One of the most prestigious hotels in Europe, Ashford Castle offers unrivalled service, warm Irish hospitality and five-star luxury. An amazing stay at any time of year, an Ashford Castle Christmas goes above and beyond. Think Santa, giant trees, sumptuous cuisine and a festive cruise. Read on to see why Ashford Castle is one of the best hotels for Christmas and find out how they celebrate the holiday season.

Ashford Castle – an iconic stay

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The Ashford Castle hotel is situated in a spectacular 350-acre estate. Over 800 years old, the castle is a grand, historic structure of great national significance. The former home of the Guinness family, it has hosted countless notables over the years, including The Prince of Wales (who later became King George V) and President Ronald Reagan. Sumptuous rooms and suites combine with divine interiors brimming with antique furniture, fine fabrics and unique features.

Discover this on: Ultimate Ireland & Castles & Kingdoms

A time to make guests feel special

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“At Ashford Castle we’re an extended family for our guests and it is viewed as a home,” Catherine, Ashford Castle’s Rooms Division Manager tells us. “It is important that when guests arrive, either on Christmas Eve or before, they feel they are coming home, and that they know someone. Everybody at Ashford understands the importance of our guests coming for Christmas. They all go above and beyond and there is a lovely excitement in the house.”

“We reach out to guests in advance and keep in touch with them in the months leading up to their arrival. This way we build a relationship with them and learn about their preferences, which we try to incorporate into their stay in some discreet way.”

Of course, the most VIP festive guest to visit the castle is Santa. Arriving on Christmas Eve, he presents all of the guests with a gift.

Related content: Ashford Castle: A beloved icon magnificently restored

Christmas trees, grown on the estate             

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Taking pride of place in the magnificent Oak Hall is a 20-foot-high Christmas tree, which Catherine tells us proudly “is grown and matured on the estate.” A palatial space, the Oak Hall with its storied interior veneered in rich oak paneling and draped in deep scarlets, makes a magnificent setting for the tree.

Ashford Castle’s Head Gardener Martin keeps an eye out through the year for the best tree, so the hunt begins months ahead. The tree provides the perfect backdrop for the Christmas family photograph that all guests receive. Additional trees are also placed in the Staterooms and Suites.

For travel inspiration: Ireland destination guide

Festive feasts and a pudding parade

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Decadent festive breakfasts, a flow of mulled wine, and quintessential afternoon tea pepper the festivities. On Christmas Eve a black-tie gala dinner provides a sumptuous feast. The centerpiece is, of course, the Christmas Day lunch. Dine on a thoughtfully chosen menu of traditional favorites. Or there are a wide range of alternatives to choose from.

The festive five-course menu includes decadent dishes such as beetroot-cured organic salmon with blinis and horseradish cream, spiced pumpkin and chestnut soup, and mulled wine sorbet. And of course, traditional roast turkey and ham, served with bread stuffing, goose-fat roast potato, turkey sausage roll, and rosemary gravy.

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Special wine-tasting sessions are offered over the festive days. Guests can also relax in the lounge and sip a signature Baileys Hot Chocolate, made with Valrhona chocolate.

A festive highlight is the Pudding Parade. “Christmas pudding is made here in the Castle,” Catherine says. “Our team of Chefs in full uniform parade the hot puddings into the restaurant, piped in by Benny the Piper. It’s quite a sight.”

Related content: Hives and honey: Meet Ashford Castle beekeeper Steve Watson Oughterard

Christmas Day cruise on Lough Corrib

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“A highlight for guests on Christmas Day is a leisurely cruise on Lough Corrib, a truly beautiful setting,” shares Catherine. “We serve hot whiskeys and there is traditional music on board. Everyone gets into the festive spirit.”

The second largest freshwater lake in Ireland, the stunning Lough Corrib is around 35 miles in length and contains over 300 islands. It separates the fertile limestone plains of east Galway from the lake-strewn bogs and rugged mountains of Connemara in the west.

Music and merriment

It wouldn’t be an Irish celebration without live music. And Ashford Castle has lined up some of the greats. This includes the legendary Irish singer Keith McDonald who will perform both with his Show Band and solo. One of Ireland’s leading male vocalists, expect a toe-tapping evening and a festive tune or two.

St Stephens Day Celebrations

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December 26th is known as St Stephen’s Day in Ireland, also called the Feast of Saint Stephen. On this day Ashford Castle invites guests to join them in the great outdoors.  The 350-acre castle estate boasts stunning parkland, woods and gardens. The magical setting on the edge of Lough Corrib with the Castle as the central feature is truly unique. The gardens combine a thoughtful balance of formal and informal areas, with a Walled Garden full of perennial borders, fruit and vegetables. The great woods are home to ancient trees, perfect to wander through at leisure and enjoy the wildlife.

Fly a Harris Hawk

Guests can try the ancient form of falconry, a fascination that has enthralled people for 5,000 years. Ashford Castle is home to the oldest established Falconry School in Ireland and flying hawks is an experience of a lifetime. You can also test your archery skills or even try your hand at sheep herding on the estate.

And to top off St Stephen’s Day, in the evening there is a visit from the Wren Boys offering a feast of traditional music. This celebration gives a nod to the age-old Irish Wren Boys custom that, in the past, saw people dress up and travel from door to door singing, dancing and playing traditional music.

You can experience the delights and luxury of Ashford Castle for yourself on our Ultimate Ireland and Castles & Kingdoms limited-edition tours.

If you are searching for the perfect destination for 2023, then look no further. Britain has it all, from castles to coronations, sublime lakes and medieval walls. A fusion of familiarity and mystery, this small but mighty island is ideal for travelers interested in treading new territory in old places. A warm welcome, sumptuous hotels and delicious dining await at every stop, making a journey to Britain the journey of a lifetime.

Discover this on: British Royale

Royal London

“When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford.” Sentiments of the famous 18^th Century British author Samuel Johnson are still so true today. An inspiring destination for 2023, England’s bustling culture capital is multicultural, cosmopolitan and steeped in history. And, in 2023 all eyes will be on these royal lands, with the Coronation of King Charles III taking center stage.

Travel to England on British Royale to see for yourself where the celebrations will take place. Step through history at Horse Guards Parade, the ceremonial grounds of St James Park in the shadow of Buckingham Palace. Discover the secrets of a cavalryman’s uniform in the Household Cavalry Museum before trying on the royal clothes yourself.

Exclusively for Luxury Gold guests, experience a private tour of the Tower of London once the crowds have gone home. Under the glittering city lights, a serving Yeoman Warder greets you on arrival at this iconic fortress and Royal Palace. Explore the grounds, be regaled with the history and uncover myths and legends along the way. Then bear witness to the historic Ceremony of the Keys, carried out every night without fail, for the past 700 years.

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While in the capital, a decadent stay at the 5-star Rubens at the Palace hotel sees you overlooking the grounds of Buckingham Palace. You’ll get the full royal treatment, from the red tail-coated doormen to themed bedrooms and a traditional afternoon tea in the Palace Lounge. Dine at the English Grill Restaurant on signature British classics from Executive Chef Ben Kelliher. Refined and stylish, the restaurant serves the finest English produce, sourced from the same suppliers that serve the Royal households.

For travel inspiration: England destination guide

Castles galore

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Britain is home to over 4,000 castles, built hundreds of years ago and scattered throughout the countryside and coastline. These magnificent fortresses alone make Britain a great destination for 2023.

Built in 1103, Edinburgh Castle sits high atop a hillside with panoramic views over the city. For centuries the castle was almost constantly under siege. A top 2023 travel destination, we invite you to skip the queue and learn about its tumultuous history with a Local Expert. Your tour also takes you along Princes Street and past the gothic Sir Walter Scott Monument. Walk the Royal Mile to the gates of the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the monarch’s official residence in Scottish royal history. Bookend your day with a dinner of fine Scottish cuisine. And, in true Gaelic style, meet a professional bagpiper who is said to have been a royal favorite.

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In medieval York, explore Castle Howard after hours. Receive VIP treatment once the castle has closed its doors to the general public.  Join a guided tour of the house, a 17th-century baroque masterpiece, and admire its intricate architecture. Alternatively, join one of the gardeners and explore the landscaped gardens.

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The 11th-century Alnwick Castle is Britain’s second-largest inhabited castle, behind the royal residence of Windsor Castle. It has served as a military outpost, a teaching college and a family home over the centuries. Join a Local Expert for an exploration of the castle, with its striking medieval architecture, and see why it has been featured in many films. Choose to travel on a Founder’s Collection departure and meet the Duchess of Northumberland herself. Enjoy a private tour of her beloved gardens and hear tales about life in the family home.

Read more: Royalty & Noblemen: The fascinating people you’ll meet in Europe with Luxury Gold

Authors, poets and writers

Stretching back over a thousand years, the British literary tradition is vast. Works span every period of history and many literary styles, including some of the most recognized lines and famous characters and plots that have captivated readers for centuries.

On British Royale we invite you to walk in the footsteps of William Shakespeare in the picturesque market town of Stratford-upon-Avon. Birthplace of “The Bard”, this cultural center still has many rows of attractive half-timbered houses that date back to the 16th century. A must-see when you travel to the UK. In Bath, visit the immersive Jane Austen Center and explore the city used as a setting for two of her novels. Dedicated to the writer who lived there in the early 1800s, entertaining actors bring to life her story and works.

Related content: The 7 secret skills of every Luxury Gold Traveling Concierge

The Lake District

The wild and poetic Lake District famously inspired 19th-century writers such as Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth.  The largest of the United Kingdom’s National Parks, and renowned for its rugged and dramatic beauty, the area contains 16 lakes (and many smaller tarns), more than 150 high peaks, with four over 3,000 feet including England’s highest mountain, Scafell Pike.

There’s no better way to admire the scenery than from the water. Join a cruise with the award-winning Ullswater Steamers on one of the largest lakes in the district and bask in stunning mountain views.

Related content: Inspiring travels of great literary figures

 Medieval York

A place of extraordinary cultural and historical wealth, this beautifully preserved medieval city is a must-visit for history buffs. Once an important center of Roman occupation in England, the city is surrounded by an impressive stone wall. Home to York Minster, one of the world’s largest cathedrals, which took 250 years to build, York is a great reason to choose Britain as a destination for 2023.

Step back in time and explore the medieval streets of York with a Local Expert to learn about its history and lively characters. Walk on the 13th-century city walls and soak up the spectacular views of River Ouse and the Old Town. And enjoy a VIP visit to the aforementioned Castle Howard. Bookend your visit with a stay at the luxurious Grand Hotel and Spa, one of Britain’s top five-star hotels.

Read more: A Day in the Life of a Travelling Concierge

Exquisite Dining

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Traditionally known for the full English breakfast, fish and chips, Shepherd’s Pie and the glorious Sunday roast, British cuisine warms the heart and soul. From local pub fare to fine dining restaurants, menus here focus on fresh, locally sourced produce.

Enjoy the decadent ritual of “afternoon tea” in the Grecian Hall at Castle Howard and embark on a whisky tasting in Edinburgh. A highlight of your culinary journey is lunch at the Michelin-starred the Olive Tree restaurant in Bath. With a commitment to seasonality and utilizing local produce, Head Chef Chris Cleghorn uses his award-winning skills to showcase both the best of Bath and the best of British cuisine. Menus are comprised of fresh and seasonal dishes, with an unusual edge to what you would think are simple flavors.

Read more: 5 Michelin star chefs celebrating local culture through food

Royal Scotsman Extension

The perfect complement to your British Royale tour, why not extend with one of our timeless luxury train journeys. Board the Royal Scotsman in Edinburgh for a spectacular journey to the Scottish Highlands, stopping at distilleries, castles and quaint villages along the way. This iconic train combines Edwardian elegance with the comforts of a country house, with the best of Scottish gastronomy and traditional live entertainment on board.

If you’re searching for an unforgettable destination for 2023, why not make British Royale your next journey of a lifetime. Or browse our full collection of luxury guided tours.

Eating what’s in season celebrates the best of what’s fresh as well as benefits your health and the environment. What is seasonal eating?  One of our Luxury Gold hosts who’s happy to answer that question and who lives, breathes—and cooks—this philosophy is Tracey of Tracey’s Farmhouse. We’d like to introduce you to Tracey and the warm, home-hosted meal and MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience you can expect in her cottage on our Ultimate Ireland tour. As we celebrated World Food Day on October 16th, a chat with Tracey highlights why eating what’s in season is so important. 

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The experience 

In Northern Ireland’s Strangford Lough just a half hour from Belfast, you can find Tracey stepping out of her 17th Century thatched cottage on the water’s edge to greet arriving guests. With an easy smile and the aim to “make the guests feel as much at home as I can,” Tracey extends a heartfelt welcome. Once inside Tracey’s cozy home, guests sit down to coffee, tea and Soda Bannock freshly baked.  

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After settling in, Tracey offers a 15–20-minute demonstration of how to make traditional Irish soda bread. With just two ingredients—buttermilk and flour—that aren’t weighed or measured, Tracey’s recipe is a testament to how a few fresh, local ingredients are all you need for a delicious dish. One or two guests lend a hand as Tracey cooks the bread on the griddle. Guests can also get involved in making lunch before the meal is shared. The fresh-off-the griddle bread is topped with butter “from a little farm down the road” that was even used for Harry and Megan’s wedding. Paired with the best of what’s in season, a meal at Tracey’s Farmhouse is a congenial feast celebrating the best of what’s good right here, right now.     

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What guests love about it 

Beyond the fresh baked bread, local butter and hearty meal, Tracey comments that guests say, “we feel we’ve shared your home with you.” The family atmosphere is what makes the experience and what Tracey deliberately weaves into the visit. She takes guests down to her garden and gives them the opportunity to pick eggs and help with the hens. “They love the interaction with the animals,” she notes. A visit to Tracey’s Farmhouse is the type of authentic travel experience guests seek out but can be hard to find. Tracey provides this experience—while supporting seasonal eating. 

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Why Tracey cooks and eats seasonally 

Why is eating what’s in season important? “The taste alone,” Tracey explains. “When you eat broccoli and cauliflower that hasn’t been flown in, the ingredients sing for themselves. They don’t need a sauce or a sprinkling of herbs.” From garden vegetables to that delicious butter from down the road, Tracey says, “I try to work with what I have and … base my menu around what’s available.” Eating what’s in season also supports the local producers, shops and the environment. “Because it’s seasonal then those foods are locally obtained” and “you’re cutting out travel.”  

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Why eating seasonally is better for your health 

Those locally obtained foods do a lot for our health, too. Foods that require travel to get to their destination often need additives or processing. When you’re eating seasonally, “you don’t have all the preservatives or additives,” Tracey points out. Tracey’s two-ingredient Irish soda bread is a perfect example. Because of the fresh, local ingredients and absence of preservatives, it may only be good for two days. But those two days of enhanced fresh flavors are worth her while. In fact, from tarts and cakes to soups and salads, Tracey’s always cooking up something for herself and her guests. 

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What Tracey’s eating now 

So, of course we had to ask Tracey what’s in season now. At the time of this conversation, an abundance of blackberries and black currents are keeping Tracey busy whipping up pies, tarts, crumbles and cakes of all kinds. For lunch and dinner fare, a bowl of homemade soup using vegetables from the garden accompanied by homemade bread is just right. Our mouths watering, we asked Tracey what’s good the rest of the year.  

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Fall 

As we move into cooler weather, you may be wondering what to eat in autumn. Tracey expects a good crop of Kohlrabi, cabbage and apples she’ll use in a crumble. Rhubarb is especially good in late summer and early fall as Tracey comments, “Your guests seem to love the idea of rhubarb.” 

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Winter 

Winter in Northern Ireland brings chestnuts, Brussel sprouts and root vegetables that will make their way into savory tarts and soups. Deciding what to eat in winter can be as simple as digging a bit in the dirt to find that brightly colored carrot, beet or parsnip. 

Spring  

What to eat in spring is easily answered with a hearty crop of spring greens perfect for salads. The rhubarb that Luxury Gold guests have come to love also makes its first appearance in spring. 

Summer  

Tracey tackles what to eat in summer by cooking lighter fare from simple salads to tarts using vegetables from the garden. Some of her favorites are spinach, lettuce, tomatoes, beetroot leaves, nasturtium flower, radishes and red onion.  

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The mighty spud 

It may come as no surprise that in Northern Ireland potatoes are a favorite local staple all year long. Tracey has a particular spring favorite, the Comber Earlies. These small potatoes are so tasty on their own. All Tracey says you need to do is “wipe the soil off and steam with a little bit of salt with scallion or spring onions.” Sounds delicious to me, Tracey. We hope to see you at Tracey’s Farmhouse soon. 

Where will your Britain and Ireland travels take you?