This year, why not escape from the everyday and do something special with the whole family for Christmas? Here in the UK, we have an increasingly impressive range of options when it comes to festive events to make the season really shine. If you’re thinking of getting away and enjoying a magical Yule adventure, here are some of our favourites – as well as some handy tips on the best places to stay in the area.
Christmas at Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire
The spectacular Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire plays host to a variety of exciting Christmas events from late November until early January, including a unique festive Alice in Wonderland-themed experience, ‘Alice in the Palace’. Step into an enchanting make-believe world filled with amazing illusions and secret surprises where you can visit the Mad Hatter’s tea party and explore a whimsical storybook setting. Other seasonal attractions at Blenheim include the twinkling Illuminated Light Trail, which will lead you through a series of amazing sights such as the Tunnel of Light, the Laser Garden, the Water Terrace, and the Fire Garden. There’s also a traditional Christmas Market for picking up gifts and treats.
Looking for somewhere to stay that’s perfect for paying a visit to Blenheim Palace, as well as enjoying the scenic surroundings of the Cotswolds? We have a range of accommodation available at Cotswold Cottages, located within a beautiful countryside estate complete with an indoor swimming pool, an on-site gym and spa, and kids’ play facilities. 12 luxury holiday properties are available here, each with their own individual charm and fantastic features to make for a really special getaway, suited for anything from romantic escapes for two guests to larger groups of up to 10 people.
Christmas at Chatsworth, Derbyshire
Chatsworth House is a stately home in the Derbyshire Dales which gets all dressed up for the season with all the elegant style you might expect, during the annual Christmas at Chatsworth celebrations. The theme for 2019 is In A Land Far, Far Away, an exploration of festive fun from around the world, letting the whole family immerse themselves in the escapades of globetrotting adventurers from ages past, with a range of historic memorabilia and decorations from a huge range of cultures on display. You can also browse over 100 stalls in Chatworth’s diverse Christmas market, perfect for purchasing presents or just seasonal treats for yourself. There are also special Twilight Evening events – once the sun sets, you can savour a glass of wine, a mince pie, and the sounds of live string music as you enjoy the house’s wonderful decorations.
Why not book a break in Peak District Holiday Park if you’re planning a Christmas outing to Chatsworth House? With an amazing elevated position in the Peak District National Park, you can enjoy views galore across endless unspoilt countryside landscapes. With cosy caravans, contemporary lodges, and some fantastic glamping options, there’s something for everyone at this tranquil countryside resort.
Santa Specials & Northern Lights Express, North Yorkshire
A traditional trip on a steam train can add a touch of Victorian appeal to a festive day out, and the North Yorkshire Moors Railway has a couple of superb seasonal services running during December. As you might expect, there’s the classic Santa Special, where kids can get a gift from the big man himself while enjoying a magical train journey that’s packed with fun. And, new for 2019, there’s also the stunning sights of the Northern Lights Express, giving you the opportunity to ride on a sparkling steam train through a forest that’s been beautifully illuminated, ending your trip with a dazzling light show at Levisham Station.
Both services depart from Pickering Station, and we’re able to offer some fantastic accommodation close at hand within the glorious setting of the North York Moors National Park.
The Barn at Rigg End is a spectacular 3-bedroom holiday home constructed from traditional Yorkshire stone. It’s situated in a secluded location and gives guests plenty of room to relax and some stunning views across the local landscapes.
There’s also the Country Cottages in Yorkshire, which provide a variety of comfortable accommodation in unspoilt surroundings, with everything from large cottages to cosy studio rooms based within a set of converted 18th-century farm buildings.
Enchanted Christmas at GreenWood Family Park, Gwynedd
GreenWood Family Park in Gwynedd offers plenty of woodland excitement all year round, but during the festive season you’ll find a truly magical experience that kids will love in the form of Enchanted Christmas. Enjoy a 2-hour twilight adventure where children will meet the elves, receive a special Christmas passport, decorate their own gingerbread men, and take a stroll through a spectacular illuminated forest. They’ll then attend elf school, visit Santa himself in his log cabin, and then head to the toy factory to get their very own gift to take home. It’s sure to make for a Christmas experience they’ll never forget.
If you’re heading to GreenWood Family Park for Christmas, why not make a holiday of it? Some superb accommodation can be found conveniently close by, including Snowdonia Holiday Park, which offers comfortable caravans and luxurious lodges in an enviable location in the foothills of Snowdon, as well as plenty of great on-site amenities.
Christmas breaks across the UK
The events listed above are four of our favourites, but there’s always plenty more to see and do during the Christmas season. If you’ve already got a festive destination in mind, take a look at the wide range of accommodation we offer in a variety of locations across the UK. With a full catalogue of cosy cottages, comfortable caravans, luxury lodges, contemporary apartments, and more, there’s something to suit all tastes and budgets, so you’re sure to find the perfect seasonal escape for you.