Harewood’s festive yurt. (Image: Joe Dodsworth Photography)
Happy nights at Harewood
Yurt Bar will be setting up in the grounds of Harewood House this December. Dubbed ‘the ultimate Christmas party destination’ it’s a magical pop-up alpine village, adorned with ski racks, fur throws, crackling log fire, and 10-foot Christmas tree. Bookings can accommodate both intimate gatherings and larger groups, with the option to hire the entire village.
Guests can enjoy steins of beer, festive mulled wine, cocktails, and Aperol Spritz alongside a three-course alpine feast crafted by the acclaimed Yorkshire caterer, The Hog and Apple Food Co. The evening revelry includes a live DJ and music, with two themed bars and VIP 360 photobooth with falling snow effects.
The man behind it is Tom Sterne who also runs Yurtshire – a luxury glamping retreat and Yorkshire Yurts, which hires yurts for weddings and events.
From December 5
yurtbar.co.uk
Say cheese!
An advent calendar that hits different – forget the chocolate or beauty advent calendars and indulge in something truly delicious: the George & Joseph Cheese Advent Calendar. Cheesemonger Stephen Fleming – who has just celebrated 12 years of George & Joseph being at the heart of Chapel Allerton – has curated 24 of the finest artisan British cheeses, delivered straight to your door to devour throughout December.
For £120, curd nerds will receive two beautifully packed chilled deliveries, each containing 12 individually hand wrapped cheeses (approx. 75g each). Every portion is accompanied by tasting notes, pairing suggestions, and festive inspiration – making it the perfect gift for gourmands or a well-deserved treat and way to eat your way through December.
A delicious way to countdown to Christmas. georgeandjoseph.co.uk/products/cheese-advent-calendar-2025
Christmas sweets treats at Middleton Lodge – join chef for mince pie masterclass. (Image: Carole Poirot)
Mince Pie Masterclass
Head to Middleton Lodge, Richmond for an evening in the Georgian main house with Coach House head chef Ross Forder, making mince pies, brandy mascarpone and chocolate truffles to take home. Arrival drinks included, with the Coach House bar open afterwards.
November 26, £50pp
Fat Rascals at Castle Howard
Back for another year, Bettys pop up shop returns to Castle Howard Courtyard. Pick up a warming speciality tea, coffee, or hot chocolate with a Fat Rascal. Try Wizard of Oz-themed treats, including a chocolate Toto and Emerald City themed Fondant Fancies. Shop hampers, Christmas cakes, mince pies, and stocking fillers.castlehoward.co.uk
Learn from the best
Bettys Cookery School in Harrogate offers a memorable way to celebrate the season. From mastering the art of Christmas cakes and puddings to crafting streusel-topped mince pies, their festive courses are hands-on, expertly taught, and full of Bettys charm. Other seasonal favourites include Cake Decorating Secrets, Flawless Fondant Fancies, and Yorkshire Breads inspired by the Café Tea Rooms. A thoughtful gift or a treat for you and your pals. Bettys.co.uk
Downton-style
Festive high tea is one of the glorious foodie events at Carlton Towers in November and December. There are Tea & Tours at the stately house as well as Christmas Party nights. Live you Downton Abbey fantasy in grand surroundings!
Carltontowers.co.uk
Time for tea
Experience the quintessential tradition of Afternoon Tea, reimagined with a festive twist, at Swinton Park Hotel, Masham. on the Swinton Estate. Savour festive delicacies from the pastry kitchen with wintery views across the beautiful Deer Park.
Nov 22- Jan 4. swintonestate.com
Moet & mistletoe
Step into a season of celebration at The Orchard at Grantley Hall which has unveiled an autumn/winter collaboration with Moët & Chandon. It’s fizz all the way with a Moët & Chandon menu and new food offering.
On November 23 there’s also an Afternoon Tea & Carols event in the Grantley Suite. Arrive to a welcoming glass of Champagne and enjoy afternoon tea accompanied by the Northern String Quartet and enchanting carols. Grantleyhall.co.uk
Create the ultimate Christmas lunch
At The Grand Cookery School in York enjoy a Bucks Fizz on arrival before learning how to prepare, cook and carve a full Christmas Day Lunch and sitting down to enjoy the fruits of your labour. Cookery School director, Marc Williams will give you all the tips and tricks to make the big day as seamless as possible. Dates throughout December. thegrandyork.co.uk
Scandi celebrations
At The Cooks Place Malton there’s an air of Scandi at Candles and Cakes for Santa Lucia, crafting and baking for the feast of Sankta Lucia, a traditional Scandinavian celebration of the winter. Join Gilly from The Cooks Place and Wayne from Cosy Cottage to make your own saffron bun, a seasonal fragranced candle, and other traditional Scandi favourites to take home. December 14.
Thecooksplacemalton.co.uk
Pud fest!
Stir-up Sunday is a centuries-old tradition where cooks spend the last Sunday before Advent ‘stirring up’ the Christmas pudding. Dating back to Victorian times, the whole family took a turn at stirring the Christmas pudding, making a wish. In County Durham just off the A1, Raby Castle’s Estate Chef Tom Parry will lead a demonstration on how to make a traditional Christmas pud. Bring your own bowl to take your masterpiece home.
November 23&24 raby.co.uk.
Brass & cocktails
Head to Yorkshire Sculpture Park for a Christmas celebration with the renowned Emley Brass Band filling the air with seasonal favourites. Start with a festive cocktail and browse for gifts and stocking fillers at YSP shop, followed by a delicious three-course dinner menu and evening entertainment. YSP shop is also open with exclusive festive offers and a gift wrapping service.
December 6 ysp.org.uk
Dining and Cooking