ad | a press event but no obligation to blog about this event.

In the interest of trying to get back into diary entry blogging again, as I seemed to have taken a back seat. I thought I would write about the Christmas press event I attended.

In the heart of charming Rutland, close to the stunning Rutland water, I had the privilege of experiencing a taste of Christmas heaven during an October afternoon at The Barnsdale Hotel.

This quintessential home away from home, with its cosy ambiance and rustic charm, left me feeling like a customer for life after their press event for a sneak preview into their magical festive offerings.

The afternoon began with an Christmas wreath-making workshop with Wendy Goodliff Floristy, a delightful opportunity to challenge my creativity (whilst sipping moreish mulled port!). With Wendy’s support, I was able to create a Christmas wreath, something that I’ve wanted to do for years – yet never managed yet!

With fresh and aromatic Netherlands spruce, dried oranges, pinecones, and an array of embellishments, I dove straight into building my very own wreath. The activity demonstrated why these wellbeing activities are so popular. Just having that time to focus allowed me to escape into my own world of pure Christmas magic. You’re so busy concentrating that you get the chance to switch off and unwind. Wendy’s demonstrations and guidance ensured that even a complete beginner like me managed to create a wreath (and a bow!) that I’m genuinely proud of.

It’s wonderful to see that The Barnsdale are offering two of these workshops over November at different times to maximise the accessibility – on the grounds that if someone is unable to make one, yet wants to come, they’re likely to be able to attend the other.

One of the workshops is arranged for the evening of Thursday 30th November, offering a wonderful escape from the daily grind with a cosy night out yet in – with the gentle glow of fairy lights on the Christmas tree. The other workshop takes place on Sunday 26th November in the morning, allowing you to embrace the festive spirit with a calming, crisp and, hopefully frosty morning.

To add an extra touch of festive spirit, they’ve paired the workshops with a festive lunch on the Sunday or festive canapes and cocktails on the Thursday. It will be a great way to not only craft a beautiful wreath but also to enjoy the flavours of the season by the team.

Afterwards, it was time to sample The Barnsdale Hotel’s festive menu, which is available throughout the entire month of December. Whether you’re looking for a family meal out, or a corporate dinner, the Barnsdale Hotel is a great option.

Although we were months away from the Christmas season, it was impossible to not feel festive with the decoration of the dining area. The Barnsdale Hotel’s Christmas table was an display of timeless elegance and festive charm. The black and gold theme that adorned the table oozed sophistication, creating a traditional country-living Christmas. The Christmas tree nestled in the corner added a warm glow and the holly and ivy intertwined with each other, forming a lush centrepiece.

You know how no matter what, turkey is always dry? Well, the turkey was bursting with succulence. Not a dry turkey here! No idea how, but I need that turkey in my house! Finished off with an array of delicious vegetables (yep, even I ate – and enjoyed – the brussels sprouts!) and crispy, fluffy roasties, the meal celebrates the best of the season.

Save room for the desserts! I had the millionaires chocolate tart which was a fully rich chocolate indulgence. For the traditionalists, the flaming Christmas pudding will go down a treat, and there were plenty of nods of approval from those who delighted in the spiced caramelised pineapple.

The Barnsdale is dog-friendly so I’ve made a note to go for a walk around Rutland Water and then head on over there for a warming drink afterwards. I didn’t get a chance to explore the grounds or the rest of the hotel, so it would be lovely to see more!

They also mentioned that they have different events going on throughout the year, one of them being a dance workshop for kids (which included a glass of wine for parents, win!) on half-term Fridays. The age range says 2.5 upwards though, so definitely something will look to taking our daughter to soon once she’s a little older. I honestly didn’t know anything about the hotel – had I known they had pottery painting in the summer I definitely would’ve gone! They’ve also got a pottery painting for adults coming up soon, so I’m now following their socials to keep up to date! Although this was a press event, I think they might’ve created regular custom out of me!

The hotel are clearly keen to ensure locals are welcome and being at the very heart of the Rutland community. It was great to meet so many lovely locals whilst I was there have nothing but lovely words to say about The Barnsdale and have such a wonderfully wholesome evening together (bonus points that we ended up talking Taylor Swift too!).

Thank you to The Barnsdale for hosting such a wonderfully festive evening.