Far from the reflective niceties of the Queen’s speech, or the explosive dramatics of Albert Square, for many people Christmas Day viewing means only one thing: a Doctor Who Special.Now valiant young explorers can relive their favourite festive

 – but look out for beggars scoundrels and thieves who may just end up in the stocks before the day is through. Film Club: A Child’s Christmas In WalesDecember 10Settle down with your family at Wales’ National Museum for a special screening of an animated

–11, 15–18 Catch Santa and Mrs Clause at their thatched cottage holiday home, Hezlett House in Castlerock. While father Christmas is taking a much needed-break before his busy festive schedule kicks inn he will be offering a special gift for children

gracious hostess for the day, Mrs Greville and experience an Edwardian Christmas at Polesden Lacey with festive fare, sleigh rides, a local choir and a special appearance from Father Christmas.Breakfast With Father ChristmasDecember 3,4,10,11Enjoy a

The Festive Gift FairNovember 17–20De-stress your Christmas shopping expedition this year and turn it into a fun, family day out at the NEC Birmingham. The hundreds of sellers in attendance at this four day shopping spectacular will be offering

competition to see The Gruffalo Live on tour.12 Days Of ChristmasDecember 3-4, 10-11, 17-24For a very merry festive day out this Christmas, Nickelodeon Land in Blackpool is a veritable feast of seasonal activity. Children receive a special gift from Father

winter bite.Santa At Almond ValleyDecember 3–24Look out for the rotund fellow in red nestled away in the woods at Almond Valley Heritage Centre who will be dishing out Christmas presents to children both naughty and nice. Families can also enjoy Christmas

to Christmas is being played out on a colossal scale at Tower Bridge this year with a giant Victorian advent calendar. On arrival children will be asked to select a candy cane from a giant Christmas tree, one of which on each day will allow the lucky recipient

in the Year Of The Dragon by hanging your New Year hopes on a special wishing tree.Lift The LidJanuary 8Join a professional artist in this creative family session inspired by the Andy Warhol exhibition at East Sussex’s De La Warr Pavilion.Surround Sound

IRN-BRU Carnival 2012December 23–January 15Revel in some post Christmas excitement with this annual carnival at the SECC in Glasgow with over 60 great attractions, rides and stalls for children and adults alike.Mince Pie SpecialsDecember 31–January