Joy to the WORLD

From a traditional service to carols in a cave, Christmas can be celebrated in so many wonderful ways

- ANDREW SHAW

Nine Lessons and Carols Cambridge

For many, hearing Once in Royal David’s City being sung by the choir of King’s College Chapel, Cambridge, is when Christmas truly begins. The carol has started this magical service every year (bar 1930) since the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols was first held on Christmas Eve 1918. Now, around 370 million people listen in through the BBC’s worldwide broadcasts, including people across the US, Africa and Asia. The public can attend, but a queue for tickets forms days before the service.

The pure, soaring notes of Silent Night filling a holly-decked chapel, choristers in scarlet cassocks and frilly white collars, their youthful faces lit up by flickering candles. What could be more Christmassy? It’s a scene found up and down the country – everywhere from humble village churches to mighty cathedrals. Here is a selection of wonderful Christmas services in the UK – from the long-established and traditional, to something a little bit more unusual.

Some Christmas services may not be taking place as planned this year due to COVID-19 restrictions

Peak Cavern carol concert Derbyshire