Fabulous Festive Experiences at our Destinations

2 November 2023

Discover the magic of Christmas

If you’re looking to make it a magical Christmas with the family this year, then our assortment of festive breaks and activities near our locations are sure to help you create a host of wonderful new memories to take into the new year.

Visit an authentic winter wonderland at Aviemore Resort in the Cairngorms, where Santa’s grotto and his free roaming reindeer are on hand, or venture to Lapland UK near The Berystede in Ascot for a similarly enchanting, immersive journey to help the elves with their toymaking.

Satiate those with a sweet tooth or purchase a unique gift for someone special at the many Christmas markets as you get in the Christmas spirit while staying nearby in our hotels. Plus, choose from an array of Christmas crafting making activities and more as you celebrate the season with us.

Where to Find Santa Claus

While the man himself will no doubt have a busy schedule leading up to the big day, he has agreed to pay a visit to several of our scenic destinations during the festive period.

Basing himself primarily at Aviemore Resort from his grotto in the woodland surrounds of the Scottish Highlands, our weekend and midweek Santa Breaks are available throughout November and December.

Inclusive of Christmas shopping in our designer department store, festive blockbusters in the cinema and the chance to meet real-life reindeer, this is an experience not to be missed.

Santa Claus at Aviemore

Visit Lapland UK near The Berystede

When looking for the ultimate Christmas attraction for the whole family this season, our delightful hotel in Ascot is less than 10-minutes’ drive away from Lapland UK.

The Enchanted Forest awaits young and old alike to a cleverly crafted Hollywood filmset where the community of elves bring the mystical tale of Lapland to life. Transport yourselves to another kingdom and watch the elves at work as they prepare for the most important time of the year.

Afterwards, return to your comfortable hotel accommodation and make use of facilities including delicious food & drink in Acanthus Restaurant or treat yourself to a soothing spa treatment.

Berystede in Winter

Christmas Market Stays

Perfect for couples and friends looking to revel in the joyous atmosphere of the season, our festive city breaks provide the ideal opportunity to combine celebration with cultural allure.

The fairytale qualities of Bath and its Georgian-influenced backdrop means a stay at Bath Spa can include exploring the Christmas market from 23rd November - 10th December, where plenty of mulled wine and sweet treats set the scene for a feelgood getaway.

Visit scenic Hampshire and Botley Park as you stay near the port city of Southampton, with the Christmas market here running right through to 2nd January 2024 and featuring rides, carousel and plenty of mulled cider.

Elsewhere, New Blossoms hotel in the heart of historic Chester ensures you’re close to all the festivities plus fantastic Christmas shopping, while The Burlington in Birmingham makes for a splendid pre-Christmas break near Bullring Shopping Centre and a host of heritage landmarks.

Christmas at Burlington

Unique Festive Events

If you're looking to try something a little different during the festive season, then we have several events and activities that you can enjoy during a Christmas break.

Test your creative skills with Wreath Marking at Alveston Manor, Linden Hall Hotel, Golf & Spa or Forest Hills Hotel & Resort, as you learn to craft your very own decorative piece to hang on your door once you get home. 

Elsewhere at Forest Hills, you can also compete in quiz evenings promoting endless laughter and festive cheer - with lots of food and drink for good measure - while a spectacular starry night is in store at Linden Hall, where our Stargazing night on the 1st December sees Kielder Observatory expert showcase the stunning Dark Skies of Northumberland.

Festive wreath making