It’s December and festive winter holidays are here! The Cotswold’s is a magical place during this period with lots of fun events going on throughout this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Staying in one of our luxury log cabins is also the perfect place to be curled up in front of the fire whilst the winter weather does it’s worst. Slow days spent reading a book, walking the lakeside trails and unwinding in the steaming hot tub await. But do make the effort to spend an afternoon or two in the surrounding Cotswolds – it’s well worth leaving your little log cabin by the lake for. Here are a few top picks to head for…
The Winchcombe Christmas Festival
Experience the Christmas festival in this ancient Cotswold town where shops, restaurants and pubs alike join forces to celebrate the festive season by laying on a whole host of Christmas offers, events and entertainment. Make sure you head here to pick up a few last minute presents and treat yourself to a thing or two! Stalls sell everything from local food and produce to jewellery, local crafts and unique Christmas decorations. The town is lit up at night too making it a fun environment for a family evening out.
For more info: www.winchcombe.co.uk
Head to the German Christmas Market at Cheltenham
This very popular market runs through most of December. Running down the Promenade in the stylish town of Cheltenham you can buy a host of unique gifts such as hand painted Christmas decorations and baubles, jewellery and traditional wooden toys to name a few of our own highlights. Whilst there make sure you try a warming glass of Gluhwein mulled wine and a bratwurst!
Experience a spectacle of light at the magical Sudeley Castle
Sudeley Castle is a top day out in the Cotswolds throughout the year but in December this historic castle really comes to life. Explore this unique experience by following the trail of light around the stunning gardens and romantic ruins. This would make a very special romantic evening whilst in the Cotswolds. Follow this by a candlelit dinner at one of our highly recommended Cotswold pubs and finally some star gazing in the hot tub. Perfect.
For more Info: Sudeley Castle
An atmospheric day at the Cheltenham Races
Whenever there is an event at this world famous racecourse we always recommend putting it into your Cotswold holiday to do list. Wrap up warm and enjoy cheering your horse past the post, exploring this historic venue and having a few festive drinks. If your on a group holiday in the Cotswolds this is a great day out.
For more info: Cheltenham Racecourse
A family day out to the Bibury Duck Race
Every year on Boxing Day this fun event takes place in the picturesque Cotswold village of Bibury. Sponsor a few ducks to help some great local charities and cheer your yellow friends down the River Coln to the finish line. Normally the first 20 ducks pick up the prizes which have previously included a dinner for four at a top pub, bottles of champagne and whiskey, and even an oven-ready duck! This unusual event draws in the crowds and the festive atmosphere is always enjoyable. Remember to wrap up warm in your most hygge outfit! This is a great place to head to before returning for a big Boxing Day lunch and a film next to the crackling log fire. This free day out in the Cotswold’s is really not to be missed!
Whilst at the Lake…
When you’re not off enjoying these great days out in the Cotswold’s you’ll no doubt be cosying up in your authentic log cabin. A whole day can easily disappear between reading a book in front of the fire, taking a few dips in the hot tub and exploring a new part of the lake in your rowing boat. The Cotswold’s is one of the best places in the UK for locally grown produce so make sure you pick up some great ingredients and enjoy a few memorable feasts whilst away. If you want to enjoy a walk from your cabin, there a few lovely village churches within reach for a Christmas service or carol concert. All eight of our luxury lake lodges have their own decorated Christmas tree in for the month of December giving you the perfect Scandinavian short break in the UK. Why not pack a few presents to put beneath the tree and enjoy an early Christmas down by the lake. And don’t worry – our chimneys are Santa Claus friendly!