Christmas at Longstones: A Festive Escape in the Heart of Wiltshire
There’s something truly magical about spending Christmas in the countryside. As the villages fill with twinkling lights, the air turns crisp, and the fields fall quiet, Longstones becomes the perfect place to settle in for a festive break. Whether you’re here for long winter walks, a dose of festive spirit, or simply the joy of slowing down, this time of year suits the barns beautifully.
Avebury Manor Returns for Christmas
One of this year’s biggest highlights is the reopening of Avebury Manor, freshly restored and ready to welcome visitors again after its closure following a devastating flood. Just moments from Longstones, the Manor feels particularly enchanting at this time of year. Each room is dressed for Christmas, bringing history to life with beautifully curated decorations, seasonal displays and a wonderfully nostalgic atmosphere.
The new festive exhibition adds an extra layer of charm, think twinkling Christmas trees, roaring fires, candlelit corners and little surprises as you wander through the house. It’s the sort of place that instantly puts you in the mood for mulled wine afterwards.
A Winter Wander Through Avebury
Avebury village feels wonderfully atmospheric in December. The stone circle takes on a different kind of magic in winter, especially on frosty mornings when mist settles low across the fields. The Henge Shop is ideal for picking up unique gifts, seasonal treats and local produce, and the village’s cafés and pubs give you plenty of cosy spots to warm up after a chilly walk.
Local Christmas Attractions to Explore
There’s plenty to enjoy nearby if you want to make your Wiltshire break feel even more festive:
Marlborough’s Christmas Lights - The famous Marlborough High Street looks spectacular throughout December. Its independent shops, Christmas stalls and twinkling lights make it perfect for picking up last-minute presents or simply soaking up the atmosphere.
Lacock’s Christmas Display - A short drive away, the National Trust village of Lacock embraces the festive season with classic Christmas charm. Its historic streets look like they’ve been lifted straight from a Christmas film set, and the Abbey often hosts seasonal trails and winter exhibitions.
Devizes Winter Festival - If your stay happens to coincide, the Lantern Parade in Devizes, held in late November, is a real treat, with glowing sculptures, music and a lively crowd winding through the town.
Bath Christmas Market - For those happy to venture a little further, Bath’s famous Christmas market is well worth the trip. Cobbled streets, handmade gifts, mulled cider and a gorgeous festive backdrop, it’s one of the most celebrated markets in the country, and easy to reach from Longstones.
Cosy Evenings Back at Longstones
After a day of exploring, there’s nothing better than returning to the calm, warm comfort of Longstones. Whether you curl up with a hot chocolate, put your feet up after a long winter walk or simply enjoy the quiet of the countryside, the barns feel especially inviting in December.