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Christmas

Bolesworth to Light Up With Epic Christmas Festival 1024 683 Daniel Shires

Bolesworth to Light Up With Epic Christmas Festival

Bolesworth Castle is preparing to light up Cheshire and North Wales with a sensational festive celebration.

The 6,000-acre estate, based in Tattenhall near Wrexham and Chester, will welcome thousands of visitors for its biggest ever Christmas spectacular.

Running from Friday December 1 to Sunday December 31, the packed winter programme includes an iconic enchanted lights trail – complete with seasonal effects, projections, lasers, and interactive installations – and an incredible 240 sqm ice rink.

There’s a fairground all the family can enjoy, a breathtaking Alpine Lodge, and most importantly, the chance to visit Santa – a close friend of the team at Bolesworth – to tell him what you want for Christmas and have a photo taken.

If you’ve been good, he may even present you with a gift before the big day arrives.

And if you’re feeling a little snowed under you can recharge the batteries at Rudolph’s Rest and enjoy some mulled wine, hot chocolate or roasted marshmallows while saying hello to Santa’s reindeer.

Bolesworth’s managing director Nina Barbour says this year’s yuletide extravaganza – which is completely dog friendly – will be their biggest and best yet, with attractions unmatched anywhere else in the region.

“We want this to be the number one Christmas event in North Wales and Cheshire, and with this packed programme I think we’ve achieved that,” she said.

“We’ve gone really big this year because we know what a challenging 12 months it’s been for everyone; the plan is to spread as much festive cheer as we can, deliver an amazing experience for children and people of all ages, and really showcase the incredible surroundings here at Bolesworth.”

Nina added: “We encourage people to book tickets and parking as early as possible and be sure not to miss out on our spectacular winter wonderland because spaces are filling fast.

“And for anyone wanting to get out and enjoy the beautiful scenery and fresh air between Christmas and New Year it’s a great opportunity to finish 2023 on a high – there will be plenty to do, including some visiting festive tractors, and even a combine harvester, from the Liverpool Tractor Run.

“There will also be firework displays on the opening and closing nights at around 7pm, so we hope people step into Christmas at Bolesworth with us this December.”

For more information and to book your tickets, visit the website and follow @Bolesworth on social media. Alternatively email info@bolesworth.com.

Christmas Ice Skating at Bolesworth 2023
Christmas Ice Skating in 2023 at Bolesworth 1024 683 Daniel Shires

Christmas Ice Skating in 2023 at Bolesworth

There’s no better way to glide into feeling festive than Christmas Ice Skating at Bolesworth Castle near Chester this year!

For 2023, our dazzling Christmas at Bolesworth lights trail has added a spectacular 240sqm real outdoor ice-skating rink to our stunning venue in the heart of the Cheshire countryside on select dates from December 1 to 31.

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It’s the quintessential Christmas day out experience so we invite you to get your skates on and try our rink, unparalleled anywhere in Wrexham, Chester, Liverpool, Whitchurch, Nantwich or beyond! Whether you’re a confident skater or prefer to hang onto the side, there’s no better way to soak up the seasonal surroundings!

The Magic of Christmas Ice Skating

As we lace up our skates and take to the sparkling rinks, it’s worth reflecting on the centuries-old history of ice skating. This winter pastime has deep roots, tracing back to the frozen waterways of Scandinavia and the Netherlands. Over the years, it has evolved into a beloved tradition that ushers in the holiday season with grace and elegance.

What truly sets ice skating apart during Christmas is the enchanting ambiance it creates. As you glide across the ice beneath the twinkling lights and festive decorations, the air is filled with the sweet melodies of holiday songs. It’s a moment when the ordinary becomes extraordinary, and the act of skating becomes a journey through a winter wonderland.

Why is Christmas Ice Skating Fun?

It’s impossible not to marvel at the exhilaration and joy that ice skating brings. The sensation of effortlessly gliding on the ice is a unique thrill, an experience that people of all ages eagerly anticipate each year. Bolesworth’s Christmas ice skating event isn’t just for the seasoned skaters; it’s a destination for everyone. Whether you’re a child experiencing the magic of skating for the first time or an adult reliving cherished memories, Bolesworth offers a warm and inviting atmosphere for all. For young skaters, special aids are available to provide balance and confidence as they take their first steps on the ice.

What to Wear for Christmas Ice Skating?

Before you venture onto the ice, it’s essential to dress for the occasion… layers are your friends!

A warm, waterproof jacket, gloves and a cosy hat will keep you comfortable as you enjoy the brisk winter Cheshire air. Don’t forget to wear thick socks to keep your feet warm inside your skates.

Real vs Artificial Ice Rinks

While some may opt for artificial ice rinks, there’s something undeniably special about skating on a real ice rink and that’s exactly what we have this Christmas at Bolesworth. The natural ice surface offers a genuine and traditional experience, ensuring that each glide on the ice is as authentic as it is delightful.

One of the charms of ice skating during Christmas is the allure of the great outdoors. The crisp, cold air and the open sky create an atmosphere that’s unparalleled. The sound of blades cutting through the ice and the laughter of fellow skaters all contribute to an atmosphere that’s rich with festive cheer.

Ice skating isn’t just an activity; it’s a gateway to the holiday spirit. The moment you step onto the ice, you’ll feel the joy and wonder of the season wash over you. It’s a magical experience that can transport you back to the excitement of childhood, where every snowflake and twinkle light held a hint of magic.

While gliding on the ice is the main attraction, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy. Skate hand-in-hand with a loved one, engage in a friendly race, or simply take a leisurely spin around the rink. For those looking to make the most of their time, there’s always a game of ice hockey or a spirited game of ice bumper cars to join.

Christmas Ice Skating Tips

If you’re new to ice skating, fear not. Starting is as simple as taking one step at a time. Begin by finding your balance on the ice, using the rink’s barrier if needed. Gradually, you’ll gain confidence and start gliding with ease.

  • Staying Upright: How Not to Fall
    To avoid falls, maintain a slight forward posture, bend your knees, and keep your weight centered over your feet. Take slow, deliberate steps and keep your arms out to the sides for balance
  • Dealing with Falls: Does It Hurt?
    Falling is a part of learning to skate, and while it may sting for a moment, the joy of skating far outweighs any brief discomfort. Protective gear like knee and elbow pads can provide added confidence
  • Safety First for Christmas Ice Skating
    As with any physical activity, safety should be a top priority. Always follow the rink’s rules and guidelines. Wear a helmet if you’re concerned about falls, and be mindful of other skaters around you and ask for a support if you need help.

In conclusion, Christmas ice skating is a delightful holiday tradition that brings joy to people of all ages. Bolesworth’s Christmas ice skating event in Tattenhall, Cheshire, is a testament to the magic of the season, offering an authentic, outdoor ice skating experience that will fill your heart with warmth and wonder. So, lace up your skates, embrace the festive spirit, and make cherished memories this Christmas season at Bolesworth’s enchanting ice skating rink.

We invite you to join us in celebrating the most wonderful time of the year!

Please note to go ice skating this Christmas at Bolesworth you must purchase a general admission ticket first. Get your ticket and Christmas ice skating upgrade by clicking here.

Christmas at Bolesworth 2023
Step Into Christmas at Bolesworth 1024 683 Daniel Shires

Step Into Christmas at Bolesworth

CHRISTMAS has come early for fans of one of the North West’s premier venues.

Tickets are now on sale for the Bolesworth winter spectacular, with early bird offers up for grabs.

The 6,000-acre estate’s festive extravaganza will this year include a 240 square-metre real ice skating rink, fairground, Santa and his reindeer at Rudolph’s Rest, food and drink, a Champagne bar, and the popular lights trail.

People are urged to book now to capitalise on a 50% discount for Santa’s Grotto, with a 20% reduction on all other attractions until Monday (May 1).

Nina Barbour, Managing Director of the Bolesworth Estate, said: “Christmas at Bolesworth has always been a hit with our supporters, but this year will be bigger and better than ever.

“Due to a surge in demand, we have opened for bookings earlier than before and added extra dates to extend until New Year’s Eve; tickets are selling fast, so we encourage people to get in touch and take advantage of these deals to guarantee the time slots of their choice.”

She added: “The real ice rink is a new addition to the line-up, and will be suitable for kids from age three upwards, located within the Christmas Village.

“We are really excited about Christmas at Bolesworth, and while there is still some time to go, we know December will come around fast so don’t miss out!”

As they begin preparations for the 200th anniversary of Bolesworth Castle in 2028, Nina and the team are looking to build back from the pandemic with a range of activities and celebrations for people of all ages.

Among the other highlights in 2023 are a Spring Garden Walk, Cheshire Balloon Fiesta, Fireworks night, a Festive Farmers’ Convoy and New Year’s Eve Fireworks, which form part of the post Christmas celebrations. There is also the revamped Bolesworth International, which runs from June 14-18 with guests including DJs Trevor Nelson and Phoebe d’Abo, pop outfit the Brand New Heavies, and Rick Parfitt Jr and the RPJ Band.

“We are known as a venue for equestrian events and competitions – and we are very proud of that – but Bolesworth is so much more,” said Nina.

“There are hundreds of businesses located on the estate employing more than a thousand people; we are committed to supporting the economy and playing a major role in the community.

“Christmas at Bolesworth will bring people from across Cheshire, the Wirral, North Wales and beyond to our 400,000 square metre-site, which in turn has a knock-on effect for tourism and spend in the area.

“We plan to do even more, go even bigger and be even more daring in the future, hosting world-class, top-quality events in many different spheres – we are only just getting started.”

For more information on Christmas at Bolesworth, visit www.bolesworth.com/christmas and use the code EARLYXMAS when booking to secure your discount.

For the latest news and information on Bolesworth Castle, visit www.bolesworth.com or call 01829 782210. Alternatively, email info@bolesworth.com and follow them on social media at @bolesworth.

Christmas at Bolesworth 2023
Get Your Skates on for Christmas at Bolesworth 2023 1024 683 Daniel Shires

Get Your Skates on for Christmas at Bolesworth 2023

The most wonderful time of the year is set to be even more magical in 2023 as Christmas at Bolesworth returns bigger and brighter than ever before.

After thousands of visitors flocked to the winter wonderland sited in the heart of Cheshire in 2022, the team behind Christmas at Bolesworth has added a host of extra dates to give festive revellers even more opportunities to celebrate the season in style.

The event, located eight miles south of Chester, will be open on select days from November the 24th all the way through to New Year’s Eve.

2023 will again see the return of the venue’s spectacular, dazzling lights trail and other favourites like Santa’s Grotto but, following huge demand, a real ice-skating rink will be added as a new centrepiece attraction.

There’ll also be a stunning family-friendly New Year’s Eve firework display, allowing younger visitors to ‘see-in’ 2024 with mum and dad at around 8pm on December the 31st.

Nina Barbour, managing director of Bolesworth said; “We can’t thank the huge numbers of Christmas visitors enough for making our event so special during December. Plans are already being made for 2023 that will include a central feature with a real ice skating-rink, plus many more exciting new zones. We’re also extending the event to run until New Year’s Eve too, where there’ll be incredible fireworks, 200 minutes before the strike of midnight. Allowing families and friends to welcome in the New Year in style.

“Tickets for Christmas at Bolesworth 2023 will go on-sale soon. In the meantime, we invite people to complete our special Christmas survey, to help us understand more about what they loved about the event and the bits we can improve.

“By completing the survey they’ll get access to a special 10% discount on general admission tickets when they go on-sale. What’s more, admission to Santa’s Grotto will be free of charge for all general admission bookings made before the 30th of April 2023.”

To complete the survey, visit https://bit.ly/2022christmassurvey

Discover Bolesworth’s events schedule for 2023.

Michael Owen and Family visit Bolesworth Christmas Lights Trail 2022
Michael Owen Enjoys Family Christmas at Bolesworth 1024 733 Daniel Shires

Michael Owen Enjoys Family Christmas at Bolesworth

England football legend Michael Owen enjoyed an evening at the enchanting Bolesworth Christmas Lights Trail in Cheshire with his family last night, Wednesday the 21st of December.

Following his return from the World Cup, this perfect family outing saw Michael, wife Louise and their four children, soaking up the festive atmosphere at the famous Cheshire castle. The venue has expanded its festive offer even further this year to include a huge light projection on to the castle, dancing fountains on the lake, festive market stalls, huge funfair, real reindeer and, of course, Santa Claus himself.

Michael was seen laughing and smiling with his family as he made his way through the trail – taking time out for plenty of selfies and family pictures en-route. Finishing off with a relaxing Christmas family toast at Bolesworth’s VIP Champagne Island.

Michael said: “This was just the perfect start to Christmas with my family around me.

“The light experience is fabulous – we all had a great time and now all feel very much in the Christmas spirit.”

The Christmas experience at Bolesworth, which is dog friendly, is open right through to 6pm on Christmas Eve.

Further information is available at www.bolesworth.com/christmas

Christmas at Bolesworth Launch
Christmas Lands with a Flourish at Bolesworth 1024 512 Daniel Shires

Christmas Lands with a Flourish at Bolesworth

Christmas at Bolesworth opened with a fanfare last Friday, the 2nd of December, when thousands of visitors took to the all-new Christmas Lights Trail at the Cheshire based venue.

A walk through the dazzling Lights Tunnel signalled the start of the festive fun for families and friends who went on to enjoy the 1.2-mile Lights Trail, and gaze in wonder at the stunning light pyramids and ground orbs, lasers and strobes, twinkling lights in the trees, and dancing fountains on the ornamental lake.

Twisting through Rudolph’s Rest, complete with Santa’s reindeer, the winter wonderland snaked through Champagne Island and across the Rainbow Bridge before leading back to a sizable fairground, sited alongside food stands and bars. Santa’s Grotto with friendly elves in the Alpine Lodge proved to be a big hit with boys and girls, their parents and grandparents too.

The opening day closed with a spectacular Fireworks Display in front of the historic Bolesworth Castle.

Christmas at Bolesworth reopens with Christmas Jumper Day, for visitors and their four-legged friends, from 4pm this Thursday, the 8th of December and runs through to 9.30pm on Sunday the 11th of December. It then returns on Wednesday the 14th of December, remaining open right the way through to Christmas Eve.

Football fans will be well catered for as all England games will be shown on a big screen in the Bolesworth Alpine Lodge.

Online tickets, from £18.00, offering a saving of 20 per cent over on-the-gate costs, will be bookable daily until 2pm, subject to availability.

Visit www.bolesworth.com/christmas for information.

Christmas at Bolesworth 2022 seven days away
Plan Ahead for Christmas at Bolesworth 1024 512 Daniel Shires

Plan Ahead for Christmas at Bolesworth

The Bolesworth Christmas countdown is on. There are seven days until the festive doors open at the Cheshire estate, leaving just enough time to check out the action and plan ahead.

First up, save £££s by pre-booking. It provides a saving of 20 per cent over on the gate fees and, if a trip to Santa’s Grotto is a must-do, an advanced reservation will guarantee a slot.

Friday the 2nd of December depicts the opening of Christmas at Bolesworth and, to celebrate the occasion, the evening will close with a bang when a display of fireworks light up the Cheshire sky.

The season of goodwill will then continue throughout December as the Bolesworth Christmas lights keep shining. Explore the Cheshire venue’s all-new, dog-friendly festive lights trail, get a head start on Christmas shopping, visit Rudoph’s Rest, and simply get into the festive spirit with delicious food and drink. Perhaps even take in a glass of fizz on Champagne Island?

Christmas just isn’t Christmas without a theme or two and, on this front, Bolesworth is set to deliver. Kicking off with a Christmas Jumper Day in support of Save the Children on Thursday the 8th of December, human visitors and their pooches are invited to wear their finest woolly and be in with the chance of winning a prize.

Sunday the 11th of December will see a bevy of runners, or walkers, don a set of red and white gear and participate in the augural Bolesworth 2km Santa Dash in aid of the company’s appointed charity Hope House and Ty Gobaith Children’s Hospices. Entries are now open.

Next up will be a song for Christmas when the 60-strong mixed voice Kelsborrow Choir power up to entertain visitors with seasonal music on Saturday the 17th of December.

Finally, Christmas at Bolesworth ends on a flourish with a fun Festive Fancy Dress day on Christmas Eve where there’ll be prizes up for grabs.

Christmas at Bolesworth is set to entertain and delight this December with a host of seasonal celebrations. Just eight miles south of Chester on the A41.

Tickets are priced from £18.00 with discounted family tickets also available. Find out more at www.bolesworth.com/christmas

Santa Dash at Bolesworth
Santa Dashes Through Bolesworth for Charity 1024 533 Daniel Shires

Santa Dashes Through Bolesworth for Charity

Running alongside its all-new 2022 Christmas Lights Trail, the Bolesworth Estate in Cheshire will host its inaugural Bolesworth Santa Dash, in aid of Hope House and Ty Gobaith Children’s Hospices, this December.

Hope House Children’s Hospices is a registered charity dedicated to the provision of hospice and community care for life limited children and their families from Shropshire, Cheshire, North and Mid Wales. It has been Bolesworth’s appointed charity for just over a year now, with almost £40,000 raised so far.

The Bolesworth Santa Dash will be held on Sunday December 11, starting at 3pm (with arrival from 2.30pm). Participants will have the opportunity to run, or walk, a 2km circuit which will wind around the impressive Bolesworth Castle, with incredible views of Cheshire, north Wales, Wirral, and Merseyside along the way.

What’s more, it’s dog-friendly too so pooches are welcome to join the fun.

Contestants are encouraged to dress up and will receive a Santa Dash medal and goody bag at the finish line. They will also be offered a 25 per cent discount per booking of four tickets to the Bolesworth Christmas Lights Trail, which will be matched by a further 25 per cent donation by Bolesworth to the chosen charity.

All entry fees – £5 per child and £10 for adults – will be donated to the Hope House Children’s Hospice charity. Admission is free for spectators.

For further information and to join up for the 2022 Bolesworth Santa Dash, visit www.bolesworth.com/santa-dash

Reindeer at Christmas at Bolesworth 2022
Less Than a Month to Christmas at Bolesworth 1024 512 Daniel Shires

Less Than a Month to Christmas at Bolesworth

Christmas at Bolesworth is an exceptional time as the castle grounds are transformed into a festive paradise, adorned in seasonal sparkle and yuletide cheer for a month of winter magic.

This, the most wonderful time of the year, is perfect for friends and families to get together and enjoy the season of goodwill. There will, of course, be plenty to keep the little ones amused, however, there’s a host of activities planned, within the extensive Bolesworth grounds, to make this equally as adult-friendly too.

The Bolesworth all-new 1.2-mile Christmas Lights Trail will be bathed in seasonal colour and illuminated by thousands of stunning lights, projections and interactive installations. With the Bolesworth Castle flooded in unique Son et Lumière projections as a background, visitors will get to enjoy the sight of spectacular light pyramids and orbs on the ground, with lasers, glittering mirror balls and stunning dancing fountains on the ornamental Bolesworth lake.

Christmas markets, sited alongside a large fairground, will feature Xmas gift shopping and mouth-watering food stands serving up a selection of indulgent goodies, from savoury hog roast to delicious, sweet treats. Shoppers can enjoy a glass of spiced mulled wine enjoy a celebratory cocktail or a hot chocolate and soak up the grin-inducing atmosphere of the event.

Heated domes with comfortable and relaxed lounging areas on Bolesworth’s VIP Champagne Island provide a secret hideaway on a hidden island where guests can sit and watch the world go by. The (additional) price includes the use of a heated dome for up to eight people, and a bottle of champagne.

Elsewhere, a winter-warming indoor Alpine Lodge, with welcoming bar and plenty of seating will be packed with things to do together with food, and drink areas.

Those making the trip to the Bolesworth Christmas extravaganza on the night of Friday the 2nd of December, will be treated to an added-bonus in the form of fireworks to celebrate the opening of the month-long event.

Simply put, a trip to Bolesworth could well be the perfect way to celebrate Christmas in Cheshire this year.

Tickets are priced from £18.00. Book online at www.bolesworth.com/christmas

Santas Grotto Bolesworth Castle 2022
Santa’s Grotto Now Free at Bolesworth 1024 512 Daniel Shires

Santa’s Grotto Now Free at Bolesworth

The team behind the Bolesworth Estate in Cheshire has decided to spread the yuletide cheer and give younger visitors the chance to visit Santa’s magical grotto for free this year.

People who book a general admission ticket to the event before the 31st of October 2022, can also book two slots for their children to enjoy complimentary admission to Bolesworth’s Santa Christmas Experience.*

Visits to Santa will include the chance for children to tell him what they would like for Christmas and whether they’ve been nice (or naughty…), have a picture taken with him and, of course, receive a special seasonal gift.

Christmas at Bolesworth Castle is an exceptional time as the vast grounds are transformed into a festive paradise, adorned in seasonal sparkle for a month of winter magic.

The 1.2-mile accessible Bolesworth Christmas Lights Trail, featuring an all-new extended route, will be illuminated by more than 40,000 lights. It winds through ‘enchanted’ woods, where Santa’s reindeer roam freely, runs beside the extensive lake, complete with new-for-2022 water features, before crossing over a brilliantly illuminated pontoon bridge. And, saving the best until last will be contemporary light Son et Lumiere light show projections on the Castle.

Christmas markets, sited alongside a large fairground and huge indoor Alpine Lodge, with Xmas gift shopping and mouth-watering food stands serving up a selection of indulgent goodies, from hog roast and roasted chestnuts to delicious, sweet treats, all add to the grin-inducing atmosphere of the event.

“We want families to have the best possible experience at our Christmas event this year,” said Matt Bates, Managing Director of Bolesworth Events. “A visit to Santa is a must-do on most children’s Christmas wish-list, so we decided to make it free to book, while keeping the same very-special one-to-one Santa experience, complete with free gift.”

Christmas at Bolesworth runs from the 2nd to 4th, 8th to 11th, and 14th to 24th of December 2022.

Simply put, a trip to Bolesworth could well be a perfect family way to celebrate Christmas this year.

For more information and to book tickets, visit www.bolesworth.com/christmas

*Two free Santa slots per Transaction with accompanying general admission tickets.