Day 1: We make our way to our hotel stopping at Windsor along the way. Crowned by stunning Windsor Castle, the largest and oldest inhabited castle in the world and an official residence of His Majesty The King, and linked by the beautiful River Thames the Royal Borough has a rich mix of history, culture and heritage. This Royal town offers great shopping, with some wonderful independent retailers as well as top high street names. Windsor also has a superb choice of places to eat and drink, and beautiful walks by the river on a brisk winter’s day. We will continue our journey to our hotel, arriving in plenty of time to freshen up before dinner.
Day 2: Christmas Eve. This morning our excursion takes us to the fascinating university city of Oxford, where the ‘City of Dreaming Spires’ will be filled with festive joy. This magnificent city is beautiful at any time of year, full of stunning architecture, history, vibrant culture, great food and drink and fantastic shopping opportunities. In the heart of the city, the famous Christmas market will be filled with festive decorations, unique gifts and an abundance of gourmet specialities. This evening it’s time to enjoy the festivities at the hotel with an evening of entertainment.
Day 3: Christmas Day. Merry Christmas! After a delicious breakfast, we will enjoy a leisurely morning relaxing at our beautiful hotel. Spend some time opening presents or perhaps take a stroll through the hotel’s grounds and relish the peace and tranquillity of the Oxfordshire countryside. We enjoy a delicious traditional Christmas lunch with all the trimmings and perhaps a visit from Santa himself. In the afternoon, you will have the opportunity to watch the King’s speech. Dinner this evening will be a relaxed and informal buffet followed by evening entertainment.
Day 4: Boxing Day. Late morning we depart for our scenic tour through some of the prettiest countryside and Cotswolds villages before arriving at Blenheim Palace early this afternoon. This historic Palace and Gardens, with over 300 years of history to discover, comes alive with thousands of twinkling lights, seasonal scents, sparkling baubles and the joy of the festive season. There will be time to enjoy some warming seasonal food and drink from the selection of festive chalets or from the onsite café. Wander through the Palace and its staterooms, in all their magical glory, and, at the end of our visit, we take a spellbinding walk through the stunning light trail. Returning to our hotel this evening, we will enjoy another delicious meal followed by an evening of fun and frivolity.
Day 5: After breakfast, we travel to Bicester where you have a choice to visit either Bicester Avenue Garden Centre or Bicester Village Designer Outlet. Bicester Avenue Garden Centre is a popular shopping destination. It features a Blue Diamond garden centre, a World of Water tropical fish shop, and stores like Lakeland and Cotswold Outdoor. There will be time for some lunch and the restaurant, serves freshly cooked food using seasonal produce and a wide selection of light bites. Alternatively, you may prefer to visit Bicester Village, the global shopping destination for luxury outlet shopping. Bicester is home to more than 150 boutiques of world-renowned fashion and lifestyle brands, all offering remarkable savings on the original retail price. You will also find an array of eateries serving seasonal fare and international cuisine. The choice will be yours, just tell your driver on the day. After our visits, we begin our journey home.