WITH Christmas coming ever nearer, there is plenty coming up at Skipton Town Hall and Craven Museum.

The museum, winner of Kids in Museums Family Friendly Award 2023, is open from Monday to Saturday, from when between 9.30am to 4.30pm, people can visit for free to connect with local characters and landscapes from the past in its family friendly, accessible museum.

The museum has around 60,000 objects representing millions of years of Craven history including rocks rare books, photographs, furniture, art and taxidermy – it is also the proud home of a rare copy of the Shakespeare First Folio, published 400 years ago.

On Saturday (December 9) there will be two Christmas crafts sessions. The morning and afternoon Craven Museum Make and Take family craft sessions will take place in the concert hall and are suitable for children of all ages. Sessions are free, but with donations welcomed.

On Monday, December 11, there will be a play session aimed at younger children. Children under five years old will be invited to explore the wonders of winter at the interactive play session. Tickets £3.

A town hall spokesperson said: "We have designed these play sessions to engage our young learners in hands-on activities that will ignite their imaginations and deepen their understanding of the world around them. Through these explorative play sessions, we aim to foster a sense of wonder and appreciation for our rich cultural heritage. By engaging in hands-on activities, our little ones will develop a deeper understanding of different cultures, traditions, and artistic expressions from around the world."

Christmas panto Robin Hood takes place from December 15 to December 17; and on Thursday, December 21 there will be double-fun with a screening of the all time favourite The Snowman and crafts afterwards.

Aimed at children under four years old and their families, there will be soft play mats and bean bags to watch the animated film, followed by craft activities.

On Friday, December 22 children and families are invited to a special screening of The Santa Clause (PG).

"Get ready to don your coziest pyjamas and embark on a magical journey to the North Pole," said the spokesperson.

"Snuggle up with hot chocolate and Christmas treats and follow the adventures of ordinary man, who accidentally causes Santa Claus to fall from his roof on Christmas Eve and is knocked unconscious."

For tickets and details of all events at the town hall, go to: https://skiptontownhall.co.uk