What’s included
What’s not included
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Itinerary
Christmas Celebrations & Charming Chester
After joining the coach, we make our way to our hotel and check in.
Christmas Celebrations & Charming Chester
Join us on this optional excursion to see a fun-filled pantomime performance of Dick Whittington to really get us into the festive swing on Christmas Eve! Starring Jason Manford and fan favourite Ben Nickless at the Manchester Opera House, the show promises plenty of laughs (and boos!), fantastic costumes and spectacular sets from the team behind the London Palladium pantomimes.
Christmas Celebrations & Charming Chester
Christmas Day is spent at leisure at our hotel, including a traditional Christmas lunch with all the trimmings, Christmas cake with tea and coffee, as well as a light buffet dinner.
Christmas Celebrations & Charming Chester
We head to Chester, a charming and compact city that is a delight to explore. The city’s fascinating history spans the centuries, from the remains of its Roman amphitheatre to the eye-catching medieval Rows that line its streets. As well as its abundance of historical attractions, Chester also has a thriving shopping centre with a host of cafés, restaurants and pubs to tempt you. After our three-course farewell dinner, we enjoy a final night of light entertainment, the perfect way to round off the festivities.
Christmas Celebrations & Charming Chester
After breakfast, we check out of our hotel and head home.
Free Time in Manchester
On day 2, travel into Manchester for independent exploration and enjoy a free afternoon discovering the city’s character. Wander between Exchange Square and the elegant John Rylands Library, pause at Manchester Cathedral, and browse the creative corners of the Northern Quarter for cosy cafés, street art and record shops.
Once nicknamed “Cottonopolis”, Manchester pairs red-brick mills with bold, modern architecture and a renowned music and football heritage. Trace this story as you pause for photos and reflection around the civic heart near Albert Square, then warm up with a brew while city lights twinkle—an atmospheric urban interlude before festive evenings at the hotel.
Christmas Day Celebrations: Traditional Lunch, Cake & Evening Buffet
On day 3 (Christmas Day), the pace gentles as you relax at the hotel. A classic traditional Christmas lunch with all the trimmings takes centre stage, followed by tea or coffee and Christmas cake. Later, a light evening buffet keeps the mood easy and convivial without leaving the comfort of your festive base.
Share toasts and conversation as seasonal melodies play and decorations glow. This is a day for simple pleasures—unhurried dining, friendly company and time to soak in the festive atmosphere. Between courses, step outside for crisp winter air, or linger in the lounge for board games, chats and a contented holiday calm.
Chester Excursion: City Walls, The Rows & Cathedral Quarter
On day 4, head to Chester, where your Tour Manager offers an orientation before free time to explore. Follow segments of the City Walls to the Eastgate Clock, then drift through the black-and-white timbered galleries of The Rows. Wander to the remains of the Roman amphitheatre or the peaceful Cathedral, and finish by the River Dee for waterside views.
Founded as Roman Deva Victrix, Chester’s story unfolds from legionary fortress to prosperous medieval market town. Its compact lanes brim with independent shops, cosy cafés and layered history at every turn. Return to the hotel for a three-course farewell dinner, rounding off the day with a final night of light entertainment to celebrate the end of your festive escape.
Nightly Light Entertainment at the Hotel
Each evening, settle into the lounge or bar for light entertainment every evening—perhaps a quiz, a singalong or a visiting performer—paired with after-dinner tea and coffee. It’s a relaxed way to unwind after daytime exploring and compare highlights with fellow guests.
Rooted in a sociable British holiday tradition, these informal nights invite you to soak in the festive atmosphere, share a laugh and enjoy a nightcap before bed. Look forward to a warm, convivial close to days spent discovering city sights and seasonal cheer.
Christmas Eve Pantomime Performance
On day 2 (Christmas Eve), you can join an optional pantomime performance at a local theatre—riotous fun with slapstick, villains to boo and the classic call-and-response of “oh yes it is!”. This experience is at additional cost and bookable on tour (from £42pp; upgraded seats £52pp), subject to availability.
Rooted in Victorian tradition, pantomime reimagines familiar fairy tales with slapstick and song, topical jokes and a festive sing-along. Settle into the warm glow of the auditorium as the curtain rises and the orchestra strikes up—an all-ages celebration that captures the playful spirit of a British Christmas.
Welcome Drink & Buffet Dinner on Arrival
Settle into your North West base on day 1 and meet your Tour Manager over a friendly welcome drink. Unpack, unwind and get to know your fellow travellers before tucking into a relaxed buffet dinner in the hotel’s restaurant, with time afterwards to soak in the festive atmosphere in the lounge.
This convivial start sets the tone for your Christmas break, offering practical introductions and tips for the days ahead. As evening falls, you can linger over after-dinner tea and coffee and ease into the holiday rhythm, with the option to enjoy light entertainment before turning in.
