Christmas is fast approaching, and whilst there’s no sign of a white Christmas, there’s still a festive feel around Beverley and across East Yorkshire.
2020 has undoubtedly been one of the toughest on record, leaving us all in need of a little rest and relaxation.
It’s not yet clear whether the Tier 3 restrictions imposed on the area will be lifted in time for 25th December, but that shouldn’t stop you getting ready to have a fantastic Christmas even if it doesn’t quite shape up as we’d all like.
Whilst COVID-19 remains at the front and centre of our thoughts, here are a few tips on how to make the most of Christmas in Beverley this year.
1.Make a plan (and a backup plan)
As mentioned, it’s not yet clear whether the Government will relax the Tier 3 restrictions currently in effect across our region. Whilst we’d all love to be spending time with family and friends over the holiday period, it might not be possible this year.
In any event, it pays to plan ahead – whether you pull a cracker with loved ones or not. If you were hoping to have relatives or friends around on the big day itself, it’s worth checking in with them and ensuring that everybody has a contingency plan in place should the worst come to the worst.
Even if you can’t meet in person, why not spread a little festive cheer by organising an online meetup – with different households and social bubbles dialling in on Skype, Zoom, Facetime or another messenger service.
It might not be quite the same, but at least we can get through this (digitally) together.
2.Deck the halls
A lot of people have taken to putting their decorations up early this year, and who can blame them. The cold winter nights have already drawn in, and yet it’s impossible to get into the Christmas spirit in the usual way since we’re all stuck at home.
If you’ve managed to hold out this far, it might be time to get yourself down to Cherry Lane Beverley (Tickton). They’re stocking a huge range of home decorations, realistic faux Christmas trees, and plenty of gifts and cards.
3.Fill the cupboards
Christmas dinner needs cooking whether you’ve got guests coming over or not. Even if you had planned for a quiet one, there’s always the possibility that three-household strong bubbles will be allowed over the Christmas weekend, meaning that you’ll probably need to stock up on veg and will definitely need to get some more pigs in blankets.
If it’s fresh produce you’re after, the Beverley Market probably has exactly what you need. With fruit, vegetables, and other assorted goodies on offer, it’d be rude not to really.
For more information, keep an eye on the market’s Facebook page where the organisers are posting opening updates.
4.Plan the ideal Boxing Day walk
Yorkshire’s not short of beautiful sights, making the traditional Boxing Day walk all the better for people living in Beverley.
If you’ve not yet planned your route, why not check out Beverley Westwood, the grounds of Beverley Minster, or maybe even trek down the Hudson Way Rail Trail.
Just remember to avoid the crowds, and if you do bump your walk up to Christmas day, don’t leave the turkey unattended in the oven!
5.Stock up on last-minute presents
Finally, it’s almost inevitable that you’ve got a bit of Christmas shopping left to do. Whether that’s online or instore, there’s no need to leave buying this year’s gifts to the very least minute – especially if it’s financial concerns that have stopped you crossing off the remaining items from your list.
Provided that you’re over 18, are a UK resident and have a regular income that’s paid into your bank account, you could get flexible finance from one of the many direct lenders on the Little Loans panel. It’s quick and easy to apply, and you could borrow between £100 and £10,000, which is enough to see you through Christmas and past this COVID-19 nightmare.
And lastly… take some time to relax this Christmas!
