Ah, November. The clocks have gone back, the leaves are mostly on the ground rather than the trees, and suddenly a cosy night in feels less like a cop-out and more like the whole point. With Christmas twinkling on the horizon, there's never been a better time to escape to Winchester. Whether you fancy a pre-Christmas break full of market browsing and crisp walks, a whole festive fortnight in a log cabin, or toasting the new year with a glass of bubbles, we've got you covered.
Here's how to make the most of the season with us.
A pre-Christmas escape
Can't wait for the festivities to begin? A pre-Christmas escape is the perfect opportunity to unwind, get ahead with your Christmas shopping and soak up the festive atmosphere before December gets busy. Here's what's on our list.
1. The Christmas Market is back
It's the moment Winchester waits for all year. The Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market returns on Friday 20th November and runs until Tuesday 22nd December, with its famous wooden chalets, artisan gifts and festive food and drink set within the stunning grounds of the 900-year-old cathedral. It's free to enter and open 10am–8pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 10am–6pm Sunday to Thursday. Our tip? Visit midweek in late November, before the December rush, and stay until the lights come on. Mulled wine optional (but highly recommended).
2. Tick off your gift list
Between the market chalets and Winchester's wonderful independent shops, you could tick off half your gift list in a day – and treat yourself while you're at it (we won't tell). The award-winning Winchester Farmers' Market is also on Sunday 29th November, perfect for edible gifts and a few goodies for the festive cupboard.
3. Crisp walks and rosy cheeks
Wrap up warm and head up St Catherine's Hill for frosty-morning views over the city, follow the River Itchen on one of the city's lovely riverside walks, or venture further into the South Downs National Park. The paths are quieter, the light is low and golden, and the walk back is the perfect excuse for a hot chocolate (or something a little stronger) in a cosy pub.
4. A little festive magic at Marwell
Christmas at Marwell: Fire & Ice opens at Marwell Zoo on 20th November – an after-dark adventure with fire performers, an illuminated ice maze and marshmallow toasting over the fire pits. It's a lovely way to kick off the festive season, whether you're bringing little ones or are simply young at heart, and it's just a short drive from the lodges. It runs on selected evenings, so check dates and book ahead.
5. Cosy nights in
Pick up local cheeses, Hampshire watercress and seasonal veg from the farmers' market or a nearby farm shop, then put your lodge's fully equipped kitchen to good use. And if you've chosen one of our hot tub lodges, there's a special kind of joy in sinking into warm, bubbling water while your breath steams in the cold night air, glass in hand and stars overhead.
Christmas in a Norwegian log cabin
Fancy spending Christmas itself with us? Our luxury Norwegian log cabins are the cosiest place to settle in for the festive season. You'll be welcomed by a festive wreath hanging from your door, twinkling lights and your very own Christmas tree to get you into the Christmas spirit – all you need to bring are the presents (and perhaps the crackers).
Our Christmas breaks run for 6 to 14 nights, with check-in between 18th and 22nd December. Arrive in time to catch the last days of the Christmas Market, stock up the kitchen for the big day, then sit back and let Christmas come to you.
Ring in the new year
We go that extra mile over the festive season, so all our traditional Norwegian lodges come complete with a decorated Christmas tree and festive lights. And to get the celebrations under way, you'll find a complimentary bottle of bubbles waiting for you on arrival.
Check in any day from 28th to 31st December (minimum two-night stay), then see in the new year your way – a celebratory dinner in town, a toast on your balcony at midnight, or a bracing New Year's Day walk followed by a long, lazy afternoon in the warm. Got little ones in tow? Marwell Zoo is offering 10% off visits booked between 27th and 31st December.
The perfect time for a cosy break
So whether you're coming for the Christmas Market, Christmas Day itself or a fresh start to the new year, the festive season in Winchester is pure cosy magic. Take a look at our festive breaks and book your stay today – we can't wait to welcome you!