1. Connor on the right lines in The Railway Children

When you walk into Waterloo railway station the thing that hits you is the energy and buzz of people rushing left and right, heading into the city to be dazzled by the excitement and the lights.

2. Panto review: Aladdin

The legend of Aladdin needs little introduction. Evil Abanazar wants to find a magic lamp that contains a genie: it's hidden in the cave of wonders but only Aladdin can get it for him.

3. Christmas crackers: Our TV choice

4. Film Review: The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo

The books by Swedish author Stieg Larsson were huge bestsellers and the films that swiftly followed were received just as warmly.

5. Spirit of Christmas fills Basildon Park

The spirit of this Christmas has filled Basildon Park now that eight stunning trees are in place.

6. Your chance to meet Reading’s panto stars

Tales of magic lamps and Chinese laundries are currently being spun in Reading. It’s all thanks to Aladdin, the fantastic pantomime at The Hexagon.

7. Christmas stories from The Travelling Talesman

The story of Christmas will be told in a mythological and folkloric manner when The Travelling Talesman strolls into Wokingham next week.

8. Soundtracks: Enjoy some Christmas rapping

Sick of wrapping presents? You can head to Bracknell for rapping without the w.

9. Film review: Another Earth

If in Another Earth you’re anticipating generic science fiction fare, think again.

10. Restaurant review: The Elephant Hotel, Pangbourne

Beautifully tender venison in quite a delicate sauce spooned onto the plate and a wing of crisp, buttery flaky pastry hovering above it, a precise quenelle of potato and colourful cabbage.