Tucked away in 186 acres of enchantment – imagine mirror-like lakes, hidden gardens, and meandering woodland trails – Ashdown Park Hotel and Country Club is a 19th century gem in the heart of Ashdown Forest, the very landscape that sparked A.A. Milne’s whimsical world of Winnie-the-Pooh. With top-tier hospitality, indulgent rooms, an award-winning restaurant, and a fabulous spa, it’s a magical setting for a Christmas escape that feels straight out of a storybook.
Pre-Christmas excitement for kids
On Sunday 20 December, Afternoon Tea with Father Christmas promises a sprinkle of magic. While his reindeer refuel in the kitchen, Father Christmas will pop in to greet little ones, spread cheer, and hand out gifts. £30 per child (when accompanied by an adult paying £47).
The total cost of a pre-Christmas overnight family stay is from £350 for a family of four, sharing a Superior Classic Room and including breakfast.
The Christmas House Party Experience
Ashdown Park’s three- or four-night House Party begins on Wednesday 23 December or Thursday 24 December. Highlights include:
On 23 December
Settle into your luxurious accommodation before exploring the estate or relaxing at the Country Club & Spa. As evening falls, savour dinner in the festive setting of the Anderida Restaurant, followed by a nightcap beside the open log fires.
On Christmas Eve
Afternoon Tea is served in the drawing rooms, offering a chance to unwind before the evening festivities begin. Later, Champagne, canapés and carols in the Front Hall set the scene for dinner in the Anderida Restaurant. Round off the evening with Midnight Mass, either televised with hot toddies and mince pies, or at nearby Holy Trinity Church.
On Christmas Day
Wake to Santa’s surprises, then ease into Christmas with breakfast and a wander through the woods, a board game by the fire or a good book on the sofa. Mulled wine, mince pies and festive treats are available throughout the day. From midday, a lavish buffet awaits, accompanied by live jazz. Later, join the estate Treasure Hunt before Champagne, canapés and a four-course Christmas Dinner.
On Boxing Day
Spend the morning outdoors with classic Country Pursuits, including clay pigeon shooting, archery and falconry, or take a peaceful walk through the estate and Ashdown Forest. After a sumptuous buffet lunch, get involved in the Family Quiz before tea and hot crumpets. As evening falls, sip Champagne and savour canapés before a gourmet dinner, then try your luck at the Fun Casino with live jazz bringing the day to a lively close.
Prices from £1,320 pp (two adults sharing a Classic Bedroom) for three nights’ full board, from 24 to 27 December, children from £240. Four-night stays from £1,530 pp, arriving 23 or 24 December, children from £270 each (under 2s stay free) when sharing their parents’ room.
Make the most of your time in East Sussex over Christmas
– Tulley’s Farm Christmas Experience runs on selected dates from 21 November – 24 December 2026
– The gardens and lake are transformed into The Nutcrackers Christmas at Hever Castle, running from 20 November 2026 – 2 January 2027
– Bluebell Railway’s magical steam train, adorned with thousands of colourful lights, running from 21 November – 30 December
To book, or for further information, click on Christmas at Ashdown Park, or call 01342 824 988.
