ELLENBOROUGH PARK
This 15th-century manor house is the perfect setting for those looking for an idyllic way to holiday and feel at home this Christmas
This 15th-century manor house is the perfect setting for those looking for an idyllic way to holiday and feel at home this Christmas
SITUATED IN THE MIDST of 90 private acres of idyllic Cotswold countryside, this indulgent 15th-century retreat, with lavish bedrooms, a serene spa, fine dining, and so much more, makes celebrating Christmas in the Cotswolds a wonderful and unforgettable holiday treat.
There's so much to do both in and around the hotel, you can bring all the family with you, and you don't need to worry about your four-legged friends either - as there are dog-friendly rooms throughout the hotel, and dogs are encouraged to join in festive family fun and enjoy their own five-star experience!
Wake up to views over nearby Cheltenham Racecourse in one of their 61 individually designed bedrooms and suites, each named after successful
“Once home to the Earl of Ellenborough, steeped in history, The Great Hall, built in 1485 is spectacular with its oak beams, stone fireplaces and intricate stained glass”
racehorses. Enjoy a Christmas morning swim in the hotel's outdoor heated pool, or grab a pair of Dubarry boots or Hunter wellies and venture out to explore the beautiful rolling hills of the Cotswold countryside.
On returning, cosy up by the roaring fire in the Great Hall to open gifts or battle it out over a board game or celebrate with a glass of champagne in the hotel's own country pub, The Horse Box.
Once home to the Earl of Ellenborough, steeped in history, The Great Hall, built in 1485 is spectacular with its oak beams, stone fireplaces and intricate stained glass. Don't miss the cosy snugs and spiral staircases leading up to private balconies above The Great Hall, perfect for nestling down and relaxing after a festive feast.
Afternoon tea is an essential part of the Christmas experience at Ellenborough Park; with a festive twist of warm mulled and spiced seasonal sweet treats - and you don't get better than the truly unique and spectacular ambience of The Great Hall for crunching into your cream cheese and cucumber sandwich. For a more laid back, casual dining experience The Horse Box offers a great option - especially for families with younger children.
Back to exploring. For the more adventurous, guests can ride through some of the 90 acres on a sled led by a pack of Siberian huskies, before warming themselves up by toasting marshmallows over a campfire - and if really lucky by cuddling husky pups. Take your Christmas decorations to another level this year by creating a bespoke wreath. Ellenborough Park is running wreath-making masterclasses in late November and early December with local florist Donna Beaver, helping you create a wonderful wreath to display proudly at home.
Grab a tipple from their stunning blue bar that boasts an impressive cocktail menu and reflect on the day with a mulled wine or glass of
Ellenborough Park gin and tonic, carefully curated by the nearby Cotswold Distillery. For those looking for more traditional winter experiences, various regal pursuits including archery, clay pigeon shooting, Land Rover off-roading or duck herding are also available on request. If you can bring yourself to leave the estate, Ellenborough Park is just a short hop from the centre of Cheltenham where you can enjoy a glass of warming Glühwein while the children ogle the goodies on the stalls at the Christmas Market on the Promenade.
Christmas just wouldn't be Christmas without a trip to the panto, so you could make it even more special with tickets to the Everyman Theatre to watch Jack & the Beanstalk or A Christmas Carol.
No cooking, no housework, at Ellenborough Park you can spend all of your time as the Lord or Lady of the manor, revelling in 500 years of history admiring the historic architecture and magnificent backdrop. Now that's something worth adding to your Christmas wish-list Luxurious 3-day packages from £659 per room per night or for exclusive, unlimited access prices starting from £12,000, ellenboroughpark.com