Party time: The most sparkling New Year’s Eve hotel packages

Ayrshire’s premier hotel, the magnificent Glenapp Castle, is the stuff of fairytales for the most memorable hotel stays in Scotland at any time of the year. But as the Scots are renowned for knowing how to bring in the New Year, — or Hogmanay as it’s called north of the border — with a blast, this is arguably the best hotel to celebrate Hogmanay with five-star frills.

This year, the hotel is hosting a ‘New Year house party’ — comprising three nights of warm hospitality for guests travelling alone, as well as couples and groups. The festivities begin on 30 December with a  champagne afternoon tea, followed by time to explore the Glenapp gardens and estate, before meeting your fellow house party guests over pre-dinner drinks and canapés, and sitting down to a three-course gourmet dinner.

New Year’s Eve kicks off with a traditional Scottish breakfast before a day out in Stranraer, where you’ll be coached in the sport of curling. The black-tie Hogmanay party starts with a champagne reception followed by a magnificent six-course Hogmanay banquet with entertainment provided by Scottish pipers, Scottish dancers and the traditional ‘beating retreat’. The night continues with a traditional Scottish Ceilidh and the invitation to dance until the wee small hours. A glass of champagne at midnight and a piper or two will ‘bring in the bells’ Glenapp style.

New Year’s Day highlights include a leisurely brunch, a choice of afternoon activities such as falconry and an archery lesson and game, and a three-course gourmet dinner. From £5,370pp for three nights. Book online or call +44 (0) 1465 831212.

The Relais Henley, located in the charming town of Henley-on-Thames, attracts a steady flow of sophisticates thanks to its luxury riverside guest rooms, suites and lively bar and restaurant. The five-star boutique retreat is offering a decadent two-night New Year’s Eve hotel package. New Year’s Eve celebrations  begin with home-made cakes, coffee, champagne and canapés served in The Palm Court reception room upon arrival.

The New Year’s Eve hotel dinner dance comprises a delicious five-course dinner in The Clipper Restaurant, followed by dancing and entertainment with champagne flowing for the countdown to midnight. On New Year’s Day, you’ll be treated to a restorative breakfast with a leisurely 1pm checkout time.

The New Year’s Eve Residential Package costs £299 based on two adults sharing, and requires a 50% non-refundable deposit when booking—the full balance to be paid by 1 December 2023. Enquire now.

Devon is a delightful destination for a New Year’s escape and Bovey Castle is widely recognised as one of the county’s very finest luxury hotels. Situated in Newton Abbot, this five-star castle hotel and spa is the perfect choice for cosy winter escapes in the UK.

For 2023, the hotel’s New Year experience package is designed for sophisticated merry making while also providing charming activities for families. You’ll be welcomed with a chic afternoon tea before the main event, a black-tie dinner, comprising a champagne cocktail and canapé reception accompanied by a traditional piper, and a six-course gala dinner in the Great Western Grand Grill. The feasting is followed by live music, dancing and a fantastic firework display.

New Year’s Day highlights include a guided walk, or the chance to join a treasure hunt around the castle and grounds, or play in the hotel’s golf tournament. There will be family activities available during the day, including a magician, prior to the New Year’s Day celebration —a five-course dinner, accompanied by the resident pianist.

The New Year’s Eve hotel package costs from £2,340 for two nights, based on two adults sharing. Book online or call +44 (0)1647 445 000.

Fancy a stroll on a sandy beach this New Year’s Day but can’t face a long flight? Take a look at The Atlantic. This beachside retreat on the charming Channel Island of Jersey could be the perfect mini break to greet the new year with a smile.

For 2024, the hotel is offering a special Atlantic New Year Break, the star attraction of which is a gourmet feast and dance party. And while the dress code is black tie or lounge suits, this event promises a laid-back house party vibe.

New Year’s Day delights include a sumptuous breakfast, free access to the Palm Club and the option to play board games in the library or head out for a refreshing coastal walk.

This New Year’s Eve party hotel package costs from £470 per person for two nights. To book, call +44 (0) 1534 744101 or email reservations.