10 magical reasons to visit Ellenborough Park hotel this Christmas

Bring your friends and family together to experience festivities filled with laughter, music and delicious food at Cheltenham's Ellenborough Park.

By Emma Luther  |  Published
Ellenborough Park's charming 15th century Great Hall will be beautifully decorated, creating a warm and welcoming ambiance.
In partnership with Ellenborough Park  |  ellenboroughpark.com
Ellenborough Park

Located near Cheltenham Racecourse, the 15th century country estate of Ellenborough Park combines a luxury hotel, spa, restaurant, brasserie and cocktail bar. Historical features like oak beams and stone fireplaces are beautifully complemented by modern luxuries worthy of the finest hotels.

It doesn't matter if the weather outside is frightful, Ellenborough Park is the perfect place to relax, unwind and immerse yourself in the joyous atmosphere of the holiday season.

There are plenty of fabulously festive reasons to visit this season, SoGlos rounds up 10 top highlights.

Stunning setting

Ellenborough Park is at its sparkling best for the Christmas festivities. The hotel will be beautifully decorated by award-winning florist, Donna Beaver at the Flower Studio, including a grand Christmas tree in the hotel's historic Great Hall.

Seasonal sleepover

This year's residential package is the ultimate Christmas experience — including a season’s greetings package complete with a Christmas tree and decorations in the room, as well as Ellenborough Park baubles to keep the memories forever.


Afternoon tea with Santa

Savour a delightful afternoon of festive fun with Santa. During the event, you'll get the chance to share your Christmas wishes with Santa and take photos together. Santa's jolly elves will spread cheer and joy throughout the afternoon. There'll also be a festive story, followed by a special present for little ones.

Festive party nights

Book a seat or table and enjoy a glass of Prosecco on arrival, followed by a three-course meal in the De La Bere Court and a night of music and dancing with the hotel's house DJ. Various dates are available, including Friday 8, Saturday 9 and Thursday 14 December 2023.

Christmas gifting

Stuck on what to delight your loved ones with this year? Lots of Christmas gifting options are available, including gift vouchers and Elemis Christmas gifting sets from Ellenborough's luxurious spa.


Christmas carol afternoon tea

Celebrate the final countdown to Christmas on Sunday 17 December 2023. Indulge in a scrumptious selection of seasonal treats while enjoying live performances of Christmas carols. Soak up a magical afternoon filled with laughter, music and delicious food.

Doggy delights

This Christmas season there's a decidedly dog friendly focus, including a dog roast dinner from Sir Woofchester, alongside a paw spa on standby for muddy pups. All dogs staying overnight will receive a doggie present under Ellenborough's tree in the Great Hall on Christmas morning.


Christmas magic for little ones

Children get a wrapped present waiting for them under the tree in Ellenborough's Great Hall on Christmas morning, plus a mini children’s afternoon tea, themed colouring in pages and a fun activity pack that leads little ones on a journey around the grounds.


Spa under the stars

As the nights draw in, slip into Ellenborough's new Spa Garden Retreat for sunset slots to savour the fading light from a toasty tub. Lunches and afternoon teas are available too. Fluffy robes, towels and slippers are included.

Boxing Day wine and cheese tasting

Immerse yourself in a cosy atmosphere as you savor a variety of wines and artisanal cheeses. Learn about the different characteristics of each wine and how they complement the unique flavors of various cheeses. Whether you prefer bold reds, crisp whites or sparkling varieties, there's something to suit every taste.  

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