As the Cumbrian woodlands take on their glorious autumn colours, the clamour of holidaymakers quietens to just the hardiest fell walkers and off-season adventure seekers. It’s a time when locals revel in reclaiming time and space in their local area once again, but with many attractions closing their doors until spring, the chance to enjoy the county’s pleasures can be thin on the ground.
That’s why one of South Lakeland’s oldest hospitality venues is putting extra effort into a series of autumn and winter events designed to give families, couples and individuals living in and visiting Cumbria opportunities to come together, party, socialise or relax.
Established as a coaching inn at the end of the 17th century, The Swan Hotel and Spa at Newby Bridge has provided hospitality, comfort and inspiration for locals and passing travellers enchanted by its picturesque location on the banks of the river Leven, at the foot of Lake Windermere, for over 300 years.
Now one of the area’s premier venues, the hotel is going full Halloween spooktacular with a “Monster Mash” fancy dress kids’ party and UV disco on October 31st, featuring a smorgasbord of treats, games and ghostly goings-on. Following with an adults-only night to remember on the November 1st, the Spooky Spa-ty will set the senses tingling, from a DJ spinning haunting tunes to the chance to enjoy full all-evening access to the spa’s facilities coupled with Halloween cocktails.
Going from ghosts to gasps, “Swanfire Night” will light up the sky with a fireworks bonanza on Sunday 3rd November. Completely free to attend, everyone is invited, with bonfire, barbecue, bar and pizza vendors in attendance. Or bag tickets for the best seat in the house, soaking in the spa’s hot pools with a glass of fizz as the fireworks fly.
“It’s understandable that venues concentrate events across the tourist season,”
says The Swan’s marketing manager, Becky Edmondson.
“But we felt it was time to offer locals and those visiting out of season something for them, too; and dates like Halloween and Bonfire Night are the perfect opportunity to create something a little bit different, special and memorable.”
After that, it’s countdown to Christmas, which The Swan has a long tradition of celebrating in style.
“It’s a fun time of year for staff and guests alike, with our Christmas party nights and spa breaks,”
adds Becky.
“But again this year we’re going one step further to offer entertainments for everyone, from Christmas markets and wreath making workshops for the whole family, to Santa’s Grotto and, another first, Christmas lunch with The Grinch for the younger ones. It means my team will be busy as Santa’s elves, but when we see everyone enjoying themselves, no-one’s going to be saying ‘Bah Humbug’!”
For details of all The Swan’s autumn, winter and Christmas events, see: www.swanhotel.com/whats-on-at-the-swan/