As November heralds the approach of the most wonderful time of the year, local towns and villages in North Dorset and Wiltshire are gearing up to offer a magical lead-up to Christmas. There are plenty of exciting and festive events that will have you singing carols and sipping mulled wine in no time. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through some of the most enjoyable events taking place in North Dorset and Wiltshire this November. And the beauty is they are within a short drive of The Retreat at Longs Farm!
Salisbury’s Markets and Santa Experience
Nestled in the shadow of the city’s magnificent cathedral, Salisbury’s popular ‘pop up’ Christmas event returns again for 2023. On Friday 17th November, the event will offer visitors a beautiful festive decorated area with an array of Christmas gifts, fair rides, food and drink vendors and various other entertainment through the event. You can stroll through the charming wooden chalets, sip on mulled wine, and find unique presents for loved ones. Just around the corner, in Maltings Green, you can book a visit with Santa. Youngsters will enjoy being read a festive story by Santa and gifted a present to take home after. Don’t forget as you exit to post your postcard for Santa to read when he gets back home!
If live music and mulled wine is your vibe, Fisherton Mill‘s renowned Christmas Shopping Evening returns on Friday 17 November from 6 – 8.30pm. Sip on mulled wine and enjoy delicious Christmas nibbles whilst you find that perfect pressie for your loved one. The Gallery Shop will be full of lovely Christmassy gifts for all ages and budgets. Lighting up the courtyard will be the Mill’s giant signature star, a perfect photo opportunity.
Stunning Light Displays at Longleat and Stourhead
Longleat Safari Park is known for its spectacular Festival of Light, and it’s a Christmas event like no other. The entire park is illuminated with breath-taking lanterns, creating a magical wonderland. Visitors can embark on a captivating trail through different themed areas. Discover brand-new, show-stopping scenes from treasured tales, featuring The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S Lewis; Cinderella; Peter Pan; The Wizard of Oz; Winnie the Pooh and many more. This year’s event is brimming with festive treats – from firm favourites like the incredible 15-metre Enchanted Christmas Tree show and beloved Santa Train, to a spectacular fountain display on Half Mile Pond. Longleat House will be even more luminous, with a phenomenal light show bringing its historic façade to life.
Alternatively, nearby National Trust property Stourhead is renowned for its stunning gardens and architecture. During the Christmas season, the estate is adorned with thousands of twinkling lights, creating a magical atmosphere. Take a stroll through the illuminated landscape and enjoy the enchanting reflections on the lake. Warm up with a hot drink and experience the true beauty of the countryside.
He’s Behind You! Panto fun at Salisbury Playhouse
Join Dick Whittington and his cool cat Cosmo, on the journey from ‘Salisburyshire’ to London, in search of fame and fortune. In the big city, disaster strikes, and the streets aren’t paved with gold but overrun with rodents. Can Dick defeat Evil King Rat and save the city of London? Tickets are now available, with performances kicking off at the Salisbury Playhouse on Saturday 25th November.
Expect exciting escapades, dazzling dances, and sparkling songs from our live band, which will have you singing and dancing all the way home. Christmas is always a special time at the theatre and Salisbury Playhouse is famous for its award-winning pantomimes such as Cinderella (2022/23), Robin Hood (2019/20) and Beauty and the Beast (2018/19).
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To book your enchanting rural retreat at Longs Farm this Winter email hello@hostwithgrace.co.uk or call 07444 720 729.