Our pantomime heroine and her friends go to the seaside this Christmas. It’s time to pack your bucket and spade and join them, says Harriet Cooper. Oh yes it is!

I was invited to the final dress rehearsal of Princess Theatre’s pantomime Aladdin in Hunstanton last week and it was so much fun, says Amanda Loose

Enchanting, magical and oh-so-Christmassy. Amanda Loose enjoys a festive feast for the senses

This year’s festive spectacle is packed with seasonal song and dance, standup comedy and magic – all at the end of the seaside town’s famous pier, says Harriet Cooper

Christmas can add up but there’s still plenty to do at this time of year that doesn’t have an admission charge. Here’s where to celebrate the festive season for free (though do note, many events encourage voluntary contributions for charity)