running in the Theatre Royal, there is plenty to enjoy.

Winchester Cathedral will host its annual Christmas market and ice-rink inspired by the traditional German 'Weinachtsmarkt'. From 27 November - 20 December guests can pick up the perfect Christmas gift from the beautiful array of local arts and crafts on display, be tempted by the aromas of authentic local food and mulled wine, as well as skating in the twilight beside the magnificent Cathedral. www.winchesterchristmasmarket.co.uk

On 27 November, to mark the opening of the Christmas market a procession of paper lanterns will trail through the city from the Great Hall to the Cathedral, illuminating the streets as they go. Visitors can take part in this spectacle by creating a lantern beforehand in Winchester Cathedral. Last year saw more than 200 people take to the streets and even more people are expected this year. www.winchesterchristmasmarket.co.uk/opening_parade2.html

The world renowned Cathedral, resting place of Jane Austen and home to Antony Gormley's "Sound II", will host a series of atmospheric carol services and concerts, visit www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk for a full list of times and dates.

Celebrating its 70th anniversary, this year's pantomime in Theatre Royal is The Wizard of Oz, which runs from 9 December - 3 January. Visitors can join Dorothy and her friends in this pantomime adaptation, specially written for Theatre Royal, as they set off along the yellow brick road on a journey packed with surprises. Will they reach their journey's end to find the Wizard of Oz and will he be able to grant them their wishes? You can be sure of one thing - there'll be lots of songs, jokes, boos, hisses and cheering for everyone to join in. www.theatre-royal-winchester.co.uk (Prices from £7.50.)

Local artists and craftspeople will open their homes, studios and workshops to the public once again for Making Merry Open Studios from 20 - 29 November. Shoppers can purchase unique works of art and craft while learning more about their creation. Winchester City Space will also be transformed into an artist's studio from 14 November - 3 January. This exhibition will display a variety of work by local artists and craftspeople, and is an excellent opportunity to pick up a one-of-a-kind gift for a loved one. www3.hants.gov.uk/wdc.htm

To help prepare you for Christmas, Winchester Discovery Centre will be hosting a series of Christmas craft sessions as part of Making Merry. On 5 December guests can add a seasonal welcome to their front doors after learning how to make a Christmas wreath (£20) and visitors can make their own Christmas cards with artist Lucy McLoughlin on 12 December (£7). www3.hants.gov.uk/wdc.htm

Winchester City Mill will hold a 'Get Ready for Christmas' family event on 5 and 6 December. Families can make cards and decorations, help decorate the large tree and take part in a 'Christmas Past' quiz. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-winchestercitymill

Visit www.visitwinchester.co.uk for more details.

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Sophy Norris/Lewis Shields
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