Film festival to Rotterdam in New Year

January will see Rotterdam welcome its International Film Festival, which lasts until February, attracting film enthusiast from all over the world. It has been running for 35 years and attracts 300,000 people from around the world.

Those coming from the UK are fortunate enough to be able to take advantage of fast, cheap ferries to Rotterdam, either via the Dover-Calais route, or an overnight crossing from Hull to Europoort. Foot passengers can even take a fabulous 2 or 3 night minicruise with coach transfers directly to Rotterdam city centre.

Many of those in attendance are from the film industry and film fans are likely to see a familiar face or two. The event is said to be "one of the most consistently innovative film events in Europe," according to WhatsOnWhen.

Filmmakers will compete for some of the sought-after awards available, including the BPRO Tiger Awards, which give guaranteed distribution and TV rights in Holland.

Those attending the event, which is easily accessed by cross-channel ferry, will have the opportunity to watch 60 world premieres from influential directors.

A number of social events and a city filled with culture make this a great weekend break.