December and "Twixmas" Castle Breaks in the UK and Ireland
Either in the run-up to Christmas or for a 'Twixmas break' between Christmas and New Year, we have plenty of enticing reasons to book a castle stay during the festive season.
A more peaceful build-up to the season
The run-up to Christmas can sometimes be a little overwhelming, but spending some time away in an atmospheric setting, free from hustle and bustle, is sure to help you enjoy the magic of this special time and evoke a sense of calm. Whether surrounded by hills or secluded within their own grounds, many castles offer fresh air, scenic walks and beautiful gardens on their doorstep, and sleeping in a luxurious castle bedroom – well, what could be more joyous?
Castles are so warm in winter
Castles make for a wonderfully warm retreat in the winter months. Huge, original open fireplaces will beckon you in from the cold winter air whilst thick stone walls are fantastic for keeping the heat in. Most castles are also equipped with modern heating methods to ensure you never feel any chills. Can you imagine anything cosier than a turreted bedroom, with the height and snug circular setting keeping you contentedly cocooned from those bracing winter winds?
Choose your winter wonderland
Wake up to dreamlike turreted views across dramatic snow-peaked caps of the Highlands, the wild peninsulas of Ireland or England’s gentle rolling hills. Relish frosty landscapes, misty morning views and the delicate feel of brushing past snow-topped fir trees on woodland walks. The ethereal and whimsical sights of winter surroundings can also inspire the most adventurous New Year’s resolutions. With an extensive plethora of locations to choose from, you are bound to find a wintry setting to tug at your heart strings.
A picture-perfect break
Just the sight of a castle in December is enough to make you feel Christmassy. Imagine the setting: tastefully-placed decorations and gilded mirrors, glistening under dazzling chandeliers complemented by opulent, richly-coloured soft furnishings and lavishly-draped windows. A towering pine tree dressed to perfection stands before an ornate staircase, its alluring scent spiralling up to greet you in a morning. Fairy lights cleverly woven into foliage gathered from the castle gardens illuminate cosy spaces. December doesn’t come more beautiful than this.
History of a castle evokes nostalgia
Opting to stay in an ancient castle is a chance to experience the past. Each property has a story – allow yourself to be swept away by its charm and captivated by its unique history.
You can also appreciate different traditions from this time of year; partake in pre-Hogmanay celebrations in a Scottish castle or enjoy Guinness with mince pies, and wish your loved one a ‘Nollaig Shona Duit’ during a December castle break in Ireland. Encased by those stone walls, you’ll bask in a sense of timelessness reinforced through stately architecture, an ethereal atmosphere and nostalgic Christmassy scents.
Indulgence is encouraged
If there’s ever a time and place in which to indulge, it’s a castle in the Christmas season. Be prepared for a warm welcome, decadent dining in abundance, fine cellar-aged wines and elegant comfort at every turn. After a walk in the bracing December weather, warm yourself before a huge roaring fireplace on sumptuous armchairs, steaming hot-chocolates or other warming tipples in hand. As evening arrives, snuggle up in a four-poster bed with your latest read or luxuriate in a deep bath by candlelight.
Social events & festive romance
There is always plenty happening at Christmas time; whether in the glamour of the big cities or the tradition of a historic country village, embrace the festivities during a December castle stay. Families can visit a Christmas market – Edinburgh, York or Bath are exemplary – whilst friends can experience Christmas shopping like never before along the illuminated high street of Dublin or the cobbled lanes of Galway. Couples can enjoy time alone together with moonlit meals under a city skyline, romantic riverside walks and memorable trips to the theatre.
Enjoy the ride...
Whether you go it alone or with loved ones, a December stay in a castle will never leave your memory. We have every Christmas castle imaginable in our extensive online portfolio of properties, and our friendly, knowledgeable team is available 7 days a week, waiting to help you find your ideal winter retreat!