This festive season, why not treat those that you love to a Christmas staycation. Whether you’re keen to stay cosy by the fire or treat the kids to a little adventure, we’ve found some wonderful spots that are outside of the City. Read on to find out more.
Foxhills Club & Resort
From Christmas light switch-on with carols, family pantomime and Santa’s Grotto to delicious festive dining and joiner parties, it’s all about getting together and having a good time with loved ones at Foxhills, celebrating in style and making it extra special. Foxhills will once again be transforming their historic Manor House and 400-acre estate into a winter wonderland, providing a magical venue for your Christmas festivities, and giving that all-important dash of elegance and glamour.
This resort houses 9 tennis courts, 3 padel courts, 2 pickleball courts, five swimming pools, an award-winning HealthSpa, creche, soft play area for the use of both guests and members of Foxhills.
Foxhills’ Mistletoe and Holly festive break packages are perfect for families looking to relax while the hotel and restaurant teams take care of the cooking and celebrations.
Two or three-night stays are available, both arriving on Christmas Eve and including meals on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day, available from £520 adult and £295 child (2-12 years).
The Castle Inn, Cotswold
Nestled in the enchanting village of Castle Combe in Wiltshire, The Castle Inn invites guests to step into a 12th-century fairy tale. Surrounded by honey-coloured stone houses and the gentle flowing Bybrook River, this historic pub proudly sits in the town market square, offering an authentic English pub experience with a touch of cinematic allure. Awarded two AA Rosettes and named Best Pub at the Trencherman’s Awards 2023, guests can expect seasonally inspired dishes crafted from local and homegrown ingredients by Head Chef Jamie Barnet. For those seeking a truly exclusive Christmas, guests can even reserve the entire pub for a private holiday celebration in one of the Cotswolds’ most iconic villages. With a crackling fire, spiced cider, and personalised touches, The Castle Inn creates a cosy pub atmosphere, while its discreet staff manage every detail. Festive dining is served both at The Castle Inn and its sister hotel, The Manor House, making it a perfect retreat for families or groups of up to 23 guests.
The inn’s 12 ensuite contemporary rooms invite day-trippers, locals, and weekend travellers alike to stay awhile, offering a seamless blend of Exclusive Collection’s character with The Castle Inn’s unique charm. Whether for a festive gathering or a weekend escape, The Castle Inn is a haven where local allure meets exceptional comfort.
How: For the two-night package (24 / 25 December) at The Castle Inn it is £750 per person based on a minimum of 20 guests.
Careys Manor Hotel & SenSpa
Enjoy a warm and welcoming stay with family or friends at Careys Manor Hotel & SenSpa with the new 3 or 4 Night Christmas Break package. Including access to health club facilities, an indulgent Christmas Eve afternoon tea, a champagne reception, Christmas Day lunch with all the trimmings, and a Boxing Day black-tie dinner party – Careys Manor Hotel & SenSpa offers the ultimate home away from home filled with yuletide joy this festive season. For those seeking pure relaxation, the new 3 Night Christmas Spa Break offers a serene getaway with SenSpa hydrotherapy access, treatments by expert therapists, Christmas Eve dinner, and traditional Christmas Day festivities including treasure hunts and live music.
Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve
Treat your loved ones to a truly unforgettable Christmas on safari at Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve. The 600-acre reserve is Kent’s biggest wildlife park and is offering exclusive Christmas getaways at their wildly popular lodges this festive season, including celebrity-favourite Lion Lodge. On the big day, Port Lympne is closed to the public, giving you exclusive access to the entire Reserve. The Port Lympne elves will handle everything, ensuring you can relax and enjoy the most magical day of the year with the people you love. A full English breakfast will be served in the morning and board games and festive film favourites will be available for you to enjoy throughout the day. Lee Edney, Port Lympne’s Executive Head Chef, has personally designed a sumptuous menu for Christmas Day lunch, which will be served with a glass of Gusbourne English sparkling wine. Afterwards, be sure to watch the Kings’ Speech in the Port Lympne Mansion, where King Edward VIII once visited! After the sun sets on your perfect Christmas Day, a handmade buffet dinner will be served as homely log fires crackle across the Reserve and the animals settle down for the evening, preparing to meet you and your family in the morning.
To make an enquiry, or to book your Christmas stay today visit: Christmas at Port Lympne or call 01303 234112
Forest of Light at Sandy Balls
Step into a magical wonderland with the Forest of Light at Sandy Balls. From the moment guests enter, they’ll be transported into an enchanting world where the forest comes alive with thousands of twinkling fairy lights. Wander around illuminated trails, bask in the glow of festive colours and feel the joy of Christmas as the lights lead guests into a magical woodland experience. It’s the perfect evening activity for families and Christmas lovers to enjoy together, wrapped in the cosy warmth of the season. Guests can also look forward to Santa’s grand arrival at the Festive Fire and Light event. This enchanting outdoor forest celebration invites friends and families to embrace the spirit of the season with this sparkling outdoor forest event filled with Christmas joy! Enjoy the warmth of festive fire pits while singing along to yuletide favourites, joined by Santa’s cheerful elves. As the night unfolds, gather around to hear the Great Elf share a captivating Christmas tale by firelight, setting the scene for an unforgettable night.
From 1st November – 2nd January
Polhawn Fort
During the festive period, Polhawn Fort opens its doors for private and exclusive use homestays. A cosy and warm stay within the Fort, beside the roaring fire, provides an unforgettable backdrop for a Christmas staycation. Hidden away in a secluded bay, Polhawn Fort is an ideal place to escape to with loved ones. Nestling halfway down a Cornish clifftop overlooking the spectacular Whitsand Bay, Polhawn Fort is a historic hideaway available to share with loved ones for the week or weekend for private homestays. With mesmerising views, an untouched, private beach, walking trails, and the soothing sound of waves. Inside the Fort, eight spacious suites and bedrooms have been designed to maximise privacy and peacefulness. Sleep soundly within the historic Fort and wake up to far-reaching sea views. A family owned and managed property, Polhawn Fort’s approach is friendly and free-spirited, inviting guests to feel at home and fully unwind.
Available for stays midweek or over the weekend, Polhawn Fort comfortably sleeps 16 guests as a self-catered homestay. Polhawn Fort can also accommodate an additional eight guests upon request.
LEGOLAND at Christmas
The LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort transforms into a winter wonderland from November 23rd to January 4th, offering unforgettable family memories with Father Christmas, a spectacular sleigh ride parade, and plenty of LEGO® building fun. Guests can enjoy a (s)elfie in front of the giant DUPLO® Christmas Tree, explore festive scenes in Miniland, and experience the delightful DUPLO Puppet show. Special festive activities include meeting Father Christmas in his magical grotto, joining Ollie the Dragon in sending letters to the North Pole, celebrating with Father Christmas’ Magical Sleigh, and participating in the Build to Give Workshop. For an extended festive experience, guests can stay in one of three immersive LEGO-themed hotels, which include an overnight stay, 1-day entry to LEGOLAND at Christmas, and an optional visit with Father Christmas.
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