Christmas at Ushaw

Join us this Christmas for a series of festive floristry workshops under the guidance of professional florist Sue McGhee from Botanical House of Gardenia. You’ll have the opportunity to create your own beautiful Christmas Door Wreath or Christmas Table Decoration to take home and enjoy throughout the festive season. With a choice of daytime and evening sessions available, there’s a workshop to suit everyone. Enjoy complimentary hot drinks, mulled wine and mince pies while you get creative and soak up the festive atmosphere. Christmas Door Wreath Fri 27 Nov, 1pm–3.30pm Fri 27 Nov, 4pm–6.30pm Sat 28 Nov, 4pm–6.30pm Sat 5 Dec, 1pm–3.30pm Christmas Table Decoration Sat 19 Dec, 1pm–3.30pm Admission to the House, Chapels & Gardens is also included (10am – 4pm).  For evening sessions, why not arrive early to explore Ushaw and experience its beauty at Christmas, or stay afterwards for a festive drink in our Francis Thompson Lounge. Places are limited to 20 per workshop, advance booking is required.

Saturday 5 December 2026.  You’re warmly invited to an inclusive, fun and family-friendly afternoon of Christmas music, set in the stunning surroundings of St Cuthbert’s Chapel.  This special event will showcase Ushaw’s much-loved dementia-friendly choir, ‘Forget Me Notes’.  Look forward to uplifting performances, festive sing-alongs and a wonderfully seasonal atmosphere. Song sheets and instruments will be available, and everyone is welcome to take part—sing, play, or simply enjoy the music. Tickets to the concert are Pay As You Wish. For a festive day out exploring our House, Chapels & Gardens, a Day Pass or Membership is required.

This December, settle in for some much-loved Christmas movies in the Exhibition Hall Theatre. Experience the festive mischief of The Grinch, the timeless magic of It’s a Wonderful Life and the hilarious Christmas spirit of Elf—all on the big screen, in the unique surroundings of Ushaw. A festive film experience with a little extra magic. Sat 5 Dec, 12:30pm – The Grinch When the Grinch decides to steal Christmas from the cheerful residents of Whoville, he discovers that Christmas is about much more than presents and decorations. A hilarious, heart-warming festive favourite filled with Christmas magic. (Running Time: 104 Minutes) Sun 6 Dec, 12:30 pm  – It’s a Wonderful Life On Christmas Eve, George Bailey finds himself at a low point, until his guardian angel Clarence shows him how different his beloved hometown would be without him. Poignant, life-affirming and filled with Christmas magic, Frank Capra’s 1946 classic is the definitive festive favourite. (Running Time: 130 Minutes) Sat 19 Dec, 12:30 pm  – Elf Raised at the North Pole but searching for his place in New York, Buddy the Elf sets out on a hilarious Christmas adventure like no other. A feel-good festive favourite packed with laughs, chaos and Christmas cheer. (Running Time: 97 Minutes) A Day Pass or Membership is required with this ticket. Children under 5 go free.  Children under 18 months who do not require their own seat do not need a ticket.  Please be aware that buggies and pushchairs cannot be accommodated inside the theatre.

Sunday 6 December 2026. Get into the festive spirit with two creative willow workshops led by talented artist Jo Bolton of Abundant Earth. Set in the beautiful surroundings of Ushaw, you'll learn traditional weaving techniques and create your own festive willow decoration to take home. Willow Angel Workshop,  9:30am - 12:30pm Spend a festive morning crafting a beautiful willow angel, guided step-by-step by Jo. Your handmade angel will make a charming addition to your Christmas décor - a piece to display with pride year after year. Starburst Willow Wreath Workshop,  1:30pm - 4:30pm Join us in the afternoon to create a stunning starburst willow wreath, ideal for brightening up your festive display indoors or out. With Jo’s expert guidance, you’ll learn traditional willow techniques and leave with something truly special. All materials are provided Admission to the House, Chapels & Gardens is also included (10am – 4pm).

Sunday 6 December 2026.  This December, feel the chill of Christmas past, the urgency of the present, and the hope of a future redeemed as Alfie Joe, performs his own solo version of A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens; a timeless tale, told like you’ve never seen it before. Step into the flicker of candlelight and the crackle of a winter’s night as Alfie Joey (much loved ‘BBC presenter’ and ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ impressionist) brings A Christmas Carol   vividly to life in a spellbinding solo performance that will warm even the coldest of hearts. With nothing but his extraordinary gift for storytelling and a dazzling repertoire of voices, Alfie transforms some of the North East’s much loved venues (and hidden gems) into Dickens’ London—where Scrooge snarls, Marley rattles his chains, and Bob Cratchit’s quiet hope melts the frostiest heart. Every character, every moment, every ghostly whisper is conjured before your eyes in a performance that is by turns hilarious, haunting, and deeply moving. Suitable for ages 16+  Act 1  4pm-4:45pm Act 2  5:15pm-6pm

Mon 7 & Tue 8 December 2026.  Back by popular demand, Rock Choir returns to Ushaw for another unforgettable Christmas performance. Expect an energetic mix of festive favourites, modern Christmas classics and uplifting vocal harmonies, bringing the joy and spirit of the season to the magnificent St Cuthbert’s Chapel. Join us this Christmas for an unforgettable evening of live music and festive cheer, complete with a complimentary glass of mulled wine and a mince pie. Francis Thompson Bar will open from 5pm St Cuthbert's Chapel doors will open at 6:30pm First Half: 7pm-7:45pm Second Half: 8:15pm-9pm Enjoy a complimentary glass of mulled wine and a mince pie after the concert Please note that the above timings are approximate and may vary slightly on the evening.

Wed 9 December 2026.  Experience the magic of Christmas with Northern Lights as they make their Ushaw debut. Their captivating voices and distinctive sound will provide a memorable evening of festive music, set against the beautiful backdrop of St Cuthbert’s Chapel. Join us this Christmas for an unforgettable evening of live music and festive cheer, complete with a complimentary glass of mulled wine and a mince pie. Francis Thompson Bar will open from 5pm  St Cuthbert's Chapel doors will open at 7pm  First Half: 7:30pm-8pm Second Half: 8:30pm-9pm Enjoy a complimentary glass of mulled wine and a mince pie after the concert Please note that the above timings are approximate and may vary slightly on the evening.

Fri 11 December 2026.  Celebrate the festive season with the North East Gospel Choir in the beautiful surroundings of Ushaw. Their uplifting programme combines joyful gospel music in the first half with a heart-warming selection of traditional Christmas favourites after the interval. Join us this Christmas for an unforgettable evening of live music and festive cheer, complete with a complimentary glass of mulled wine and a mince pie. Francis Thompson Bar will open from 5pm St Cuthbert's Chapel doors will open at 6:30pm First Half: 7pm-7:45pm Second Half: 8:15pm-9:45pm Enjoy a complimentary glass of mulled wine and a mince pie after the concert Please note that the above timings are approximate and may vary slightly on the evening.

Sat 12 December 2026.  Enjoy a live orchestral accompaniment by the Durham Music Youth Orchestra as they bring the beloved animated film to life, complete with the enchanting song Walking in the Air. Set within the stunning surrounds of Ushaw’s Exhibition Hall Theatre, this festive favourite captures the nostalgia and magic of Christmas. Join us as we bring Raymond Briggs’ timeless classic to life in a truly magical Christmas celebration. “I remember that winter because it had brought the heaviest snow I had ever seen. Snow had fallen steadily all night long and in the morning I woke in a room filled with light and silence, the whole world seemed to be held in a dream-like stillness. It was a magical day… and it was on that day I made the Snowman.” © Snowman Enterprises Ltd Ticket is for the performance only. Performances at 12pm, 1:30pm and 3pm  For a festive day out exploring our House, Chapels & Gardens, a Day Pass or Membership is required.

Make magical Christmas memories at Ushaw this festive season with a visit to meet Father Christmas. Children can share their festive wishes, receive a cuddly gift, and take a keepsake photo in our beautifully decorated Parlour. Sat 12 and Sun 13 Dec – All Ages Enjoy a magical festive experience suitable for children of all ages. Your visit takes place within a 30-minute time slot, during which you’ll have the opportunity to meet Father Christmas, with festive craft activities to enjoy while you wait for your turn. Tues 15 Dec – Preschool Ages Designed especially for little ones, this gentle and joyful experience begins in the cosy Francis Thompson Room, where children gather for storytime with Father Christmas and enjoy festive free play with toys and crafts. After the story, Father Christmas will meet each child in the Parlour. Day Pass or Membership is required for children aged 5+ and accompanying adults. Children must be accompanied by an adult for the full session. Please arrive promptly at the start of your selected timeslot. If you would like multiple children to visit Father Christmas together, please book each child into the same timeslot. You will then be able to enter together as a family/group. Baby siblings (under 1s) do not require a ticket, but will not receive a gift from Father Christmas. If you would like your baby to receive a gift then you will need to purchase an additional ticket for them.

Sun 13 December 2026.  Join us for a beautiful and uplifting Christmas Service in the breathtaking surroundings of St Cuthbert’s Chapel. The service will feature a programme of traditional readings and much-loved carols, brought to life by the wonderful voices of Ushaw Chapel Choir. With moments for reflection alongside festive music, it offers a meaningful and memorable way to celebrate the Christmas season. All are warmly welcome to attend, whether to sing, listen, reflect or simply enjoy the beautiful setting and atmosphere of this special occasion. Entry to the service is free, with a retiring collection. For a festive day out exploring our House, Chapels & Gardens, a Day Pass or Membership is required.

Sun 13 December 2026.  Northern Camerata presents A Viennese Christmas . Northern Camerata strings are delighted to be back at the beautiful St Cuthbert’s Chapel for a colourful fusion of Viennese waltzes & polkas and your favourite Christmas music. Joined by the wonderful Hexham-born soprano Katie Oswell, who will delight us with some of your favourite Christmas songs combined with popular arias from Viennese operetta.  Join us for a glittering evening as we celebrate the festive season Viennese-style — complete with a complimentary glass of mulled wine and a mince pie. Francis Thompson Bar will open from 5pm St Cuthbert's Chapel doors will open at 6:30pm First Half: 7pm-7:40pm Second Half: 8:10pm-9pm Enjoy a complimentary glass of mulled wine and a mince pie after the concert Please note that the above timings are approximate and may vary slightly on the evening.

Wed 16 December 2026.  Celebrate Christmas with the incredible Durham Miners Association Brass Band. Their vibrant sound and festive spirit promise an uplifting evening of seasonal joy for all ages. From rousing anthems to gentle carols, their performance will fill St Cuthbert’s Chapel with sparkle and cheer. Join us this Christmas for an unforgettable evening of live music and festive cheer, complete with a complimentary glass of mulled wine and a mince pie. Francis Thompson Bar will open from 5pm   St Cuthbert's Chapel doors will open at 6:30pm First Half: 7pm-7:45pm Second Half: 8:15pm-9pm Enjoy a complimentary glass of mulled wine and a mince pie after the concert Please note that the above timings are approximate and may vary slightly on the evening.

Thurs 17 December 2026.  Join Ushaw Chapel Choir for a special evening of Christmas music in the beautiful surroundings of St Cuthbert’s Chapel. Enjoy traditional carols, much-loved festive favourites and beautiful choral works that capture the spirit of the season. Join us this Christmas for an unforgettable evening of live music and festive cheer, complete with a complimentary glass of mulled wine and a mince pie. Francis Thompson Bar will open from 5pm  St Cuthbert's Chapel doors will open at 7pm  First Half: 7:30pm-8:15pm Second Half: 8:45pm-9:30pm  Enjoy a complimentary glass of mulled wine and a mince pie after the concert Please note that the above timings are approximate and may vary slightly on the evening.

Fri 18 December 2026.  Christmas comes to life with the award-winning Bearpark & Esh Colliery Brass Band. Renowned for their vibrant performances, they will bring together rousing brass arrangements, festive favourites and traditional carols for an entertaining evening of seasonal music. Join us this Christmas for an unforgettable evening of live music and festive cheer, complete with a complimentary glass of mulled wine and a mince pie. Francis Thompson Bar will open from 5pm  St Cuthbert's Chapel doors will open at 6:30pm First Half: 7pm-7:45pm Second Half: 8:15pm-9pm  Enjoy a complimentary glass of mulled wine and a mince pie after the concert

Sun 20 December 2026.  Known for their confident vocals, dynamic performances and impressive harmonies, Voice of the Town Choir brings its distinctive sound to Ushaw this Christmas. Expect a lively programme of festive favourites, contemporary Christmas songs and beautifully arranged vocal pieces. Join us this Christmas for an unforgettable evening of live music and festive cheer, complete with a complimentary glass of mulled wine and a mince pie. Francis Thompson Bar will open from 5pm   St Cuthbert's Chapel doors will open at 6:30pm Concert: 7pm-8pm (no interval)  Enjoy a complimentary glass of mulled wine and a mince pie after the concert Please note that the above timings are approximate and may vary slightly on the evening.