Keep busy during Boxing Week 2014

The week between Christmas and New Year can sometimes pass by in a haze of chocolates and televisions specials. Take a look at our suggestions to get you up and off the couch during Boxing week.

We take a look at some of the events taking place around the UK that will get you out of the house and staying busy during Boxing week.

1. Find a Bargain

Most of the post-Christmas sales start on Boxing Day, making Boxing week a good time to find a bargain, especially if you’ve been given gift vouchers for Christmas. If you’re the sort to plan ahead, then this is the perfect time of year to stock up on next year’s Christmas cards and stocking fillers.

2. See the Lights at Kew Gardens

Head to Kew Gardens in London to see dazzling illuminations at the annual ‘Christmas at Kew’ event. The famous gardens are transformed into a winter wonderland filled with light sculptures, decorated trees and festive treats at night.

5pm to 10pm, 26 November 2014 to 03 January 2015

Find out more here

3. Celebrate Hogmanay in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is one of the most vibrant places to visit the week after Christmas, as Scotland’s capital celebrates Hogmanay in style. Visit the city to enjoy a glittering Torchlight Procession through the city, a candlelit concert of classical music, festive ceilidhs and suppers.

30 December 2014 to 01 January 2015

Find out more here

4. Ride The Great Central Railway

Step back in time to the age of steam and take a ride on the Great Central Railway, which runs from Loughborough to Leicester and makes an excellent activity for all ages. If you really want to spoil yourself, book on to the New Years Eve celebration and enjoy a six course meal in first class.

26 December 2014 to 02 January 201

Find out more here

5. Celebrate Twelfth Night in Beamish

Nestled in County Durham is the open air museum of Beamish, which shows what life was like in Britain past. The village hosts Twelfth Night celebrations after Christmas, giving visitors the chance to take part in authentic festivities like be dancing, traditional treats, first-footing, and skating on a real ice rink.

26th December 2014 to 4th January 2015 (Closed 29 December and 01 January)

Find out more here

6. See a Pantomime

Enjoy one of the best festive traditions in the UK by going to see a pantomime with your family. There are shows around the UK featuring some beloved stars of stage and screen in some very familiar stories.

Find out more here

7. Visit a Historic House

An afternoon spent exploring a local historic house will give you a glimpse of the past, while a brisk walk in the grounds will help work off some of the festive excess.

8. Dip Into Culture

Museums and Galleries are wonderful places to visit during Boxing week. They are especially good to visit with your family, whether you want to see a new art exhibition taking place or introduce your grandchildren to history museum.

9. Join The Festival of Winter Walks

Wrap up warm, put on your walking shoes and head out to the countryside to join the Festival of Winter Walks. Ramblers groups across Britain organise free walks for all ages and abilities, from short strolls to long hikes and everything in between.

20 December 2014 to 04 January 2015

Find out more here

10. Pamper Yourself

Use Boxing week as a time to pamper yourself and relax a little. Spend time reading books and watching films you were given for Christmas, book yourself in for a back massage, or have a romantic meal out with your partner.

What else could people do to keep busy during Boxing week?