Christmas breaks to plan ahead

Autumnal leaves begin to fall, and the weather takes a chillier turn in those dark mornings. It’s time to look forward to the joyful time of year, Christmas. The festivities, lights, and celebrations bring warmth to our hearts as we explore the magical settings across the nation, laying out their gifts and treats.

A Christmas market break is a certain way to get you in the festive spirit this year. Here is our selection of the best markets from throughout the country:

 

North

Christmas comes to Chester – from £79pp at Crabwall Manor Hotel & Spa, Chester
Festive treats, local and regional products, unique gifts and stocking fillers are all on offer at the Chester Christmas Market from 16 November to 22 December. Over 70 traditional wooden chalets will pop up, along with a sparkling Christmas tree in the heart of the city to create a truly magical atmosphere for the festive season. Come in from the cold to the charming Crabwall Manor Hotel & Spa with a roaring fire and comfortable rooms from £79pp bed & breakfast (two sharing). Call Crabwall Manor Hotel & Spa on 01244 851666, www.crabwallmanorhotelandspa.com.

Ho Ho Ho at The Harris – from £30pp at Legacy Preston International Hotel, Preston
Looking for something a bit different to buy this festive season? Head to Etsy Made Local – Preston Christmas Market 2018 at the Harris Museum & Art Gallery, for a wealth of the finest Christmas gift ideas in a truly inspiring shopping experience. Crafters and makers from all over Lancashire will display their wares, whilst family fun adds to the atmosphere. Keep things local with a stay at the Legacy Preston International Hotel from £30pp (bed and breakfast, two sharing). Call Legacy Preston International Hotel on 08444 119 028, www.legacy-hotels.co.uk/hotels/legacy-preston-international-hotel-preston-lancashire

 

 

South

Santa sleighs in to Southampton – from £99 per family at New Place Hotel, Hampshire
Celebrate the joy of the season at the Southampton Christmas Festival from 16 November until 23 December. Featuring a traditional German market of over 40 independent stallholders with unique alpine chalets, daily entertainment, real ice rink, and the unmissable ‘Flying Santa’, the festival is truly one for the whole family. Take a festive break at the delightful New Place Hotel from £99 per family (two adults, one child). Call New Place Hotel on 01329 836504 or www.newplacehotel.co.uk

 

Magical medieval market – from £40pp at Legacy Rose & Crown Hotel, Salisbury
Lightly falling snow, glittering lights, and authentic German wooden chalets create a magically festive scene for the Salisbury Christmas Market. From 29 November to 23 December, the beautifully historic city will play host to food, craft and gift stalls whilst a bandstand of live music, events and workshops provides the entertainment. Reside on the banks of the River Avon at the Legacy Rose & Crown Hotel from £40pp for a one-night stay including overnight accommodation and breakfast (two sharing). Call Legacy Rose & Crown Hotel on 01722 328615, www.legacy-hotels.co.uk/hotels/rose-crown-hotel-salisbury-wiltshire