Five Places To Fall For The Festive Charm Of Hampshire
For a top up of festive charm and a wonderful escape from any ensuing winter blues, why not plan a hotel break in Hampshire?
Full of festive fun and places to explore, whether you prefer traditional Christmas merriment or contemporary festive frivolity.
Discover bustling markets, classic panto, independent boutiques, and unforgettable festive experiences. As winter approaches, now is the time to plan a seasonal getaway, and we know just the five festive places in Hampshire that you’ll fall for when it comes to classic Christmas atmosphere and wintery charm.
Christmas Artisan Market in Lymington
Peruse the stalls of Lymington’s monthly Artisan Market in all its festive glory. Within the Lymington Masonic Hall, the festive stands will be exhibiting the crafts and creations of local makers and sellers – the perfect opportunity to find delightfully unique, one-of-a-kind Christmas gifts.
Lymington is one of Hampshire’s most popular old market towns, loved for its picturesque and charming cobbled quay and array of independent shops lining the high street; enjoy a wander around and a spot of stress-free Christmas shopping. The wonderfully welcoming Artisan Market has free entry and your four-legged friends are welcome too.
Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market
For anyone looking to reawaken their Christmas cheer and find an authentic festive experience, the Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market is certainly top of the festive to-do list.
Over the years, it’s become a must-see Christmas market and is considered one of the best in Europe. Set in the grounds of the beautiful Winchester Cathedral in the historic capital city, the grounds are filled with quaint wooden chalets, inspired by traditional German market stalls, displaying handpicked exhibitors and crafters of gifts and festive offerings.
Wander amongst the chalets, where there is no shortage of twinkling lights and Christmas carols; pick up unique and special gifts, enjoy the festive aromas of cinnamon and roasted chestnuts and sip a warming mulled wine or hot chocolate, and let the atmosphere transport you to a winter wonderland!
As well as the charming market, the beautiful city of Winchester offers many Christmas experiences during winter, from services to carol concerts.
Festive-filled Pantomime in Southampton
Fall for the festive charm of a Christmas classic… Panto!
What could bring more cheer (and cheese) than a traditional pantomime… 2023’s panto was Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at the 1928 Mayflower Theatre in Southampton. A show of comedy, song, and dance, and of course, audience participation. The show’s cast includes actor and broadcaster, Christopher Biggins, ‘Britain’s Got Talent winners and Street Dance sensations Ashley Banjo & Diversity’ and award-winning actor and comedian Kev Orkian. We can’t wait to see what 2024 brings!
Christmas Canoeing in Beaulieu
Take to the water on a fresh winter’s day for a Christmas Canoe Paddle with New Forest Activities. Enjoy hot drinks and mince pies before wrapping up for a wonderful 90-minute guided tour along the Beaulieu River in Canadian-style canoes, exploring the picturesque and peaceful nature reserve and spotting birds and wildlife as you go. (You ought to keep a look out for Father Christmas too!)
Dogs are also welcome to join you on the river, New Forest Activities just ask that you bring a blanket or towel for them to sit on whilst in the boat.
Festive Dining at the Montagu Arms, Beaulieu
We invite you to experience your next festive gathering or yuletide celebration with us at our 18th century country house hotel in Hampshire.
A Christmas lunch with colleagues, friends or family, or a dinner party is a timeless choice and a wonderful way to bring people together during the festive season. Or perhaps for the sweet-toothed among you, a Festive Afternoon Tea packed with Christmas glitz is more your idea of a merry celebration.
Whatever the festive occasion, fall for the revelries we offer at the Montagu Arms. We promise fine wine, fine dining and excellent service and leave you in charge of inviting the finest company. The festive menus for 2024 will be coming soon…
- View our Christmas break package
Now you can plan your Christmas break with these five festive places in mind. When you arrive you can set out to explore even more of Hampshire’s delightful festive offerings, or simply spend the rest of your time with us in front of the roaring fire with a good book. After all, your winter break is just that, all yours.
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Meet the team
Davide Santocono – General Manager
12 May 2025
With an impressive background in luxury hospitality, General Manager, Davide Santocono ensures the hotel offers the highest quality.