Closeup image of golden and red baubles on Christmas tree in front of burning fireplace. Beautiful Christmas background
Unwrapping gifts by the fire, kisses under the mistletoe and bottomless bubbly – it’s soon to be the most wonderful time of the year! It’s time to swap sangria for mulled wine, dust off your Christmas jumper and celebrate the festive season in true holiday style. Whether you’re looking for a cottage in the UK, a cosy castle in Ireland or a chateau in France, we’ve chosen the top 10 places you can stay for a cracking family Christmas break!
We’re dreaming of a white Christmas… and those dreams can become a reality at this chic little retreat in rural Champagne. Set among charming gardens, meadows and forest with a nearby stream, you’ll have endless wintery walks, and when it’s time to retire back to the house, get the fire roaring for the ultimate cosy Christmas feel.
Sleeps: 8
Prices from: £20pppn
Part of our Sustainable Collection and boasting plenty of green pastures for your pooch, Landscove House is a countryside oasis. The bright and airy conservatory dining room makes for a grand Christmas dinner setting and the relaxing family room is perfect to retreat to with a full belly and a warming mug of mulled wine.
Sleeps: 16
Price from: £52pppn
This fairytale castle will leave a lasting impression on old and young visitors alike, making it the perfect place to spend the festive season. With a grand dining table seating up to 18, you can just imagine the Christmas banquet before retiring to the huge vaulted living room with impressive fireplace. What’s more, the area is known for cultivating chestnuts which will be hard to resist roasting on an open fire…
Sleeps: 18
Price from: £74pppn
If you’re looking for glamour this Christmas, Boarzell won’t disappoint. Bursting with charm and character, this Grade II listed building has it all; from an elegant entrance hall, formal dining room and bright kitchen to a traditional sitting room where you can ‘rest your eyes’ after Christmas dinner. The surrounding countryside makes for a serene family walk or enjoy a game of tennis in your very own private tennis court! And only an hour’s drive from London, Boarzell is a hassle free trip for all you city dwellers!
Sleeps: 15
Prices from: £66pppn
If you’ve never had Christmas by the sea, you’ve been missing out. Within walking distance of the beach, enjoy a crisp morning stroll, pop to the shops for a spot of last-minute Christmas shopping or tuck into a meal in one of the local restaurants. And after a busy day, return back to the house, snuggle up together in the cinema room and stick on one of your festive favourites.
Sleeps: 20
Price from: £26pppn
For cosy vibes all round, Lily Ponds Cottage provides everything a Christmas getaway should have. Set beside a serene swimming pond in the heart of the South Downs National Park, this spacious four-bedroom cottage exudes charm and character, blending the owners’ artistic flair with the beauty of its surroundings. Impeccably renovated, the property features fabulous sculptures throughout the grounds, friendly alpacas wandering the garden, and a delightful Champagne hut, perfect for celebrating special moments. With all these elements combined, Lily Ponds Cottage promises an unforgettable Christmas escape.
Sleeps: 7
Price from: £55pppn
If the contemporary style is more up your street, Cameron North Lodge’s glass front and state-of-the-art modern interiors will certainly impress. The luxurious furnishings and blissful surroundings are sure to treat you to a seriously special Christmas. Gaze out onto views of the breathtaking Loch while you soak in the hot tub or treat the family to an early Christmas day out at nearby Cameron House Spa.
Sleeps: 6 – 8
Prices from: £82pppn
Calling all history buffs! Fancy staying in this Grade I listed gatehouse that Oliver Cromwell used as a garrison during the Civil War? Seamlessly combining original charm and character with all the modern amenities you’ll need, this spacious house boasts antique furniture, intricate stonework and beautiful interiors. Socialise in the spacious living areas and feast in the dining room before cosying up in the drawing room with a warming brandy.
Sleeps: 8
Price from: £24pppn
Sleeps: 4 – 8
Prices from: £126pppn
Fancy a fairytale ending to the year? This historic miniature castle has a dash of magic that’ll bring childhood dreams alive! The grand entrance opens onto a vista where the famous tower peeks over swaying branches. You’ll be nestled away behind Breton farmland so you and your group can have a peaceful, pretty Christmas among the charm of rural France.
Sleeps: 10
Prices from: £38pppn
Whether you’re dreaming of a white Christmas or want to chase some winter sun, Oliver’s Travels has got you covered! Looking for more ideas for a perfect family Christmas break in the UK or France? Check out these Christmas cottages and houses.
Or if you fancy a trip a bit further afield to chase the sunshine even in the gloomy months, discover our villas for Winter Sun around the world. Get in touch with our concierge team and they’ll take care of all your festive needs.
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