Enchanting English Christmas market break in Salisbury
Capture the sights and sounds of the English city in the countryside this festive season at Salisbury’s Christmas markets. The traditionally German-inspired chalet stalls include quaint crafts and delectable foods, alongside activities for all the family. With over 100 exhibitors, a programme of entertainment performances and special features in some of the city’s top attractions, Salisbury’s Christmas period is set to be sparkling.
Salisbury Christmas market runs from 23 November to 22 December
Stay at the Legacy Rose and Crown Hotel, a short walk into the city centre, with fantastic views across the River Avon to Salisbury’s cathedral spire. The 13th century building oozes character and is the ideal place to relax and unwind after a day full of Christmas shopping. A one-night stay on bed and breakfast basis, with mulled wine and mince pies, based on 2 people sharing a standard double room, is just £89 (for two). Upgraded rooms are available with supplements.
Double the festive fun at Winchester & Southampton Christmas markets
Winchester’s Christmas market is renowned across the UK and Europe as one of the very best, full of homemade crafts, warming festive foods and fun for all the family. The delightful Christmas market attracts half a million visitors each year, showcasing quality products in the dedicated British Crafts Village. The popular ice rink and choice of festive food favourites light up the city for Christmas.
A short 20-minute drive or train journey will bring you to Southampton and to another Christmas market. Wander the German-inspired myriad of stalls, with everything from homemade art to traditional gingerbread treats. This Christmas market is also close to Southampton’s fantastic variety of high street shops, guests can pick up the last of the Christmas gifts.
Winchester Christmas market runs from 20 November to 22 December
Southampton Christmas market runs from 11 November to 23 December
Providing the ideal base for visitors travelling from near and far, Best Western Chilworth Manor Hotel is close to many transport links including Southampton airport, port and the M3. The spacious hotel overlooks acres of protected land, perfect for a refreshing winter walk, and also boasts a well-equipped health & fitness facility, restaurant and ample car parking. Cost is £110 for a one-night bed & breakfast stay, with mulled wine and mince pies, based on 2 people sharing a standard double room. Upgraded rooms are available with a supplement.
Festive markets with a sea breeze, in two of England’s port cities
Visit two of the South coast’s finest Christmas markets in one break; a Victorian affair in Portsmouth and a Bavarian-inspired market in Southampton. A feast for the senses this Christmas, the two Christmas markets take shoppers on differing journeys of yuletide discovery.
Located at Portsmouth historic dockyard, the Victorian Festival of Christmas transports visitors to a by-gone era. Offering a taste of Victorian England, the market will have street performers, market sellers and a new feature for 2017, the Sherlock Holmes-inspired whodunnit family trail.
Uncover the delights of a Bavarian Christmas, at Southampton’s German-inspired Christmas market. The seasonal stalls in the city centre will include authentic foods and crafty gifts, a flying Santa will even appear to surprise visitors every evening!
Southampton Christmas market runs from 11 November to 23 December
Portsmouth’s Victorian Festival of Christmas market runs from 1 December to 3 December
A fine place to cosy up to this Christmas, New Place Hotel is nestled in the Hampshire countryside and exudes rural grandeur, from its beautiful manor house to expansive grounds. A fantastic spot to recoup after visiting the shops, guests can make use of the revitalising leisure facilities, including Jacuzzi to soothe tired feet. A one-night bed and breakfast stay, with dinner and mulled wine, is just £119 for 2 people sharing a standard room.