Twixmas: The best breaks to book between Christmas and New Year
Keep the post-Christmas blues at bay with a luxurious break at one of the finest hotels in the UK and beyond
The period between 27 and 30 December is the only time of the year when it’s deemed acceptable to stay in your pyjamas all day, eat leftovers and, quite honestly, not leave the sofa. This stretch of time between Christmas and New Year is often referred to as Twixmas and, for those out of the loop, can only be described as a series of Groundhog Days – where some seem to thrive in the post-festive slumber, while others struggle with the lack of routine.
Whichever camp you fall into, if you’d like to change up your usual Twixmas routine this year, allow us to introduce the best luxury hotels offering rejuvenating and restful breaks to tempt discerning travellers to escape normality before New Year. Whether you’d prefer to spend your days walking the Jurassic Coast or the rugged Cornish cliffs, or fancy booking a decadent stay further afield in Scotland, here’s our pick of the best breaks to book for Twixmas 2025.
The country break: Ellenborough Park, Cotswolds
Escape to the Cotswolds from 26-30 December at Ellenborough Park, an historic 15th-century manor offering a truly restorative break between Christmas and New Year. Guests can choose to indulge in spa treatments, enjoy the warmth of the heated outdoor pool, or simply unwind by a crackling fire in the Great Hall, taking advantage of the hotel’s classic country house atmosphere. For those wishing to venture out, Cheltenham Town Centre offers a welcome break for a shopping spree, or a visit to the Spectacle of Light show at Sudeley Castle is a delightful option.
From £269 per night.
The historic escape: Glenapp Castle, Scotland
For many, the time between Christmas and New Year is a perpetual limbo, but those looking to spend their time wisely can escape to luxury Scottish hotel Glenapp Castle for a Twixmas treat. From 27-30 December, guests of the 19th-century castle looking to do more than just laze in front of the TV between Christmas and New Year will be able to enjoy more than 70 activities, including falconry, archery and even perfume making before indulging in the hotel’s festive lunch, available in either the Castle Dining Room or The Azalea restaurant.
From £395 per night.
The dog-friendly trip: Fowey Hall, Cornwall
From 27-30 December, luxury hotel Fowey Hall is inviting those with four-legged friends in tow to the Cornish coast for its three-night Recharger package, offering a stress-free festive family Twixmas. Take the pressure off and enjoy the best of the south-west from this luxurious Victorian mansion boasting commanding views over the Fowey estuary. With an indoor pool, outdoor play area and just a 10-minute walk from Readymoney Cove and walking distance to Michelin-starred restaurants in Fowey, it’s the perfect spot for the whole family.
Start your break with a make-your-own pizza session and gather round the bonfire for marshmallow toasting, before enjoying a three-course dinner at the in-house restaurant and digestif by the crackling fire. Other highlights on the itinerary include the annual gingerbread house competition, storytime in the library, family scavenger hunts, silent discos and exploring the great outdoors with a bracing winter’s walk (pop by reception for local walking maps and recommendations).
From £390 per night.
The spa getaway: Scarlet, Cornwall
Situated on the rugged Cornish cliffs of Mawgan Porth, adults-only spa hotel Scarlet is hosting a three-night stay from 27-30 December to help guests switch off after a hectic festive month. Indulge in a spa treatment – and dip your toe in the indoor pool and outdoor natural reed pool – before relaxing in your sea-view room, perfectly positioned for wave watching, alongside a restorative three-course menu at the Scarlet restaurant. Join an invigorating sea dip on 28 December, take advantage of complimentary wellbeing classes or take your pup for a long walk along the north Cornish coast to help you reset and unwind.
From £1,515 for three nights for two people.
The family staycation: Moonfleet Manor, Dorset
Overlooking Chesil Beach, Moonfleet Manor is a place to step out and explore the unique flora and fauna of the Jurassic Coast. The Manor's newly-renovated Verandah, an extensive indoor activity hub perfectly suited to inclement British weather, features a giant bouncy castle, traversing wall, skittle alley, retro arcade games, crazy golf and a play area to keep youngsters thoroughly entertained. Plus, from 27-30 December, the hotel will host Mr Merlin and Okey Dokey the dragon for his famous comedy show, alongside story time in the cinema, a gingerbread competition and the opportunity to get up close to a variety of reptiles and animals.
From £567 per night.
The foodie stay: New Park Manor, Hampshire
Tucked away within the National Park, New Park Manor is a well placed bolthole to explore the enchanting woodland of the New Forest. Boasting a family-friendly spa, with an outdoor pool with panoramic views of the countryside, an indoor pool, a steam room, sauna, two outdoor hot tubs, a Somadome meditation pod and a dedicated healthy spa menu available in the cafe, it makes for the perfect place to relax after Christmas.
Foodies can start their three-night festive interlude with a buffet-style afternoon tea on arrival, before dinners at either the casual Vinery Restaurant or the more up-market Stag. Post-dinner, indulge at the pick'n'mix station, or warm up by the fire pit on the terrace and bake your own smores.
From £520 per night.
Read more: Where to travel for hot weather in December
