Christmas Time at Downton & Bath Festive Market

You are warmly invited to discover Highclere Castle at Christmas, where the 'real Downton Abbey' is transformed into a festive Victorian wonderland, beautifully illuminated by sparkling decorations and a feast of glittering gold. As per tradition, the festivities can only begin once the lights are twinkling on the huge saloon tree, lovingly adorned by all the staff and a truly enchanting centrepiece. Listen to Christmas Carols during our time here, explore the Egyptian exhibition hidden in the castle cellar and embark on a refreshing, wintry walk in the gardens. We also stop at Bath's wonderfully festive market to indulge in a few seasonal delights and warming tipples - this is a lovely treat in the run-up to Christmas.What's Included?
IncludesReturn coach travelOvernight stay at a selected hotel (JG3 or JG4 rating) with breakfastVisit to Highclere CastleCopy of Lady Carnarvon's book Christmas at Highclere (one per person)En-route visit to Bath Christmas Market

Itinerary
Day 1From a morning pickup in your local area, we travel by coach to Bath where we have time to explore the beautiful Christmas market, set against the backdrop of the city's historic streets and illuminated abbey. Browse the many stalls packed with handcrafted gifts and enjoy an early dinner at one of the many food stalls (not included). Afterwards, we head to the hotel for our relaxing overnight stay.Day 2After breakfast, we make our way to Highclere Castle by coach for our visit. We have plenty of time to soak up the atmosphere on offer inside the castle along with included admission to the garden and the Egyptian exhibition. The decorations are a sight to behold, where stunning garlands are attached with ribbon so as to not damage the historic oak staircase. There is also time to relax in the tearoom before we rejoin the coach in the late afternoon for the journey home.

Highclere Castle
Downton Abbey - Highclere CastleHighclere Castle needs little introduction, being the filming location of the world-renowned Downton Abbey TV series and feature film.Walk in the footsteps of your favourite characters from Downton Abbey including the Dowager Countess, Lady Mary Crawley and Bates, Lord Grantham's valet, and take a closer look at the rooms and vistas that formed the backdrop to this hugely-popular series.Hotel
Selected HotelJG3 or JG4 ratingWe'll stay at a well-appointed hotel (JG3 or JG4 rating). The comfortable rooms are en suite and other facilities include a bar and restaurant.Hotel accessibility informationYour hotel will be confirmed approximately 3 weeks before departure, therefore we cannot guarantee that the hotel will have a lift and/or ground floor rooms and may be unsuitable for those with limited mobility.Hotel RatingsJG3 ratingHotels with a JG3 rating tend to be a more formal style of hotel, often part of a hotel chain, or are very-welcoming family-owned properties. Generally, they offer a greater range of facilities and services, and bedrooms tend to be a little more spacious with additional features. Public areas are larger and include lounge seating, bar and restaurant with good quality food served either buffet style or waiter service.JG4 ratingAccommodation in our JG4 category is of an even higher standard, typically offering a wide range of facilities and services. Bedrooms are designed to make your stay the most comfortable possible and the staff provide a service that reflects the detail and quality. You can also expect higher standards of food and beverages.