Our cultural countdown to Christmas… Head for Spinningfields to ‘curl’ beneath the wintry skies, and nab tickets to Tattu’s New Year’s Eve extravaganza before they sell out.

Spinningfields is host to the country’s only outdoor curling lanes this winter, with two dedicated curling lanes laid out on The Lawn. These are accompanied by The Curling Club, which houses the box office, equipment, festive refreshments, cosy rugs and spectators’ area. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned pro, you can go brush to brush against friends or foes on the ice any time you like. The Curling Lanes, Spinningfields, until February 2016, 10am-10pm daily. Tickets start from £20 for a group of four people per 15 minute session. Book online – walk-up sessions also available

Outdoor curling and planning ahead for a spectacular New Year’s Eve

Looking ahead to New Year’s Eve, and Tattu are putting out all the stops. The elaborate fusion restaurant – complete with artificial blossom tree on its upper floor – will be laying on a special five-course set menu (£70 per person), with bookings taken until 7.30pm on the evening. Later on, the restaurant steps up a gear to present an array of live performances, musical acts and a stunning visual display for the final countdown. Tickets for the evening celebrations are £100 per person, but include the five-course set menu and half a bottle of champagne each – tables can be booked from 9.30pm onwards. New Year’s Eve, Tattu, contact reservations@tattu.co.uk or call 0161 819 2060. Menus can be viewed here.