That magical time of year when it feels like the good old days once again. Mornings spent foraging holly and mistletoe for those “final touch” decorations; afternoons of scrabble and chocolate box rummaging; and evenings relaxing fireside with the soul-soothing sounds of Frank Sinatra carols, grandpa’s port-induced chuckling, and the stovetop Christmas Day gravy bubbling away in the background.
Christmas is a time to create memories of the everlasting kind. So, now for a home to make them in…
Kailani in Cornwall
This fisherman’s cottage in picturesque Mousehole gets that extra sprinkle of Cornish magic come Christmastime. Stormy eves promise dramatic wave-watching and the nearby village comfort in the form of cosy, candlelit pubs. From here, head out to enjoy hot roasted chestnuts at the famous Mousehole lights display.
Hansa in Shropshire
A fairytale Christmas amidst the pines is on offer at Brothers Grimm inspired woodland lodge, Hansa in Shropshire. With its puffing chimney, topsy-turvy architecture, and woodfired hot tub beneath the stars, holiday hideaways don’t get much more hygge than this.
Honeystone in Suffolk
For those who favour caviar and Champagne over mince pies and mead, behold an abode of suitable lavish luxury. Suffolk’s opulent Honeystone is a place to really impress the guests this Christmas — with a grand dining room, in-house cinema and spa, and nine sumptuous bedchambers to roll back to after midnight.
Inkwell Cottage in the Cotswolds
An escape here feels like stepping into The Holiday; with its pretty Cotswold stone façade, petite interior, and cosy woodburner. Pyjama-clad couples can channel their inner Amanda and Graham this Christmas, and enjoy an idyllic festive break in the oh-so-romantic village of Burford.
Ellesmera Mill in Devon
This 400-year-old Devon millhouse has a real Santa's grotto feel about it, especially on dark December eves when magic lingers in the air. But, instead of sleigh-pulling reindeer, behind its barn doors awaits chic country interiors and a snug linhay with woodburner, strings of festoon lights, and flickering candles.
Supernova in Scotland
Christmas in the Scottish highlands — now doesn’t that sound inviting. This converted chapel on the Isle of Skye is remote and romantic; the perfect base from which to welly-stomp from before returning home to warm fingertips with mugs of cinnamony mulled wine and toes with sheepskin slippers.
The Fable in Cornwall
Those seeking a chocolate box cottage need look no further than The Fable. Here, the thatched roof, golden-glow windows, and wibbly walls create an unmistakably cosy ambience. When not around the kitchen table making gingerbread with the little ones, then movie nights beside the crackling fire will surely do.
Huckleberry in Wales
Sleeping twelve, this Pembrokeshire farmhouse was made for family escapes — particularly the running down the stairs to the present-laden living room on Christmas morning and screaming "he’s been" kind. Stylish and comfortable, this is a true home-away-from-home this festive season.
Looking to book a festive escape? Why not explore our full collection of UK holiday homes available for Christmas this year or next.