This Christmas, Harbour Hotels invites guests to celebrate the festive season in Britain’s most enchanting coastal and city settings. From the harbour towns of Cornwall to the shores of the tranquil shores of the Lake District, each hotel combines seasonal dining, live entertainment, creative workshops and local traditions for an unforgettable UK break – all wrapped in an atmosphere of relaxed luxury.
Whether you are planning a romantic Christmas escape for two or a festive getaway with friends, Harbour Hotels provides the perfect setting to make memories by the sea of in the heart of charming towns and cities.
Festive Workshops and Experiences
Festivities begin with wreath-making workshops hosted across select Harbour Hotels. Under the guidance of expert florists, guests can create beautiful, fragrant creations using winter foliage, berries and ribbons, all while enjoying mince pies and a glass of fizz. It’s the ideal way to start the holiday season and take home a piece of festive craftsmanship.
At Harbour Hotel Christchurch in Dorset, Christmas Day dinner will be accompanied by a live pianist, followed on Boxing Day by smooth jazz performances and a visit from the local RNLI Father Christmas. In Cornwall, Harbour Hotel Padstow sets a nostalgic tone with a hot chocolate station and mulled wine on Christmas Eve, while Harbour Hotel St Ives hosts the acclaimed jazz quartet Laura & The Jazz Capsule on Christmas Eve and a harpist to soundtrack Christmas Day overlooking the bay.
Further along the coastline in Devon, Harbour Hotel Salcombe welcomes the renowned Kingsmen a cappella group to perform traditional carols by the waterfront. In the Lake District, Rothay Garden by Harbour Hotels offers a truly picturesque experience with a Boxing Day cruise across Lake Windermere, complete with festive treats and breathtaking views.
Festive Dining
Seasonal gastronomy takes centre stage across the collection. At Christchurch, Salcombe and Padstow, guests will indulge in a Christmas Day menu by celebrated chef Alex Aitken. Dishes include classics such as roast turkey with cranberry and apricot stuffing and Beef Wellington wrapped in flaky pastry with truffle mousse, alongside lighter options such as hot smoked salmon with caviar and dill butter or cod topped with crab and herb breadcrumbs. Desserts range from a traditional Christmas pudding to lemon meringue cheesecake and a rich chocolate hazelnut roulade. Meanwhile, Sidmouth, St Ives and Rothay Garden set the scene on Christmas Eve with a festive cream tea.
City Breaks
For a more understated celebration, Harbour Hotel Guildford and Harbour Hotel Southampton offer relaxed festive escapes that combine city style with seasonal indulgence. Guests can enjoy a restorative stay with access to the HarSPA, a festive cocktail, dinner in HarBAR & Kitchen, and a relaxed start to the following day with a leisurely breakfast and late check-out.
New Year Packages
The celebrations continue into New Year’s Eve, marked by elegant gala dinners, live bands, and Champagne toasts at midnight. Between the festivities, guests can unwind in the award-winning HarSPA & Club sanctuaries, offering soothing treatments, thermal suites, and pools designed for restoration and renewal.