Picture a winter wonderland at Watermark; a cosy lodge with a bubbling hot tub overlooking a frozen lake on a winter’s evening. Marshmallows fall like snowflakes into steaming mugs of hot chocolate before family members, young and old, race to pick their seat on the sofa ready to watch the Polar Express. Cushions tumbling. Laughter chortling. Now open the door and join them.
Hunker down and spend quality time together this Christmas. With your loved ones. Away from the stresses of home. There’s room for all the family in our luxurious lodges. And plenty of space to still enjoy time to yourself away from the celebrations. With country walks, waterside views and Wi-Fi – there’s something for all the family.
If distance is what divides you all, why not meet in the middle? Create your own village in the heart of the Cotswolds and use us as the perfect base for your festive celebrations. Including all the pre-Christmas preparations:
Step inside a fairy-tale
Wander through a winter wonderland at Blenheim Palace in a search for Cinderella. Promising to be bigger and better than ever, this year’s experience is truly magical. With hidden surprises both indoor and outdoor, the Palace State Rooms stage your own adventures as the estate’s evening illuminations ignite your imagination. From December until January 13th this dreamland is on your doorstep for the duration of your stay with us.
All aboard the Santa Express
Travel to the north pole by steam train with the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway’s Santa Special. From Cheltenham Racecourse to Winchcombe this festive treat will guarantee a little magic. Sit back and enjoy a slower pace while elves entertain the children with colouring activities, jokes and surprises. Visit Santa’s grotto on arrival in Winchcombe and enjoy time with the man himself before enjoying a complimentary mince pie and hot or cold beverage in the platform café. Every child receives a quality present and experiences an adventure they’ll never forget. Seats sell out fast, with just four trains each day (Sat-Sun) so be sure to book your tickets in advance.
Christmas markets in the Cotswolds
From our quaint villages to bustling towns you’ll be spoilt for choice to grab your mulled wine and warm mince pie this year. Whether daytime or evening you can soak up the season with carol singers, street entertainers and an abundance of twinkling Christmas lights across a variety of Christmas markets. Broadway, Cheltenham and Cirencester and all promise traditional homemade gifts, delicious artisan food, unique arts and crafts, live music and fair rides from mid-November – 16 December.
Special effects at Sudeley Castle
Experience hypnotising illuminations with vibrant colours and special effects against the back drop of Sudeley Castle’s glorious gardens. Savour festive food as you stroll around the grounds with mulled wine or hot chocolate warming your hands. Taking place in the evenings of December 8 – 9, December 12-23 and December 27-30, let Winchcombe’s finest bewitch you.
Whether you’re planning a Christmas retreat, New Year reunion or winter hibernation, celebrate the season and have a winter wonderland at Watermark. Relax, refresh and recharge. Discover life undiluted and unadulterated. Discover Watermark.
