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9 reasons to book a winter break at The Runnymede on Thames

From a Christmas-themed afternoon tea to panto season at the Theatre Royal Windsor, LaplandUK to Windsor Great Park Illuminated, this festive season promises lots of fun in when you're staying at The Runnymede on Thames.

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 1. You’ll have the chance to visit Windsor Great Park Illuminated

After a successful launch last year, Windsor Great Park Illuminated will return with its festive light trail from 17th November 2022 – 2nd January 2023.

Follow the enchanting trail through the royal park, which will be awash with colour as sparkles of fireflies, luminous beacons and dancing fairies blaze the way, the lake alive with flood-lit fountains and glimmering reflections.

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2. You can celebrate panto season at Theatre Royal Windsor

Who doesn’t love a classic pantomime at Christmas? This year, Theatre Royal Windsor celebrates its 84th year of pantomimes! Expect colourful costumes, whimsical music and a vibrant cast of characters as the Theatre Royal Windsor puts on a laugh-out-loud performance of the magical fairy tale, Sleeping Beauty.

Running throughout the festive period, from Friday 25th November until 8th January 2023, this year’s panto will feature the likes of music icon, Anita Harris, the legendary Basil Brush and Dreamboats & Petticoats star, Elizabeth Carter.

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3. We have a very Instagrammable festive afternoon tea 

Our delicious Festive Champagne Afternoon Tea will be available from the 28th November, perfect for the run-up to Christmas. Taste the season with treats including roast turkey and stuffing finger sandwiches, cranberry scones, a chocolate choux, clementine ganache and Bailey’s cream and traditional Christmas cake.

Priced at just £32 per person, you can also expect a wide range of teas and a crisp glass of A. Robert Rose Champagne. We also have vegan and non-gluten containing menus, plus a dedicated menu for kids, so there really is something for everyone to enjoy.

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4. Legoland will be transformed for Christmas

The LEGOLAND® Windsor park will be transformed into a magical wonderland from 26th November 2022 – 3rd January 2023, complete with a scattering of snow-covered trees and glittering lights.

As well as 24 rides, enjoy live shows and attractions, all bound to get the whole family in the festive spirit. And of course, it wouldn’t be Christmas without a visit to Father Christmas in his magical cabin!

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5. Our spa will be hosting a Christmas shopping event

 With luxurious spa facilities such as a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and eucalyptus steam room, as well as a wide range of warming treatments, our award-winning spa is a must for a spot of pre-Christmas relaxation.

We will also be hosting our very own Christmas shopping event on Tuesday 29th November 2022. Look forward to a complimentary glass of fizz on arrival and special discounts, exclusive gifts with purchases from our luxury beauty brands, goodie bags and a raffle.

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6. We’re so close to LaplandUK

Experience the magical snowy scenes of LaplandUK, which is just 15 minutes from The Runnymede on Thames. A magical immersive experience based on the story of Father Christmas, this one’s perfect for kids and adults alike.

Wander through snowy landscapes, see Santa’s reindeer, enjoy ice-skating, gingerbread making and visit elves busy in their workshop. Discover a collection of interactive activities and, of course, meet Santa for a special Christmas gift – kids will remember a visit for years to come.

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7. Windsor Castle is just 5 miles away

Another sightseeing location full of history in the local area is Windsor. What better time to visit the oldest and – until recently – the largest occupied castle in the world than when it is dressed for Christmas?

Visit St George’s Chapel to pay your respects to Queen Elizabeth II’s final resting place. Admire the magnificent 20-foot-high tree taken from Windsor Great Park, located in the beautiful St George’s Hall. And no trip to Windsor is complete without taking in the picturesque Long Walk.

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8. Our bottomless fizz lunch will get you into the spirit

We can’t think of a better way to get into the festive spirit than our bottomless fizz feast at Leftbank, our buffet restaurant.

Enjoy views of the river whilst indulging in a variety of starters, traditional roast turkey served with all the trimmings you desire, plus a dessert table packed with festive showstoppers to indulge in. Rest assured your drink will be topped up with fizz for the whole 90 minutes of your visit.

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9. We’re right on the doorstep of top walking routes

Getting out into nature has a whole host of benefits. And, situated on the banks of the River Thames, The Runnymede is a great starting point for all manner of winter walks.

Our suggestion would be to wrap up warm and enjoy a scenic route along the Thames Path. Guiding you along one of the most famous rivers in the world, you’ll pass by the Magna Carta Memorial, the John F. Kennedy Memorial and The Jurors chairs in the middle of the Runnymede meadow, and the Writ in Water.

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