Guests are invited to celebrate at the iconic sporting estate in Perthshire, which will transform into a fairy tale inspired wonderland come December, or join the first ever festive season at Gleneagles Townhouse, Edinburgh – Gleneagles’ first city outpost, which opened its doors in June.
THE PERFECT HOME FROM HOME
Set beneath the snow-capped Ochil Hills, Gleneagles transforms into the ideal cozy hideaway over the festive season, and this year will see celebrations at the iconic 850-acre estate taking inspiration from the world of woodlands and fairy tales. With decorations designed to evoke the wintery scenery of the surrounding Perthshire countryside, the hotel will be transformed into a magical wonderland, complete with Hansel & Gretel themed afternoon tea, hidden fairy doors set amongst twinkling Christmas lights, and a whole range of family friendly activities; with classic pantomimes and treasure hunts all waiting to be enjoyed. From brisk trail walks, ice skating and outdoor adventures by day, to roaring log fires and decadent dining by night, there is something for everyone at Gleneagles. Guests will be able to forget about the stresses of Christmas – no roasting the turkey, decorating the house, or organizing family and friends – and instead, sit back and soak up the luxury, style, glamour, and exceptional service Gleneagles is famed for, at the most luxurious house party in Scotland.
A GLORIOUS PLAYGROUND
It wouldn’t be a visit to Gleneagles without trying one of the country pursuits on offer; with over 50 to choose from, guests can take on an adventure or learn a new skill during their stay. This year’s festive program includes the new Toptracer Range at the Golf Academy – a fun, interactive and social experience which analyses player skill and helps them to craft a better game. There is also an indoor simulator suitable for all player levels featuring a range of iconic courses from around the world, so even when the temperatures drop outside, golf fans can still brush up on their swing. The estate offers plenty of opportunities to explore and take in the fresh country air, including air rifle shooting, tree-climbing, and even a 110m-long Zip Wire experience, perfect for daredevils who can experience the adrenaline rush of whooshing back down to earth from high up in the trees. Meanwhile, wholesome group activities include the Own a Pony Experience; this firm favorite gives children aged 6 and upwards the chance to groom, ride and look after a pony for two hours, making a lifelong friend along the way. Perfect for families, there is also the return of the impressive full-sized ice rink, a popular pantomime staged in Henry Hall, one of the hotel’s stylish and spectacular event spaces, and two magnificent fireworks displays, on 26 and 30 December.
For foodies eager to make the most of the festive period, the culinary experiences at Gleneagles are set to become even more decadent, with wine and cheese tasting with some of Scotland’s best independent producers and suppliers, and even special children’s culinary sessions. And a stay at Gleneagles wouldn’t be complete without sampling the world-class food and service at The Strathearn, Dormy or Birnam – perfect spots to gather, pop a cork, and enjoy a nightcap or two.
Guests looking to relax and switch off during the busy Christmas period can sample innovative treatments at The Spa at Gleneagles, which are inspired by, and contain, healing botanicals from the Scottish landscape, harnessing the power of the country’s legendary natural resources. Spa treatments are not part of the festive program.
MAKING MEMORIES TOGETHER
As well as the country pursuits on offer, a dedicated family program will inspire little ones and teenagers this Christmas. A brand-new treasure hunt encourages curious young minds to solve riddles, follow clues around the spectacular estate and collect treasures along the way. Little Garden, which opened this summer, is a space for budding adventurers to learn about nature, science and bug hunting, while the Trail Yard offers hot chocolate and marshmallow roasting – the ultimate winter activity. Throughout the season, a whole host of arts & crafts workshops are waiting to be enjoyed or, for something requiring a little less exertion, the hotel’s dedicated cinema room - complete with a new popcorn machine – allows families to cozy up for screenings of classics such as Elf, Home Alone, and The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.
RING IN THE BELLS FOR 2023
After a day of exploring the estate, start the Hogmanay and New Year’s celebrations in the company of Gleneagles’ sommeliers, as they guide guests through the sparkling world of champagne. The evening’s dress code of ‘black tie or a touch of tartan’ sets the scene for a true Scottish extravaganza in the hotel’s elegant restaurants. For wee ones, there’s a disco, while drinks continue for the grown-ups in the Century Bar – the perfect place to gather for a nightcap or two – before ending the night with a bite to eat, thanks to a delicious late-night feast served until 3am in Henry Hall.
Gleneagles pulls out all the stops to make the festive break an unforgettable one, with stay packages including all food and entertainment. The special 3-night ‘Christmas at Gleneagles’ package from £6,240 (currently approx. $6,987) promises the ultimate in luxurious escapes, or for those seeking a pre-Hogmanay treat, breaks start from £1,240 ($1,388) per night, with a 2-night minimum stay. Gleneagles also offers the perfect place to ring in the new year in style, with a 3-night Scottish New Year break costing from £7,585 (currently approx. $8,494).
CHRISTMAS IN THE CITY
Less than an hour away in buzzy Edinburgh, the festive season means bustling streets and twinkling lights, turning the city into a glittering wonderland at dusk. Located on St Andrew Square - and opening for its first ever Christmas season - Gleneagles Townhouse offers glorious guest accommodation alongside glamorous dining and drinking experiences in the heart of the Scottish capital. Originally home to the British Linen Company before becoming the Bank of Scotland, over the last five years this historic landmark has been lovingly restored.to create this award-winning 33-bedroom hotel, all-day dining destination The Spence, and rooftop bar Lamplighters with its picture postcard views across the city. Down in the bank’s former vault, Townhouse resident guests and members of the hotel’s private members’ club have access to The Strong Rooms – a dedicated training, treatments, and therapies space.
Amidst a dazzling display of winter fairy-tale decorations, on Christmas Day guests can soak up the buzz and cheer filling the air at this spectacularly stylish hideaway. A sharing-style menu featuring lobster, turkey, and Christmas pudding - plus the obligatory supply of champagne! - will be served in The Spence, while private dining areas are also available to book.
To help guests get into the festive spirit, during the magical month of December the hotel will be hosting a full program of events, including Champagne wreath making and Christmas carols in the impressive historic stairwell.
FESTIVE FOOD GALORE
At the heart of the Townhouse lies The Spence – an airy, social space offering modern style all-day brasserie-dining. Located in the old Victorian banking hall, its venerable heritage is celebrated with a central feature bar situated underneath the extraordinary glass domed ceiling. Led by Head Chef Jonny Wright - who returns to his native Scotland with over 16 years’ experience – the menu is informed by Jonny’s enthusiasm for Scotland’s natural larder, the old Scots word for which The Spence takes its name. Throughout December, diners can kick start their festive plans with a seasonal à la carte menu, embracing the best of winter produce alongside signature dishes and drinks such as a cozy Hot Buttered Rum tipple, or the Veuve Clicquot & blood orange sparkling aperitif.
Meanwhile, in private dining areas such as The Courtyard and The Spence’s own Private Dining Room, the sharing style ‘Festive Feasts’ four course menu, for £85pp (currently approx. $95), is perfect for friends, colleagues, and families to gather and indulge. Guests can expect classics with a modern twist, from prawn & lobster cocktail, to beef Wellington with wild mushrooms, and Christmas trifle and mince pies. For informal festive gatherings, the hotel’s historic Telling Rooms are available for exclusive drink and canapé receptions from 6pm, Sunday to Wednesday evenings.
Festive Packages at Gleneagles start from £1240 (currently approx. $1,394) per room per night including food and entertainment (supplements may apply). To book or to learn more - call 01764662231.
Rates at Gleneagles Townhouse start from £495 (currently approx. $556) including breakfast.
For information on private dining at Townhouse, email events@gleneaglestownhouse.com. For Christmas day bookings, email spence@gleneaglestownhouse.com
www.gleneaglestownhouse.com
www.gleneagles.com
