Spend Christmas at Stanwell House Hotel, Lymington, New Forest

Stanwell House, an outstanding family-owned and run boutique hotel in Lymington on the southern tip of the New Forest, has announced its Christmas packages for those who would rather let others get on with the chores this Festive season.

With a French chef who produces exquisite dishes using New Forest ingredients and locally caught fish and shell fish, guests at the hotel this Christmas should forget about their waistlines and indulge themselves in the finest festive fare and celebrations.

What’s more, well behaved dogs are also welcome at Stanwell House so there’s no need to leave the family pet behind.

The two-night package commences on Christmas Eve (check in available from 3pm) with a scrumptious Cream Tea in the Conservatory (available until 6pm).

A Canapé and Champagne reception will start at 7pm before dinner prepared by Head Chef Xavier Souletis and his team.

For those who wish, there is a Midnight Mass just a short walk through the High Street at St Thomas’ Church or, alternatively, join fellow guests for a glass of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts.

On Christmas Day morning a hearty New Forest breakfast will be served up until 10am for those who might want to lie in. The morning is spent at leisure – with a chance perhaps to wander down to Lymington Quay, which is just a short stroll away, or why not head off to explore the New Forest?

Bucks fizz will be served from noon, followed by a traditional Christmas Lunch with all the trimmings and a candlelit buffet supper will be available in the evening.

Guests depart on Boxing Day, but not before another grand breakfast cooked using New Forest ingredients and available right up until 11am.

The package costs from £395 per person (two sharing a room). Four-poster rooms and suites are also available. To book, visit stanwellhouse.com.