This year, I’ve been really trying to get into the holiday spirit. I’ve visited three Christmas Markets including Cheltenham, Gloucester and Cardiff, played festive tunes at every opportunity, bought and wrapped my gifts early and even sorted out my party outfits.
In addition to those joyous activities, I’ve also been ice skating with Luis and indulged in a wonderful, festive afternoon tea at The Celtic Manor Resort.
Get your skates on!
The Great Skate is a new attraction to the Resort and replaces the previous Christmas Kingdom offering. The ice rink is set in the Resort’s rooftop garden complete with a crystal clear roof, licensed bar and Bratwurst Grill making it ideal way to spend an a few hours.
Each skating session lasts 45 minutes and it’s an ideal excuse to gather the family or friends together. It’s even better for a date! I took Luis and despite him not being enthusiastic at first (the football was on), he loved it in the end. Mind you, I think a beer and pretzel afterwards helped!
Tea for two
The Mulberry Bar festive tea was the perfect way to enjoy the Christmas atmosphere in sumptuous five star surroundings. To start, we had a fabulous festive cocktail which was a Bucks Fizz inspired tipple. I don’t drink so Luis willingly sipped mine!
Next were the savouries and sandwiches. My favourite was the perl las, blue vein cheese, red onion and Port relish tartlet while Luis loved the Game Wellington with quince jelly. I must say that the truffled hen’s egg and brioche roll was also a treat!
I’m sure you’ll want to know about the cakes. There was a delicious selection including the fig and Armagnac tartlet, candied ginger and pecan delice and a mulled spice truffle sphere, which was as rich and decadent as it sounds.
Not forgetting the freshly baked delights! Traditional raisin and mixed peel scones with strawberry conserve and clotted cream and my favourite shortbread mince pies served with Penderyn whisky butter. Divine!
So if you’re looking to get in the festive mood, I highly recommend The Great Skate and the Mulberry festive tea. Luis and I feel more than ready to celebrate our first Christmas together.