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Issue 61 November/December 2015 www.familiessolenteast.co.uk

Christmas gifts PLUS! Family festive activities and events

Creating confident children

WIN festive prizes!

The essential local magazine for families with children aged 0 - 12 Families Solent East | November/December 2015 | 1 Open 9am - 5pm Monday - Saturday

UP TO *SAVE 30% £82.50 OFF RRP

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Minimum 2 Year Guarantee on all Products *OFF RRP Prices are correct at time of print. Available Now New Lane, Havant Free Kenwood Kitchen recipes app available to download on iPhone and Android Telephone 023 9239 2111 AUTHORIZED www.kenwoodworld.com ServiceCentre Open 9am - 5pm Monday - Saturday Welcome from the Editor In this issue... 4 News and views It’s officially winter. The heating is on, the winter coats are 6 Creating confident children out of storage and blankets have become a permanent fixture of each room. The days just keep getting colder 7 How to read with your child...and enjoy it! and darker....and colder! 8 Christmas Emporium - Win festive prizes But ignore all that for the minute, pour yourself a mug of 9 Local Christmas Markets and Fayres something warm and flick through our festive compilation of all the best family events happening this Christmas. 11 Festive Fun - Where’s Santa? Wishing you all a very merry Christmas and a healthy 13 Pantos and Theatre shows New Year - See you 2016! Mandy Earle | Editor Call us on 02393 117 561 25,000 copies delivered direct to parents & carers UP TO Covering , Fareham, Gosport, Waterlooville, Havant, Chichester, Midhurst, Petersfield & *SAVE Tel: 02393 117 561 Editor: Mandy Earle Join us online facebook.com/FSEmagazine [email protected] for more £82.50 twitter.com/FamiliesSolentE Online Media Manager: news, events & Sharon Armstrong competitions! www.familiessolenteast.co.uk [email protected]

Sales enquiries: Copyright: Families Solent East 2015. Claire.Clarricoates@ We take care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held familiespublishing.co.uk responsible for the claims of the advertisers, nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence. Families Solent East is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. 30% All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. OFF RRP CCC200WH Follow the Star of Bethlehem At the South Downs Planetari um Chichester *SAVE *SAVE *SAVE £214 £200 £69 What was the famous star in the east that ECAM28.465 KMX84 IS5043WH guided the Wise Men to the birthplace of Jesus? Visit our website at www.southdowns.org.uk to find out details of this and all our other shows over the Minimum 2 Year Guarantee on all Products Christmas/ New Year period. *OFF RRP Prices are correct at time of print. Advance booking essential Call: 01243 774400 or 07818 297292 Available Now for details or to reserve tickets for any of our shows New Lane, Havant Free Kenwood Kitchen recipes app available to download on iPhone and Android Tickets: Adults: £6 Under 16’s: £4 Free Parking • Easy Access for Disabled • Convenient for Public Transport The South Downs Planetarium, Sir Patrick Moore Building, Telephone 023 9239 2111 AUTHORIZED Kingsham Farm, Kingsham Road, Chichester, West Sussex PO19 8RP www.kenwoodworld.com ServiceCentre Families Solent East | November/December 2015 | 3 An Yulia Parker Jungle Buddies interview with… Owner and Instructor Playbus oved t at Rulsalka Swim School l h e i

Yulia lives in Horndean with s

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h e ! School as one of the top three experience! W in the country in 2011. The Jungle Buddies Playbus is kitted out inside with ball pits, slides, Q: What’s your favourite place to take the kids? and other soft play equipment and ‘‘My favourite would have to be a beautiful warm tropical beach can be hired exclusively for your child somewhere but, apart from that, I don’t really mind anywhere and their friends. They also have a variety of I go with my daughter, as it really makes me happy to see her inflatables including a laser tag arena & disco enjoying herself. She loves going to any Theme Park, her current dome! favourites being Legoland, Chessington and Paultons Park.’’ When? Available for hire 7 days a week. Q: How do you relax? ‘‘With the very busy lifestyle that we have every day, I can only Where? Your driveway or outside your truly relax when on holiday! However, I do love the occasional home or chosen location/venue. Whatever the trip to Champneys at Forest Mere, for a Spa Day with a friend.’’ weather, they bring the party to you! www.junglebuddies.co.uk Q: What’s your top tip for busy mums? 01329 835782 ‘‘If you see good quality toys or games on sale at a very good special offer price – buy several for your child’s friend’s email [email protected] birthdays. That way, you always have them on hand for that birthday party and don't have to rush in panic around the shops. Keep a stock of every occasion greetings cards and wrapping paper too.’’ New Theatre Royal welcomes families back to the historic theatre! Q: What’s surprised you most about being a parent? ‘‘I could never have fully appreciated the amount of joy and Last month marked the re-opening of the well-loved historic happiness that your child brings you every day. It’s both amazing theatre, New Theatre Royal, following a multi-million pound and wonderful to see your child growing and to be a part of their project to restore it back to its former glory. life whilst experiencing so many new things through their eyes.’’ The theatre’s vision for the future is to engage with younger audiences through a new and exciting programme of workshops while also working with schools and local communities to inspire creativity and a passion for the arts through events such as Shakespeare Schools Festival and Junior Dance Off. Pop-up Flashback on tour with The Spring New Theatre Royal also has a Youth Theatre programme Enter a world of troll kings and mermaid queens, deep sea for young people aged 5 to 14 with weekly workshops from diving super heroes and city smashing dinosaurs with Pop-up top professionals in the industry to give aspiring stars the Flashback, the family show touring libraries and community opportunity to take to the stage in full-scale performances venues in Havant. Pop-up Flashback is a unique blend of poetry, throughout the year. Call 023 9284 3979 for info. storytelling and giant pop-up books suitable for ages 5+. 3th Nov - 6pm at Waterlooville Library, 4th Nov - 4.30pm at Leigh Park Library, 5th Nov - 4.30pm at Hayling Island Library, 6th Nov - 4.30pm at Emsworth Community Centre, 7th Nov Coming soon – Little Gems in Wickham! - 11.30am & 2.30pm at The Spring Arts and Heritage Centre Little Gems are pleased to announce that their new 18 place Havant. Box Office 023 9247 2700 or thespring.co.uk pre-school opens in the Wickham Centre this January! With exclusive use of the Wickham Room facilities, including new child-friendly toilets, kitchen and a lovely attached garden. Would you like to do something rewarding Led by Sian Gale, their Early Years teacher, Little Gems Wickham is a small, friendly and le Gem tt s COMING SOON while the kids are at school? nurturing pre-school for 2 - 5 year olds. Open Li term time from 9am - 3pm. With competitive TO WICKHAM Have you considered running your own JANUARY 2016 business, being your own boss, enabling you fees, fantastic discounts and exciting weekly classes in ‘bilinguasing’ and ‘globe fit’ included! A new small to work around your family commitments? It exclusive 18 place might sound good but we all know starting Call to find out more or go along to their OPEN Pre-School pre-school a business is not easy - buying a franchise DAY on Saturday 14th November 10.30am – Where Children Sparkle could be the answer. According to the 2pm. Call Gemma in 01489 557215 For children aged from 2 years to rising 5's. British Franchise Association, almost 80% Fully refurbished room and facilities. of franchisees believe the added security of Led by an Early Years Professional our staff will Join us online to keepcrea teup exc iting opportunities to ignite your child's a franchised business actually gives them a imagination, encourage their inquisitive nature and competitive advantage. to date with family news!nurture their individuality. Your child will sparkle at Little Gems! A popular area for franchising is the pre- school market where MAD Academy has been delivering high SEE US ON OUR OPEN DAY DISCOUNTS FOR 1ST 10 facebook.com/FSEmagazineSATURDAY 14TH NOVEMBER CHILDREN WHO SIGN UP quality music and movement classes for over ten years now but FROM 10.30AM UNTIL 2PM TO START WITH US IN JANUARY not yet in the Solent East area. Maybe this is your opportunity! twitter.com/FamiliesSolentECall Gemma to find out more on 01489 557215 To request more information visit madacademy.com and www.littlegemspreschool.co.uk don’t forget to mention “Families”. www.familiessolenteast.co.ukThe Wickham Centre, Mill Lane, Wickham, PO17 5AL 4 November/December 2015 | Families Solent East MAD093.Franchise_Layout 1 01/05/2015 10:44 Page 1

MAD Academy music and dance for preschool children Children in many parts of the UK have been enjoying the delights of MAD Academy’s high energy music and dance classes for ten years now. However, there are still some places where children have yet to benefit from these fun packed sessions. Could you help us plug the gaps?

Joining MAD Academy can be a life changing experience! • You are the boss • Your hours are flexible • Start-up costs are low • Great job satisfaction • Grow at your own speed Please mention you saw these Are you enthusiastic, passionate and fun-loving? We are looking for self-motivated and business minded people to join adverts in Families Magazine our team of franchisees by opening the doors of MAD Academy in your neighbourhood.

Call Elaine for a prospectus on 07732 322540 or email her at [email protected]

Find out more by visiting – www.madacademy.com

le Gem itt s COMING SOON L TO WICKHAM JANUARY 2016 A new small exclusive 18 place Pre-School pre-school Where Children Sparkle For children aged from 2 years to rising 5's. Fully refurbished room and facilities. Led by an Early Years Professional our staff will create exciting opportunities to ignite your child's imagination, encourage their inquisitive nature and nurture their individuality. Your child will sparkle at Little Gems!

SEE US ON OUR OPEN DAY DISCOUNTS FOR 1ST 10 SATURDAY 14TH NOVEMBER CHILDREN WHO SIGN UP FROM 10.30AM UNTIL 2PM TO START WITH US IN JANUARY Call Gemma to find out more on 01489 557215 www.littlegemspreschool.co.uk The Wickham Centre, Mill Lane, Wickham, PO17 5AL

Discovery starts here

Please ask about our 2 Week Trial! CHICHESTER, PETERSFIELD, HAVANT E: chichester.petersfi[email protected] T: 02394 000226 Our acting, singing and dance classes take your child on a journey of discovery. Petersfield. Monday mornings They’ll love stepping into a new world and you’ll love the effect it has on their Upstairs in The Square Brewery, 7 The Square, GU32 3HJ confi dence and creativity.

Fishbourne. Tuesday mornings stagecoach.co.uk/havant The Fishbourne Centre, 46 Blackboy Lane, PO18 8BE 0845 521 3730 Havant. Thursday mornings stagecoach.co.uk/fareham The Spring Arts & Heritage Centre, PO9 1BS 01489 666 323 Contact us for class times or view on our website

Group discounts for NCT members when 3+ people join together at the same time.

Families Solent East | November/December 2015 | 5 Try to avoid making comments to your second – sometimes it feels like we child such as how you wish they were should be praising our kids simply for reating more confident, or less shy because, in breathing. But if you tell them everything effect, you’re saying you don’t value them they do is wonderful all the time, as they are - a real confidence crusher. positivity loses power. Keep praise for Accept your child’s personality and when it’s truly warranted and focus on effort rather than just results. This way, onfident ‘starting point’; it might be different to yours, their sibling’s, friends’ or when they do do something amazing, hildren classmates’ and that’s absolutely fine. your comments will have more impact. Find their forte and allow it to By Liat Hughes-Joshi Don’t force them into situations they aren’t comfortable with flourish c In most scenarios, one of the worst If your child doesn’t do so well in Confidence is just as important things you can do for a young child who’s academic work, or the usual extra- in life – if not more so - than a unsure is to push them in at the deep end curricular activities at school, this can brace of A grades or endless with something when they aren’t ready. make their self-esteem fragile. Seek opportunities for them to try other, extra-curricular skills. It’s vital They need to trust you when taking on new experiences and doing this damages more unusual activities out of school to emotional wellbeing and that trust. and highlight positive personality traits something most of us hope our such as being especially kind or a good children will develop. Take small steps to encourage organiser. Confidence is about being comfortable confidence Step back sometimes and let with who you are, willing to give things a Find opportunities to stretch just a bit them ‘have a go’ – land that go - even if you’re not sure you’ll succeed ADVERTISEMENT PROOF beyond what your son or daughter is helicopter! - and trusting your own abilities and comfortable with at a time.Plea Sose thatfind could belo w a proof of your advertisement for the judgement. be going to their friend’s house with them Helicopter parenting – hovering over your initially, then you just stayingSepte mforb ae littler/O ctobechild,r 20 1stepping4 issue in(N too resolve. 74) o fthe Fa slightestmilies T VE. But how can we instil this feeling in our while at the start, then next time, they issue or preventing them from failing – is children, particularly if it doesn’t come might be happy to go alone. a barrier to building confidence. Children naturally to them? Please CHECK ALL INFORMATION IS CORRECT especially dates, telneedepho ton efind nu mtheirbe rowns a nsolutions,d addre sattemptses. Thames Valley East Accept your child’s starting Work out what their fear is things their way sometimes and take Often a child will have niggling worries sensible risks. Sure, you can guide and point holding them back in aA specificny chan gsituation.es need to advisebe ma dbute a tryt th notis s tota gjumpe. in and take T: 01628 627586 Not all children - or adults - are confident So perhaps “If I put myA handny fu rupth iner amendmeovernts wtooill quickly.be char ged for. E: [email protected] by nature (wouldn’t life be boring if we class, I might get the answerPlease wrongconta ct us by rWhethereturn ei tit’she rallowing to ame nyourd or three-year-old approve you r 50 All Saints Avenue, Maidenhead, were all the same?) and whilst we can and the other children will laugh at me”. to choose her own outfit or your ten-year- encourage self-belief, transforming a shy Pin down their concerna d– valthoughertiseme nt. old to walk to the post box alone, letting Berkshire, SL6 6NA or anxious child into a ‘life and soul of preschool children might struggle to go is a crucial confidence builder. the party’ type, is articulate their fear. probably an Address their concern and provide Liat Hughes Joshi is a parenting journalist unrealistic plenty of reassurance that they will be and the author of four books including aim. okay, that what others think doesn’t 'New Old-fashioned Parenting' and '‎How to Unplug Your Child' (both published by really matter and that you’re there Summersdale) and Raising Children: The for them. Talk about similar Primary Years (Pearson). situations you experienced as a child, when you were afraid of something, and how it worked out for you. Keep praise special These days, there’s a tendency to be super-positive and heap on the ‘fabulous, you’re the best child ever!’ comments every other

PLEASE EXCUSE THE UNUSUAL APPROACH! A successful international company, operating in the Health and Nutrition Industry, is looking for open- minded, positive people to work part-time or full-time, from home, without compromising your current career or commitments. If you work in the Health and Fitness Industry, or have a supervisory, managerial, sales, marketing, recruitment or self-employed background, or feel you would like a balanced and flexible lifestyle then we would like to hear from you. Call Hesione on 07794127732 [email protected] 6 November/December 2015 | Families Solent East XXXXXXX How to read with your child

(and really enjoy it!) By Justine Crow

“Not now, darling...” is the plaintive The concept of ‘making time’ is an refrain from parents - at bedtime, impossible ideal. We can’t magic up in the library, on the bus or any extra minutes to read but we can use Make With Kids moment that you have had the the moments we already have. Lots of audacity to put your feet up for pictures are the best way to keep a Christmas Cookie Decorations little one on the potty; submergible five minutes. Your dearest progeny bath books enable hair-washing and plonks him or herself down beside These delicious shortbread stars will nit-checking too. What a bonus! look great on the tree – but we suspect you with a picture book that you they won’t be there long! This is such a have already read aloud a hundred Books without text such as Clown by Quentin Blake are brilliant for simple recipe, with only times. sharing – encourage your toddler to a few ingredients. How can we ensure we are fresh and tell you what is happening. Talk about Time: You will need: eager each time our loved one wants to what you both see. Large bowl and sieve About half an share their reading? And given that we Flat baking trays know that it is not only vital for children’s At the library, put your phone away hour, including and suggest that each of you dig out a baking time Star cookie cutters (or intellectual development to read together other festive shapes) but that it also benefits our own inner title. Your youngster will often pick one Clean pencil lives, what should we do to get better at they already have at home - but it Ingredients: doesn’t matter, because your special Silver, gold, white, it? Here are some ways to help you truly • Plain flour, green or red ribbon enjoy reading with your little one. task is to discover one they’ve never 200g seen before. Just think how much • Cool butter, 100g Accept and celebrate the knowledge more enthusiastic you will be to open • Caster sugar, 50g that reading with your child is part of it up. • Writing icing, white, your job description as a parent. It is When shopping together, don’t green, red (great for drawing lines and there alongside cuddler, sleep-trainer and shapes) bottom wiper. The more you do it, the expect a young child to choose the ‘right’ book. You decide what to buy • Decorations in silver, red, green, gold easier it becomes. Soon, you will be a or white natural performer. while your child rummages through the books on the play-table. Then read When they are babies, choose books one together before you leave. Once Method: YOU like to read to them. They are too they can actually read, allow them to With your child, measure the flour and small to understand much but the choose their own books. then let your little one spoon the flour cadence of your voice gives them into the sieve, held above the bowl. Sift comfort. You could read a cookbook As they grow older, you can be the flour. aloud and they’ll be content. more adventurous and find longer stories. Soon, you can introduce to Add the sugar and the butter, cut into When they are toddlers, reading them the novels you loved as a child. cubes. With clean hands, show your child together enables bonding but it also can Perhaps they will want to continue how to rub the butter into the flour. Keep act as an incentive: if you stay in your reading a particular chapter book alone rubbing then kneading and it should bed ALL night, you can get into my bed but they will always remember the come together into a ball. in the morning for a story, how’s that? sense of an experienced shared. Without over-working the dough, roll it out on a flat surface, dusted with flour. Justine Crow is the author of The Using the cookie cutters, help your child Little Book of Nits published by stamp out star shapes and place them on Bloomsbury. Parent of three, she owns the baking tray. Use the blunt end of the her own bookshop with her partner, clean pencil to make a hole at the top of The Bookseller Crow on Hill, and is a one of the points for the ribbon. qualified swimming teacher. And in what Bake at 320F/160C/Gas 6 for 12-15 little spare time she has, she also runs minutes until golden. When cool, gastronomic writing retreat courses in France and is the food critic of The decorate with writing icing and any other Transmitter. decorations you like, such as sugar balls. Hang on the tree!

Families Solent East | November/December 2015 | 7 Christmas Emporium Grab a cup of tea (or mulled wine!) and browse our selection of the best things happening this festive season.

Kitchen & home appliances at warehouse prices! Treat someone you love (or yourself!) to a premium Italian coffee machine from De’Longhi this Christmas! As the leaders in bean to cup coffee machines, De’Longhi has a range to suit every home and coffee taste. De’Longhi also has many stylish breakfast collections to stand out in any kitchen. Multifry is the latest in healthy cooking, an air fryer range featuring SHS (Surround Heating System) to ensure food is cooked to perfection. Visit the Kenwood, De’Longhi, Braun Outlet Store this Christmas for a range of brand new kitchen and home appliances at warehouse prices! Open 9am - 5pm Monday to Saturday New Lane, Havant. Tel: 02392 392111 (Shop is within the Kenwood site)

Labels4kids launch Christmas collection Labels4Kids has started a great range of personalised gifts for Christmas or birthdays from Disney, Hasbro, Nickelodeon and Mattel for your kids! Have your child’s name and the names of their friends written into a story, such as Frozen or Spongebob. They stock everything from Ninja Turtles to Disney Princess, books, clocks and nametags. Allow 3 weeks for delivery, as they are custom made to your personal requirements. Go to labels4kids.com/personalised-gift-range WIN! Sell a box of cards to help fund vital research A family ticket to Ice skating Brain Tumour Research have a fantastic selection of festive cards to choose from, with four beautiful new designs for at Cathedral! 2015 – available to purchase in packs of 10, or to sell on their behalf. Boxes of cards contain 100 packs of 19 different A Hape Aqua Retro Kitchen worth £69.99! designs. They would love to send you a box to sell to your friends, family and work colleagues! A family ticket to Cinderella at To order or for more info email supportercare@ The Kings Theatre Southsea! braintumourresearch.org or call 01296 733011

My Fairy and Elf doors Available in a selection of colours, these cute fairy and elf doors are packaged with a small bottle of magic dust and a welcome note for the fairies and elves. Doors are 20 cm tall and can only be opened by the fairies and elves Enter online at www.familiessolenteast.co.uk/competitions with their magical powers. RRP - £20 www.themagicdoorstore.com Closes 4th Dec 2015 8 November/December 2015 | Families Solent East T&C’s apply. STANSTED HOUSE XXXXXXX Christmas Fayre A unique weekend shopping experience in a heart-warming Christmas atmosphere. Christmas Markets WInchester Christmas Market & Ice Rink 19 November – 3 January Winchester Cathedral, SO23 9LS 01962 857 276 Find more than 100 chalets filled with high quality gifts, British crafts, decorations and festive foods (market ends 22nd 20TH - 22ND NOV 2015 December). The open-air real ice rink is situated in the heart of the Christmas Market and provides the perfect playground for Adults £6 (under 16yrs FREE) adults and children with a stunning Cathedral backdrop. Special Tiny Tots sessions are available for children as young as 2 to Stansted Park, Rowlands Castle, . PO9 6DX. enjoy the rink.

Stansted Park Christmas Fayre 20th – 22nd November Stansted Park, Rowlands Castle Markets www.stanstedpark.co.uk The Enjoy a unique weekend of Christmas shopping in the elegant surrounds of the beautiful Edwardian mansion. The house will be transformed into a FREE marketplace full of local exhibitors selling entry! bespoke, luxury and one-off gifts that you won’t find on the high street. Father Art, Craft and Gift Markets across Hampshire Christmas will be welcomed on the Arts, Craft & Gift Markets across Hampshire Friday evening after local school choirs Weekend dates throughout Nov & part of Dec 11am - 3pm Saturdays & Sundays 11am – 3pm perform carols on the front steps of the Craft Markets for everyone to enjoy with kids craft area too! house, with mulled wine and mince pies th Visit Nov 7 www.fromthecraftbox.net = West End Parish Centre, Southampton for market SO30 3FE details available to purchase. th  Nov 8 = Hamble Village Memorial Hall SO31 4JE

th  Nov 14 = Chandlers Ford The Age Concern Centre SO53 2EB ‘From the Craft Box’ Art, Craft & Gift Markets

th  Nov 15 = Hayling Island Community Centre PO11 0HB All markets free entry and the first 50 visitors receive a free goody bag. A children’s crafting area will be available for £1.50 st  Nov 21 = Southampton Bursledon Village Hall SO31 8BZ per mini project. Markets open 11am – 3pm. nd  Nov 22 = Romsey Town Hall, Romsey SO51 8YZ www.fromthecraftbox.net th  Nov 28 = Stubbington Crofton Community Centre PO14 2PP Nov 7th - West End Parish Centre, Southampton SO30 3FE th  Nov 29 = Eastleigh The Pavilion on the Park SO50 9LH Nov 8th - Hamble Village Memorial Hall SO31 4JE

th Nov 14th - Chandlers Ford The Age Concern Centre SO53 2EB  Dec 5 = The David Bogue Hall, Gosport PO12 1QA Nov 15th - Hayling Island Community Centre PO11 0HB th  Dec 6 = Portsmouth Guildhall PO1 2AB Nov 21st - Southampton Bursledon Village Hall SO31 8BZ th  Dec 12 = Bishops Waltham Jubilee Hall SO32 1ED Nov 22nd - Romsey Town Hall, Romsey SO51 8YZ th  Dec 13 = Winchester Guildhall SO23 9GH Opens at 10:30am Nov 28th - Stubbington Crofton Community Centre PO14 2PP Nov 29th - Eastleigh The Pavilion on the Park SO50 9LH Dec 5th - The David Bogue Hall, Gosport PO12 1QA www.fromthecraftbox.net Dec 6th - Portsmouth Guildhall PO1 2AB Dec 12th - Bishops Waltham Jubilee Hall SO32 1ED Dec 13th - Winchester Guildhall SO23 9GH

Other local Christmas Markets 14 - 15 Nov - Weald & Downland Museum, Chichester, PO18 OEU. 10.30am - 4pm. £5 entry. 21 Nov - Portsmouth Cathedral, PO1 2HA 11am - 1.30pm. 50p entry. 5 Dec - Fareham Town Centre, PO16 7PU 9am - 3pm. Free CHRISTMAS MARKET | 19 November – 22 December 2015 5 - 13 Dec - Chichester, North Street, PO19 1LB ICE RINK | 19 November – 3 January 2016 9am - 5pm. Free entry 01962 857 276 | www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk 6 Dec - Wickham, The Wickham Centre, PO17 5AL Enter online at www.familiessolenteast.co.uk/competitions 11.00am - 3.00pm. Free entry. 6 Dec - Petersfield, The Square, GU32 3HH Closes 4th Dec 2015 10am - 3pm. Free Entry T&C’s apply. Families Solent East | November/December 2015 | 9 New for Santa 2015! Donkey cart ride Specials Country Christmas See Santa on a steam train! Join us for a magical Christmas experience! Make a Christmas craft, follow the trail, then enjoy a festive donkey cart ride to meet Santa in his grotto. Advance booking only!

Tickets available on: Sat 5, Sun 6, Sat 12, Sun 13 Sat 19, Sun 20, Mon 21, Tues 22, Wed 23 Dec £10 per child (Includes gift). Tickets available from the Visitor Centre or call 023 9245 3405. Standard park admission applies for accompanying guests. This is an outdoor experience and only children will be able to ride on the donkey cart. Enjoy the magic of a one hour steam train ride as Santa www.hants.gov.uk/staunton visits you at your seat with a gift for every child. 5th, 6th, 12th, 13th, 19th - 24th December

www.hants.gov.uk BOOK NOW ON WWW.WATERCRESSLINE.CO.UK

Booking essential! Christmas in the Park

Get into the Christmas spirit this December at Queen Elizabeth Country Park. Enjoy a festive nature trail, tractor ride and children’s craft WINTER AT session followed by a special visit to Father Christmas. Tickets available on: FORT NELSON Sat 5, Sun 6, Sat 12, Sun 13

w Sat 19, Sun 20, Mon 21, Tues 22 SERGEANT DOBSON’S CHRISTMAS KITCHEN

Seasonal stories, festive fun and . r £12 per child. Includes gift. o y a l r m u i e s . Mrs Blenkinsopp’s famous mince pies Tickets available from the Visitor Sat 19 – Wed 23 December / £3.50 pp Centre or call 023 9259 5040. WALK THE FORT Adventure trail for all the family Sat 27 December – Sun 3 January / Free www.hants.gov.uk/qecp g GUNFIRING Daily / 1pm / Free www.hants.gov.uk

10 November/December 2015 | Families Solent East Winter Wonderland at Paultons Paultons Park, Ower Festive paultonspark.co.uk Inside Santa’s Christmas Wonderland, children step into a festive dream world, adorable animated characters greet you at every turn as you make your way through the enchanted winter snow scene. At the end of the journey children meet Father Christmas and receive an exciting present. With new 4D Experience of the kid’s favourite - Happy Feet. Book online. Festive fun and treasure trail at the Fort FFort Nelson, unFareham PO17 6AN Santa at the Emirates Spinnaker Tower From 19th –23rd December join Victorian cook, Mrs 5th - 6th, 12th - 13th & Blenkinsopp, and Private Dobson in the Victorian Christmas 19th - 20th December. Kitchen at Fort Nelson as they prepare the Christmas feast for Gunwharf Quays, Portsmouth the garrison. Festive fun, storytelling and mince pies. Then between 27th December – 3rd January - Get outdoors and There’ll be festive fun throughout December at the tower. blow away the cobwebs on a fun treasure hunt trail around Follow the sparkling reindeer trail to find all of Santa’s flying the Fort, including Nelson’s Monument and the Ditch, then get four footed friends, hidden on the view decks and around the cosy in Cafe 1871 with a hot chocolate (Closed 24 - 26 Dec). tower. Santa will be taking time out of his busy schedule to make appearances on the Waterfront Cafe and Cafe in the Clouds, 105 metres above the Harbour, will both be offering Victorian Festival of Christmas warming drinks and tasty treats - ideal for taking a break from 27 - 29th November your Christmas shopping in Gunwharf Quays. Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, PO1 3LJ Tel: 023 9283 9766 Country Christmas at Staunton Festival favourites are set to return including their largest ever 5 - 6th, 12 - 13th & 19th - 23rd December Christmas Market, Fagin’s Real Ale Tavern, Dickensian-style Staunton Country Park, Havant, PO9 5HB. snow covered streets, a traditional Father Christmas (dressed Tel: 023 9245 3405 in green) and a wonderland of Victorian characters and A magical Christmas experience around the Park - Make a entertainment. Christmas craft, follow the trail then enjoy a festive donkey cart ride to meet Santa in his Grotto. Christmas at the Park Weekends from 5th - 22nd December Christmas Grotto at Cascades Queen Elizabeth Country Park, Gravel Hill, From 20th November – 24th December Horndean, PO8 0QE. Tel: 023 9259 5040 Cascades Shopping Centre, Portsmouth, PO1 4RS Come and experience Christmas in the Park at Queen Elizabeth cascades-shopping.co.ukSanta Country Park near Petersfield and Horndean. Every weekend from Saturday 5th December to Sunday 20th December at See Santa and his elves at Cascades’ biggest ever Christmas 10am. Father Christmas is back in his grotto with gifts, a Grotto! He’s checking his list twice and there is a special gift festive nature trail, tractor ride and children’s craft session. for everyone on the nice list! Entry is £4.50 which includes a This is a two hour session and booking is essential. Specialsfree gift and you can book your visit online. Longdown Farm Christmas Barn See SeeSanta Santa on ona Steam a steamTrain! train! 5th - 24th December 5th - 6th,Santa 12th - 13th & 19th - 24th December Deerleap Lane, Ashurst SO40 7EH Mid Hants Railway, Alresford. www.longdownfarm.co.uk watercressline.co.uk A festive atmosphere with a traditional theme and real live SpecialsSee Santa on a steam train - the perfect way to start animals. Twinkling lights, Christmas trees and decorations Christmas! Join Santa as you steam on a magical one hour set the scene where fluffy baby chicks and other favourite Seeround trip Santa through the scenicon Hampshirea steam countrysideAdvance train! as he farm animals will be waiting to meet the children and share visits you in your seat! Santa gives every childbooking a gift in a only! their excitement. A Nativity scene is watched over by gentle special souvenir sack with soft drinks for children and wine donkeys and look out for Father Christmas’s tractor sleigh, and mince pies for the grown-ups. Departing from either which he has parked outside the Farmhouse Grotto. He will be Alresford or Alton, Santa Specials are advance booking only. waiting to greet the children and give each child a gift. Advance booking only!

Enjoy the magic of a one hour steam train ride as Santa visitsEnjoy you the at magic your of seata one with hour asteam gift fortrain every ride as child. Santa 5th, 6th,visits 12th,you at your13th, seat 19th with a- gift24th for everyDecember child. 5th, 6th, 12th, 13th, 19th - 24th December BOOK NOW ON WWW.WATERCRESSLINE.CO.UK BOOK NOW ON WWW.WATERCRESSLINE.CO.UK POP-UP FLASHBACK by Word Pepper Theatre Tues 3 Nov, 6pm - Waterlooville Library A FESTIVE Weds 4 Nov, 4.30pm - Leigh Park Library Thur 5 Nov, 4.30pm - Hayling Island Library FARM EXPERIENCE UNDER Fri 6 Nov, 4.30pm - Emsworth Community Centre A GIFT ONE BARN ROOF Sat 7 Nov, 11.30am & 2.30pm - The Spring FOR EVERY CHILD Meet the animals , see the Enter a world of troll kings and PLEASE beautiful nativity scene and VISIT mermaid queens, deep sea NOTE: THE Father Christmas in His Grotto. diving super heroes and city smashing REMAINDER Children (3-14): £6.50 each* dinosaurs...! A unique blend of poetry, OF THE storytelling and giant pop-up books FARM Children under 3, Season Ticket Holder Children WILL BE & Special Needs: £4.50 each* suitable for 5+ CLOSED Adults: £2.00 *Includes entrance to barn, grotto and present Tickets £3 child, £5 adult. Available LIGHT REFRESHMENTS. FARM SHOP OPEN. from The Spring and library venues. OPEN DAILY: 5th-24 th Dec: 10.30AM-4pm BEC AND TOM’S AWESOME QUEUES MAY BUILD AT BUSY TIMES! NO NEED LAUNDRY LONGDOWN ACTIVITY FARM TO Book, Sat 28 November, 2.30pm JUST TURN Off the A35, Ashurst. Tel. 023 8029 2837. It’s laundry day. www.longdownfarm.co.uk UP! But Bec and Tom have other ideas. Join the pair in a world of silliness and bad celebrity impersonations. This critically acclaimed family comedy show blends storytelling, games and paper pup- petry. Suitable for ages 5+ Tickets £8, £28 (family of 4)

For even more events visit Tel. 02392 472700 The Spring Arts & Heritage Centre, familiessolenteast.co.uk/whatson thespring.co.uk 56 East Street, Havant, PO9 1BS

12 November/December 2015 | Families Solent East Pantomimes & Shows ‘Cinderella’ at the Kings Theatre, Southsea From 8th December - 3rd January throw on your glad rags and dust off your glass slippers as your pumpkin awaits to whisk you away to the world of our fairy-tale princess, Cinderella. Will poor Cinders, with the help of her magical Fairy Godmother, make it to the Ball and meet her handsome Prince? With lavish sets, wonderful costumes, a surprise or two and all the cheers, jeers and jokes you would expect from a classic Children pantomime – you will not be disappointed! Starring TOWIE’s half price! James ‘Arg’ Argent and Singer/Star of Carry on Films, Anita Harris. Box Office 023 9282 8282 or kingsportsmouth.co.uk

‘A Christmas Carol’ at ‘The Christmassy Christmas Hansel & Gretel at Ashcroft Chichester Festival Theatre Show of Christmassy Arts Centre, Fareham Following last year’s smash hit One Christmasness’ at The Forest Forge join forces with local theatre Hundred and One Dalmatians, Chichester company ‘Bumblefly’ to produce a new Festival Youth Theatre are back with a Spring, Havant take on this family favourite. 23rd December at 11.30am & revival of their much-loved production 21 December showings at 2.30pm 2.30pm. An over-stuffed stocking of A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, and 7pm. Tel: 01329 223100 from 18th December - 2nd January. of seasonal surprises for the family, Directed by Dale Rooks (director of the crammed with puppets, songs, quizzes acclaimed promenade production of and comedy, and over-flowing with Robin Hood at Medina Running Wild in the summer) and with crazy characters, silly slapstick, tall tales Theatre, Newport and fantastic facts - all presented in that a cast made up of Chichester’s most Star-studded panto with Sue Hodge - talented youngsters, this family favourite unique Squashbox style! BBCTV`s `Allo `Allo- as Nurse Mimi. From is a must-see for the festive season. Box Box Office 023 9247 2700 or 24th December - 2nd January at 2pm Office 01243 781 312 or Cft.org.uk thespring.co.uk and 5.30pm. Box Office 01983 823884 ‘The Santa Trap’ at New Journey to the stars at ‘Dick Wittington and his Cat’ Theatre Royal, Portsmouth South Downs Planetarium! at Ferneham Hall, Fareham This year’s Christmas show runs from An exciting range of star shows is on Following last year’s record breaking 19th December – 3rd January and offer at the South Downs Planetarium pantomime at Fareham’s Ferneham Hall, stars Bradley Bartleby who is bad, very from 11th December - 3rd January the bad! So bad that he plans to trap Santa in Chichester this Christmas. Suitable for all the family (from age 7 and team that brought you Snow White proudly Claus and steal all his presents! With presents this year’s Christmas spectacular! upwards), there is something for guillotines, tigers and a houseful of A show for all the family, Dick Whittington everyone interested in learning about dynamite, young audiences will adore tells the rags-to-riches tale of a young man the wonders of the night sky. this action-packed, explosively funny new and his loyal cat on their exciting quest to musical show! The shows ‘December Stars, Moon find fame and fortune. Staring Todd Carty From 16th November, the theatre will and Planets’, ‘The Night Sky This (EastEnders) and Lloyd Warbey (Art Attack). welcome local talent to their new stage Christmas’ and ‘The New Year Night Box Office for Shakespeare Schools Festival. The Sky’ will provide a wonderful guided 01329 824864 or festival is the UK’s largest youth drama tour of the highlights of the night sky at festival and gives over 35,000 young this time of year. fernehamhall.co.uk people the opportunity Returning by popular demand on to perform Shakespeare 21st - 24th December is ‘The Star productions in their local of Bethlehem’ – an astronomical professional theatre. detective story, exploring the various Box Office 023 9264 9000 possibilities for the Christmas Star. or newtheatreroyal.com Journey back over 2000 years to see the night sky from the Middle East, as the Wise Men might have seen it. Advance booking is essential, Call 01243 774400 or 07818 297292 or southdowns.org.uk. A traditional, family pantomime Anita Harris James ‘Arg’ Argent Singer/Star of ‘Carry On’ films TOWIE

8 DECEmbEr 2015 - 3 JAnuAry 2016

www.kingsportsmouth.co.uk Box Office 023 9282 8282

Fareham 2015 Poster AW_Layout 1 01/09/2015 15:58 Page 1

CHICHESTER FESTIVAL YOUTH THEATRE PRESENTS

By CHARLES DICKENS Adapted by BRYONY LAVERY Music & Lyrics by JASON CARR

A FESTIVE FAMILY FAVOURITE Children half price!*

18 December - 2 January cft.org.uk 01243 781312 *T&Cs apply Age guideline 8+

14 November/December 2015 | Families Solent East XXXXXXX

What’s On Watch a winter show at the Southdowns Weekends in December Planetarium Chichester. Your guide to other family events Meet Green Father Christmas Weald and Downland, Singleton, Go to this November & December PO18 OEU 01243 811 021 southdowns.org.uk 11.00am - 4.00pm. Welcoming a or call 01243 774400 Although we aim to be as accurate as possible, the very special guest to the Museum for event details events listed in our What’s On section are compiled – Green Father Christmas (Old several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Winter). Old Winter will need Please contact venues in advance to check full details. to be seen by appointment and tickets must be purchased in advance of your visit. 18 December Spot the 5 - 6 December Saturnalia: The Roman dot for free 22 Nov – 24 Dec Victorian Christmas events! ‘Christmas’ & Storytelling Santa in Winter Wonderland , , Butser Ancient Farm, Chalton, Funland, 1 Seafront, Hayling IOW. PO32 6JX. 01983 200 022 PO8 0BG. 023 9259 8838 10am - 5pm. Experience the spirit Island, Hampshire, PO11 0AG 2 - 3pm. Discover how the 7 November of a Victorian Christmas have a 02392 462 820 Romans celebrated this time go at traditional games, take a Children’s Table Top Sale Weekends and school holidays of year, in honour of the deity ride on the carousel and delight Emsworth Community Centre, only. Hayling Winter Wonderland Saturn. Then at 3pm sit around in jovial entertainers. North Street, PO10 7DD is back at Funland and the the fire with a hot chocolate, and 10am - 12pm. Free entry, elves have been busy creating a 5 - 14 December listen to festive tales in the great refreshments and a children’s spectacular experience for you to roundhouse. face painter. 07896 557 770 meet Santa! Santa Specials Isle of Wight Steam Railway, 18 December - 11 January 8 November 28 November Havenstreet, IOW, PO33 4DS 01983 882 204 Nativity and Carol Services Christmas at Barton Dino Christmas Story Time Chichester Cathedral, PO19 1PX Barton Manor, East Cowes, IOW A captivating day out for all the Gosport Discovery Centre, 7.15am - 6pm. Get into the PO32 6LB. 01983 292 835 Family at the Isle of Wight Steam PO12 1BT. 0845 603 5631 Christmas spirit with the many 10am - 4pm. A family Christmas Railway. Train runs from 10.35am 11am - 12pm. Christmas carol services held throughout event with live music, BBQ, Food - 4.05pm. Tickets available to Dinosaur story-time special. Ages December. Children can also Hall, Craft Stalls, Horse and purchase online or at the gate. 3 -10, FREE Places are limited. come and see a large nativity Carriage rides, mulled wine- scene, roasted chestnuts and craft stalls. Bec and Tom’s Awesome Laundry 11 – 13 December The Spring, Havant, PO9 1BS Christmas at The Castle 19 December 13 November 023 9247 2700 Southsea Castle, Clarence Christmas Magic Storytime Fireworks Night 2.30pm. A story of friendship, Esplanade courage and persistence - sketch Gosport Discovery Centre, Gunwharf Quays, PO1 3TZ Father Christmas, Ice PO12 1BT 0845 603 5631 023 9283 6700 show for cool kids by childish princesses, a nativity petting 11am - 12pm. Free Christmas Annual fireworks display. Free adults Suitable for all ages 5 + Zoo, traditional Funfair and story-telling session at Gosport Admission Entertainment from Santa Saurus! giant Astro- snow slide. Discovery Centre. For ages 3 -10, 6pm. Gosport Discovery Centre, Places are limited. PO12 1BT. 0845 603 5631 14 December 14 November All I Want for Christmas Santa Arrives 2pm - 5pm. Explore the 19 December - 4 January Christmas Past room sets and SEARCH, 50 Clarence Road, Crafty Commandos Keydell Nurseries, Horndean, Gosport, PO12 1BU PO8 0UU. 023 9259 3839 meet the festive T-Rex Santa- Royal Marines Museum, Eastney Saurus. £3 per child. 1.30pm - 2.30pm. For under 5s Esplanade, Southsea, PO4 9PX Watch Santa arrive at the with parents and carers - Hands- Nurseries at approx. 10am. 023 9281 9385 28 Nov - 24 December on activities with a Christmas 11am – 3pm. Deck the Barracks The Snow Dragon Christmas Canal Boat Trips theme and a chance to meet with lots of festive cheer this Park Community School, Havant. Chichester Canal Centre, Canal Santa. Tickets: £1 per child, Book holiday by making paper chains PO9 4BU. 023 9247 2700 Wharf, PO19 8DT. 01243 771 363 ahead as places are limited. and traditional decorations. Send 2.30pm. Story-telling, comedy A magical trip down the canal a special Christmas message too, and songs create a magical, to meet Father Christmas in his Toddler Tours by making a thank you card to mysterious world for everyone grotto plus a present from Santa National Museum Royal Navy send to the Royal Marines based aged 3 plus. An event by the and festive refreshments. £12. Portsmouth, HM Naval Base, around the world. Spring Arts Centre / £5.00 PO1 3LJ. 023 9298 8622 3 - 5 December 11am – 12noon. Short tours just 22 December Tale of a Very Mary Poppins Christmas at Sea for the under 5’s and their adults. Hansel and Gretal Ashcroft Arts Centre, Fareham The Spring, Havant, PO9 1BS Delving into a sensory Discovery The Spring, Havant, PO9 1BS PO16 7DX. 01329 223100 023 9247 2700 Bag the museum is brought to 2.30pm. Forest Forge & Theatre show presented by The 7.30pm. A Christmas musical by life with singing, object handling Bumblefly Theatre Present Academy of Future Stars. Havant Light Orchestra. and imagination. ‘Hansel and Gretal’

Call 02393 117 561 to see you events listed here Families Solent East | November/December 2015 | 15 MAGICAL CHRISTMAS MAZE

OPEN THROUGHOUT TH FRIDAY 27 TO SUNDAY DECEMBER* 29TH NOVEMBER 2015

• FEATURING FATHER CHRISTMAS • MORE SNOW THAN EVER BEFORE • FAGIN’S TAVERN • NEW FOR 2015 A MAGICAL CHRISTMAS TREE MAZE

*Magical Christmas Maze is free with an all attraction ticket, excluding all special event days.

BOOK NOW AT CHRISTMASFESTIVAL.CO.UK

FESTIVE FUN AT EMIRATES SPINNAKER TOWER 28 NOVEMBER – 31 DECEMBER Follow the sparkling reindeer trail and see if you can find all of Santa’s flying four footed friends, hidden around the tower! Warming drinks and tasty treats at Café in the Clouds and Waterfront Café SANTA APPEARANCES ON THE FOLLOWING DATES: 5 & 6 DEC, 12 & 13 DEC AND 19 & 20 DEC BOOK YOUR VISIT ONLINE NOW AND SAVE 15%! Gunwharf Quays, Portsmouth PO1 3TT

WWW.SPINNAKERTOWER.CO.UK

20030 SPIN Christmas 2015 Families Solent Ad 87x130.indd 1 15/10/2015 12:19