Crabtree & Crabtree’s top picks for large festive get-togethers
Planning a big Christmas getaway with friends or family but not mad on the idea of all being under one roof? We hear you. If matching the pace of over-enthusiastic toddlers with the more sedate older members of the party is a bit of a challenge, why not opt for a handful of smaller neighbouring properties, rather than one big house. While sitting round the table for a Christmas feast may not be possible for big groups, taking smaller cosier properties will ensure a happy Christmas for all.
We’ve whittled down our favourite properties for groups looking for separate spaces below, all of which still have festive availability. If you like the sound of any of them, give us a buzz…
Middleton, Belford
Each boasting spectacular views of the mystical Holy Island of Lindisfarne, Castle View Cottage, Lindisfarne View and Overview Cottage are just a short drive from one another and are simply magical during the festive season. Sleeping a total of fourteen people and four dogs, they are ideal for three groups of family or friends who are looking to balance rest and revelry during the festivities. Meet in the middle for stunning coastal walks before returning to the peace and quiet of your own cosy cottages for a hot toddy and a slice of Christmas cake.
Coldingham, Scottish Borders
Fancy a spot of surfing over Christmas? Our five apartments at Coldingham Bay – collectively sleeping 20 – are ideal. These super-chic beach pads are just a few steps away from one of the most picturesque beaches in southern Scotland. Each has sweeping views of the bay, all with private balconies and roof terraces and crucially – given that the North Sea is a bit nippy in December – these stylish design-led apartments have big cosy sofas, king-sized beds and super-powerful, drench showers with lashings of hot water. So there’s really no excuse not to dip your toe in!
Bamburgh, Northumberland
Wild Rye, The Rushes and Lyme Grass are three adjoining farm cottages, each sleeping four, that sit midway between the pretty village of Bamburgh and the jolly seaside town of Seahouses. Great for those who like coastal walks, playing on the beach with the kids or who prefer to just soak up the charm of Northumberland’s coastal communities. The views are superb, especially the evening twinkle of Inner Farne lighthouse that can be spotted in the distance.
Bamburgh, Northumberland
Just a couple of miles away from the iconic castle and majestic beaches of Bamburgh, the neighbouring retreats of Mallow Lodge, Wild Chive and Oat Grass are ideal for holding a large family get-together. Bathed in light through floor-to-ceiling windows and designed with Scandi simplicity, each of the spacious lodges sleeps six and up to two dogs. After indulging in your Christmas lunch, look forward to gathering around crackling log-burners as you settle in to open presents or for a festive film or two.
Papple, East Lothian
Christmas is a time for love, so why not embrace the holiday and getaway with your loved one and your favourite duo? Shepherd’s Bothy and Ploughman’s Bothy at Papple Steading are a dreamy pair of rural bothies complete with their own electric AGAs, modern artwork and plenty of mod cons such as vegan bedding and superfast Wi-Fi. Set in the bucolic surroundings of the Papple estate, woodland walks are on your doorstep and the beach is just a hop skip and a jump away too.
Brinkburn, Northumberland
Lying in the rural Coquet Valley’s ancient Brinkburn estate, the historic cottages of Mullins House, Priory Cottage, Bel House and Cuthbert House combine sweeping pastoral views with chic country style. Sleeping a total of fourteen and each welcoming dogs, they promise a cosy and convivial Christmas. Enjoy relaxing strolls together on the gorgeous circular trail along the Coquet and – if you’re feeling brave! – take an invigorating dip in the nearby wild swimming spot. Back at the cottages, you can warm up in one of the large freestanding baths or beside a welcoming log-burner.
Nr Jedburgh, Scottish Borders
Set on a private estate in the rolling hills of the Scottish Borders, Crailing Cottage and Crailing West Lodge promise a merry Christmas spent in serene countryside. Sleeping a total of seven people, these cosy winter sanctuaries benefit from excellent riverside walks along Oxnam Water which flows through the estate. The historic towns of Jedburgh and Kelso also lie nearby so you can stock up on local Christmas cheese and delicious wine from cheery independent shops and delis before the big day.
Brunton, Northumberland
Tucked away in a scenic corner of Northumberland where country meets seaside, Swallow Dean, Brunton Burn and Brunton Granary offer rural seclusion within easy reach of the beach. Ideal for a multigenerational Christmas, Brunton Granary sleeps eight and welcomes two dogs while the neighbouring cottages Swallow Dean and Brunton Burn both sleep two. On Christmas Day, gather together in the Granary’s spacious living area to enjoy some buck’s fizz as you open your stockings before heading out on a refreshing Christmas stroll to Beadnell Bay.
Seahouses, Northumberland
If your idea of a perfect Christmas involves waking up to stunning sea views and morning walks on white sandy beaches, then a stay in the historic fishing village of Seahouses is for you. Take the nearby coastal apartments of Wamsas Retreat, Harbour Hideaway and Greengate and accommodate a gang of up to eight. Make sure to visit the Christmas Kingdom at Bamburgh Castle during your stay for an unmissable dose of Christmas magic.
Wooler, Northumberland
Nestled deep in the rolling foothills of the Cheviots Hills, The Byre, The Bothy and The Dovecot at Reedsford are sure to tempt a last-minute dash to picturesque countryside. Dog-friendly and sleeping a total of twelve people, these beautifully converted properties are full of original details and cosy nooks where you can disappear into the pages of your Christmas novel with a plate of sugar-dusted mince pies. Surrounded by the spectacular landscapes of the Northumberland National Park, you’ll be spoilt for choice for walking and cycling routes to fill your days, while the shared games barn is the ideal space to come together for lively table-tennis tournaments, or for a large Christmas feast (tables can be set outby prior arrangement) by the warming fire.
If you’re looking to book a festive family escape, give us a ring on 01573 226711 or drop a line to info@crabtreeandcrabtree.com to find out more information and the latest availability. We’d love to chat to you.