Winter wonderland: Exploring snowy Gloucestershire in style

The festive season is upon us, which means most of us will be busy decking the halls at home.

With lockdown coming to an end at the start of the month however, now couldn’t be a better time to enjoy a winter escape at one of the UK’s beautiful, snowy staycation destinations.

Come the cooler months, Gloucestershire transforms into a winter wonderland. The region offers so many things to do and to see during the festive season.

Here we reveal exactly how to celebrate the end of lockdown and countdown to Christmas in style in snowy Gloucestershire.

Enjoy the most wonderful time of year in nature

The natural world is beautiful all year round, but you’ll witness its biggest transformation at wintertime.

Home to a number of stunning green spaces – including the magnificent Forest of Dean – a winter break at Clearwell Castle will leave you perfectly positioned to explore the county’s wilder side.

We’ll let SoGlos talk you through one of the best, most beautiful and most manageable walking routes to take on this winter:

“Covered in a canopy of towering trees, the Sculpture Trail in the Forest of Dean promises a stunning stroll all year round.

Starting from Beechenhurst, walkers can enjoy the famous four-and-a-half-mile trail, looking out for the impressive spectacles along the way.”

Broadway (the site of the historic Broadway Tower) and Symonds Yat Rock are other must-explores during your winter stay in the Forest of Dean.

See winter wildlife up close and personal

Whilst many winter events have been cancelled up and down the country, we’re glad to say that The International Centre for Birds of Prey (ICBP) is still forging ahead with its winter owl evenings.

Throughout December and January, you’ll be able to enjoy a magical evening in the most fascinating company.

During their winter owl evenings, you’ll delve deep into the mystical, nocturnal world of this beloved bird of prey, and even enjoy a festive drink and some hot food in the process.

Have yourself an enchanted Christmas deep in the woods

The trees of Westonbirt Arboretum will receive a festive makeover thanks to the long-awaited return of the site’s Christmas Illuminated Trail.

Running until 21st December from 4.00pm to 9.30pm, Westonbirt Arboretum is hosting a fabulous experience to showcase its trees and get that festive spirit flowing.

The illuminated trail will provide mesmerising displays and spectacles, not to mention a candy cane forest that wouldn’t look out of place in the North Pole.

Pre-booking your tickets for this event is essential so don’t miss out, buy your tickets here.

Go underground to celebrate Christmas like never before

Take your quest for all things Christmassy underground with a visit to nearby Clearwell Caves. Due to reopen on 4th December, the caves will be transformed to house some fantastic displays and festive stalls.

Younger visitors can even look forward to bumping into a very special person in the depths of the caverns.

Yes, Father Christmas will be at Clearwell Caves spreading festive cheer and sharing special gifts – at a social distance of course!

Book your tickets for Christmas in the caves right here, but do it fast, tickets are very limited.

Give yourself an early Christmas treat by staying with us

We’re pleased to announce that we’ll be opening the castle gates to host a number of winter escapes and dining experiences this festive season.

A romantic place to honeymoon, mini-moon or simply indulge yourself, Clearwell Castle is the perfect place to spend that countdown to Christmas and explore the fabulous winter events detailed above.

Find out more about our exclusive winter escapes and dinner dates here.

If you have any questions relating to having your wedding at Clearwell Castle, please don't hesitate to call Laura via the contact details below:

Laura

T: 01594 832 320
E: info@clearwell-castle.co.uk

March Flash Sale! Save £1,000 if you book by 31st March 2024Tell me more!