'Tis the season
Mulled wine, mince pies and merriment…
The spirit of Christmas is alive and well here in the heart of the South Downs, with a host of festive events and activities the whole family can enjoy during a stay at Woodlands Retreat B&B.
In fact, with so much to see and do in the run up to the festive season across the local area, it can be tough to know where to start - so we’ve picked out just a few Christmas crackers to whet your appetite…
Festive tastings and workshops at Hambledon Vineyard
Just two miles from Woodlands Retreat B&B is Hambledon Vineyard - England’s oldest commercial vineyard, which has produced a raft of award-winning sparkling wines.
This Christmas, Hambledon Vineyard is hosting a selection of festive events, including Fizz, Food & Festive Fun. This informal evening combines great fizz and great food, with a grazing platter from local luxury grazing specialists Fig and Lemon.
Sample more of what Hambledon Vineyard has to offer later in November at Fairy Lights and Fizz, where you can enjoy the vineyard’s core range of three sparkling wines, paired with a selection of six savoury and six sweet Christmas canapes.
Wreath making, divine desserts and festive fizz are also on the menu over the coming weeks - check out Hambledon Vineyard’s upcoming events page for more details.
Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market
Recognised as one of the best Christmas markets in Europe, Winchester Cathedral’s Christmas Market is well-known for its unique location, quality exhibitors and bustling atmosphere.
A visit to this hugely popular market offers an ideal opportunity to meet up with family and friends in the heart of England’s ancient capital, with scores of traditional wooden chalets offering festive food and drink, British crafts and products you won’t find on the high street.
Steam Illuminations on The Watercress Line
Back and even bigger than before, Steam Illuminations offers a memorable experience for visitors of all ages to The Watercress Line.
A light show both on and in a steam train, Steam Illuminations features thousands of fully controllable colour mixing LED lights and LED wristbands that lend the train a truly magical effect both inside and out.
Marvel at the light show as the train travels up and down the 10-mile heritage railway line between Alresford and Alton, with new additions for 2021 including magical ‘snow’ at one part of the ride and new light installations along the line.
Traditional Christmas experiences at the Weald & Downland Living Museum
Home to 1,000 years of rural life in one remarkable open air site, the Weald & Downland Living Museum naturally brings a traditional twist to its festive events.
New for 2021, Advent – A Christmas Experience & Market offers a chance to delve into the past and learn how our ancestors prepared for Christmas through the ages. Immerse yourself in all things festive, with live demonstrations and activities. Not only is there the chance to explore the museum’s collection of historic buildings and artefacts, there will also be a boutique Christmas market around the museum’s mill pond and market square.
But the Christmas spirit doesn’t end there - the museum is also hosting its annual Tree Dressing, celebrating the importance of trees in our lives, and Green Father Christmas will be paying a visit on selected dates during December, working hard to finish festive gifts in time for the big day.
Family Fireside Storytelling at Butser Ancient Farm
Join author and professional storyteller, Dawn Nelson, for enchanting seasonal family stories around the crackling fire in Kings of the Winter Woodland - Family Fireside Storytelling at Butser Ancient Farm.
Ancient trees and winter wildlife take centre stage in these enchanting tales, set against the magical backdrop of the Iron Age roundhouse.
A magical outdoor light trail at Staunton Country Park
Enlightened comes to Staunton Farm this winter, with the grounds set to be transformed into a magical illuminated light trail for the whole family to enjoy over the festive season.
Mesmerising light installations and enchanting moments are in store on this specially-crafted route, brand new for 2021.
Searching for more to explore?
Check out Visit Hampshire for more details of local Christmas events and visitor attractions.