Luxury country house hotels get booked up early for Christmas and with good reason: luxury hotels could be made for Christmas. Think of the best luxury country house hotels for Christmas and instantly you can picture the festive scene: comfy sofas, roaring fires, beautiful decorations and acres of grounds for the Boxing Day walk (or a top spa for some serious pampering).
[Note – my epic round-up for 2020 is being written this very momen, so in the meantime hopefully this will provide some great inspiration. Most hotels are doing something similar this year to previous years, with some Covid exceptions, and most prices are either the same or just a fraction higher]
Many luxury hotels, especially the best British country house hotels, offer two- or three-night festive breaks which wraps up the whole of the Christmas experience in a Christmassy package, often starting with welcome drinks, carol-singing and dinner on Christmas Eve, followed by Christmas morning cocktails and Christmas Day breakfast, the all-important Christmas Dinner with all the trimmings, and then, if you’re lucky, a Boxing Day Ball. Sprinkled among all this festivity will be Christmas films, time for presents and the Queen’s Speech (Christmas at a luxury hotel is nothing if not traditional).
Added to this might be a luxury hotel spa, activities such as falconry, wine-tasting, treasure hunts, black tie dances, cocktail classes, Christmas games and quizzes (Father Christmas could even make an appearance) and probably the best thing of all: absolutely no washing up. You will be looked after, pampered, indulged and thoroughly cosseted and while all this comes at a price, well, it’s only once a year after all. However each hotel chooses to celebrate Christmas, you can be sure of three things: it will be memorable, it won’t be cheap, and there’ll be a massive Christmas tree. Feeling festive yet?
Below is a round-up of the best luxury hotels for Christmas 2019 in the UK. The price of Christmas breaks is usually based on the cheapest room and so might be more expensive depending on what rooms the hotels have left. Where I haven’t been able to find a price for Christmas 2019 I’ve kept the price from last Christmas but will add a note to that effect. If any of these Christmas hotels take your fancy then be quick as many of these will sell out – and fast. I’ve included links so you can jump to the different regions or just scroll through the whole list for Christmas inspiration. Good tidings to all!
Best hotels for Christmas in the Cotswolds
Best hotels for Christmas in South East England
Best hotels for Christmas in the New Forest
Best hotels for Christmas in South West England
Best hotels for Christmas in the Midlands
Best hotels for Christmas in the North of England
Best hotels for Christmas in Scotland
Best hotels for Christmas in Wales
Best hotels for a Christmas spa break
Best hotels for Christmas in the Cotswolds
Dormy House, Worcestershire
The spa at Dormy House
The hotel: Above Broadway in the Cotswolds, Dormy House is the perfect boutique hotel, with an ultra-modern spa, cosy bedrooms, two restaurants and a great eye for what makes a lovely break.
The Christmas package: Snuggle up by the fire this Christmas for three nights of festivity at this award-winning boutique hotel. For Christmas Eve, enjoy afternoon tea and mulled wine on arrival, curl up by the roaring fire with a warming mug of hot chocolate and then feast on a three-course dinner at The Potting Shed or the Garden Room restaurants; on Christmas Day, celebrate with champagne and canape reception, followed by a five-course Christmas banquet with all the trimmings followed by a Christmas Day evening buffet. On Boxing Day, enjoy an all-day brunch offering at The Potting Shed, and then work off the Christmas treats with outdoor activities enjoying the Cotswold countryside and crisp winter air. In the evening, take your seat for another five-course tasting menu and matching wines.
Cost of Dormy House hotel’s Christmas package 2019: From £2,650 based on two people sharing an Intimate room.
Read what it’s like to stay at Dormy House here
The Painswick, Gloucestershire
The Painswick
The hotel: Cosy and charming award-winning boutique hotel in Cotswolds stone.
The Christmas package: Head to the Cotswolds and join this chic hotel for a three night Christmas break. Start off with cake, tea and Champagne on Christmas Eve before a three-course dinner and a stroll if you fancy it to Midnight Mass at St Mary’s church which is handily next door. Breakfast comes with Buck’s Fizz, followed by a five-course Christmas Lunch, the Queen’s Speech and a selection of board games to while away the afternoon. The hotel has loads of maps for Boxing Day walks – it’s right on the Cotswolds way – and then a Boxing Day dinner to reward hikers.
Cost of staying at the Painswick for Christmas 2019: From £1,440 for three nights based on two people sharing, suites are £2,115.
Read what it’s like to stay at The Painswick here
The hotel: Family-friendly Cotswolds luxury hotel (owned by the group behind Barnsley House, The Painswick and Lord Crewe Arms) set in 220 acres of Cotswolds countryside. Smart rooms, large spa and its very own pub make this a self-contained Cotswolds retreat.
The Christmas package: Guests are welcomed on 24th December with Christmas cake and mince pies in front of roaring log fires. That evening there’s a dinner glass of fizz followed by dinner
in The Conservatory and later, carol singing by local choristers for a spot and hot toddy and mince pies for people attending Midnight Mass. Christmas begins with a Champagne breakfast, then a traditional Christmas Lunch. Clay-pigeon shooting is on offer on Boxing Day or a stroll round Calcot Manor’s 220 acres and the Christmas break is finished off with a Champagne reception and dinner.
Price of Christmas 2019 at Calcot Manor: Rooms start at £1,170 per person based on two sharing.
Read what it’s like to stay at Calcot Manor here
Whatley Manor
The hotel: Quintessential country house hotel with Michelin-starred restaurant, top spa and beautiful ornate gardens.
The Christmas package: Four days of indulgence and celebration await guests at Whatley Manor starting with a bottle of chilled Champagne in your room, afternoon tea and then a 12-course dining experience on 23rd December. There’s wine-tasting, a candlelit dinner on Christmas Eve, plus transport to Midnight Mass at Malmesbury Abbey. There’s a traditional lunch on Christmas Day plus board games and evening buffet, and then Boxing Day treats include a trip to Westonbirt Arboretum, a festive wine-tasting and a five-course black tie Gala dinner followed by dancing.
Cost of Christmas 2019 at Whatley Manor: From £3,750 per room including full use of spa based on two sharing
Read what it’s like to stay at Whatley Manor here
Manor House, Castle Combe, Wiltshire
The Manor House
The hotel: Splendid historic manor house with beautiful grounds in the heart of picture-perfect Cotswolds village Castle Combe.
The Christmas package: Start with a festive cream tea and Champagne and canape reception before a four-dinner Christmas Eve dinner with singers on shared tables. Stroll to the local church for Midnight Mass. Traditional Christmas Dinner in its Bybrook restaurant followed by a film and buffet, and then on Boxing Day try your hand at laser clay-pigeon shooting, golf or festive games before a four-course gourmet dinner.
Cost of 2019 Christmas package 2019 at Manor House: Three night stay from £1,100 per person based on two sharing
Read what it’s like to stay at Manor House here
Barnsley House, Gloucestershire
The hotel: Gorgeously cosy and charming boutique hotel in a beautiful little Cotswolds village, with Rosemary Verey gardens, spa and private cinema.
The Christmas package: The three-day break includes a Champagne afternoon tea and three-course dinner on Christmas Eve, Champagne reception with canapes and three-course Christmas Day lunch, buffet dinner Christmas Day evening and a Boxing Day pie and quiz night at The Village Pub just yards away.
Cost: From £2,303 for a junior suite based on two people sharing.
Read what it’s like to stay at Barnsley House here
Bowood hotel, Wiltshire
The hotel: A smart golf and spa hotel on the beautiful Bowood Estate
The Christmas package: A two-night break promising a ‘fabulously Christmassy atmosphere’ including Chistmas Eve Champagne afternoon tea and 3-course dinner, Christmas Day stockings, traditional Christmas lunch followed by a visit from Father Christmas, entertainment on Christmas afternoon and a buffet dinner in the evening with entertainment. Access to spa facilities and the golf course available at extra cost.
Cost of Christmas break at Bowood hotel and spa 2019: From £440 per person for a two-night break
Read my review of Bowood hotel here
The Lygon Arms, Worcestershire
The hotel: A four-star luxury coaching inn in Broadway, the heart of the Cotswolds. Sister hotel to Cliveden and Chewton Glen.
The Christmas package: Champagne afternoon tea on arrival followed by a Champagne reception with carols, three-course dinner with wines. Christmas Day breakfast at leisure, then a pre-lunch Champagne reception and four-course Christmas lunch with wines, followed by cream tea, Christmas cocktails and canapes and buffet dinner with wine. On Boxing Day wave-off the North Cotswold Hunt from the front door of the Lygon Arms and look forward to a three-course gala dinner with wines and dancing.
Cost of Christmas 2019 at The Lygon Arms: Prices start from £2,580 per room based on two sharing. My brand new review of The Lygon Arms will follow shortly!
The hotel: The Fish bills itself as a ‘back-to-nature bolthole’ with a little touch of luxury and is owned by the group behind the excellent Dormy House (see review at the top of this article).
The Christmas package: Afternoon tea on arrival on Christmas Eve and dinner in seafood-inspired restaurant Hook. Christmas Day begins with a hearty Cotswolds breakfast followed by Christmas Day lunch with all the trimmings and for those who still have room, graze on the Christmas day buffet in the evening. There’s more food at the Boxing day brunch, an afternoon filled with tea and cakes, as well as chance to stroll off the calories in 400-acres of field and woodland before a farewell dinner before another Cotswold breakfast and farewells.
Cost for Christmas 2019 at The Fish hotel: Prices from £1,175 based on two people sharing a medium room.
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Best hotels for Christmas in South East
Best hotels for Christmas in Bedfordshire
Luton Hoo
The hotel: A stunning, five star luxury hotel on the Bedfordshire border which has starred in several films including Four Weddings and a Funeral and Eyes Wide Shut. The vast 1,065 acre estate is perfect for a Christmas ramble and the hotel has its own championship golf course and fleet of London taxis to ferry guests around.
The Christmas package: There’s a packed schedule of festive fun at Luton Hoo this year. On Christmas Eve guests can take part in gin-tasting or a history tour, Christmas card making, traditional afternoon tea, a family swim or watch a festive film before champagne and carols, dinner in the award-winning Wernher restaurant before transport to Midnight Mass and returning for hot toddies and mince pies. Christmas Day starts with gifts from Father Christmas, Christmas lunch, children’s story time before more films, a family quiz, the Queen’s Speech, tea and Christmas cake followed by a buffet dinner and snooker competition. There’s a food and wine quiz on Boxing Day, plus clay pigeon shooting, crossbow and archery on the lawn, a champagne reception and a race night dinner.
Cost of Luton Hoo’s Christmas package 2019 : From £915 per person for three nights or £995 for four nights, based on two sharing.
Read what it’s like to stay at Luton Hoo here
Best hotels for Christmas in Berkshire
Cliveden House
The hotel: A 350-year old country house set in 376 acres of magnificent formal gardens and woodland, Cliveden is one of Britain’s grandest country houses and fittingly promises an ‘iconic’ Christmas house party. The hotel where Meghan Markle spent the night before marrying Prince Harry is a Grade 1-listed stately home complete with antique furniture and a thoroughly modern spa and guests can expect a Christmas celebration worthy of Downton Abbey.
The Christmas package: Christmas Eve starts with mulled wine and mince pies and a champagne reception with carol singers followed by a three-course gourmet dinner with wines, while there’s a three-course Christmas lunch with wines on the big day itself. On Boxing Day there’s a brunch buffet followed by a ‘butler’s tour’ of the stunning building, then dinner with wines and dancing.
Cost of Cliveden House hotel’s Christmas package 2019: Prices start from £3,765 based on two sharing a Classic Room.
Read what it’s like to stay at Cliveden here
The hotel: Five-star Michelin-restaurant hotel near Ascot, set in 240 acres of Berkshire parkland. Coworth Park is the only hotel in the UK with its own polo fields and also has an award-winning spa.
The Christmas package: Festive Champagne afternoon tea on arrival followed by Christmas card-making, family board games and cinema in the Tower House followed by a three-course dinner at Restaurant Coworth Park or The Barn and live entertainment until midnight and optional transfers to Sunningdale Parish Church for midnight service. Father Christmas will be in the lobby on Christmas morning followed by champagne, canapes and entertainment in the Drawing Room and a four-course Christmas lunch at The Barn or six-course lunch at Restaurant Coworth Park and live entertainment in the evening. Boxing day there’s a chocolate masterclass, childrens’ party and wine-tasting followed by a three dinner and entertainment.
The cost of the Christmas package at Coworth Park: Rooms from £1,370 per room, per night based on double occupancy, suites from from £1,600 per room per night.
Best hotels for Christmas in Buckinghamshire
Hartwell House, Buckinghamshire
Hartwell House
The hotel: Luxury country house hotel and spa with 90 acres of land and impeccable customer service.
The Christmas package: A three-night break at Hartwell promises to be a luxurious and traditional affair, with cream tea, Champagne reception and four-course dinner on Christmas Eve, Christmas lunch and Queen’s Speech with tea and Christmas cake, and a farewell black tie casino evening with Prosecco reception, three-course dinner and wine pairings.
Cost of staying at Hartwell House for Christmas 2019: From £1,100 based on two sharing
Read what it’s like to stay at Hartwell House here
Best hotels for Christmas in East Sussex
Ashdown Park
The hotel: The view from the hotel’s terrace will take your breath away – rolling lawns surrounded by Ashdown Forest (which inspired Winnie-the-Pooh creator AA Milne). The 106-bedroom hotel in 186 acre-estate is full of beautiful historic rooms and even boasts its own spa and chapel.
The Christmas package: Ashdown Park is offering three and four-night packages starting with a Christmas Eve champagne and canape reception with carols, a candlelit dinner in its Anderida restaurant, hot toddies and mince pies to welcome people returning from Midnight Mass. Christmas Day begins with breakfast, mince pies and mulled wine – and a visit from Father Christmas – and continues with a buffet lunch, afternoon champagne quiz and then a five-course traditional Christmas Dinner in the evening. Boxing Day treats includes clay pigeon shooting, archery and a falconry display, a quiz and a treasure hunt and after a Black Tie gala dinner, a casino evening with roulette and live music. Spa access included throughout the stay
Cost of Christmas 2019 at Ashdown Park hotel: From £999 per person for three nights, £1,134 for the four-night package based on two people sharing.
Read what it’s like to stay at Ashdown Park hotel here
Best hotels for Christmas in Surrey
Pennyhill Park
The hotel: 120-bedroom luxury hotel with one of the finest hotel spas in the country, covering 45,000 sq ft and with eight indoor and outdoor pools (one with underwater music), saunas, steam rooms, bubbling hot tubs, ice-cold plunge pools and a salt scrub ice cave. There’s also a gym, nine-hole golf course, tennis courts and 120 acres of parkland with paths and cycling trails and several restaurants and bars.
The Christmas package: Start the celebrations off with a welcome High Tea and a glass of fizz, or relax in the vast spa. Later there are carol singers by candlelight and a four-course dinner before a trip out for those who want to attend Midnight Mass. Christmas starts with more pampering in the spa followed by a Christmas buffet lunch, then games and a film and the Pennyhill Park Christmas quiz. Boxing Day offers a three-course lunch and then an afternoon of falconry followed by a Champagne reception and three-course dinner with live entertainment.
Cost of Christmas 2019 at Pennyhill Park: From £899 for a two-night stay based on two people sharing, and from £1,099 for the three-night package.
Read my review of Pennyhill Park here
Best hotels for Christmas in West Sussex
Bailiffscourt
The hotel: Just yards from Climping Beach, Bailiffscourt feels far older than its 90 years, with four-poster beds and its own 13th-century chapel in its 30 acres – but its large spa is bang up to date.
The Christmas package: Arrive on Christmas Eve for a Sussex Sparkling afternoon tea, a mulled wine drinks reception accompanied by carol singers, buffet dinner and Midnight Mass followed by mulled wine and home-made mince pies. Christmas Day starts with full English breakfast and Bucks Fizz, a sparkling wine reception with canapés followed by a traditional Christmas lunch, tea and Christmas cake and a light buffet supper. For Boxing Day there is mulled wine with marshmallows by the open fires, tea and home-made cake followed by a gala dinner on shared party tables. Full use of the spa and swimming pools included.
Cost of spending Christmas 2019 at Bailiffscourt: From £1,085 per person based on two people sharing
Read what it’s like to stay at Bailiffscourt here
Ockenden Manor
The hotel: In the pretty village of Cuckfield, 28-room Ockenden Manor combines the history of an Elizabethan manor house with a first-class modern spa
The Christmas package: Start off with an indulgent afternoon tea, a Sussex sparkling wine reception with carols around the tree then dinner in the elegant restaurant on shared party tables, Midnight mass followed by mulled wine and home-made mince pies. For Christmas Day there’s a continental breakfast, sparkling wine reception with canapés followed by a six course lunch, tea and Christmas cake, light buffet supper with harpist accompaniment in the evening. Boxing Day: Full English breakfast with Sussex sparkling wine, full afternoon tea with Christmas Cake and cocktails before a gourmet dinner – plus full use of its award-winning spa and swimming pools
Cost for Ockenden Manor’s Christmas package 2019: From £1,025 per person based on two sharing.
Read my review of Ockenden Manor here
South Lodge, nr Horsham, West Sussex
The hotel: Part of Exclusive Hotels group (which also includes Pennyhill Park and Manor House), South Lodge is a luxury hotel in West Sussex overlooking the South Downs, with a brand new spa and individually-designed bedrooms.
The Christmas package: Arrive to mulled wine and mince pies before finding your very own Christmas tree in your room (surprise gifts will appear here throughout the break). There’s a sparkling drinks reception with a choir in the evening, followed by a three-course welcome dinner in The Camellia restaurant or six-course tasting menu. The spa will be open throughout the festivities. A traditional Christmas lunch (or luxury carvery for those on a two-night break) on Christmas Day is followed by a buffet and quiz in the evening. On Boxing Day enjoy the fresh air with clay-pigeon shooting and archery lessons or take a ride on hotel bicycles. There’s a family cinema room for a local pantomime, while in the evening there’s wine-tasting and a three-course dinner.
The cost of the Christmas package at South Lodge: Two-night stay from £990 per person, three-night stays from £1,185 per person, based on two sharing.
Best hotels for Christmas in the South West
Best hotels for Christmas in Cornwall
Headland Hotel, Newquay, Cornwall
The hotel: Five-star luxury hotel in Newquay with private self-catering cottages set on an exclusive clifftop overlooking Fistral beach. The hotel says it’s a mix of ‘discreet English ambiance and decadent hospitality’ and offers ocean views, a top spa and fine -dining.
The Christmas package: There’s festive tea and cake followed by carols from the Newquay Town Band on Christmas Eve, before a Champagne reception and jazz-accompanied candlelit dinner before a ‘race night’ as The Headland takes on Ascot. Christmas Day starts with a Buck’s Fizz breakfast and an appearance by Mrs Claus, then a five-course festive lunch, carols around the piano. The Cornish coastline is a great place for a Boxing Day stroll and in the evening after dinner there’s a ‘Casino Royale’ themed black tie event.
The cost of Christmas 2019 at The Headland hotel: Three-night minimum stay is £250 per room per night based on two people sharing including breakfast and dinner each day. My brand new review of The Headland hotel will follow soon!
Hotel Tresanton, St Mawes, Cornwall
The hotel: Bought by Olga Polizzi in 1997 and completely redesigned, Tresanton’s 30 rooms all have views across the sea to St Anthony’s lighthouse.
The Christmas package: Christmas Eve carols in the sitting room with a glass of Prosecco, followed by dinner and Midnight Mass at St Just in Roseland church followed by hot cocoa. At 3am Christmas elves will leave stocking at every door. Christmas lunch is at 12 noon or 3pm with mince pies and a visit from Santa followed by a light buffet supper. On Boxing Day there is a Christmas Quiz with prizes awarded after lunch. A Christmas film is shown in the afternoon, followed by dinner in the hotel restaurant.
Cost: Prices from £1,110 per stay, bed and breakfast only, lunch and dinner a la carte prices (based on 2018 prices)
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Best hotels for Christmas in Devon
Bovey Castle, Dartmoor National Park
Bovey Castle
The hotel: A stunning but welcoming grand historic hotel in the heart of Dartmoor
The Christmas package: Arrive on Christmas Eve for lunch and a host of festive activities including cider and sloe gin making, plus afternoon tea with carol singing. The evening includes welcome drinks, a candlelit dinner and the opportunity to attend Midnight Mass at the local church. On Christmas Day take part in Bovey Castle’s scavenger hunt, then enjoy the beautiful scenery with a guided walk followed by a drinks reception and Christmas Day lunch. A buffet will be served in the Great Western that evening, then a nightcap while a storyteller weaves tales in front of the fire. After brunch on Boxing Day, sign up for the golf tournament or a guided walk, enjoy ferret racing or nearest the pin golf competition, with hot chocolate and mulled wine. The day finishes with a five-course black tie dinner and entertainment in the Great Western Restaurant.
Cost of Bovey Castle’s Christmas package 2019: From £2,700 per person for a three-night stay based on two sharing.
Read what it’s like to stay at Bovey Castle here
Cary Arms and Spa, south Devon
Cary Arms hotel and spa
The hotel: A charming boutique hotel right on the coast at Babbacombe Bay and just a few miles from Torquay. From the welcome glass of sloe gin to the excellent locally-sourced food, cosy spa and luxury beach suites, Cary Arms is a memorable place to stay.
The Christmas package: Cary Arms is throwing a Christmas ‘house party’ for its guests – a three-night stay including cocktail parties, dinners and entertainment. Arrive on Christmas Eve and settle into your room with its wild and wintery sea views with a glass of mulled wine before a Christmas Eve cocktail party and supper and ‘fun-filled pig races’. Christmas Day arrives with a Champagne English breakfast, then a five-course feast and an afternoon relaxing over billiards before a Christmas quiz. Boxing Day can be spent in its spa or enjoying a blustery walk along the bay, ending up with dinner accompanied by the resident pianist.
Cost of Cary Arm’s Christmas package 2019: Starting from £1,815 for a double room based on two sharing.
Read what it’s like to stay at Cary Arms and spa here
Lympstone Manor
The hotel: A Grade 2-listed 21-bedroom Georgian manor house with 28 acres and Michelin-starred chef Michael Caines.
The Christmas package: Arrive on Christmas Eve to mince pies and mulled wine before joining other guests for wine-tasting. In the evening enjoy aperitifs and canapés with live music from the Swing Kings, followed by an eight-course tasting menu in the Georgian fine dining rooms. Afterwards there’s the option to have a chauffeured service to Midnight Mass at Exeter Cathedral. There’s a champagne breakfast on Christmas Day, followed by a five course Christmas lunch menu – plus chef Michael Caine’s mum’s famous Christmas pudding, then on Boxing Day take a stroll around the grounds of Lympstone Manor or join a guided walk for an exursion along the coastline and River Exe with a local guide.
Cost of Christmas 2019 at Lympstone Manor: Three nights from £819 per night based on two people sharing.
The hotel: Five-star16th century country manor house near Plymouth with an award-winning Gaia Spa with indoor swimming pool, hydrotherapy pool, Finnish sauna, crystal salt steam room and alfresco hot tubs.
The Christmas package: Festivities commence at 5pm with a cocktail showcase with Boringdon Hall’s cocktail mixologist and a festive drinks reception in the Great Hall. Before dinner guests can partake in Christmas carols by the fire. Guests should prepare for an evening of unexpected events with a Christmas tale of murder mystery and evening entertainment by the Candlelight Theatre Company over a three-course dinner with wine. Christmas Day starts with a Champagne breakfast and an optional Christmas Day walk on Dartmoor (the spa will also be open) followed by five-course Christmas dinner. Guests are encouraged to participate in Boringdon Hall’s Christmas Day tradition, the ‘Call my Bluff’ wine game. In the evening, a Christmas buffet dinner will be served, and The Swing Kings will perform live music in the Great Hall while Boxing Day activities include a falconry presentation and four-course black-tie dinner with live entertainment.
The cost of spending Christmas 2019 at Boringdon Hall: Three night Christmas break from £2,000 per couple, four-nights from £2,300 per couple
The hotel: A Grade 1-listed historic house set in 100 acres of woodland, follies and grottos and owned by hotelier Olga Polizzi.
The Christmas package: Three days of festive treats starting with Christmas Carols, mulled wine and mince pies around the Christmas tree in the main hall. Dinner in the restaurant followed by the option of Midnight Mass at St Eustachius’ parish church (and if you’re lucky elves might leave a little treat by your hotel bedroom door). On Christmas Day after presents from Father Christmas there’s a traditional Christmas lunch while Boxing Day guests can take part in a group falconry session or a Boxing Day walk along the river to the local pub.
Cost: From £1,110 for the three-day Christmas break (2018 prices)
Best hotels for Christmas in Dorset
Alexandra hotel
The hotel: Charming traditional hotel with stunning garden views overlooking Lyme Regis and the Jurassic Coast.
The Christmas package: Arrive to a warming fire and settle into a relaxing festive stay on the Jurassic Coast. Step into the candlelit Georgian chapel for Christmas Eve carols, poems and prose before a four-course Christmas Eve dinner and wake to a Christmas Day morning of breakfasting on smoked salmon and Buck’s Fizz in bed, before fireside board games or a coastal stroll and a traditional seven-course Christmas lunch, beginning with Kir Royales all round. On Boxing Day, explore Lyme Regis ahead of a five-course black-tie dinner.
Cost of the Christmas package at The Alexandra 2019: From £1,535 per room, based on two sharing.
Editor’s note: The Alexandra is the only hotel I’ve found so far which specifies a single room rate – £765 for the three days – so well done to them.
Read what it’s like to stay at The Alexandra here
The Eastbury hotel, Sherborne, Dorset
The hotel:Just a few short steps from the historic Abbey town of Sherborne, The Eastbury Hotel is a charming boutique Georgian period listed townhouse dating from 1740 set within a walled garden and recently acquired by Peter & Lana de Savary.
The Christmas package: Settle in with a complimentary sloe gin before the Christmas Eve cocktail party followed by Christmas Eve supper. Champagne English breakfast begins Christmas Day followed by a seven-course Christmas dinner, then evening buffet with live piano accompaniment. Explore Sherborne on Boxing Day or relax in the new hotel spa, followed by Boxing Day dinner in its two 2 AA Rosette Seasons restaurant.
Cost of Christmas 2019 at The Eastbury: From £1,475 for the three-night break based on two sharing.
Read what it’s like to stay at The Eastbury in my brand new review here
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Best hotels for Christmas in Bath
The Royal Crescent hotel and spa, Bath
The hotel: A five star, 250-year old hotel in Bath’s stunning Royal Crescent.
The Christmas package: The Royal Crescent says guests can ‘experience the magic of a traditional Christmas with a bespoke three-night stay in Bath complete with candlelit carolling, festive afternoon tea and a hearty Christmas lunch.’ The stay includes a candlelit Champagne and canape reception, a treasure hunt, a harpist, a casino with ‘fun money’ and festive prizes plus a five-course Boxing Day dinner with wines. Transport for Bath Abbey for Midnight Mass is also on offer, with a winter cocktail and mince pies awaiting guests on their return.
Cost of Royal Crescent hotels and spa’s Christmas package 2019: From £1,514 per person based on two sharing
Lucknam Park
The hotel: A mile-long tree-lined drive leads to gorgeous Lucknam Park, with a top spa, fine-dining restaurant, beautiful grounds and a grand but welcoming country house feel.
The Christmas package: Afternoon tea on Christmas Eve followed by a champagne reception with carols from the local Parish Choir and Christmas Eve dinner prepared by Michelin-star chef Hywel Jones. Midnight Mass at Colerne Parish Church followed by hot chocolate, mince pies and mulled wine in the library. Christmas Day and Father Christmas arrives in a Victorian horse-drawn carriage to deliver presents and offer rides around the estate. Guests can expect a traditional Christmas Lunch with harpist accompaniment followed by the Queen’s Speech. On Boxing Day there’s the chance to visit the Theatre Royal, Bath for the pantomime Beauty and the Beast or take part in a Boxing Day treasure hunt. The day ends with afternoon tea, Champagne reception and Boxing Day black-tie dinner and dancing.
Cost of the Christmas package at Lucknam Park for 2019: From £1,100 per room per night for the three-night package based on two sharing
Read what it’s like to stay at Lucknam Park here
Best hotels for Christmas in Gloucestershire
Ellenborough Park
The hotel: Less than a few furlongs from the world-famous Cheltenham racecourse, Ellenborough Park is an impressive, 15th century luxury Cotswolds manor house with the racing theme running from the hotel bar to the rooms.
The Christmas package: Ellenborough Park is offering two and three-night packages. Arrive on Christmas Eve to a festive afternoon tea buffet, then a champagne and canape reception, three-course dinner, mulled wine and mince pies. Christmas Day includes English breakfast, Christmas Day lunch and buffet dinner, and Boxing Day dinner. Guests can hike Ellenborourgh Park’s 90 acres, swim in the heated outdoor pool or opt for a range of country pursuits including archery, clay pigeon shooting, Land Rover off-roading, duck herding or even dog-sledding with a pack of Siberian huskies.
Cost of Christmas 2019 at Ellenborough Park: From £659 per night based on two people sharing
Read what’s it like to stay at Ellenborough Park here
The Greenway Hotel and spa, Cheltenham
The Greenway
The hotel: A smart yet relaxed spa hotel in beautiful grounds just outside Cheltenham.
The Christmas package: Arrive Christmas Eve for afternoon tea. The evening includes a Champagne welcome reception with live music, followed by a four course dinner in our Garden Restaurant. On Christmas Day there’s cocktails and canapes before a six-course Christmas Day lunch. An informal buffet supper will be served in the evening, then pens at the ready for the Christmas quiz. On Boxing Day after enjoying your day at leisure, return in the afternoon for tea and cakes in the front of the fire, before enjoying a four course candlelit dinner.
Cost for Greenway Hotel’s Christmas package: From £665 per person, based on a three night stay.
Read what it’s like to stay at Greenway hotel here
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Best hotels for Christmas in the New Forest
Chewton Glen
The hotel: Classic British luxury from one of the most established country house hotels, with a world-class spa and luxury treehouses on stilts in the forest.
The Christmas package: Afternoon tea with mince pies and mulled wine reception and welcome with carols, then a four-course dinner with wines and piano accompaniment. Five-course Christmas lunch with wines followed by a festive cream tea with Christmas cocktails and canapés and buffet dinner. Boxing Day there’s a black tie four-course dinner with wines followed by dancing to a live band.
Cost of spending Christmas 2019 at Chewton Glen: From £4,290 per room based on two sharing.
Read what it’s like to stay at Chewton Glen here
Montagu Arms
The hotel: A 17th century country house in the heart of Beaulieu in the New Forest.
The Christmas package: Festivities begin on Christmas Eve with hymns from local carol singers in the cosy Magnolia lounge and a Yuletide afternoon tea, followed by a Champagne reception and three-course dinner accompanied by a string quartet. Enjoy Champagne and canapes before a traditional four-course Christmas lunch with all the trimmings, accompanied by a harpist. Spend the afternoon walking in the ancient New Forest before an evening buffet dinner. On Boxing Day there’s a lavish Boxing Day dinner and then dancing to a live band in the Boxing Day Masked Ball.
Cost of a Christmas break 2019 at Montagu Arms: From £960 per person based on two people sharing for three nights, four nights from £1,060 per person.
Read what it’s like to stay at the Montagu Arms here
The hotel: In the heart of the New Forest, four star Careys Manor has 77 bedrooms and suites, three restaurant and an award-winning SenSpa.
The Christmas package: The hotel’s traditional Christmas package includes the full use of SenSpa’s extensive spa facilities, welcome afternoon tea on Christmas Eve followed by a car treasure hunt and cooking demonstration. There’s Christmas Day lunch followed by a Christmas evening buffet with live music and there’s a Boxing Day Black Tie Gala Banquet. Carey Manor also has a Christmas spa break which includes three night’s accommodation, breakfast each morning in the Zen Garden restaurant, a choice of fitness class, two SenSpa treatments, all festive meals and a Boxing Day gala dinner.
Cost of the Christmas spa break at Careys Manor for 2019: From £810 per person for a three-night break.
Cost of the classic Christmas Break at Careys Manor for 2019: From £825 per person for a three-night break.
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Best hotels for Christmas in the Midlands
Best hotels for Christmas in Rutland
Hambleton Hall
The hotel: Practically perfect country house hotel, small but perfectly formed, with a Michelin-star restaurant, cosy bar, traditional rooms and beautiful grounds leading down to Rutland Water.
The Christmas package: This year the hotel isn’t doing a set Christmas package but you can create your own at this delightful hotel. Arrive and enjoy a festive glass of Mulled Wine whilst you check into your room. That evening indulge in a gourmet four-course dinner for two. Christmas Day enjoy a full English breakfast and a six-course traditional Christmas lunch with all the trimmings. The next day after a hearty full English breakfast guests depart for the annual Boxing Day picnic at Fort Henry (with Lord Gainsborough’s permission) – the hotel takes along a fine hot meat pie, cheeses and dessert and guests wrap up warm inside the Fort with a log fire blazing.
Cost: To be confirmed with the hotel.
Read what it’s like to stay at Hambleton Hall here
Best hotels for Christmas in Leicestershire
Stapleford Park, nr Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire
Stapleford Park
The hotel: Stapleford Park country house hotel and sporting estate is surrounded by 500 acres of Capability Brown landscape in the heart of Leicestershire with a golf course, luxury spa and 55 rooms in a Grade I-listed mansion.
The Christmas package: There’s a classic Christmas package on offer at Stapleford Park, starting with mulled wine and mince pies on arrival, a cream tea buffet and Champagne reception with canapés ahead of a Christmas Eve dinner. The morning starts in decadent style with sloe gin and mince pies on Christmas morning with Santa, followed by a traditional Christmas Day lunch, Christmas cake and tea on Christmas Day, while on Boxing Day there’s breakfast and lunch followed by a ‘country pursuits taster’, with the Christmas break ending in pre-dinner drinks and canapés and a Boxing day dinner.
Cost of Christmas at Stapleford Park: From £968 per person based on two people sharing over the three-night break; two-night packages available from £667 per person.
Read my brand new review of what it’s like to stay at Stapleford Park hotel here
Best hotels for Christmas in Warwickshire
Mallory Court, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire
Mallory Court
The hotel: Lutyens-style grand manor hotel and grounds with designer room and art deco brasserie.
The Christmas package: Arrive on Christmas Eve to afternoon tea, then mulled wine and carols from St Mary’s Choir of Boys and Men, followed by a set dinner menu served in the Knights Suite. Midnight Mass is available at the local church with mince pies and hot chocolate on your return. On Christmas Day four-course Christmas Day lunch with a glass of champagne on arrival. Christmas Cake and tea will be served in the lounge in the afternoon and a light buffet supper will be served in the evening. On Boxing Day there’s a three course gala dinner with Champagne and canapes on arrival and dancing and live music throughout the evening.
Cost for Christmas 2019 at Mallory Court: From £599 per person, based on a three night stay
Read what it’s like to stay at Mallory Court here
Best hotels for Christmas in Northamptonshire
Fawsley Hall, Northamptonshire
The hotel: Dating back to the 1760s the hotel blends heritage with modern interiors and is set in a 2,000 acres estates with gardens designed by Capability Brown.
The Christmas package: Christmas Eve Champagne and canapés served in the Grand Hall against a backdrop of carols led by the local choir. A three-course dinner is served in the Cedar Restaurant from 6.30pm and afterwards, guests are invited to join midnight mass or the Christmas Day services at the nearby village church. Guests awaken on Christmas Day to a Champagne breakfast in time for Santa’s arrival. Guests can then guess the weight of the house Christmas cake or play board games in the lounge, take a crisp winter stroll or warm up in the spa. A traditional Christmas lunch with all the trimmings is served from midday and the Queen’s Speech will be on in the hotel’s cinema before showing a host of classic Christmas films. Buffet will be served from 7.30pm for those who still have room for more while on Boxing Day, guests will be served a hearty cooked breakfast in the restaurant or in the comfort of their bedroom.
Cost of Christmas package at Fawsley Hall 2019: Two nights from £1,025 based on two sharing, three nights from £1,320
Best hotels for Christmas in Suffolk
The Swan at Lavenham
The hotel: Luxury half-timbered 15th century hotel at the heart of the historic village of Lavenham in Suffolk. The cosy hotel with oak beamed interiors, roaring log fires, cosy nooks and delicious food plus a new spa is the perfect place to enjoy a three-night festive package.
The Christmas package: A Christmas Eve mulled wine welcome followed by cream tea, carol, Champagne and canapes and a four-course candlelit dinner in the AA two rosette Gallery restaurant. Afterwards there’s Midnight Mass in the beautifully decorated church of St Peter and St Paul, before returning to the hotel for a late-night glass of mulled wine and mince pies. On Christmas Day there’s a Champagne reception followed by traditional five-course lunch with all the trimmings. For those who are still hungry, there’s a buffet and Christmas quiz in the evening while on Boxing Day there’s a three-course lunch and a candlelit dinner plus an optional guided walk around the historic medieval village of Lavenham.
Cost of Christmas 2019 at The Swan at Lavenham: The three-night package starts from £1,839 for two sharing.
Read what it’s like to stay at The Swan at Lavenham here
Bedroom at The Swan, Southwold
The hotel: An immaculate, smart, 35-room boutique hotel in the lovely Suffolk town of Southwold. Owned by Adnams brewery, the hotel has great rooms, excellent food and drink and is less than a minute’s walk from the Suffolk coast.
The Christmas package: A team of butlers will greet guests arriving for The Swan’s three-night Christmas break and each room will have a hamper of treats and a chilled bottle of Adnams Prosecco. There’s afternoon tea on Christmas Eve followed by a three-course feast served in The Still Room restaurant, then on Christmas Day a four-course lunch with all the trimmings will be served in The Still Room, following which guests can relax by the fire or take a walk along Southwold beach. On Boxing Day, a full English brunch is on offer before encouraging guests to explore the range of boutique shops and cosy cafés on the high-street. On this final evening, dine at leisure in The Tap Room or Still Room with live jazz and acoustic music performance from a local artist.
The cost of a Christmas stay at The Swan, Southwold: The Swan’s Christmas Escape starts from £1,750, based on two adults sharing a room.
Read my review of The Swan in Southwold here
Brudenell Hotel, Aldeburgh, Suffolk
Brudenell hotel, Aldeburgh
The hotel: Set in one of Britain’s best seaside locations, the stylish 44-bedroom, four-star hotel is just a step away from the shingle beach with magnificent panoramic sea views to the front, while at the back it overlooks the river Alde and surrounding countryside. The Brudenell features coastal themed decor and fresh, locally sourced food.
The Christmas package: Arrive on Christmas Eve and you will be welcomed with tea, scones and a warming glass of mulled wine to put you in the festive spirit. Then join fellow guests for a special celebratory dinner in the AA two rosette Seafood & Grill restaurant. Start Christmas day with a full Suffolk breakfast, or perhaps something lighter and save your appetite for the six-course banquet, which will be served from 12 noon starting with a glass of champagne followed by roast Suffolk turkey and all the trimmings. A quiz follows at 6.30pm with the answers and winning team revealed after a buffet supper. On Boxing Day enjoy a late breakfast then explore the local area or take a bracing walk along the seafront and watch brave souls descend into the North Sea for the traditional Boxing Day swim. Lunch and a buffet dinner will be served in the evening.
Cost: Prices start from £630 per person for the three-night package based on two sharing an inland-facing Aldeburgh room.
Read what it’s like to stay at the Brudenell Hotel here
White Lion, Aldeburgh, Suffolk
The White Lion, Aldeburgh
The hotel: The White Lion Hotel, Aldeburgh is right on the Suffolk coast and overlooks the fishermen’s huts along the beach.
The Christmas package: Celebrations start on arrival at the hotel with a festive afternoon tea and glass of mulled wine served in the lounge, surrounded by sparkling Christmas trees. Take a stroll along the beach, before enjoying a glass of fizz and sitting down to a three-course dinner in the hotel’s brasserie. After a Buck’s Fizz breakfast on Christmas morning, there’s time for a refreshing walk along the coast to build up an appetite for the traditional six-course lunch with all the trimmings. A buffet supper and quiz follow in the evening. On Boxing Day, watch brave swimmers enter the freezing North Sea for the town’s annual charity swim at 11am; then it’s back to the hotel for lunch. There’s time to explore the local area during the afternoon before a buffet dinner with entertainment.
Cost for Christmas 2019 at the White Lion, Aldeburgh: From £552.50 per person based on two sharing an Aldeburgh-facing room, sea view rooms available at a supplement.
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Best hotels for Christmas in the North of England
The hotel: Luxury hotel in the beautiful Borrowdale valley which has just undergone a £10 million redevelopment.
The Christmas package: Guests are greeted on Christmas Eve by a finger sandwiches and a gin afternoon tea. In the evening there’s a six-course black-tie gala dinner, complete with magician and balloonist as well as a live pianist. On Christmas Day , guests start with a traditional Cumbrian breakfast with a Mimosa Cocktail for adults and a visit from a very special guest for little ones, plus a Christmas treasure hunt around the spa garden before a six-course Christmas Day lunch. Finish off the day with a ‘Cumbrian Lakes and Fells’ buffet, before a quiz with hotel prizes on offer. Begin Boxing Day with a Bellini breakfast before heading down to the river bank for a charity duck race. In the evening, join the team for pre-dinner drinks in the bar before a four-course steak and lobster dinner, followed by live entertainment in the Derwent Suite.
Cost of the Christmas package at Lodore Fall for 2019: Three-day Christmas package starts at £855 per person
Rockliffe Hall, Durham
The hotel: Set in 375 acres of parkland, the original building dates from the 1800s, but over the years the 61-room luxury hotel has been extended to include a highly-rated 50,000 ft spa and three restaurants, two of which overlook its 18-hole Championship golf course.
The Christmas package: Rockliffe Hall is offering two- and three-night Christmas Break packages which include use of the spa and leisure facilities throughout the stay, all festive food and drinks and Christmas games, activities and entertainment. Father Christmas will be making a visit and guests can also add on extras such as a round of golf plus a two-hour experience in its exclusive Spa Garden room.
Price of the Christmas packages at Rockliffe Hall 2019: The two-night Christmas Break starts from £615 per person, based on 2 adults sharing a Tiplady Lodge bedroom or 4 to 7 sharing a Woodland Mews house. Three-night package is available from £750 per person including dinner and two hours in the Spa Garden.
Read my review of a stay at Rockliffe Hall here
The hotel: Five-star all-suite boutique hotel and spa on Durham’s heritage coast.
The Christmas package: Festive luxury including champagne afternoon tea, an indulgent breakfast in your suite each morning, a five-course Christmas Day lunch and tranquil relaxation sessions in the 44,000 sq ft spa. Begin your break with Champagne Afternoon Tea followed by a three-course dinner, then an indulgent breakfast delivered to your suite on Christmas Day, followed by Champagne and canapés served in The Courtyard and five course traditional Christmas Day lunch with all the trimmings served in The Dining Room as well as a visit from Santa to make the day extra special. Boxing Day includes a 45 minute treatment (choose either a facial or a massage), two-course lunch and a decadent three course dinner served in The Dining Room.
What it costs: From £645 per person based on two sharing.
The Grange hotel, York
The hotel: The Grange Hotel is a luxury hotel in a Grade II listed building within walking distance from the city centre of York and with a 2 AA Rosette restaurant. The country house hotel has 41 individually-designed en-suite rooms set amongst Regency style décor, antique paintings, sash windows, rare racing memorabilia and a sweeping staircase.
The Christmas Package: Afternoon tea on arrival plus a welcome cocktail and canapés before dinner is served in The Ivy Brasserie. Christmas Day starts with a hearty Yorkshire breakfast followed by a traditional Christmas lunch served from 12.00 noon. In the afternoon guests can relax and watch the Queen’s speech, play traditional board games or sink into one of the comfy sofas in the morning room with a good book and a glass of port. In the evening, enjoy an informal buffet together with a glass of mulled wine. Boxing Day Brunch shall be served until 11.30 am. The day is free for guests to relax and enjoy York. Tea and Christmas Cake will be served in the Morning Room with Peach Bellinis whilst enjoying music from vocalist Nikki Humberstone, followed by a carved buffet in The Ivy Brasserie.
The cost of the Christmas package at The Grange: Two-night package from £900 per room based on two sharing.
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Best hotels for Christmas in Scotland
Airds Hotel, Port Appin, Scotland
The hotel: One of Scotland’s top gourmet destinations on the West Coast.
The Christmas package: Arrive to home-made seasonal cakes and tea. Christmas Eve gets underway with a Champagne reception for guests with canapes followed by a candlelit five-course gourmet dinner. Wake on Christmas Day to Airds’ Scottish breakfast and Buck’s Fizz. With traditional Christmas Lunch not served until 4pm, there’s plenty of time to enjoy the day: enter the annual Port Appin treasure hunt, burn some calories on a long walk or bike ride in the beautiful surrounding countryside, or simply relax by the fire. Mince pies, Christmas cake and mulled wine will be offered at lunchtime and light snacks in the evening. On Boxing Day, breakfast and dinner are taken at leisure and once the winner of the treasure hunt is announced, the day is free to explore further afield.
Cost of the Airds Christmas package 2019: The half-board package costs from £675 per person for the three-day package based on two sharing.
Glenapp Castle, Ayrshire, Scotland
The hotel: Luxury, award-winning five-star hotel in Ayrshire, Scotland, with period furnishings and interiors as well as breath-taking gardens, forests, and the seascapes that surround the castle.
The Christmas package: Arrive in time for afternoon tea and enjoy listening to the Glenapp pianist in the drawing room baby grand piano. A six-course gourmet dinner will be served in the evening and afterwards perhaps a nightcap in the library before the Glenapp piper sends you off to bed in true Scottish style. Transport to the Watchnight service at Ballantrae Parish Church is also available. Enjoy a full Scottish Christmas breakfast on Christmas Day morning, visit the local Ballantrae church for the Christmas service, or relax around the Christmas tree with family and friends and enjoy your Christmas gifts. Mid morning there will be a falconry display before a Champagne reception and festive four-course Christmas lunch. After lunch, experience the endless possibilities for walks on the coast, in the Glen and throughout the Estate and finish off the day with a Scottish ceilidh. Boxing Day activities include clay pigeon shooting, archery and treasure hunts and after a light Boxing Day lunch Glenapp harpist will play over the final three course gourmet dinner.
Cost of Christmas at Glenapp Castle in 2019: From £2775 per room based on two sharing.
Gleneagles hotel and spa, Perthshire
The hotel: One of the top hotels in Scotland, the 850-acre Gleneagles estate offers an array of attractions that includes a five-star luxury hotel, three championship golf courses and an award-winning spa.
The Christmas package: The hotel is offering a three-night Christmas break including all food and entertainment, including a Christmas Banquet. Guests booking the full Christmas experience get an extra night free on the 23rd or 27th December as well as complimentary airport transfers.
Cost of Christmas at Gleneagles 2019: £4,480 per room for a three-night stay, based on two sharing a Sovereign Room.
The Lodge on Loch Lomond, Scotland
The hotel: Modern hotel with a unique location on the shore of Loch Lomond, with 48 guest bedrooms and leisure facilities including a swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna and steam room. The hotel is 30 minutes from Glasgow City airport and just a stroll from the pretty village of Luss.
The Christmas package: The two-day seasonal house party include all sort of festive delights from three-course Christmas Eve dinner with entertainment and Midnight Mass at the local church followed by mulled wine and mince pies. Christmas Day starts with Bucks Fizz followed by a Champagne reception, five-course Christmas lunch, cocktail masterclass with a Lodge quiz and ‘fabulous prizes’ to be won!
The cost of Christmas 2019 at The Lodge on Loch Lomond: Rooms start from £325 per person based on two sharing.
The hotel: Situated in the heart of St Andrews, the five-star Old Course Hotel with an award-winning spa borders the renowned 17th Road Hotel of the Old Course, the oldest golf course in the world, just metres from the Scottish coast.
The Christmas package: Arrive on Christmas Eve to mulled wine and mince pies before Christmas Eve Dinner in the 3 AA rosette-awarded Road Hole Restaurant. Christmas Day Lunch will be in the AA rosette-awarded Sands Restaurant with a pre-lunch glass of bubbly. In the evening guests can choose from a carvery in the ballroom or a three-course menu in the Road Hole Restaurant. Guests will be able to enjoy a full Scottish breakfast each day and full access to Kohler Waters Spa and Leisure and Fitness Centre.
Cost of the Christmas package at Old Course hotel: Two-night package from £900 per room based on two sharing.
Roman Camp hotel, Stirlingshire, Scotland
The hotel: Luxury four-star hotel built in 1625 for the Dukes of Perth, with 15 rooms and set in 20 acres.
The Christmas package: Arrive at this country retreat with afternoon tea and sherry before carol singers welcome you to a Christmas Eve tasting menu with wine. There’s Christmas Day breakfast in bed before a glass of mulled wine preceding a five-course Christmas Day lunch. Boxing Day is a day for relaxing after a late breakfast and then a final tasting dinner to round off your stay.
Cost for Christmas 2019 at Roman Camp hotel: Rooms from £395 per night based on two sharing.
The hotel: Traditional 114-year old country house hotel in five acres on the Scottish border
The Christmas package: Arrive on 24rd December for afternoon tea, followed by a three-course candlelit dinner and evening of live entertainment. On Christmas Day time for some last minute shopping in Biggar and then back to collect your jumbo quiz forms before dinner. Christmas Day starts with a hearty Scottish breakfast and a countryside stroll before traditional Christmas Day lunch, a glass of wine and a visit from Santa. The Queen’s speech is followed by Tea and Christmas cake. In the evening there will be a cold buffet, then live entertainment, and on Boxing Day chance to hit the Boxing Day sales in Lanark before returning for a three-course candlelit dinner.
Cost for Christmas 2019 at Tinto Hotel: Four-night package £288 per person, three-nights £243 per person.
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Best hotels for Christmas in Wales
Bodysgallen Hall hotel and spa, Llandudno
Bodysgallen Hall, north Wales
The hotel: Set in 200 acres of parkland just outside Llandudno on the north coast of Wales, Bodysgallen Hall is located in an imposing building dating back to the 13th century but has modern luxuries including a spa with indoor pool.
The Christmas package: Festivities commence on Christmas Eve with a Champagne reception before dinner. Transport can be arranged to Midnight Mass and guests will be welcomed with port and mince pies on return. On Christmas Day traditional lunch will be served and in the evening there will be a light buffet supper. On Boxing Day guests can swim in the pool or be pampered in the spa, go for a drive or just relax at Bodysgallen. There will be a Champagne farewell reception in the evening with music from a Welsh harp, followed by a Gala Dinner.
Cost of Christmas at Bodysgallen Hall 2019: Doubles from £1,620 for the three-night break. Single occupancy for a double room is from £1,150.
Read my review of Bodysgallen Hall here
Palé Hall, Gywnedd
The hotel: Palé Hall is an 18-bedroom AA Five Red Star, Relais & Chateaux destination luxury country house hotel in the tranquil Dee valley.
The Christmas package: Glass of fizz on arrival, carols around the piano followed by five-course Christmas Eve Set Menu and transport to midnight mass for those who wish with mulled wine and mince pies on return. There’s a six-course Christmas lunch with Champagne aperitif with matching wines and relaxed evening buffet and Boxing Day packed lunches and high tea.
Cost of Christmas 2019 at Palé Hall: Three nights from £1,245 based on two people sharing.
The hotel: Privately owned luxury country house hotel nestled in the heart of the rolling Pembrokeshire countryside with stunning views of the Preseli Hills and just 12 minutes drive to the sea.
The Christmas package: Festive tea and mulled wine greet guests before drinks and canapes before dinner. Wake up on Christmas morning to Welsh Country breakfast and Bucks Fizz, then Christmas Dinner, afternoon tea and buffet supper and Boxing Day dinner and drinks.
Cost of Christmas break at The Grove at Narberth 2019: Prices for the three-night Christmas Break start from £1,750 per room, based on two guests sharing.
Lake Country House hotel and spa, Powys
The hotel: Welcoming Welsh country house set in its own 50 acres, with rhododendron-lined pathways, riverside walks and a well-stocked trout lake as well as a spa with indoor pool.
The Christmas package: Full afternoon tea, a glass of mulled wine and four-course dinner on Christmas Eve, followed by Christmas morning full Welsh breakfast, mid-morning coffee and homemade mince pies, reception drinks, five-course Christmas lunch. After lunch, coffee and petit fours, full afternoon tea and an evening buffet. On Boxing Day there’s a four-course gourmet dinner.
Cost of Christmas 2019 at The Lake Country House: From £1,410 per person based on two sharing.
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Best hotels for a healthy Christmas
Champneys Tring, Forest Mere, Henlow and Springs (Leicestershire)
The hotels: The original health spas in beautiful country settings
The Christmas package: Christmas might be about indulgence but Champneys offers the chance to be a little healthy too. Breakfast, lunch and dinner over two or three nights included as well as mulled wine and mince pies. Christmas Day includes a Champagne and canape reception and a traditional festive three-course lunch, with Champneys treatments, a Thalassotherapy pool session and a Champneys gift set included in your stay. Champneys countryside locations offering the perfect winter hideaway, and you can explore the beautiful grounds with Champneys popular guided walks.
Cost: From £1,598 for three nights per person, based on two sharing
See also Careys Manor’s Christmas Spa Break (above)
Have you stayed in a luxury hotel over Christmas? What was it like? Do let me know in the comments – and if I’ve missed any of your favourites out!
Sarah
A Lady of Leisure
sarah@aladyofleisure.com
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