Christmas as it should be at Lake Vyrnwy Hotel

Log fires, mulled wine, carols round the tree - just some of the things that, for many, sum up the perfect Christmas, far removed from today’s commercial razzmatazz.

And at Lake Vyrnwy Hotel, in a ‘Christmas Card’ lake and mountain setting just over the Shropshire border in Wales, there are even more seasonal ‘trimmings’ in the form of Boxing Day country pursuits.

Guests can opt to try clay-pigeon shooting or archery, watch a private sheep-dog trial or explore some of the 24,000-acre Lake Vyrnwy estate on bicycles or on a 4WD tour.

Back in the hotel the emphasis is very much on exceptional food in the award-winning Tower Restaurant. As well as a traditional Christmas dinner and a formal dinner on Boxing Night, festive breaks include afternoon teas, champagne cocktails and canapés and, of course, plenty of hot toddies and mince pies.

A three-night break starting on Christmas Eve leads in at £485 per person (twin share) in a Country View room, rising to £635 in a Premier Lake View room. As well as all meals and activities, prices also include complimentary use of the hotel’s spa with pool, sauna and Japanese salt steam room.

For those who wish to extend their stay, an extra night on either 23rd or 27th December is available at a discounted rate of £100 per room, with breakfast included.

For more information and bookings, visit lakevyrnwy.com.