A NEW outdoor swimming pool could open in the UK – taking over an abandoned 115-year-old reservoir.

Kettlewell Reservoir was built in 1909 in the St Ives Regional Park in Bingley.

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However, it was left to ruin and has since been abandoned, with nature taking over it following a number of leaks.

Yorkshire Swim Works have launched a campaign to turn it into an outdoor lido complex.

It would be the first “public, naturally filtered” outdoor pool in the UK.

Along with the main outdoor 50m swimming pool there would also be a shallow play area and a smaller heated pool.

The main pool wouldn’t be heated, but plans also include sauna pods to warm up in.

Classes and lessons would be part of the swimming pool timetable, with space for casual swimmers and six lanes for the more competitive ones.

Changing rooms, a deck area and even an event area are part of the plans.

A cafe would serve snacks and drinks onsite too.

Yorkshire Swim Works Russell Bowman said the project was “ambitious” but fitting of the area.

They said: “With a young family myself, seeing investment in the area, new opportunities for them and the potential economic boost of tourists coming to the area fills me with excitement.

“I believe that YSW can be a catalyst for the next stage in Bingley’s evolution and an incredible boost to the St Ives Estate that has struggled in recent times.”

It is yet to receive any form of planning permission, so any confirmation of predicted opening dates is yet to be revealed.

However, if given the go-ahead, works would start late 2025.

If it did get the go-ahead, it would be just 20 minutes from Leeds by train.

Until then, the nearest lido to visit is Ilkley Pool and Lido, around 30 minutes away.

It’s not the only new lido hoping to open in the UK.

A multi-purpose leisure attraction with an outdoor swimming pool and sunbathing zone hopes to open in Valentine’s Park in London.

Hoping to open by autumn 2025, it would replace the current one that closed in the park 30 years ago.

Five new water attractions opening in the UK

1. Therme Manchester will have 25 swimming pools, 25 water slides and an indoor beach.
2. Modern Surf Manchester will be a surfing lagoon offering lessons to both beginners and experts.
3. Chessington World of Adventures Waterpark is set to have wave, infinity and spa pools as well as waterslides and cabanas.
4. The Cove Resort, Southport is likely to have a water lagoon and a thermal spa with steam rooms and saunas.
5. The Seahive, Deal plans to be the “surfing wellness resort” in the UK.

And a floating lido could even open in London, with plans revealed for Regent’s Canal.

We’ve even spoken to a ‘lido expert’ on where her favourite ones in the UK are.

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Courtesy of AQUA DOME

Austria’s AQUA DOME is a wellness haven where every detail is designed to rejuvenate. From gourmet dining to invigorating spa treatments, fitness classes to soothing saunas, this world-class resort offers a holistic escape. After my visit, I felt refreshed, relaxed and ready to take on the world. It is the perfect destination for those seeking a true sanctuary of serenity.

Despite its early 2000s origins, AQUA DOME remains a beacon of modern luxury. Chic architecture, thoughtful design, and recent renovations, like the lobby restaurant, have ensured it stays at the forefront of hospitality. The expansive hotel lobby bar and restaurant are a testament to the property’s ongoing commitment to excellence. The elegant lounges and open floorplans create a serene ambiance, while the restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling windows offer stunning mountain views. The tempting buffet and a la carte options showcase the best of local cuisine, making every meal a memorable experience. Bussing robots whizz about the dining room floor returning dishes to the kitchen, allowing for servers to be closer and more attentive to guests during mealtimes.

Stone, wood, glass and fabric accents can be found throughout the property, leaning into the natural aesthetic and subtly immersing guests in an elemental visual experience. Harkening to the surrounding nature, everything from firepit lounges to artful hallways let your tensions ease and stress reduction start to set in.

The hotel rooms at AQUA DOME are spacious and comfortable, all of which have balconies and outfitted with the comfy Austrian duvet bedding. Double rooms are 115 square feet with The Junior Suites at 213 square feet, with sitting areas and optionally offer a fireplace. Large bathrooms are equipped with totes for taking towels to the pools and saunas, bathrobes and slippers are available through the hotel. JustLuxe insider tip: ask for an oversized robe at the front desk for and even more opulent envelopment.

During the winter, AQUA DOME offers ski gear rental and e-bikes during the summer. A subterranean daytime wardrobe is a perfect spot to change out of ski clothes or bike attire to head to the spa. A tunnel connecting the hotel to the thermal pools and saunas is an ideal moment to take a few breaths and unwind as you move into the AQUA DOME domain.

  The signature thermal spas are a great place to literally dip your toe into the experience; indoor and outdoor pools of various temperatures are popular options for both hotel guests and locals alike. While I attended AQUA DOME in early September, there was light snowfall, which was an invigorating and enchanting swim to be in the outdoor warm pools while fluffy flakes fell from the sky. There are 12 indoor and outdoor pools to explore on property, each with its own unique character.

It should be noted that photography is prohibited at AQUA DOME with the exception of a few designated areas defined with signage. I not only appreciated the destination’s thoughtfulness for privacy of guests, but noticed people were connecting more with one another while not endlessly on their phones.

The fitness center is located next to the spa, where classes are available daily. Yoga, guided meditation, and strength training are all offered. Spa appointments should be made in advance and everything from signature treatments to standard massages and facials are available. A hairdresser is also on property. Thermal Deep is the exclusive beauty line which is only available at AQUA DOME. It includes a range of products such as body lotions, face masks, and body oils—all are enriched with thermal water from theLängenfeld thermal spring, sourced from a depth of over 6,000 feet.

Sauna World is home to 11 saunas of various heats and themes. My favorite was a barn sauna; a little cooler, with a haystack in the center of the room and charming beams and a roof over the top. The larger two-tiered Loft Sauna was warmer and also fantastic. An adults-only side of the resort, it should also be noted that this area is no clothing allowed. Due to the oils of the skin and fabrics which can ruin the cedarwood in the saunas, as well as cross-contaminations of minerals carried via swimsuit from spa location to location, the European way of soaking up the heat is in the nude. While this may be daunting to some tourists, my suggestion is to embrace the practice and appreciate the experience. Showering before each offering is a must, and sitting on the towel entirely (with no skin touching the wooden planks) is also a rule. Sauna masters are also scheduled throughout the day for infusion experiences in the saunas, whipping hot air around with towels and scented air, much to guests’ delight.  

For an immersive experience, head upstairs to the Waterfall; a 30-foot cavern with acoustic effects of a thunderstorm and rain, waterfall and mist to accentuate it. After the invigorating waterfall experience, a warm grotto is just around the corner for a soothing soak lined with glowing Himalayan sea salt.

Spa 3000, only offered to hotel guests, is also a textile-free area. My absolute favorite offering was the Hamman-style mineral bath.  Upon entering, guests use an attached hose to water down the tiled seat and soak in the steamy heat of the room. A quick step outside to a salt-scrub over the skin and then back into the heat. After courteously hosing off their seating area, guests then step into a warm-cold-and-hot series of mineral-infused waterfall-style showers. Thankfully, a video explaining how to enjoy this experience is step-by-step nearby. Additional Spa 3000 opportunities that keep guests coming back for more include a tranquil soaking pool, gently swinging hammocks in a Himalayan sea salt relaxation room, more saunas (of course), and an upstairs panoramic lounge with café and bar to sit fireside or take a nap, finish a book, or take in the Austrian mountain views.

Home to approximately 3,000 square feet of meeting space, the property has a large seminar area, which can accommodate up to 800 people for events and meetings.

AQUA DOME is a property I won’t soon forget, and I look forward to returning to. The outgoing staff, beautiful interiors, relaxing facilities and stunning setting have guests clamoring to unwind at this incredible property. For rates and reservations, visit www.aqua-dome.at/en/

Chad Chisholm

The incredible AQUA DOME located in The Otztal, Austria. 

Courtesy of AQUA DOME

The chic hotel lobby bar.

Courtesy of AQUA DOME

Lounges are great spaces to relax in the evenings. 

Courtesy of AQUA DOME

Local fare and wonderful buffet options from cheese lockers to vegas desserts, local produce to delicious meats. 

Courtesy of AQUA DOME

Sample the local fare at AQUA DOME.

Courtesy of AQUA DOME

Dining rooms abound on property. 

Courtesy of AQUA DOME

Junior Suites have the option of a cozy fireplace. 

Courtesy of AQUA DOME

Double rooms are cheerful and luxurious. 

Courtesy of AQUA DOME

Beautifully appointed bathrooms. 

Courtesy of AQUA DOME

Start your aquatic adventure with one of the indoor pools at AQUA DOME.

Courtesy of AQUA DOME

The outdoor pools all have their own character.

Courtesy of AQUA DOME

Take in the alpine views year round. 

Courtesy of AQUA DOME

The crisp alpine air is a perfect contrast to the hot saunas and pools. 

Courtesy of AQUA DOME

Spa 3000 is only available to hotel guests. 

Courtesy of AQUA DOME

This tranquil pool is in the heart of Spa 3000. 

Courtesy of AQUA DOME

My favorite experience, the mineral bath is absolutely a must-try. 

Courtesy of AQUA DOME

Relax and enjoy a weightless and carefree swing in this room. 

Courtesy of AQUA DOME

Saunas abound at AQUA DOME.

Courtesy of AQUA DOME

So many options for relaxation at AQUA DOME.

Courtesy of AQUA DOME

A view from one of the Spa 3000 sauna spaces. 

Courtesy of AQUA DOME

Grab a robe, cuddle up with a book, and enjoy these private spaces to relax. 

Courtesy of AQUA DOME

Meeting space at AQUA DOME.

A GRANDMA has been left fuming after she was charged £75 for her oversized suitcase but ‘younger and good looking’ passengers were let off.

Maxine Haughian, 63, was stopped in the queue for her flight to Alicante by Ryanair staff at Leeds Bradford Airport.

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The mum-of-two claims her luggage fit inside the guidance rack but “stuck out very slightly” by 2cm on one side.

She was told that her suitcase was too big and she’d need to pay to place the luggage into the hold.

However, Maxine, a retired prison governor, noticed other passengers in the queue being let off for oversized bags.

She described one woman as “young and gorgeous” and even took a sneaky snap of her being let off.

Taking to Facebook, Maxine said she was “disgusted” with Ryanair.

“I’ve just been held up for 20 minutes because they said my cabin bag was too big and I must pay an EXTRA £75 for it to go in hold,” she wrote.

“It’s funny (not funny) how other bags that are exactly the same were allowed through without comment.

“It’s a good job I took the photo of this (gorgeous) girl pushing her case into the box and being allowed through.

“I’m obviously not young or good looking enough!” she fumed.

Maxine, who was travelling with her husband Jim, continued: “Eventually (using photographic evidence) I was allowed through. I’m stressed to high-hell and hope I can calm down and get into holiday mode before we land.”

Despite being pleased that she was let off, Maxine told Oxford Mail: “It was almost like letting me go justified what I was saying. I think it’s definitely a money-making exercise.

“I’m a bit older, perhaps he thought I would be compliant. A lot of people just paid the money.”

She added: “Several people had suitcases that looked exactly the same as mine and they were putting them in the rack and it was sticking out a bit, but they were allowed to go through. It was the inconsistency of it all.

The Sun has contacted Ryanair for comment.

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YOU can stay inside a unique holiday home that actively calls itself a party house with its own disco room, bar, indoor sports pitch and outdoor hot tub with mountain views.

Located just 16 miles from Manchester, the Pennines Country House sleeps up to 30 guests.

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The Manchester-based holiday home is described as a “brand-new venue” with “everything you could want or need from Party House”, according to website partyhouses.co.uk.

Its entrance hall features a conservatory with a foosball table, while the main reception room has a sofa, LED light, exposed wooden beams and a pool table.

The lounge area leads onto a disco room that’s been decorated with a glittering disco ball and photos of Queen Frontman Freddie Mercury line the walls – and it even comes complete with its own tiny bar.

There’s also another bar in the property where guests can even pull their own pints.

Other entertainment facilities inside the party house include a hot tub, which has mountain views, and an indoor sports pitch with basketball, football and tennis facilities.

The indoor sports pitch can also serve as a dance hall too, with the venue’s owners able to organise tables and chairs for large celebrations.

Guests can also get a number of activities arranged through the venue’s owners, including a wine tasting, gin and whisky tasting, cocktail making and beer making.

Outside there’s a large seating area that overlooks a climbing frame and a swing set.

The property’s open plan kitchen and dining room has a huge kitchen island with a stove, two microwaves and two ovens, with kitchen utensils and cutlery also provided.

There are nine en-suite bedrooms in the venue, with enough space to sleep 30 guests.

Each of the bedrooms have been decorated in neutral colours, with all of them able to accommodate a minimum of three guests.

Extra guests can also camp on the grounds of the property, with enough space for tents, caravans and yurts.

Holidaymakers will need to bring their own tents along with any other camping equipment, with additional guests who sleep in their own outdoor accommodation being asked to pay an extra £15 per person per night.

Overnight stays for 22 people start from £1,525 per night, working out at just under £70 per person per night.

Additional guests who are sleeping inside the party house will need to pay an extra £160 per person per night.

The Pennines Country House accepts both Hen and Stag do parties, with previous guests raving about the party house.

In an online review, one person wrote: “The house is an amazing space for parties, reunions and good times, it has everything you need and more.”

Another person added: “What an incredible place to visit, with bags of space for small children and large groups.

“We especially loved the sports hall, hot tub and the beautiful views, it really made our stay.”

A hotel shaped like a bum-hole is one of the weirdest places in the world where guests can spend a night.

A number of hotels in the UK are also out of the ordinary, having been converted from old prison buildings.

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BRITS are facing paying “hundreds of pounds more” for their family holidays abroad, a travel company boss has warned.

EasyJet Holidays chief executive Garry Wilson cited confusing new environmental fees being introduced by airlines and tour operators.

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He said that failing to demonstrate a “direct link” between the money raised and sustainability schemes would reduce bookings.

Spain, Greece and Tunisia are among locations popular with UK tourists which charge green taxes or have plans to introduce them.

In an interview at the annual convention of travel trade organisation
Abta in Costa Navarino, Greece, Mr Wilson said many destinations which suffered huge losses due to coronavirus travel restrictions decided that tourists should pay “this fee and that fee and the next fee”.

He said: “They’re named the ‘green tax‘ or ‘climate resilience’ or
whatever it might be.

“Whilst I understand the ethos, (we need to) understand what you’re doing with that money.”

Mr Wilson said it was “understandable” if taxes were introduced with a “direct link” to initiatives such as installing systems that automatically switch off air-conditioning and electric sockets when hotel rooms are empty.

He warned that if the money just goes into a “big pot” then holidaymakers will think it is just another way of operators making extra money from them.

Mr Wilson said taxes were “going up and up and up when it comes to travel”.

He added: “There has to be real thought put into what impact this is
going to have on demand.

“The way it’s being treated at the moment by a lot of destinations
isn’t necessarily helping build confidence and demand.”

A survey commissioned by Abta, which spoke to 2,000 UK adults, indicated that 38 per cent of people believed it was the responsibility of travel companies to manage the impact holidays had on the environment and local residents, rather than their own.

Some 22 per cent disagreed with the statement, while 40 per cent were neutral.

What does this mean for British holidaymakers?

Here’s why I think it’s bad news for holidaymakers as well as the travel industry.

YOU’VE saved up all year for that precious family holiday. You’re travelling at the most expensive time of year. 

So it’s just a further kick in the teeth to find the price you paid ISN’T the final amount when you check into your hotel and discover tourist taxes imposed by our favourite Med destinations are an unexpected and unwelcome extra bill.

 Spain, Greece and Tunisia are just three who have increased the daily tourist tax – often justified by saying the money raised will help fight climate change and to enable destinations to become greener.

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 But holidaymakers need to see the proof – just where is the money raised going?

Often dressed up with very oblique language – the hotel I am currently staying in charges a €10-a-day ‘Climate Resilience Fee’ – these charges do nothing to encourage us to make more sustainable choices.

But what it could well do is make us consider taking our money where we’re not being hoodwinked.

With every penny precious these days, ever-increasing tourist taxes that are not clearly being used to improve those destinations are ill-judged and could well start to see families looking elsewhere.

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The poll also indicated that the most common areas of concerns about the impact of people’s holidays was preservation of culture and heritage, waste and plastic pollution, and the welfare of animals.

Abta chief executive Mark Tanzer said: “The ultimate goal for travel
is to have great places to visit that are also great places to live.

“If a destination intends to introduce a visitor charge as part of its tourism management, then it needs to make clear how that money is going back to support the local community and local people.

“Otherwise, these charges will only serve to add costs to consumers, without addressing the tourism issues important to local residents.”

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THERE’S no better way to get into the festive spirit and spend time with the whole family than going to see a Christmas show.

From pantomimes starring well-known TV personalities to Christmas films screened with live music, we’ve put together a list of this year’s performances bringing holiday cheer up and down the country.

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London

Father Christmas Needs A Wee!

This family show is full of jokes, Christmas jingles, and features the man in the red suit himself, Father Christmas.

The story goes, that at every house, Father Christmas eats and drinks tasty treats that have been left out for him. But when he reaches number 10, he realises he’s forgotten to do something rather important – he really needs a wee.

Venue: Arts Theatre, 7-24th December.

Stick Man

An adaption of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s Stick Man. Stick Man goes for a morning jog but it soon becomes quite the misadventure.

A funny show featuring puppetry and live music.

Venue: Bloomsbury Theatre, 4th December-5th January.

Potted Panto

The West End’s longest running pantomime, Potted Panto offers up seven classic pantomimes in 80 minutes.

From Aladdin to Dick Whittington, the show promises unmissable fun, whether you’re six or 106.

Venue: Wilton’s Music Hall, 4th December-4th January.

Robin Hood

Expect a West End spectacle with stunning sets, costumes, rip-roaring comedy and incredible special effects.

Starring Jane McDonald as Maid Marion and London Palladium Panto royalty Julian Clary as Robin Hood.

Venue: The London Palladium, 7th December-12th January.

Pinocchio

A reimagined telling of the fairy tale classic by seasoned panto scribe Trish Cooke.

Music and lyrics are by Robert Hyman, directed by Omar F. Oka.

Venue: Theatre Royal Stratford East, 23rd November to 4th January.

Beauty and the Beast

Dame Maureen Lipman stars as Mrs Potty alongside Pete Firman as Silly Billy in this classic pantomime adventure.

Featuring spectacular special effects, beautiful costumes and scenery, there’s also generous discounts for groups, concessions, and special rates for school available for selected performances.

Venue: Richmond Theatre, 7th December-5th January.

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Manchester

Elf The Musical

Based on the 2003 film, the show tells the story of Buddy, a young orphan who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole, and his mission to find his birth father.

Faced with the harsh reality that his father is on the naughty list, and with a step-brother that doesn’t even believe in Santa, Buddy is determined to win over his new family and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas.

Venue: Palace Theatre Manchester, 12th-17th November.

Sleeping Beauty

Once upon a time, in a Pantoland far away, a beautiful Princess is cursed by the evil Carabosse to perish on her 21st birthday by pricking her finger on a spinning wheel. Thanks to Beauty’s fairy, she only falls into a deep sleep that can be broken by her one true love.

Starring BBC Strictly Come Dancing‘s Karen Hauer as Carabosse, CBBC’s Chris Johnson as The Castle Clown, and X Factor’s Sean Smith as Prince.

Venue: Middleton Arena, 26th November-30th December.

Snowstorm Firebird Spectacular Ice Show

A captivating Winter show that combines the elegance of ice skating with exciting circus performances.

The show follows Irina on her epic quest to restore the wings of the mystical Firebirds stolen by the evil sorcerer.

Venue: Trafford Centre, 6th December-5th January.

Miracle on 34th Street

Based on the 1947 film, a major New York department store is on the brink of collapse and their upcoming Christmas sale has to be a success. When their Santa quits at the last minute they’re left with a kindhearted stranger who is convinced he’s the real deal to save the day. But when he is arrested, the fate of Christmas is in the hands of a child called Susan. 

The show features songs including It’s Beginning to look a Lot Like Christmas.

Venue: HOME, 6th-31st December.

Cinderella

Comedy superstar Jason Manford returns for a third year of panto at the Opera House, this time as Prince Charming.

Packed with all the traditional pantomime ingredients, the show features laugh-out loud comedy, beautiful costumes, and plenty of boos and hisses.

Venue: Opera House Manchester, 14th December-5th January.

Home Alone in Concert

Macaulay Culkin stars as Kevin McCallister, an 8-year-old boy who’s accidentally left behind when his family leaves for Christmas vacation, and who must defend his home against two bungling thieves.  

Alongside the showing of the film, John Williams’ score will be performed live by the International Film Orchestra.

Venue: The Bridgewater Hall, 29th November.

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Birmingham

Peter Pan

Birmingham’s own Alison Hammond is returning to Birmingham Hippodrome’s panto this year, leading the cast as The Magical Mermaid.

Audiences can expect to see all their Neverland favourites, including Tinker Bell, Wendy, John and Michael Darling.

Venue: Birmingham Hippodrome, 21st December-2nd February.

Dick Whittington

Stoke-on-Trent favourite Jonathan Wilkes will be celebrating 20 years since his first Regent Theatre panto this year, as he leads the case as Dick Whittington.

Enjoy the story of Dick Whittington and his trusty car as he seeks fame, fortune and happiness journeying to become Lord Mayor.

Venue: Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, 13th December-5th January.

The Jingleclaw

The show is described as the perfect first musical for ages 3+.

It tells the story of a cosy village nestled in the snowy mountains, and the Schnootnoot Winter Festival is fast approaching. A character called Astrid is busy practising for her school band. Everyone wants to keep in time, but Astrid just wants to march to the beat of her own drum. Meanwhile, The Jingleclaw awakes, a mischievous monster who can’t stand festive cheer and music.

Venue: Birmingham Hippodrome, 12th December-4th January.

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Liverpool

Alice in Wonderland

A magical sequel to the cherished classic, Alice in Wonderland. Alice has always told her children stories of her adventures in a faraway world, but they don’t believe her. Even Alice, has begun to doubt whether she’d really lived that daydream.

Until, one Christmas Eve, caught up in the chaos of last-minute shopping, a flash of white fur lures Alice back into an all too familiar story.

Venue: Shakespeare North Playhouse, 22nd November-5th January.

The Magical Adventures of Peter Pan

The re-telling the story of Peter Pan as we know it, the magical pantomime features songs from a live band, dazzling dance routines, and amazing 3D effects.

The show promises an unforgettable experience for children and adults alike.

Venue: M&S Bank Arena, 17th-29th December.

The Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto Rapunzel

The classic fairytale is brought to life with lots of singing, dancing, and live music in this stage performance.

Packed with plenty of silliness and heaps of sparkle, it’s guaranteed to have you busting some dance moves, no matter what your age.

Venue: Everyman & Playhouse, 16th November-18th January.

Sleeping Beauty

In the kingdom of ‘Southportopia’ far, far away, a beautiful princess awaits her true love’s kiss to awaken her from a deep slumber. But, the wicked fairy Carabosse has cast a spell, and only the bravest heroes can break it.

The show stars Blue Peter presenter, magician and TikTok sensation Joel M.

Venue: The Atkinson, 6th-31st December.

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Glasgow

Peter Pan and The Incredible Stinkerbell

A funny twist on the classic story of Peter Pan. With a blast of magic from the mighty Stinkerbell, Peter Pan whisks West End Wendy away from the safety of her Byres Road residence to a place full of treachery, deceit and chippies that never close. Welcome to the rambunctious Riverland! 

Peter and Wendy must face vengeful crocodiles, chippies that dare to serve salt ‘n’ sauce, and come face to face in battle to the death against the evil Captain Hook and his side kick Chai Tea.

Venue: Tron Theatre, 22nd November-5th January.

Snow White and The Seven Dwarves

The pantomime showcases the timeless tale of Snow White and her encounter with the seven dwarves.

Audiences can expect a delightful combination of comedy, music, and dance.

Venue: Goodyear Social Club, 23rd-24th November.

Beauty and the Beastie

Life in Cludgie on the Cobbles is quiet and peaceful – Belle passes her days helping her mother, Professor Porridge and their neighbours Dame Dolly Drumchapel and her son, Hector.

But up in Cludgie Castle, things aren’t so tranquil, as the arrogant Prince Lorenzo has had a curse places on him and must find true love before the final petal falls from a magic rose.

Venue: Pavilion Theatre, 28th November-12th January.

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Leeds

Jack And The Beanstalk The Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto

A very different format to the traditional Christmas pantomime, audience participation and corny gags are mixed with classic rock anthems and chart-toppers.

The show isn’t recommended for children under 4, but if you do want to bring younger children, ear defenders are advised.

Venue: City Varieties Music, 29th November-12th January.

The Lost Present A Christmas Adventure

It’s Christmas Eve, and, having tumbled to Earth through the night sky, Elva sets out on a journey to find her best friend – a little girl she hasn’t even met yet.

Written especially for children and brought to life using handmade puppets, the show has original music and audiences can meet and greet Elva after the show.

Venue: Carriageworks Theatre, 14th-31st December.

The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe

Audiences can step through the wardrobe into the kingdom of Narnia with a stage show of C.S. Lewis’ classic novel.

With magical storytelling, bewitching stagecraft and incredible puppets, it guarantees to delight all ages.

Venue: Leeds Play House, 18th November-25th January.

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Newcastle

Slava’s Snowshow

Experience a winter circus-like world with clouds, giant snowballs, special effects and an indoor blizzard.

The ensemble cast of clowns use water, cobwebs, bubbles and dry ice to recreate a world of wonder – see a bed become a boat, a web of cotton envelop the audience, and a single piece of paper ignite a storm.

Venue: Sunderland Empire, 3rd-7th December.

Step into Christmas

A Christmas concert with everyone’s favourite songs to bring the magic of the season to life.

Sing along to All I Want for Christmas, Last Christmas, jingle Bell Rock, White Christmas and many more.

Venue: Tyne Theatre & Opera House, 21st November.

The Little Mermaid

Newcastle’s pantomime superstar Danny Adams, and Theatre Royal favourite Clive Webb, Chris Hayward and Joe McElderry are part of the cast of this theatrical extravaganza.

Danny plays Danny Crabstix, best friend to Ariel, the bravest mermaid in King Triton’s kingdom, who must fight off the evil Sea Witch after she steals her voice in return for the ability to live amongst the humans, way above the ocean.

Venue: Theatre Royal, 26th November-12th January.

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Sheffield

Snow White

Starring Catherine Tyldesley as the Wicked Queen, the show promises light-out-loud thrills, stunning costumes, lavish sets, fabulous music and everyone’s favourite jokes.

Gladiator’s Viper Quang Luong and Sheffield’s favourite Dame, Damian Williams also join the cast.

Venue: Lyceum, 6th December-5th January.

Underneath a Magical Moon

Through her open window Wendy Darling gazes out at the night sky dreaming of blue lagoons, magical moons, and the stories that she can tell. But tonight, there is magic in the air.

This is a reimagined story of Peter Pan, as told by Wendy, for children 3+ and their families to enjoy.

Venue: Playhouse, 11th-31st December.

Little Shop of Horrors

The popular West End and Broadway show will be playing in Sheffield over the Christmas period.

Flower shop assistant Seymour acquires a mysterious new plant, he named it ‘Audrey II’ after his crush and co-worker. But as it grows and grows, it offers Seymour the kind of success he could only ever dream of – as long as he keeps feeding it.

Venue: Crucible, 7th December-18th January.

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Belfast

Beauty & the Beast – Family Pantomime

The classic tale of Beauty and the Beast with panto stars Jo Johnston as Belle, Keith Lynch as the Beast, and Brendan Mageean as a Dazzling Dame.

Be prepared to make some noise, sing, shout, boo and cheer as you meet the cast of colourful characters.

Venue: Waterfront Hall, 22nd November-5th January.

The Pantomime Adventures of Peter Pan

The Pantomime Adventures of Peter Pan sees the return of Belfast panto favourites May McFettridge as Mrs Smee, Paddy Jenkins as Starkey, Adam C Booth as Smee, Jolene O’Hara as Captain Hook and Aisling Sharkey as Wendy.

They will be joined by Belfast local Jordan Walker as Peter Pan and Georgia Brierley-Smith as Tink.

Venue: Grand Opera House, 30th November-12th January.

The Adventure of Red Riding Hood

An action-packed journey through the enchanted forest with a feisty heroine, Red Riding Hood, and her fairytale friends. But in a race to visit Granny Hood with a festive hamper of goodies, could it be a case of mistaken identity for media star Red Riding Hood, the jealous Goldilocks, or the Big (or not so) Bad Wolf?

The show is packed with original songs, larger than life characters, and lots of opportunities to join in the fun.

Venue: The Mac, 27th November-1st January.

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Nottingham

Peter Pan

TV fashionista Gok Wan will lead the cast of Peter Pan as The Magical Merman along with TV personality and actress Denise Welch as Captain Hook, and children’s TV favourite Paul Chuckle as Starkey.

Expect amazing special effects and barrel-loads of laughter.

Venue: Theatre Royal, 7th December – 12th January.

The Snowman Live

A magical live screening and live orchestral performance of Raymond Briggs’ classic story The Snowman, accompanied by English Pro Musica.

Alongside the iconic animated film, the concert will include festive music and audience participation.

Venue: Theatre Royal, 22nd December.

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Bristol

Mary Poppins

Cameron Mackingtosh and Disney‘s production of the classic multi award-winning musical Mary poppins opens its UK and Ireland tour by flying into the Bristol Hippodrome.

Australian stars Stefanie Jones and jack Chambers reprise their roles as marry Poppins and Bert, having received nightly standing ovations for their performances in the recent Australian production.

Venue: Bristol Hippodrome, 4th-30th November.

The Little Mermaid

A slightly different story to the one we know. The Little Mermaid loves swimming, dancing and spending time with her friends. While she might be different to other sea creature, they’re family and the waters are their home.

So when the sea starts to get warmer – the kelp wilting and the coral fading – she realises she has to act. She vows to protect their home and it seems a caring young man trying to restore the reef is just the person to help.

Venue: Bristol Old Vic, 5th December-11th January.

Little Red (& other winter tales)

A re-telling of the classic tale Little Red Riding Hood, The Red Shoes and The Little Match girl, this show shares a story of absent parents, dance-offs and finding the heart of Christmas.

Expect music, adventure, and lots of overcoming the monsters.

Venue: Bristol Old Vic, 6th December-12th January.

Goldilocks and The Three Bears

TV and musical theatre star Brian Conley heads this festive extravaganza, packed with riotous comedy, extraordinary special effects, and hair-raising stunts.

Goldilocks’ circus is under threat from an evil rival circus owner and, with the help of their madcap circus friends, they’re battling to rescue their Big Top from ruin.

Venue: Bristol Hippodrome, 7th December-5th January.

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Cardiff

Cinderella

Cardiff’s family panto stars presenter Gethin Jones as Prince Charming and broadcaster Owain Wyn Evans as Dandini.

Join Cinders as she goes from rags to riches, outwits her very wicked sisters and meets her Prince Charming.

Venue: New Theatre, 7th December-5th January.

The Snow Queen

A musical adaption of Hans Christian Andersen’s family adventure.

Join Gerda on a dangerous and whimsical quest to save her best friend Kai before he is trapped forever in the Snow Queen’s palace.

Venue: Spiegeltheatre in Sophia Gardens, 12th-31st December.