Travel News

Why the time between Christmas and New Year’s Eve is ideal for a holiday

Simon Calder’s Travel

It is one of the weirdest weeks in the calendar, a loose end of odd days sandwiched between Christmas and New Year’s Eve which most people struggle to fill.

Many forget what day it is, others are in a turkey-induced coma.

But rather than sit around twiddling thumbs and nursing hangovers, make the most of the quiet time by escaping the house and checking into a cosy inn or boutique hotel. There are dozens of options across the UK and Ireland with availability from 27–30 December and many are offering fantastic deals.

Whether you fancy a cold water dip in the Lake District or a night spent below tinsel-wrapped turrets, here are a few of the top choices to book.

The Gannet, Cornwall

Blast away the stresses of Christmas Day and work off any excess calories with a brisk walk along the Cornish coast. This intimate inn with all the credentials of a boutique hotel is perfectly positioned in the village of Carbis Bay, a mile from harbour town St Ives and close to a Blue Flag beach. If the weather is too challenging, retreat indoors to the spa at the nearby C Bay sister hotel – included in the room rate. A complimentary afternoon cream tea and dinner voucher will leave you feeling warm and satisfied.

A two-night stay costs from £349 for two, including breakfast and £50 dinner voucher; gannetstives.co.uk

Read more: The best hotels in Cornwall

The Samling, Cumbria

Winter is arguably one of the most magical periods to explore the Lake District – there are less crowds, fells are twinkling with frost, and a faint dusting of snow sprinkles peaks. Enjoy the best views from this waterside property, looking out to Lake Windemere and the Coniston Old Man mountain range. Take a bracing dip from the private jetty, with staff on hand to provide a wet suit, fluffy towels and steaming mulled wine or hot chocolate. The onsite restaurant has an excellent wine selection and is rumoured to be on course for a second Michelin star.

Doubles from £390 per night; thesamlinghotel.co.uk

Read more: The best hotels in the Lake District

Lough Eske Castle, Co. Donegal, Ireland

Turn fairytales into a reality by staying at a five-star castle set along the Wild Atlantic Way, where powerful 14th century clans once had their seat. Built in the late 19th century, the current property…

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