December carries its own kind of magic. Villages glow with lantern-lit markets, church choirs echo through ancient stone walls, and the countryside takes on a crisp, winter stillness. It is a month of celebration, of gatherings both large and small, and of moments to savour. Whether you seek the timeless charm of the Cotswolds or the open landscapes of the Heart of Rural England, our collection of homes provides the perfect setting for a short stay throughout the festive season.
A Winter’s Welcome in the Cotswolds
In December, the Cotswolds comes alive with festive character. Market towns such as Chipping Campden and Stow-on-the-Wold sparkle with seasonal lights, artisan shops brim with gifts, and inviting inns offer mulled wine by the fire.
- Campden Barn, Chipping Campden – A contemporary barn conversion that balances elegance with comfort. Just moments from Chipping Campden’s festive streets, it is an inspiring base for December gatherings.
- Hiron’s Piece & Honeysuckle Cottage, Weston Subedge – Side by side yet each with its own character, these cottages are ideal for families and friends wishing to share in the joy of the season. A perfect base for wintry walks followed by evenings of good food and companionship.
- Washbrook Cottage, Little Compton – Tucked away in a peaceful village, Washbrook Cottage is a retreat for those who wish to experience the quiet magic of December. Its cosy interiors are made for slow mornings and candlelit suppers.
Seasonal Stays in the Heart of Rural England
The Heart of Rural England offers a slower pace in which to enjoy December’s festivities. Days might be spent exploring Leicestershire’s market towns, walking in frost-dusted countryside, or preparing celebratory dinners, while evenings are best savoured around a fire or at the table with friends.
- Talbot & Granary, near Market Harborough – These sensitively restored farm buildings offer a setting of scale and style. Perfect for hosting gatherings in the lead-up to Christmas or for welcoming in the New Year with a sense of occasion.
- Marshmallow Cottage, Wymeswold – Intimate and full of charm, Marshmallow Cottage is suited to smaller December escapes. A home where the pace slows, the evenings stretch out, and the season’s simple pleasures take centre stage.
- Port Hill House, Neville Holt Estate – A distinguished property with the rare addition of a private pool. Port Hill House is an exceptional destination for a December stay, whether for a celebratory weekend or to mark the turn of the year.
Explore our range of carefully selected homes in the Leicestershire countryside.
Why the English Countryside is Perfect for Family Holidays in December
December offers more than Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve. It is a season of concerts in candlelit churches, of market squares alive with festive cheer, and of winter landscapes at their most atmospheric. A short stay at one of our carefully chosen homes offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in the spirit of the season, whether for a weekend escape, a family gathering, or a longer retreat.
Ready to discover the beauty of the English countryside at its most magical? Explore our homes.
