For many of us, the run-up to Christmas and New Year is a predictable time.
It’s a time filled with list-checking and frantic shopping sprees, braving the supermarket crowds, squeezing last-minute events into the calendar… and fielding the same old questions about how you’ll spend the festive season!
So why not take a break and spice up this year’s answers – by booking an unusual retreat to help you celebrate in style?
While others stay at home, you could be lighting a cosy wood-burning stove, tucking into a welcome hamper packed with festive goodies, and enjoying beautiful, brand-new scenery with that essential post-Christmas-dinner stroll…
…and a Christmas dinner you prepared in a gleaming kitchen, with appliances worthy of a celebrity chef’s TV debut!
Each of these incredible retreats has availability between Thursday 21st December 2023 and Tuesday 2nd January 2024.
Some come complete with added festive cheer, in the form of glittering decorations, handmade gifts, mouth-watering local produce, and those little surprises that warm your hearts, making the festive season feel extra-special.
If that sounds good to you, make yourself a hot toddy and get browsing. And remember, this availability won’t last long – so once you’ve found your favourite, get booking!
Author: Nina Jervis
Main image: Ursabear Cabin | Exmoor, Devon
Morebath, Devon, England
A sumptuous, hand-built Amazing Space that takes inspiration from the stars, filled with bespoke elements and mesmerisingly nestled on the edge of Exmoor National Park.
Available 22 - 27 Dec. Ursabear will be completely twinkled out for Christmas with a real tree and welcome hamper with lots of local goodies.
Littlehampton, West Sussex, England
A former coastguard tower, stylishly transformed into a cool, contemporary retreat with spectacular views from Littlehampton's iconic seafront.
Christmas and New Year availability - book now!
Mousehole, Cornwall, England
Leave the rest of the world far behind in a heavenly hideaway for two, architect-designed for luxury and sumptuously secluded on the Cornish coast.
7 nights from 22 Dec available at £1750.
Ringstead, Dorset, England
A pet-friendly, Grade II-listed hideaway from World War Two, rich in quirky character and secluded in a Dorset AONB with incredible sea views.
Availability for NYE - book now!
Muir of Ord, Ross-shire, Scotland
Traditional Scandinavian style set against the spectacularly scenic Scottish Highlands, for a stylish break that's naturally infused with pure woodland luxury.
Bedrooms: 3 (lodge) 1 (caravan)
Sleeps: 6 (lodge) 2 (caravan)
Availability for Christmas and New Year in the brand new Loft on the Croft
Weston Longville, Norfolk, England
A unique and detail-rich off-grid retreat, lovingly crafted from natural materials and nestled amongst 20 soothing acres of Norfolk countryside.
Wed 20th Dec right through to Fri 29th available in Willow Roundhouse: 20th - 22nd, 22nd or 23rd to 27th, 27th - 29th
Northlew, Devon, England
A relaxing haven, lovingly handcrafted by the owners and filled with sensory delights including a Japanese Onsen hot pool and a Finnish-style Eco Sauna, nestled in the deepest depths of Devon with magical, ever changing views towards Dartmoor.
Dec 21st to 2nd Jan just released in the HOF Hut. Decorations, lights, tiny handmade gifts and extras included in nightly price.
Holditch, Dorset, England
A distinctive, design-led RIBA award-winning treehouse - complete with hot tub - inspired by warship camouflage, expertly crafted and blissfully secluded on an adults-only site in rural Dorset.
5 nights starting dec 22nd @£ 2475 for a spectacular woodland stay with subtle festive decor
Walsingham, Norfolk, England
A restored Control Tower B&B bursting with history, period art deco features and furnishings on a former North Norfolk airfield.
Bedrooms: 4
Sleeps: 2 per room
Last remaining room available for Christmas 2023: 3 nights from Christmas Eve in the Stirling Suite, which will be festooned with vintage Christmas decorations. Each morning we will deliver your choice of cooked breakfast to you and on Christmas evening we can rustle up a local cheese board (optional). Minimum 3 night stay at £200/nt. The Stirling Suite is our cosy annex double room with a private living/breakfast room and pink art deco en suite bathroom. We have a history tour planned for after breakfast on Boxing Day In addition we have rooms available for 2 or 3 nights Bed and Breakfast from Thursday 21st December in the Control Tower which will have the fire lit for breakfast by the Christmas tree each morning, and by request each evening for tucking yourself up with a good read or a glass of something warming.
Raglan, Monmouthshire, Wales
A bespoke-crafted shepherd's hut, luxuriously nestled amongst the captivating Monmouthshire countryside.
Availability in December and New Year. The Hut will be festively decorated, and mince pies and mulled wine or Prosecco offered throughout the festive period.
Holditch, Dorset, England
Set deep in the heart of the Dorset Woodland lies this enchanting, skilfully crafted treehouse; a peaceful natural retreat under the forest canopy.
5 nights starting dec 22nd @£ 2475 for a spectacular woodland stay with subtle festive decor
Bishops Nympton, Devon, England
A dreamy Scandinavian-inspired retreat, complete with a cider house, a firepit shelter, and a stargazing hot tub, all beautifully secluded in a Devon apple orchard close to Exmoor.
Available 21st to 28th December. Little Poro will be completely twinkled out for Christmas with a real tree.
Matlock, Derbyshire, England
Eco-friendly, accessible, self-catering log cabins, camping pods and a gypsy caravan on a working farm in the Peak District.
Bedrooms: Varies
Sleeps: Varies
Cosy log cabins perfect for a Christmas/New Year getaway with friends or family. Escape the everyday and celebrate together in style: • Beautifully decorated cabins with real Christmas trees and twinkling outdoor lights • A festive welcome pack with mince pies and extra treats • Fully equipped kitchen with double oven for cooking up a feast • Footpaths from the door for fresh air and winter walks
Arthog, Gwynedd, Wales
A wild and wondrous glamping site, with eclectic, dog-friendly accommodation beautifully set within 45 private acres of Snowdonia National Park.
Bedrooms: Varies (8 units)
Sleeps: 1-5 guests
We have festive availability in our Shepherd’s Hut and 2 quarry wagons over Christmas and New Year. 2 nights start at £190. There will be Christmas lights around the site, festive garlands on the wagon doors and Christmas treats inside.
Holditch, Dorset, England
An adults-only, master-crafted RIBA award-winning treehouse, complete with an al fresco hot tub and wood-fired pizza oven, beautifully secluded on an exclusive site in rural Dorset.
5 nights starting dec 22nd @£ 2475 for a spectacular woodland stay with subtle festive decor
East Portlemouth, Devon, England
Welcome to the seaside and an award-winning designer escape on the beautiful South Devon coast.
Bedrooms: 3
Sleeps: 7 (+2)
Seacombe has Christmas availability for a festive seaside break 21st - 28th Dec was £2400 now £1900, and New Year - 28th Dec - Jan 4th was £2400 now £1900
Dittisham, Devon, England
An exquisite collection of luxury treehouses, a gleaming American airstream, and artisan shepherd's lodges, all with al fresco hot tubs and beautifully nestled in the scenic heart of Devonshire countryside.
Bedrooms: Varies
Sleeps: 1-5
4 night Treehouse stay from 23rd December £1500.00 Shepherds Lodges stay a minimum of 2 nights between 23rd and 27th Dec or from 31st Dec to 2nd Jan for £300.00 a night, or between 27th and 31st Dec for £250.00 a night.
Morebath, Devon, England
A magical Scandi-style treehouse-for-two, complete with its very own fairy-lit hot tub, dreamily surrounded by pure Devon nature that's achingly close to Exmoor.
Available 23 - 28 Dec. Yggdrasil Treehouse will be completely twinkled out for Christmas with a real tree and welcome hamper with lots of local goodies.
Woodhall Spa, Lincolnshire, England
An absurdly romantic treetop hideaway with huge windows, luxurious facilities, and an al fresco bathtub, dreamily secluded on the edge of the Lincolnshire Wolds.
Availability from 21st Dec - 2nd Jan for a cosy adults-only Christmas stay surrounded by nature. The beautiful, secluded Pheasants Roost Treehouse is decorated in a tasteful Winter Wonderland theme. A hamper of festive treats await you in your treehouse. Curl up by the log burner with a big fur throw. Toast marshmallows on the outdoor fire pit. Row your private rowing boat around the hidden islands. Soak under the stars in your hot, outdoor bubble bath for two. 2 miles from the picturesque village of Woodhall Spa. 10% off a Christmas stay with code XMAS10
Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, England
How about an unforgettable escape to the beautiful Suffolk countryside with West Stow Pods, where there's something for everyone at this glamping idyll.
Bedrooms: Varies
Sleeps: Up to 4 per unit
Festive availability as follows! Aelfred available from 21st Dec to 6th Jan * Boudicca available from 27th Dec to 6th Jan * Eadmund available from 21st Dec to 6th Jan * Pod Hollow available from 1st Dec to 5th Jan * Weststow Lodge available from 27th Dec to 29th Dec and 1st Jan to 6th Jan * Wulfrun available 21st Dec to 6th Jan * Check in days are Mondays, Wenesdays, Fridays.
Bredenbury, Herefordshire, England
Nostalgic, first-class couples and family accommodation at a restored 19th century railway station, set amongst timeless North Herefordshire countryside.
Bedrooms: 1 or 2 per property
Sleeps: 2 or 4 per property
During the festive season, like in other years, our 11ft Christmas tree will be illuminating the station's canopy. Station Building (sleeps 4) availability Christmas 23/12/2023 - 26/12/2023 3 nights Total: £613.00 * NYE 30/12/2023 - 02/01/2024 3 nights Total: £613.00
Bredenbury, Herefordshire, England
A vintage-styled retreat, secluded on a green platform at a restored 19th century railway station, amongst peaceful North Herefordshire countryside.
During the festive season, like in other years, our 11ft Christmas tree will be illuminating the station's canopy. Saloon Coach (sleeps 4) availability Christmas 23/12/2023 - 26/12/2023 3 nights Total: £840.00 * NYE 30/12/2023 - 02/01/2024 3 nights Total: £840.00 * Saloon Coach Bookings also have a £100 breakage deposit to be paid and normally refunded within 7 days of departure.
Brighton, East Sussex, England
A movie-themed, award-winning vintage haven by Brighton seafront, complete with teacup chairs and whimsical décor for a large group break that inspires the playful children in you!
Wonderland House (sleeps up to 24). The house will have a Christmas tree and is fully OTT with the theme of Alice in Wonderland for a magical atmosphere. 1 night stays in December (excluding Christmas and New Year) for £600 for Christmas get togethers. This is self catering but there is an option to add on private chefs from £20 per person for a 3 course meal or £30 per person for a 3 course Christmas dinner. 3 night stayover the New Year bank holiday weekend for £3,000 but EXCLUSIVE 10% discount to those who mention Host Unusual, and a late as you like check-out on the bank holiday Monday!
Nr Lavenham, Suffolk, England
You'll be swept away to the height of luxury at The Windmill Suffolk - a glorious towering bolthole as seen on George Clarke's 'Amazing Spaces' and overlooking idyllic countryside, just two miles north of historic Lavenham.
The Windmill Suffolk is available over Twixmas ( 27-30 December) and also during December in the lead up to Christmas. The Windmill will be decorated and all of our guests can expect some festive treats included in their stay too!
Underhill, Gloucestershire, England
A romantic hideaway in the heart of the Wye Valley AONB that’s cocooned in nature, styled with eco-friendly luxury, and completely surrounded by wildlife.
Owl's Nest Hideout will be decorated and we have availability from Dec 22nd to Dec 28th and then Sun 31st Dec to Fri 5th Jan.
Brighton, East Sussex, England
The oldest house in Brighton curiously re-imagined as Victorian Alice in Wonderland, filled with quirky surprises and sumptuous décor, superbly located in the heart of the Lanes.
Pre Christmas weekend shopping trips £645 for up to 3 nights (Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday) Warning! It’s a very festive time of year with lots of activity so suitable for people who want to go out and party! Midweek pre-Christmas shopping trips 2 nights for just £400, add a 3rd night for just £50 (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday). New Years Eve stay (2 nights minimum) Arrive Saturday 30th Leave as late as you like on Monday 1st. Price £900, or add the Monday night for just £35
Forestmill, Clackmannanshire, Scotland
Sumptuous woodland hideaways, privately nestled on a magical Clackmannanshire estate that's teeming with rich heritage and diverse, protected wildlife.
Bedrooms: 1 per bothy
Sleeps: 2 per bothy
Spend the festive season in your very own tiny home in the forest! Join our Land Officer to fell your very own Christmas tree and return to decorate by the woodburning stove with a hot drink.We also offer Scots Pine or aspen tree planting or a guided History & Wildlife Tour. Enjoy baked Christmas goodies, and explore the semi-ancient Scots pine, gooseberry oaks, and woodland paths with hawthorn berries and rosehips..
Upper Tysoe, Warwickshire, England
A sumptuous and spacious wood-crafted holiday home with a geodome & hot tub, nestled on a working farm in the scenic Cotswolds.
19 - 24th December and 26th December - 1st January available to book for a fabulous family-friendly stay!
Chichester, West Sussex, England
An award-winning, eco-friendly Grand Design with a vast natural swimming pond, surrounded by the soul-soothing charms of nature and endless coastal walks in a West Sussex AONB.
Availability 27th Dec - 1st Jan for a New Year stay in an award-winning, eco-friendly Grand Design with a stunning natural swimming pond for a bracing first dip of 2024!
Eype, Dorset, England
A gently curved, architect-designed Dorset lodge that boasts uninterrupted views of the beach, with the scenic Jurassic coastal path mere moments away.
Excellent availability across the festive season!
Fettercairn, Aberdeenshire, Scotland
A romantic, fairytale-like retreat set within a walled garden by an ancient Scottish village that's ideally positioned to explore the Angus Glens and the Cairngorms.
Excellent availability across the festive season!
Longtown, Cumbria, England
Contemplate life and love from the secluded beauty of a luxury Lake District micro-home with a uniquely mirrored façade.
22 Dec - 2 Jan available to book
Bolton Percy, Yorkshire, England
A 15th century, Grade II-listed gatehouse that's filled with romantic charm and character, peacefully secluded in a rural North Yorkshire village.
22-29 Dec available to book
Southwold, Suffolk, England
Lovingly custom-created havens, rich in holiday luxuries and peacefully secluded on a private estate just minutes away from the beach.
Bedrooms: 1, 2 or 4
Sleeps:
Still Southwold has the following Christmas/New Year availability- all with stunning sea views: The Warren House (sleeps 8) 27 Dec- 3 Jan * The Easternmost Cabin (sleeps 2) 27 -30 Dec
Williton, Somerset, England
With an idyllic trackside location on the West Somerset Steam Railway, the Railway Carriage is the perfect escape for children, trainspotters, and everyone in between!
Ten days available over Christmas and New Year at The Railway Carriage - book now!
Drimnin, The Highlands, Scotland
An exquisite, architect designed ‘oak house' for soothing family getaways, secluded in nature and boasting glorious views of the Sound of Mull.
Available for New Year due to a cancellation - 27th Dec to 2nd Jan. Book now!
