So it’s that strange time between Christmas and New Year, "Twixmas", where nobody knows what day or time it is, and we’re starting to get sick of mince pies and leftover Christmas chocolate. It’s the perfect time to get the family out and about exploring, taking advantage of the beautiful countryside and the calm that comes with this time of year.
The North of England offers plenty of activities and experiences between Christmas and New Year when the region is typically quieter but still full of charm. From vibrant cities to scenic landscapes, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of our top suggestions for your next Twixmas break or trip with the family.
If you're planning to take the train over the Christmas and New Year period, please plan ahead and check before you travel.
Winter walks in the North
From the rugged peaks of the Lake District to the windswept moors of Yorkshire, the region's natural beauty takes on a serene and often dramatic character in the colder months. Explore the frosty paths of the Yorkshire Dales, where snow-dusted stone walls and remote farmsteads add to the charm. For those seeking coastal beauty, a stroll along Saltburn-By-The-Sea from the train station takes you to the highest point on this section of the coast and along the magnificent Cleveland Way.
With fewer crowds and a crisp, quiet atmosphere, winter walks in the North are perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape into nature, where the landscapes feel timeless under the winter sky.
Best winter walks in the North
While freezing cold and wet, the outdoors in winter is also beautiful and serene, offering new and unique ways to appreciate the beauty of the Great British countryside. If you can make it past the muddy lanes and slushy streets, there’s a winter wonderland ...
Get walking this winterOh no you didn’t, oh yes you did!
Most pantomimes run right through to January, so in-between Christmas and New Year can be the perfect time to see one at your local theatre! There tends to be more tickets available during this quieter period, which means you might get a better seat for a cheaper price! There are plenty of pantomimes close to train stations throughout the North of England, so we’ve listed some popular options below.
Sleeping Beauty
Venue: York Theatre Royal
About: A thrilling adventure, The York Theatre Royal Pantomime returns for another winter with Sleeping Beauty and a star cast that's sure to dazzle with their performance.
Buy tickets for Sleeping Beauty
A Christmas Carol
Venue: Leeds Playhouse
About: Fun for all the family and a classic, A Christmas Carol is described as being "packed with festive fun, lively music, and a sprinkle of magic. The perfect evening out for all the family!
Aladdin
Venue: Newcastle Theatre Royal
About: A thrilling adventure with flying carpets, genies, and lots of laughs. A classic panto with a lively twist, perfect for a family night out.
Christmas pantomimes in the North
Uh oh, it’s that time of year again... “Oh no, it’s not!” oh yes, it is! The North of England is home this year to every pantomime you can think of, from Cinderella to Hansel & Gretel, to a very Scouse rendition of Red Riding Hood. We’ve picked ...
Find more Pantomimes in the North
Winter wildlife watching
Winter wildlife watching in the North of England offers a unique opportunity to observe nature at its most serene and raw. The colder months bring an array of exciting wildlife experiences, from coastal birdwatching to spotting rare species in national parks and reserves. On the Yorkshire Coast, the seaside cliffs are ideal for observing migrating seabirds, while the surrounding wetlands provide a home for wildfowl like teal, wigeon, and the majestic whooper swan.
Flamborough Head and Whitby are perfect for observing seal colonies, which often give birth to pups during winter. The Lake District is another haven for winter wildlife, where red squirrels can be spotted in the lower woodlands and deer roam the snow-covered hillsides. The Yorkshire Dales offer winter walks where you might spot birds of prey like buzzards or kestrels hovering over the frosty landscape, while in North York Moors, barn owls and tawny owls hunt the winter evenings.
With the peaceful stillness of winter, these wildlife-watching experiences are a chance to connect with nature in its most elemental form, offering an unforgettable escape into the wilds of Northern England.
Themed experiences in the North
The festive energy doesn’t have to diminish as soon as Christmas Day is over; much like the pantomimes, plenty of festive experiences around the North run until January and are much quieter between Christmas and New Year. Making them the perfect outing for couples looking to avoid crowds or families with younger or neurodiverse children. Below are some great options this year, which are easily accessible by train!
Ice rinks around the North, who doesn’t love ice skating?
Visit Liverpool's Boxpark for ice skating this winter. Located just a short walk from Liverpool Lime Street train station, this is a family-friendly winter wonderland. It includes ice skating, delicious street food options, and mulled wine. The ice rink in Leeds is located in Millennium Square, just a short walk from Leeds station (about 10 minutes).
Twixmas trips and breaks for all the family
Discovered what you'd like to do between Christmas and New Year? While some attractions may have shorter hours or closures during this period, many of these ideas will offer a quieter, more intimate experience of the North of England - perfect for enjoying the holiday season. Plus, we’ve selected those that are accessible by train, so you can hop on and hop off without having the hassle of the car. Book tickets for your Twixmas break or trip early and save on advance train tickets, if you’re travelling as a family or a group, don’t forget to check for available discounts.
Northern App
Streamline your journey and get tickets straight to your phone. Making your journey contact-free.
Northern App
Streamline your journey and get tickets straight to your phone. Making your journey contact-free.