November 29, 2022
10 things to do in Chelmsford this winter!
December is just around the corner and like most of us, you may be wondering what you can do to get in the Christmas spirit or how to make the most of winter 2022 in the UK. If you’re studying with us on our Chelmsford campus and are looking for things to give involved with this festive season, then look no further! We’ve got you covered as we’ve found 10 amazing things you can do in and around Chelmsford over the festive period.
- Santa Fun Run
Head over to Central Park bright and early on Sunday 4th December to witness the extraordinary Santa Fun Run in aid of Farleigh Hospice. You can even book yourself a place and get involved!
- Festive Film Night with ARU College
On Thursday 1st December ARU College are hosting a Festive Film night on both our Cambridge and Chelmsford campuses. Join us from 5-7 in MAB 221 (Chelmsford) and LAB 214 (Cambridge) to sit back and enjoy a festive favourite on the big screen! Film to be voted and decided by you! Email support@arucollege.com if you want to come along.
- Enlightened at Hylands Estate
Between 24th November 2022 and 1st January 2023, Hylands Estate in Chelmsford are putting on an enchanting outdoor light trail in their grounds. This is a great way to see the impressive estate if you haven’t already, plus it’s sure to get you in a festive mood! Adult tickets start at £12.
- Have a go at making a traditional Christmas dinner
If you don’t want to brave the cold weather and staying in is more your thing, why not have a go at cooking a traditional English Christmas dinner. You can host for your family, friends or housemates or simply treat yourself!
- Join us for Christmas Cookie decorating
On Wednesday 7th December ARU College will be hosting cookie decorating during our regular cake hour slot (1pm-2pm). Test your creativity and work on your hand eye coordination with this fun, festive activity. Drop by the office on both campuses to get involved or email us on support@arucollege.com.
- Find a Christmas market
Get your Christmas shopping on and shop local at one of Chelmsford’s Christmas markets. For example, Chelmsford Museum’s Hive Café will be hosting a pop-up Christmas market on Saturday 3 December, from 5:30pm-9pm, which is free but needs to be booked online. Or Chelmsford Cathedral are also hosting a Christmas Market with free entry on the same day!
- Christmas Carols
Traditionally sung at Christmas itself or during the surrounding Christmas holiday season, Christmas Carols go hand in hand with a traditional British Christmas. If you want to get involved, Chelmsford Cathedral are hosting Carols for Everyone at midday on Friday 9th December.
- Head to the capital to check out the Christmas lights!
London is less than an hour away from Chelmsford by train so if you do get the opportunity to see it at Christmas, it’s worth it! Jump on the train and head to Oxford Street, Carnaby Street and Covent Garden, among other places.
- Ice skating
If you’d rather stay local, then Riverside Ice Rink is a 10-minute walk from campus and offers a variety of ice-skating sessions, suitable for everyone.
- Pub Quiz night
Finally, Britain is renowned for it’s pub quiz! There are plenty of pubs in and around Chelmsford so why not sign yourself and some friends up, test your knowledge, and get involved!