For many families and groups of friends, Christmas Day itself can be a logistical challenge. Different households, travel difficulties, and packed calendars often mean that not everyone can be in the same place at the same time. That’s why more people are choosing to celebrate before the big day — creating their own traditions and enjoying each other’s company without the pressure of 25 December. This December, Symonds Yat Lodge offers the perfect setting for such gatherings. Nestled by the River Wye, surrounded by frosted woodland, the lodge provides space, comfort, and atmosphere for groups of up to 50 guests. With festive décor throughout, roaring fires, and room for everyone to relax, it’s an invitation to press pause on the season’s chaos and reconnect with the people who matter most. A Place Made for Gatherings

Symonds Yat Lodge is not a hotel or function hall — it’s an exclusive-use property designed for togetherness. When you book the lodge, it’s yours alone: 25 ensuite bedrooms, a large dining hall, comfortable lounges, a party and games room, and five acres of private grounds. That means no competing bookings, no background noise, and no sharing facilities with strangers.

The house adapts easily to your plans. Whether you want to host a formal dinner, a casual buffet, or simply gather around the fire, the spaces are flexible. Children can play, grandparents can relax, and different generations can come together under one roof.

Two Festive Offers

This December, Big House Holiday Lets is offering two exclusive packages:

• Five Nights, 15 Rooms, 30 Guests — £7,950
  Perfect for extended families or smaller groups of friends. Enjoy spacious accommodation while keeping the atmosphere intimate.
• Five Nights, 25 Rooms, 50 Guests — £9,945
  Ideal for larger families or groups who want everyone included. With up to 50 guests under one roof, no one has to miss out.

Both options include exclusive use of the entire lodge, complete with Christmas decorations, a large dining hall for group meals, and cozy lounges to settle into at the end of the day.

Interested? email enquiries@bhhl.co.uk or give us a call 01600 732050

Why Gather Before Christmas?

The idea of a pre-Christmas get-together has many advantages:

• Less Pressure: By celebrating earlier, you sidestep the stress of coordinating everyone’s Christmas Day schedules.
• Quality Time: Without the pull of multiple households, you can truly focus on being together.
• Seasonal Spirit: With the lodge decorated for Christmas, you still enjoy the festive atmosphere.
• Flexibility: Organise a full traditional meal, or keep it simple with games, walks, and informal dining.
• Memories Made: Children experience the joy of an extended Christmas, while adults savour time with loved ones before the season accelerates.

A Riverside Setting

The Wye Valley in December is crisp, quiet, and beautiful. Morning walks along the river, afternoons exploring nearby woodlands, and evenings returning to a warm, decorated lodge create a rhythm of relaxation. Local pubs and restaurants offer further options if you’d like to dine out, and the charming hand-pulled ferry across the Wye is just minutes away.

For the adventurous, activities such as canoeing or guided forest walks can be arranged, though many guests find the simple pleasures of fireside conversations and long lunches are more than enough.

A Sample Stay

Here’s what a five-night December break at Symonds Yat Lodge might look like:

Day 1

• Arrival and welcome drinks
• Dinner in the decorated dining hall
• Evening games or a film night

Day 2

• Morning river walk
• Big group breakfast
• Afternoon exploring local villages
• Evening: festive meal and fireside gathering

Day 3

• Lazy morning and brunch
• Optional outdoor activities
• Afternoon tea
• Evening: quiz night or music in the party room

Day 4

• Visit to local Christmas markets or pubs
• Children’s activities in the games room
• Evening: traditional dinner with crackers and decorations

Day 5

• Relaxed final breakfast
• Morning goodbyes and departures

The flexibility is yours — whether you want full itineraries or simple downtime, the lodge adapts.

A Gift of Time Together

Ultimately, what Symonds Yat Lodge offers is space to breathe, away from the rush and commitments of the holiday itself. It’s a chance to create your own celebration on your own terms, with the people who matter most.

With demand high in December, availability is limited. Secure your five-night festive break now and make this year’s lead-up to Christmas unforgettable

Big House Holiday Lets
w: bhhl.co.uk
e: enquiries@bhhl.co.uk
t: 01600 732050