Yes, ‘Twixmas’ has officially become a ‘thing’. That annual lull between Christmas Day and New Years is now known as ‘Twixmas’ and this year there are plenty of cosy breaks and activities to be found across Hertfordshire to brighten up the often flat (and dare we say it?) even boring period.
So where does this odd name of Twixmas come from? Well, that’s debatable but many think it stems from the old English word ‘betwixt’ when meant the time between December 25 and January 1.
Of course, the period after the hustle and bustle of Christmas is a great time to head off for a break, before the celebrations for New Year begin. You’ve cooked a feast for the family, you’ve wrapped so many presents you’ve got countless paper cuts and let’s not even get started on the migraine-inducing big festive supermarket shop. It’s a given that you’re going to be stressed and in dire need of some peace and quiet.
For a little well-deserved downtime during the season why not escape to The Grove in Hertfordshire where you can unwind in five-star style? Give yourself some time to hide away at Sequoia spa, relax in the hotel lounges and take in the fresh countryside air.
The hotel, in Chandler’s Cross is a magnificent 18th century house set in 300 acres of parkland and open countryside where you can really blow the cobwebs away. If you want some ‘me time’ and to just chill out with a good book and a hot drink that’s great, but if you want some activities to enjoy, the hotel has an award-winning spa and golf course.
When it comes to dining, you’ll be wanting someone to wait on you for a change following all your festive efforts cooking up the turkey and trimmings and here you won’t be disappointed. Choose from the a la carte restaurant Colette’s, the rustic restaurant, The Stables and the sophisticated Glasshouse to dine in, as well as the hotel’s three bars and lounges. No washing up to be done here- unless you forget your wallet of course.
A two-night Twixmas stay with breakfast at The Grove starts at around £832 for two adults for a classic king room to £904 for a superior king.
At Down Hall Hotel and Spa in Hatfield Heath a dedicated Twixmas getaway offer is sure to entice in guests. One night’s accommodation in a classic room with dinner and breakfast starts from £295 per room based on two per room. Dates are available from December 27 to December 30.
The hotel will also host a New Year’s Eve gala dinner evening where you can tuck into a sumptuous five course dinner, guzzle down champagne and enjoy an evening of live entertainment and a night’s stay at the hotel from £295 per person.
St Michael’s Manor Hotel in St Albans has a host of festive packages available. Between Christmas and New Year is a great time to spend in the city. Soak up the history of St Albans, peruse the cobbled streets and admire the architecture of the world- famous cathedral. The hotel is hosting a New Year’s Eve Tasting Menu and Abba tribute night (without accommodation) for £180 per adult and £140 for children. If you want to stay over at the 16th century former manor house and enjoy the New Year’s celebrations, residential packages start from £460 to £640.
Of course, if you decided you just can’t wait long enough for a Twixmas break and want to go the whole hog and stay somewhere special over the festive break, Sopwell House in St Albans has a number of special getaway packages on offer.
Two- and three-night festive stays are available from Christmas Eve through to Boxing Day, where you can expect an unforgettable yuletide experience with celebratory feasts complete with fizz, wine and spirits, carols and plenty for the kids to do, from family games, movies, swimming and even a visit from the big man in red. The two-night package - Christmas Eve and Christmas Day – starts from £889 per person.
thegrove.co.uk
downhall.co.uk
stmichaelsmanor.com
sopwellhouse.co.uk
