Unwrapping gifts by the fire, kisses under the mistletoe and bottomless bubbly – it’s soon to be the most wonderful time of the year! It’s time to swap sangria for mulled wine, dust off your Christmas jumper, and celebrate the festive season in true holiday style. Whether you’re looking for a cottage in the UK, a cosy castle in Ireland or a chateau in France, we’ve chosen the top 10 places you can stay for a cracking family Christmas break!
1. Chateau De Jaques, Champagne
Step into a Christmas fairytale at Chateau De Jaques. Set in a charming village, the château enjoys a wonderfully authentic setting with a local boulangerie for fresh morning pastries and a small grocery store known for its superb seasonal strawberries. Just five minutes away by car is a pizzeria, while a larger supermarket is around 10 minutes away. For a broader choice of shops, cafés and restaurants, the attractive town of Châlons-en-Champagne lies just 11km away.
Nature lovers will adore the surroundings: a scenic 15-minute woodland walk leads to a pretty lake, with another close by, while the Marne River offers gentle cruises and a riverside beach. The area is ideal for walking and cycling, with horse riding available nearby.
Sleeps: 20-30
2. Landscove House, Devon
Part of our Sustainable Collection and boasting plenty of green pastures for your pooch, Landscove House is a countryside oasis, featuring the dreamiest conservatory dining room for an unforgettable Christmas dinner. Eat to your heart’s content, then retire to the relaxing family room, belly full and mulled wine in hand.
Sleeps: 16
3. Chateau Chamborigaud, Languedoc
Chateau Chamborigaud is a fairytale castle that will leave a lasting impression on visitors both young and old. A grand dining table with room for 18 makes for the ultimate Christmas dinner and the huge vaulted living room is complete with an impressive fireplace. This area’s well known for cultivating chestnuts (hard to resist roasting over that open fire).
Sleeps: 18
4. Ravenclaw Hall, East Sussex
If you’re looking for glamour this Christmas, you won’t be disappointed with Ravenclaw Hall. Bursting with character and charm, this Grade II listed building has it all: an elegant entrance hall, formal dining room, bright kitchen, and traditional sitting room where you can ‘rest your eyes’ after dinner. The surrounding countryside is ideal for a serene family walk, or try your hand at tennis in your own private court. Just an hour’s drive from London, this is the perfect Christmas stay for all you city dwellers.
Sleeps: 13
5. Shore House, Hampshire
If you’ve never experienced Christmas by the sea, you’re missing out. At Shore House, you can start the day with a crisp stroll to the beach, pop to the shops for a spot of last-minute gift shopping, then settle in for the ultimate Christmas feast prepared by your very own private chef. The cinema room feels as though it was made with festive viewing in mind. We’re thinking Elf.
Sleeps: 20
6. Wisteria Cottage, Cotswolds
Celebrate Christmas at Wisteria Cottage, a peaceful Somerset hideaway tucked away on a private road amid beautiful countryside. With walking and cycling routes leading almost straight from the doorstep, it is made for frosty morning rambles, muddy boots by the door and slow afternoons spent returning to the warmth.
Inside, the cottage offers a cosy base for a festive escape, with space to settle in after days exploring the surrounding lanes and villages. Though wonderfully quiet, it is not cut off: the market town of Ilminster is less than five minutes away by car, with shops, restaurants and useful amenities close at hand for festive treats, last-minute essentials and relaxed seasonal days out.
Sleeps: 8
7. Cameron North Lodge, Loch Lomond
If you prefer a contemporary Christmas, Cameron North Lodge will feel like it was made just for you. Its striking glass façade shimmers in striking winter, while sleek, modern interiors and luxurious furnishings add a touch of festive elegance. Celebrate the season with breathtaking views over the Loch, perfect for a soothing soak in the hot tub, or a blissful day of indulgence at the nearby Cameron House Spa.
Sleeps: 6 – 8
8. Chestnut House, Midlands
If you’re dreaming of a quintessential English Christmas, Chestnut House is the perfect setting. This elegant Georgian retreat, nestled in the picturesque village of Maidford, exudes timeless charm and festive tranquillity. With roaring fires, beautifully decorated rooms, and the scent of mulled wine in the air, this house is made for gathering loved ones and creating cherished holiday memories. Spend your days strolling through the frost-kissed five-acre gardens, challenging friends to a game of pool or ping pong, and unwinding by the heated pool or in one of the stately lounges. As evening falls, toast to the season beneath the watchful boughs of the grand chestnut trees.
Sleeps: 12
9. Finnvale Castle Estate, County Cork
For a Christmas steeped in grandeur, Finnvale Castle Estate sets the stage perfectly. This exquisite Georgian mansion surrounded by 110 acres of private parkland in the heart of County Cork offers timeless elegance with a festive twist. Gather loved ones beside crackling fires, host indulgent feasts in the light-filled kitchen, and raise a glass in the private bar as snow (or Irish mist) drifts across the grounds. With its beautifully appointed bedrooms, cosy library, and games room for lively evenings, celebration and serenity is promised in equal measure.
Sleeps: 16
10. Chateau Lignol, Brittany
Fancy a fairytale ending to the year? Chateau Lignol is a miniature castle, with a dash of magic that brings every childhood dream to life. Step through the grand entrance and you’ll find the famous tower peeking over swaying branches, a scene straight from a storybook. Tucked away behind Breton farmland, it’s the perfect spot for a peaceful Christmas amid the charm of rural France.
Sleeps: 10
Whether you’re dreaming of a white Christmas or some winter sun, Oliver’s Travels has you covered! Looking for more ideas for a perfect family Christmas break in the UK or France? Check out these Christmas cottages and houses.
Or if you fancy a trip a bit further afield, discover our villas for winter sun. Wherever you’re heading, get in touch with our concierge team for an extra special festive stay.
