Once upon a time, travelling abroad felt exciting. These days? It often feels like a gamble.

When a company chooses to return to the same property for a second time, it speaks volumes. For one group hosting their annual Christmas trip, Symonds Yat — and more specifically Symonds Yat Lodge — proved to be the kind of place that not only meets expectations, but exceeds them.

Dreaming of a getaway where no one — especially not your dog — gets left behind? The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley are legendary for scenic trails, riverside rambles, and a genuinely welcoming vibe for furry companions. And the perfect home base for your next group escape is right here with Big House Holiday Lets (BHHL).

There’s something quietly magical about the Wye Valley in winter. When the crowds disappear, the mist hangs low over the river, and the woodlands settle into their colder, quieter rhythm, the whole place feels like it’s taken a deep breath. And honestly? That’s exactly the kind of atmosphere most of us crave once December rolls in — calm, space, and scenery that doesn’t demand anything from us except appreciation.

If you’ve ever dreamed of a Christmas straight out of a classic winter film, spending the holiday in a private manor house is exactly that — but better. Picture crisp mornings, glowing fireplaces, and a grand setting where your whole family or group of friends can settle in and celebrate in complete comfort.

If you love a house with personality, stories, and a touch of Gothic charm, Fairlea Grange in Abergavenny is exactly the kind of place that turns a weekend away into something special. Once the childhood home of author Ethel Lina White – whose book inspired Hitchcock’s The Lady Vanishes – this striking townhouse is now a welcoming, laid-back holiday home for 12–24 guests.

The Wye Valley doesn’t just look magical — it is magical. Between the ancient woodlands, dramatic cliffs and silent ruins, stories cling to this landscape like morning mist. If you’re visiting for a weekend, here are the legends that turn a simple walk into something far more atmospheric.

Step away from the rush of December and into something altogether more refined.

Winter in the Wye Valley is a secret worth sharing. When the leaves fall and the air turns crisp, the crowds disappear and the countryside feels peaceful again — perfect for a cosy group escape.

There’s something instantly likeable about Monmouth — maybe it’s the riverside setting, maybe the cobbled streets, or maybe just the relaxed, welcoming vibe that makes every visitor feel like a local.