The Culture List

A large Christmas tree in the middle of Waterloo Place in London at night, with traffic passing by

The Christmas holidays are almost upon us, and though it promises to be a festive season like no other, you’re probably still keen to find some fun and interesting ways to fill you time as we approach the shortest days of the year.

Luckily we’ve got you covered, with the pick of the best physical and online events – from traditional carols to castle getaways – as well as delicious treats to order straight to your door.

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Make Christmas and New Year magic with a trip to Bovey Castle, nestled on Devon’s legendary Dartmoor. Transformed into a winter wonderland for the holiday season, this mansion-turned-hotel offers a range of rooms, a spa and easy access to some of England’s most beautiful countryside. Activities include festive tea, private dining, a golf tournament and guided walks – as well as a treasure hunt and a visit from Father Christmas for your little ones.

Christmas is a time of gift giving, and they don’t come more luxurious than a gift from Tiffany. This year, the legendary brand is setting up shop with a pop-up on the ground floor at Harrods’ flagship Knightsbridge store. From tea and cocktail sets to luggage and, of course, the iconic jewellery range, what better place to stop for a spot of last-minute shopping for that special someone in your life? And if you can’t get to the store, Harrods’ Personal Shopping service can help you find what you want from afar.

Speaking of Christmas traditions, the December cultural calendar wouldn’t be complete with Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet, The Nutcracker. The Royal Ballet has carefully reworked its beloved fairy tale to create a Covid-safe version primed for watching online. From the thrilling battle with the Mouse King to the escape to the Sugar Plum Fairy’s court in the Land of Sweets, young Clara’s adventure is ideal for all the family. The livestream will take place at 7pm on 22 December, and will be available on demand until 21 January.

Christmas cooking can be hard work, with multiple timings to get right and many dishes to juggle. So sometimes it’s a relief to leave the responsibility to someone else. While dining out options may be more limited than usual, you can enjoy a luxury festive meal delivered straight to your door by the Savoy. The Norfolk Turkey Feast comes with all the trimmings you would expect, and a starter and dessert too. All you need to do is set the table.

One of the more positive aspects of 2020 is definitely that it has been a year of baking. People all over the country used their spare time to head to the kitchen drawer and dust off their rolling pin, with flour flying off the supermarket shelves. River Cottage is offering the perfect opportunity to direct your baking skills towards Christmas treats with a one-day course teaching you how to make everything from Christmas puddings, truffles and mincemeat to more ambitious centrepieces like a traditional stollen.

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