A free Christmas Town has opened up in Bishop Auckland last night - here's everything you need to know about the attraction. 

At the Christmas Town in Bishop Auckland, guests will be able to enjoy workshops, rides, and ice rink, and visit Santa, as well as a whole host of other festive activities. 

The not-for-profit event is free, running everyday from now until  Sunday, December 8 - however a selection of attractions are ticketed, and can be purchased online at www.bishopaucklandchristmastown.co.uk. 

(Image: Stuart Boulton)

Here’s what to expect from the Bishop Auckland Christmas Town: 

  • Merry Makers Workshops - Escape the hustle and bustle, enjoy a prosecco, and treats while you embark on your creative journey, crafting a gorgeous gift or festive décor for your home.
  • Traditional Rides - Start your Christmas Town journey with a spin on our classic magical carousel or soar high above our historic marketplace on the Ferris Wheel!

(Image: Stuart Boulton)

  •  Santa’s Grotto - Experience the heart of Christmas Town at Santa's Grotto where childhood dreams come to life.
  • Ice Rink - Slide into winter on Christmas Town’s synthetic ice rink! Perfect for first timers, the rink is suitable for children and beginners alike.

(Image: Stuart Boulton)

  • Christmas Bandstand – A celebration of community, music, and the spirit of Christmas, the bandstand will feature local musicians, performers, and community groups bringing the joyous spirit of Christmas to the markets.

Christmas Markets – The Christmas Village will come alive with markets full of hot food, sweet treats, and unique gifts from talented local makers. The Newgate Shopping Centre will feature indoor markets, as well as the craft market inside No.42. Historic Fore Bondgate also boasts an array of independent shops and eateries, open every day.

(Image: Stuart Boulton)

  • Character Meet-And-Greets - The chance for little ones to meet their favourite characters from the stories they know and love!
  • Giant Tipi Bars - Smoke-free fire pits, a fully stocked bar, festive drinks, mulled wine and a selection of hot and cold drinks, will be in the heated Giant Tipi Bar - the perfect place to unwind and embrace the Christmas Town spirit.

Most read: 

Get the latest news, sports, and entertainment delivered straight to your device by subscribing to The Northern Echo here. 

(Image: Stuart Boulton)

The Giant Tipi Bar is free to enter and open from 4.00 pm Monday to Friday, and 10.00 am, Saturday to Sunday.  On special nights it becomes the most popular venue in town with a full programme of live music and performances that are ticketed.

(Image: Stuart Boulton)

The official car park for Bishop Auckland’s Christmas Town is the Newgate Centre Car-Park (DL14 7JQ).

The car park will be open until 9 pm on all event days aside from Sundays when the car park will close at 7 pm.

(Image: Stuart Boulton) (Image: Stuart Boulton) (Image: Stuart Boulton) (Image: Stuart Boulton)