Pictures: Magical Christmas experience at York Castle Museum

A combination of ancient and modern combine to create a magical Christmas experience at York Castle Museum this month.

Snow has fallen on the famous Victorian street, Kirkgate, transforming it into a glistening stage where large-scale projections dance across the walls, bringing to life famous characters from the Nutcracker.

Oversized Christmas decorations, nutcrackers, ballerinas and toy soldiers adorn the street and merry music plays, immersing you in a new and truly unique Christmas experience on Kirkgate. 

There is also the chance to join special guided tours where our experts reveal the fascinating stories behind some of our most famous and much-loved festive traditions. 

A strict limit on numbers for both the Christmas experience and the guided tours will ensure a safe and socially distanced experience for all.  

Fiona Burton, public engagement manager, said: “This Christmas we have decided to transform our famous Victorian Street with a 35-minute experience like nothing else we have done before.

“Visitors will be able to stroll through the snow-covered street, peek into the shops and watch beautiful projections adorn the walls as music plays. We hope we have managed to create a truly magical experience for visitors to enjoy in a socially distanced and safe way.” 

She added: “For those wanting to learn more about the origins of many of the traditions which make this time of year so special, we have created tours for small groups to explore our decorated Period Rooms.

“Our guides will regale visitors with stories and fascinating facts, such as why we eat turkey at Christmas, when did we start kissing people under the mistletoe and did Coca Cola really turn Father Christmas red?” 

For both experiences the museum’s café will be open for festive takeaway treats and the shop will be selling a selection of Christmas gifts.

Both events take place on select days from December 2 2020 until January 3 2021.

For further information on the events and to book tickets, please visit www.yorkcastlemuseum.org.uk