OUT & ABOUT
Visit Blenheim’s winter lights, a London art exhibition and The Pig’s latest hotel opening
DISCOVER: THE ILLUMINATED TRAIL AT BLENHEIM PALACE
There are few places more spectacular in the British Isles than Blenheim Palace and during the festive period it really comes alive. Returning this winter, following its success in previous years, are the light installations that make up the estate’s enchanting Illuminated Light Trail. There are lasers and projectors, colour-changing tunnels, treetop canopies bathed in light and all manner of luminous baubles. New displays include the Heart of The Stars and ethereally glowing Will-o-the-wisps. And, of course, there’ll be seasonal gift and food stalls – mulled wine anyone? blenheimpalace.com
VISIT: TRACEY EMIN AND EDVARD MUNCH AT THE ROYAL ACADEMY OF ARTS
It’s been a tough year for galleries and museums, most of which have been shut since early spring, their exhibition programmes cancelled or postponed. But with new safety measures in place, many are emerging with impressive shows. We’re particularly looking forward to the RA’S offering: The Loneliness of the Soul, a dual display of work by Tracey Emin (above) and Expressionist painter Edvard Munch. Emin has selected masterpieces by the Norwegian artist to sit alongside works from her own enduring career. royalacademy.org.uk
STAY: THE PIG AT HARLYN BAY, CORNWALL
Arguably the country’s most beloved rural hotels, The Pig has expanded into Cornwall, a move that we’ve been wishing on for a while. The sublime location is just a stone’s throw from Harlyn Bay beach, considered among the best in Cornwall for families due to its plentitude of sand and notably safe conditions. It’s the perfect spot for long summer beach days and, at this time of year, bracing winter walks. The main part of the hotel, a handsome historic house, dates back to the 15th century and is sure to provide a welcome dose of the group’s iconic rustic-chic style. thepighotel.com
DON’T MISS: A festive cookery class at the Bread Ahead bakery. Brush up on your culinary skills with workshops on celebration bakes
or traditional Victorian Christmas fare, breadahead.com.