Christmas is the most magical time of the year, but it can also be the most stressful. This year, why not hand over the work to someone else so you can focus on what matters, relaxing in total comfort? Surely, it's the most peaceful way to end the year?
Luxury Christmas Breaks UK
Below, we’ve rounded up the best hotels to check into this yuletide. So settle in and let Santa (and the wonderful hotel staff) do the work…
Fife Arms - Aberdeenshire
Located in the picturesque Cairngorm mountains, the Fife Arms has a high chance of experiencing a white Christmas. Steeped in rich history, and visited multiple times by Queen Victoria, the hotel is located a mere 15 minutes from Balmoral Castle. One of the stand-out features of The Fife Arms is its broad and eclectic art collection, which includes an original Picasso and an abundance of juxtaposing pieces which you can spend a whole day exploring.
But there is also plenty of opportunity to roam around the incredible landscape with the ghillie arranging guided outdoor activities and tours. If you’d rather spend your time indoors, an incredible spa offers a bespoke range of treatments. You can also take afternoon tea next to the roaring fire in the drawing room- or drink in style at the bar and enjoy a fabulous cocktail named the fashion designer Elsa Schiaparelli. You can also choose from over 400 whiskies in the glowing amber and gold Bertie’s whisky room.
There are two restaurants to choose from; the Clunie Dining Room feels like the dining room of a grand Scottish estate and serves phenomenal meals with locally sourced ingredients such as Stone Haven Lobster, North Sea halibut and wild mallard. Alternatively, The Flying Stag has a vibrant atmosphere, hearty Scottish dishes and live entertainment.
Grantley Hall - Yorkshire
Grantley Hall is an impressive Grade II* listed building, built as a private home in the mid-18th century. After changing hands multiple times over the years - in 2010, its new owners were granted permission to convert the property into a fifty-bedroom hotel. The results are stunning; calm and neutral colour palettes contrast with traditional art and rich wood-panelled walls, all warmed toasty open fires.
It is impossible to get bored at Grantley Hall - with something for everyone, including fabulous festive menus, an award-winning spa and a fully equipped gym. There are also bicycles available for hire to ride through the Yorkshire Dales, as well as a wine-tasting session led by the in-house expert sommelier. We dare you to try and pack it all into one stay!
Grove of Narberth - Pembrokeshire
As Grove of Narbeth celebrates its first anniversary, (let’s raise a glass of eggnog to that!) it stands as a timeless testament to the enduring charm of the Welsh countryside. With a rich history dating back to the 15th century and a commitment to blending the past with modern comforts, the hotel is a beautiful haven for those seeking a harmonious retreat.
Located a short distance from the beautiful Pembrokeshire coast there is astounding natural beauty everywhere you look. Why not sneak off to the utterly underrated spot and enjoy some cherished memories amidst the picturesque landscapes of Narbeth, as well as the perfect mix of history, modernity and - most importantly - ultimate comfort?
Mandarin Oriental - London
Mandarin Oriental is one of the most iconic hotels in all of London and for very good reason. The interiors were the wondrous vision of the internationally acclaimed designer, Joyce Wang, who was inspired by the verdant natural beauty of Hyde Park, as well as the 20th-century golden age of travel. Conveniently located near some of the best retail in the world, excellent restaurants and Hyde Park where you can experience the ultimate winter wonderland fair before retreating to the stunning rooms and suites the hotel has or to the award-winning spa.
Christmas lunch at the hotel includes a two-Michelin-starred Christmas Day lunch, Christmas Carols and even a visit from Father Christmas himself.
The Newt Inn - Somerset
The Newt Inn was built in 1607 and was a private home for two centuries before opening as a hotel in 2019. The beautiful Palladian-fronted hotel has received stellar reviews and there is no better time of year to visit than Christmas. Roll-top baths, cosy fireplaces and meticulously designed gardens make it the perfect place for a relaxing retreat. When the weather gets too cold you can retreat to the spa which has its steam room, an indoor swimming pool, and a hammam as well as a range of bespoke treatments on offer.
This Christmas the highly exclusive hotel is offering a package which includes breakfast every morning, live music, Christmas entertainment, banquet-style Christmas Eve dinner and Christmas lunch as well as a twelve-month membership.
As winter's chill sets in, guests can seek solace in the indulgent spa, which has a steam room, indoor swimming pool, and a rejuvenating hammam, complemented by an array of bespoke treatments. This festive season, indulge in the warmth of breakfast every morning, accompanied by live music and jolly Chirstmassy entertainment. And for the foodies? A banquet-style Christmas Eve dinner is followed by a sumptuous Christmas lunch the next day. To top it off, guests receive a twelve-month membership, ensuring that the spirit of The Newt lingers long after the festive decorations are put away
