16 December 2014

Polly Checkland Harding Posted 16 December 2014

Our Advent Calendar continues, marking the cultural countdown to Christmas. Today: Memorial art and Media City

Some pretty special paintings are currently in residence at Manchester Art Gallery: on tour away from their usual home, the Sandham Memorial Chapel in Hampshire, Stanley Spencer’s stunning murals of his memories from World War One make up Heaven in a Hell of War. Unlike the gallery’s other, major exhibition A Sensory War, these paintings look away from the worst outcomes of conflict to humbler, domestic scenes away from the front. They are stunning works on large-scale, arched canvases. Don’t miss them. Manchester Art Gallery, 10am-5pm, free.

Do more. For something more festive, head to MediaCityUK. The annual ice rink is up and running at Manchester’s media hub, with food and drink offerings tacked on to the side. We say ice skating is more magical after dark – so don gloves (and possibly a pillow for your bum) and see how long you can stay upright. Good luck! Media City UK, 11am-9pm. Tickets £5 Mon-Fri; £7/£5 children Sat & Sun.

Destination Guides

Spotlight on

Things to do in Blackpool

Fancy a festive day trip? Explore our guide to Blackpool and build yourself an itinerary featuring attractions, galleries, restaurants and more.

Take me there

Culture Guides

Theatre in the North

From contemporary dance to ballet classics, and cult rock ‘n’ roll musicals to new writing, our theatre guide spans the festive season and beyond.

Family things to do in the North

As we move into festive season, Manchester and the North is packed with fun events and activities for families, both indoors and outdoors.

A man is dressed as an Elf in a decorated department store.

Cinema in the North

Get ready for animated classics, Muppet mayhem and a whole host of New York movies -- it's Christmas time in the cinema.

Classical Music in the North

Read our latest highlights from the live classical music offer in Manchester and the North, taking in a number of the region's most cherished orchestral forces and venues.

Tours and Activities in the North

Munch away the Autumnal blues with this foodie orientated guide of Tours and Activities in Manchester and the North.

Literature Events in the North

Bookish goings-on are perfect for picking up presents for others and treats to get yourself through the cold, dark days ahead.

Food and Drink in the North

Take some autumnal eating-out tips from this month's guide to food and drink in Manchester and the North.

Walker & Bromwich, Love Cannon, 2006, lambda print Photo:

Exhibitions inthe North

Before the festive season completely takes over, we've rounded up some of the best exhibitions to see right now.