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10 Tips for the Perfect Self Catering Christmas Holiday

If you're spending Christmas in a holiday cottage, take a look at our top tips for getting the most from your Christmas self catering holiday.


  1. Order your Christmas food shop. Make your life a lot easier by ordering your Christmas food shop in advance of your holiday. Slots get booked up quickly so do this early and then make amendments closer to the time. When you stay at Oakwood West you can order from all the big supermarkets straight to your holiday cottage. There are also lots of shops, including lovely farm shops, close by for any last minute necessities.


  1. Sort out sleeping arrangements before you arrive. It can help to avoid any potential conflicts by sorting out sleeping arrangements before you stay, and then you can let us know how you would like the beds and futons to be set up. Our cottages have flexi sleeping arrangements in some rooms with beds that can be used as two singles, and futons and cots for children. You'll find floorplans on our website and do get in contact with any questions you have, if you need some extra help deciding.



    Christmas at Lucky's Stable

  1. Stay warm! Make sure you have lots of warm layers packed for everyone, hats, scarves, gloves, and boots will keep everyone smiling even on chilly days. When you are inside you'll have central heating and a log burning stove to enjoy. All stays include a load of logs, over Christmas your second load of logs will be free too!


  1. Book tickets for a live show or plan a day out. It's good to get out of the cottage for a day and there is so much to choose from locally. Sign up to our newsletter where we share loads of events, performances, and day trip ideas. Chichester Festival Theatre, The Weald & Downland Museum, and our local National Trust properties are always fabulous at Christmas time, with immersive experiences and children's trails.


  1. Make time for yourself to relax. At Oakwood West there are many ways to relax, in the hot tub with a drink of bubbly is one of the best. Find a Christmas cocktail recipe, light the fire and read a book that you've been waiting to find the time for... Spending some time unwinding will mean that you can fully enjoy the festivities.



    A quiet moment in the hot tub at Meadow Hide
  2. Tap into the entertainment. Find out all your cottage has to offer. Put on your favourite music with a Bluetooth connected sound system, watch an old film on the smart TV, connect to the wi-fi, or bring out the board games for some classic Christmas rivalry.


  1. Decorate! It's lovely to have a Christmassy holiday cottage to spend time in, and when you stay at Oakwood West the decorations will all be put up especially for you, so sit back and enjoy.


    A magical Christmas bed under a star filled sky at Fern Lodge
  2. Have a boxing day walk. There's nothing like getting out in the Sussex countryside after a day of feasting and fun. Get the whole family togged up and head out to Kingley Vale for a stomp up to the top of Bow Hill in the South Downs National Park. It's a great spot, with 360 views and well worth the effort. We will leave an OS map in your cottage and can give you directions when we welcome you. If you don't fancy such a hike there's a great woodland walk to the Horse and Groom pub in East Ashling too.


  1. Pack for your dog. Dogs can be anxious in a new place so make the transition easy

    for them by bringing their dog bed, favourite blanket, and some food and treats. We leave a doggy welcome pack in the cottage for them too.

    No better spot for a pooch!

  1. Don't forget the presents. Channel your inner Santa Claus and bring a sack of presents for your loved ones!



Christmas can be so busy, but it's meant to be a time to connect with your family and friends and make some fabulous memories. Relax and enjoy! We're here to help you get the most from your holiday so please do contact us if you have any queries.



A Christmas sunset at Meadow Hide.

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