It’s always been one of the weirdest weeks in the calendar, a loose end of odd days sandwiched between Christmas and New Year which most people struggle to fill.
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 December 27-30 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.
How: A two-night stay costs from £349 for two, including breakfast and £50 dinner voucher. Visit gannetstives.co.uk
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.
How: Doubles from £390 per night. Visit thesamlinghotel.co.uk
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 has earned multiple accolades for providing five-star hospitality. Relax in a garden spa and stroll or cycle around grounds set below the Blue Stack mountains. A complimentary history tour is also held at 11am daily. Open fires roar in the Castle Drawing rooms and whiskey tipples can be sampled in a well-stocked cellar.
How: Doubles from €235/£195, including full Irish breakfast and a €50/£41 dinner voucher. Visit lougheskecastlehotel.com
Butlin’s, Bognor Regis
Take the family away for an affordable break that would have Santa rushing to pack his suitcase. Between December 27-30, Butlin’s is offering cut-price deals across all three resorts in Bognor Regis, Minehead and Skegness. Keep party fires alight with live entertainment, game shows and silent discos. The new £15 million PLAYEXPERINCE at Bognor Regis ups the ante on traditional board games with a selection of high-tech VR experiences.
How: A three-night stay in Bognor Regis starts from £412, based on a family of four staying in a two-bedroom Comfort Room. Visit butlins.com
The Royal Hotel, Isle of Wight
If a tropical island break is out of the question, the next best thing could be a trip to the Isle of Wight. Celebrated by Victorians for the healing powers of its clean sea air and mini microclimate, Ventnor promises potentially the balmiest break in the UK and certainly one of the cosiest getaways. This former coaching inn built in 1832 earned its name after Queen Victoria came for a stay and there are plenty of regal treats on offer today – including the AA Rosette Geranium restaurant where some of the fertile island’s excellent produce is served.
How: A two-night break for two costs from £590, including breakfast, a £45 dinner voucher per person per night and return car ferry to the mainland. Visit royalhoteliow.co.uk
