Across the world, the recognition of Christmas traditions and symbols are celebrated each year, and at Combermere Abbey we love to fully embrace them with family, friends and our guests staying in the holiday cottages.

Some traditions took root in Victorian times, but many date back centuries beforehand – recognising the power of faith, worship and shared community. We feel that it would be a wonderful idea to reflect on the essence of the festive season and share what Christmas has come to mean for us.

The singing of carols up and down the land, in churches, town squares and halls introduces a festive spirit and can be enjoyed by all – guests in our cottages find at Combermere there are lots of opportunities to go carol singing in local towns and churches which is accompanied by home made mince pies.

After inheriting the Combermere estate in 1992, Sarah Callander Beckett was eager to continue cherished family Christmas traditions when the wider family gathered to celebrate and catch up from all parts of the globe. After her son Peregrine was born, it was a wonderful moment to bring the cousins and relatives together. Sharing stories, games and walks as well as lots of chat and feasting.

This is something so many families who spend Christmas at Combermere enjoy year after year. Spreading out across a number of cottages but celebrating in the largest one and creating wonderful memories.

The dressing of the Christmas tree is another popular tradition, signalling the beginning of the festive season. It was made popular in the UK thanks to Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. Albert introduced the idea of decorating a pine tree with candles, ornaments, and tinsel. This Victorian tradition caught on quickly and spread throughout England and across the globe.

Gifts and giving form a large part of the Christmas tradition and take many different forms. Perhaps best known is the Christmas stocking, subject of poems, songs and films. Originally for children, they were filled with small toys, candy and fruit. Originating in Europe on St Nicholas Day with Santa Claus or Christmas Eve in the UK and US with Father Christmas on his traditional sleighride and chimney escapade!

At Combermere Abbey and in houses across the land, giving Christmas presents is a tradition that goes back to Victorian times. In the early Victorian era, gifts were modest and handmade, reflecting simpler times. As the 19th century progressed, gift-giving became more elaborate, with presents reflecting the interests of its recipient and today it is a highlight of the day. Do you give yours before or after the Christmas dinner?

Boxing Day was traditionally a gift giving celebration where workers and servants received a gift from their employers. In some houses such as Combermere Abbey or Downton Abbey it included a party where roles were swapped and servants and tradespeople enjoyed dancing and feasting in the ‘big house’ waited on by the owners! It also meant gestures of gratitude to the wider community, those in need or ill health. Today we prepare ‘Xmas boxes’ for those less fortunate both at home and overseas which are distributed by charities.

As we embrace our own family’s Victorian Christmas traditions, it is equally important to acknowledge and celebrate the rich tapestry of cultural and religious backgrounds that make the communities surrounding Combermere Abbey and across the area so dynamic.

Hanukkah, Diwali, Kwanzaa, and Buddhist Festivals each bring unique and enriching traditions to the festive season. Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, features the menorah, dreidels, and traditional foods like latkes. Diwali, the Hindu Festival of Lights, is celebrated with oil lamps, festive decorations, and sweets. Kwanzaa, from December 26th to January 1st, honours African heritage through the kinara and discussions of unity and responsibility. Buddhist festivals in December involve prayers, meditation, and acts of charity, adding to the diverse and meaningful celebrations of this time of year.

Let’s take this opportunity to honour and learn from the various traditions that make this time of year special for everyone. From the timeless Victorian Christmas at Combermere Abbey to the vibrant celebrations of different cultures, the festive season invites us to come together and appreciate the beauty of our shared humanity.

Experience a classic Victorian Christmas at Combermere Abbey this year

Contact us today to create unforgettable memories with a stay in one of our self-catering cottages. The ideal location for a family gathering, with four-legged friends most welcome too.