Ring in the New: The Top Twixmas and New Year’s Eve Breaks in the UK

In Scotland, Glenapp Castle orchestrates what may be one of the most refined Hogmanay celebrations in the country. This New Year break experience includes curling in Stranraer, guided by world-class coaches, before returning to champagne afternoon tea accompanied by the castle's resident pianist. The black-tie Hogmanay banquet showcases six courses of Scotland's finest ingredients, while midnight brings the skirl of pipes and traditional Scottish dancers, followed by a ceilidh that continues into the small hours. The following day offers falconry displays and archery lessons in the castle's 110-acre estate, culminating in a prize-giving ceremony for the curling competition.

Just north in Aberdeenshire, The Fife Arms presents its own distinctive take on Hogmanay grandeur. Housed in a restored Victorian coaching inn, the celebration begins with bubbles and canapés, leading into an exquisite four-course dinner in the atmospheric Clunie Dining Room. As midnight approaches, gather to watch fireworks illuminate the Highland sky, while New Year's Day promises Buck's Fizz with a hearty Scottish breakfast, followed by a traditional Highland Feast. The hotel's remarkable collection of contemporary art provides an intriguing backdrop to the festivities.

The Swan at Lavenham transforms its 15th-century setting for a 1920s-inspired celebration that would make Gatsby proud. The medieval timbers and leaded windows provide an atmospheric backdrop for a six-course dinner, while the Bristol jazz ensemble 'Trip for Biscuits' provides the soundtrack. New Year's Day brings guided walks through Lavenham's historic streets, offering a peaceful counterpoint to the previous night's revelry.

In Sussex, Park House brings unexpected flair with its Country & Western-themed celebration. This imaginative take on New Year breaks in the UK proves that sophistication and playfulness can coexist, beginning with drinks and canapés before evolving into an evening of line dancing and music. The following day offers access to the hotel's spa facilities or guided walks in the South Downs, and an additional night can be added for those wishing to extend their escape.

In Devon, Boringdon Hall's sprawling manor house offers a distinctive approach to the season with their spa-focused retreat. Available from December 27th, their packages combine luxury accommodation with nourishing GAIA spa treatments and dining experiences in their Michelin starred restaurant, Àclèaf. Guests can choose between one, two, or three-night packages, each including a continental hamper breakfast and access to the award-winning adult-only spa facilities.

Durham's coast plays host to one of the more meditative New Year's Eve breaks at Seaham Hall. The focus shifts from celebration to mindful transition, with a five-course tasting menu in The Dining Room serving as a prelude to peaceful moments in private hot tubs under starlit skies. The following day centres around the award-winning spa, where thermal suites and treatment rooms provide space for restoration and renewal.

Experience an intimate New Year celebration at The Elms in Worcestershire, where the festivities begin at 7 PM with champagne and delightful canapés. Indulge in an exquisite six-course tasting menu served in the elegant dining room, and as the clock strikes twelve, welcome the New Year in style. On New Year’s Day, embrace a relaxed pace with a delicious breakfast served until 11 AM, followed by a special lunch. For a truly rejuvenating experience, guests may choose to unwind at the luxurious Greenhouse Spa to treat themselves to soothing treatments that refresh the mind and body, setting the perfect tone for the year ahead.

Find more festive packages on our offers page and open the door to a magical Twixmas or New Year's Eve break.