Our Herefordshire (and borders) guide on where to indulge in festive menus, lively party nights and enjoy joyous celebrations on Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve. Let the holiday spirit come alive with sumptuous feasts and unforgettable moments.
The Green Dragon Hotel – Hereford City
Festive menus are available throughout December for lunch, dinner, or afternoon tea. Enjoy the roaring fire of the Garrick Lounge, the yuletide buzz of the Offa Bar cocktail lounge, or the stylish and contemporary Hereford restaurant, set in the classic 1920s panelled dining room. Festive Party Nights are held in the famous Green Dragon Ballroom, with live bands and DJs playing all your party favourites to get you in the Christmas spirit as you indulge in a delectable three-course meal.
On 23 December, enjoy a festive bottomless brunch with a DJ playing Christmas classics and party anthems that’ll have you rockin’ around the Christmas tree! Jingle all the way with the fabulous Drag Queen Boo La Croux, who’ll be adding sparkle and glam to the festivities. 90 minutes of bottomless Prosecco, draft beer, cider, or elderflower fizz, along with a festive burger bun will keep your spirits high! Tickets are £55 per person, and booking is essential.
Christmas Day Lunch is served in the Hereford Bar & Brasserie, featuring a decadent five-course meal exclusively designed for Christmas Day.
On New Year’s Eve, celebrate the end of the year with a delightful three-course menu and dance to live music before toasting 2025 with sparkling prosecco.
Turn the party into a night away with special Christmas stay packages available. Gift vouchers are also available.
Visit the website for more details.
The Yard – Hereford City
Bottomless Brunch This December, enjoy Christmas Bottomless Brunches at The Yard while watching festive classics like Elf and Love Actually in this outdoor dining hub, part of the ART hospitality group. For £35, enjoy the full works with food served at 12:15pm and drinks flowing throughout the movie showings. T&Cs apply. Full details here.
The Yard Big Christmas Party Join an unforgettable evening on Friday, December 20, featuring a DJ set from Disco Tech, creators of the Into the Woods festival. Ross Powell (Yogi P) and Tom Howell will play uplifting grooves blending nostalgic disco, underground house, and garage. With mulled wine, delicious food, and a chance to celebrate the last office day before the holidays, this festive party promises to get you dancing into the season!
Party in The Yard Ring in the New Year at The Yard’s House Party on December 31 from 8pm-1am. With live music, DJ Max Galactic, and DJ HanSolo spinning house and disco anthems, it’s set to be a cosmic night of epic vibes. Grab a bite from Burger Shop or Leaven Pizza, enjoy the full bar, and get ready to hit the dance floor for a high-energy party. More information and tickets here.
Part of Art hospitality group.
The Bookshop – Hereford City
In their style of bold flavours, meticulously crafted dishes, and a warm ambiance, The Bookshop’s Aubrey Street location creates the perfect Christmas experience. Enjoy delightful 2 or 3-course festive lunch options and a sumptuous 3-course dinner.
Available from November 22 to December 23
Gift vouchers available too.
Visit the website.
Part of Art hospitality group.
The Angel Hotel – Abergavenny
This luxurious, family-owned, 4 Silver Star hotel in the centre of Abergavenny offers some very special experiences this Christmas.
Kick-start the festive season at The Apres Ski Bar in the courtyard of The Angel, with Fondue nights every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evening in December. Ski gear or traditional alpine attire is essential.
Festive High Teas are an elegant affair with crisp white linen and silver tiered cake stands displaying an array of exquisite seasonal cakes and pastries. Starting from 28 November, Festive High Tea is served from 1:00 pm in the Wedgewood Room and is also available in the three private dining rooms for groups of eight or more.
The Angel closes at 4:00 pm on Christmas Eve and will open again at 10:00 am on Boxing Day. On both days, they will serve a special Luncheon Menu in the Oak Room for groups of up to six guests and in the Foxhunter Bar and Wedgewood Room for groups of up to ten guests from 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm. For groups of ten or more, Christmas Eve Lunch can be enjoyed in one of the three private dining spaces: The Cellar, Brecon Room, or Ballroom. Perfect for bringing the whole family together at Christmas.
See out the old year and welcome in the new one with opulent food, champagne, and fireworks in a wonderful atmosphere on New Year’s Eve.
On New Year’s Day, enjoy a celebratory atmosphere with live music in the hotel foyer. The Foxhunter Bar will be serving New Year’s Day favourites: oysters, champagne, and cocktails, including Chase Smoked Vodka Bloody Marys.
Why not begin 2025 with fresh air in your lungs by joining the team for a guided walk through the local countryside before returning to the hotel for a late lunch? Departing from the hotel at 11:00 am, the walk will take about three hours. £60.00 per person, including lunch.
Winter Wonderland breaks, party sleepovers, and New Year’s celebration stays are available. Vouchers and a specially selected range of gifts are available too.
Visit the website for more details.
Gwatkin Red Cow Tavern – Abbeydore
From November 15 to December 22, gather your friends, family, or colleagues and head to the charming Gwatkin Red Cow Tavern in Abbeydore for a festive feast to remember. Groups of eight or more can indulge in a delightful two-course or three-course seasonal menu, crafted to celebrate the flavours of the season. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted with a warm mulled cider drink, setting the perfect tone for a cozy and convivial dining experience.
Open from Tuesday to Sunday, the tavern offers a welcoming atmosphere where you can relax and enjoy the festive spirit. Booking is essential to secure your spot at this popular holiday destination.
Visit the website for more details and to make your reservation.
Castle House Hotel – Hereford
One of Hereford’s most beloved dining destinations, the Castle House Restaurant is the perfect place to celebrate the festive season. Indulge in a scrumptious Festive Lunch, Dinner, or Tea while enjoying picturesque views of the historic Hereford Castle Moat and the soothing sounds of the Cathedral bells.
On Christmas Eve, treat yourself to a decadent High Tea from 12:00 pm until 4:00 pm, accompanied by the enchanting melodies of Christmas carollers.
Although the restaurant is fully booked for Christmas Day, where it will be serving a wonderful Christmas Day menu, they are welcoming enquiries for the waiting list.
Gift vouchers and Christmas stay packages are also available, making it easy to share the joy of the season with loved ones.
Visit the website for more details and to make your reservations.
The Crown Inn – Woolhope
This award-winning country pub and restaurant can arrange a seasonal dining experience for friends, family, colleagues to host your festive feast in their private dining room with exclusive kitchen.
Book now for a very special Christmas Day feast by emailing or phoning to secure your spot.
Get in touch and discuss menu options to suit, to ensure you get exactly what you are looking for.
The Crown is open Christmas Day, call direct for opening times and menu, 01432 860468.
On New Year’s Eve enjoy a Yellowstone/Black Tie party with food served from 12-7. Keep an eye on their Facebook page for updates or Visit the website.
Dunfield House – Kington
The beautiful setting of Dunfield House in North Herefordshire is idyllic for groups, friend or families. In addition to their midweek Christmas lunches and delicious afternoon teas, they are also offering a Christmas Dinner on the evening of Saturday 7 December. There is an option to stay overnight in their gorgeous accommodation too.
For more information, visit the Facebook page here or telephone 01544 230563 to book your place today.
The Clive Arms – Ludlow
At The Clive Arms they love a celebration and Christmas is the greatest of them all. They’ve put together some great options for you – if you want to skip the washing up on the day itself, catch up with friends, family or colleagues in the run up, have a magical new year or cosy up near the fireplace.
Festive Menus
They’ve put together a wonderful festive menu, perfect for any type of group and the ideal way to get in the Christmas mood.
Join us for dinner Wednesday – Saturday, 5.30pm-8.30pm, or lunch Thursday – Saturday, 12pm-2pm, and choose between 2 or 3 courses.
If you would like to host a private lunch party and have exclusive use of The Clive Arms on a Wednesday lunchtime or evening, please contact us to discuss your requirements and hire charges. Call or email us to find out more. Available 27th November – 24th December.
Must be pre-booked and pre-ordered.
Christmas Day Let The Clive make the magic on Christmas Day, whilst you just focus on relaxing. The menu will make you feel really spoiled – as you should be! Of course, they are serving up all the traditional Christmas Day favourites but there are plenty of other delicious options too. £95 per person / £45 for children under 12.
Book via the website here
The Riverside Inn at Aymestrey
Expect roaring log fires, warming mulled cider, and an abundance of seasonal fare at this multi-accoladed restaurant, a true foodie paradise renowned for its creative menus and use of local produce.
Open every day throughout December, including for a sumptuous Christmas Day Lunch and a decadent 7-course taster menu on New Year’s Eve. To celebrate the festive season with family and friends, a special Christmas Party Menus available for tables of at least eight.
To add an extra touch of indulgence to your celebration, consider optional extras such as mulled wines, champagne, and a selection of fine cheeses.
Gift vouchers, cookery books, and many more delightful gift ideas are also available.
Visit the website for more details and to make your reservations.
The Cottage of Content – Carey
Kick off the festivities with a Christmas Quiz Night on Thursday, December 12th. Guests are encouraged to gather their teams, book their spots and arrive by 7:00 pm for a 7:30 pm start. It’s sure to be an evening filled with fun and friendly competition.
From December 5th to 21st, every Thursday to Saturday, guests can indulge in the Christmas Party Set Menus. Pre-order is required, with a minimum of four people per booking, and diners can choose between a delectable two or three-course meal. Bookings are by phone only, so call 01432 840242 for further details.
Join the Christmas Carol Evening on Thursday, December 19th. This beloved event fills up quickly, so it’s advisable to arrive early to secure a spot and enjoy the heartwarming carols.
On Christmas Eve, the Cottage will be open from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm, and on Christmas Day, it will welcome guests from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm for drinks only, providing a cozy spot to celebrate with friends and family.
Stay updated on all festive happenings by following their Facebook page.
Carriages – Whitestone
Explore refined Yuletide flavours with Carriages’ exclusive seasonal menu, available Friday and Saturday evenings 24 November – 23 December. Complete your evening with the newly introduced Christmas Cocktail Menu, adding an extra touch of celebration to your festive dining adventure.
Booking essential. Visit the website.
The Sidings
Brought to you by Carriages, The Sidings farm shop and cafe, offers a unique and enchanting experience for train enthusiasts. This Christmas, step aboard their luxurious first-class Carriage and spoil yourself with a sumptuous Festive Afternoon Tea.
As you savour the delicious treats, children will have the magical opportunity to write a letter to Father Christmas and receive a personalised letter in return, adding an extra touch of holiday wonder.
Explore the festive menu, which includes a special Tiny Tea for children under 12, ensuring that even the youngest guests have a memorable experience.
Booking required. See the full festive menu here,
Choccotastic Shop & Tearoom – Ledbury
This chocoholic’s dream destination goes all out with seasonally themed confectionary for gifting and naughty nibbling in their Homend Mews Shop and Tearoom. Yule love Choccotastic’s popular themed afternoon tea, available every Saturday from November 16th.
Loosen your belt on an array of fresh sandwiches, mince pies with clotted cream, and an assortment of festive cakes and bakes. But the real stars of the show are the Choccotastic choccies and candy canes, perfectly complemented by their famous hot chocolates and festively flavoured beverages (inc boozy additions). For those who prefer, unlimited tea and filter coffee are also available.
For an extra touch of holiday cheer, why not upgrade and add a glass of festive fizz to your experience.
To book your spot, call 01531 637305. The cost is £17.50 per adult and £13.50 per child. Available dates include November 16, 23, 30, and December 7, 14.
Stay updated with all the chocolatey Christmas fun on their Facebook page
You can also order online from their website
Holloways – Suckley
Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year at Holloways, a premier country living and dining destination on the Worcestershire border.
Visit or party in the award-winning farm-to-fork café known as The Glasshouse, where you can experience the warmth of the log burner as it roars to life, offering a cosy ambiance to enjoy while taking in the picturesque view of the changing landscape outside.
Kickstart your shopping day with a Champagne Breakfast before embarking on a retail spree for gorgeous gifts. Alternatively, opt for a delicious lunch or a decadent Christmas Afternoon Tea with Fizz. Booking is essential for these special experiences.
For those planning Christmas parties, the Festive Lunch Menu is tailor-made for groups of six to twelve. Dive into Christmas classics, from the succulent free-range Knightwick Butchers turkey with all the trimmings to lighter bites. The fully stocked bar boasts an array of great wines, Champagne, and fizz, along with locally brewed ales and ciders. Additionally, the Palm Room offers a private dining space for up to 12 people, providing an intimate setting for your gathering.
See their website for information on late-night shopping events, Christmas workshops, and home inspiration.
Newton Court Cider – Leominster
Newton Court has crafted a special menu for your festive celebrations, offering a mouthwatering 2 or 3-course lunch with all the trimmings, or a Christmas Party evening to celebrate with colleagues or loved ones into the night.
From Monday, November 18 to Tuesday, December 24, the Festive Lunch Menu is available between 12:00 pm and 3:00 pm, featuring two or three courses of seasonal delights. Booking is essential to secure your spot.
For those who prefer to make a night of their Christmas celebrations, Newton Court Christmas Party Nights are on December 6, 7, and 13, starting at 6:30 pm. Guests will be welcomed with drinks, followed by a sumptuous three-course meal, and then dance the night away to a live band.
You can also pick up some wonderful gifts from the farmshop selection of Herefordshire treats and ingredients.
See the menu and book your festive experience here.
The Temple Bar Inn – Ewyas Harold
Herefordshire’s Golden Valley becomes even more joyful with the onset of Noel and nowhere more than at the Temple Bar Inn at the heart of the village. Enjoying the fruits of their refurbishment labour, owners Rachael and Gino have gently re-vamped this ever-popular hub of the community and its rooms with more modern colours and styling, and some subtle re-configurations.
Gaining a great reputation for their food and dining, a stay here is both a getaway with fantastic winter walking in the Black Mountains and a sociable time with the locals.
With a twinkly welcome and the woodburner glowing, you can enjoy festive lunch and evening menus from 20 November alongside their regular gastro dishes. Christmas Day will be for drinks only, though Boxing Day sees the dining room resume with an extended lunch period from 12-4pm.
After a normal lunch service, New Year’s Eve is when the party starts, with a free evening buffet and live music, and once again an extended lunch service on New Year’s Day.
Book your pub B&B room with them now to enjoy this most wonderful time of the year in the countryside.
The Boot Inn – Orleton
Looking for the perfect spot for your festive celebration? The Christmas Garden marquee at The Boot in Orleton is the ideal place to celebrate with friends, family, and colleagues.
This beautifully decorated marquee, complete with ample seating and indoor heating, provides a unique and merry setting for your Christmas party.
Pick from their party menus for just £25 per person!
All you need to do is ….
Grab some friends, Pick your menu choice, Bring the music and let loose on the dance floor under the disco ball!, Have a ‘very’ merry Christmas party.
Visit the website for more information.
Hay Castle Cafe – Hay on Wye
Festive Supper Club 7th December
Join Hay Castle Cafe for a festive feast in the Great Hall, curated by Epicure Events. This exclusive event offers a limited number of seats, so booking is essential to ensure you don’t miss out on this epicurean experience.
Visit the website for full details.
The New Inn – St Owens Cross
Celebrate the festive season at The New Inn, St Owens Cross, where the traditional festive party menu is perfect for both large and small groups. Choose between a delightful two or three-course option and soak up the cozy setting, complete with roaring log fires and charming decorations that capture the spirit of the holidays.
Ring in 2025 in style with a spectacular New Year’s Eve seven-course tasting menu. Enjoy bubbles on arrival and savour each meticulously crafted course in a warm and inviting atmosphere. To make your evening even more special, there’s even the option of a lift home! *T&Cs apply.
Visit the website for full details.
For more information and details of events, dining, and celebrating, please visit our Christmas in Herefordshire page.