YORK / CASTLE HOWARD
Christmas in York wrapped around us like a cosy woolly scarf. Yes, it was raining and absolutely FREEZING (!!), with the crisp winter sun making the occasional cheeky appearance — but that didn’t dampen our spirits.
We threw ourselves into the festive cheer — stomach, and sweet tooth first (obviously!!) — with a stop at the ever-iconic Betty’s. Oh, my goodness. Betty’s. The cherished Yorkshire tearoom was serving up special festive editions that were just ridiculously gooey, sweet, sticky, and utterly moreish!
Next, I got my Eastern European fix — the most authentic Polish goulash, an absolute must-eat winter treat — in a tiny, humble riverside spot.
And of course, I refused to leave without devouring my German bratwurst with curry sauce while sipping mulled wine at the Christmas market (my annual Xmas tradition — can’t skip it!).
The air smelled of cinnamon, roasted nuts, and pine — and somehow our “just five minutes” at the market turned into hours (as it always does!).
Midnight Mass at the majestic York Minster, followed by Castle Howard — forever made famous by Brideshead Revisited (and nowadays stealing hearts again as the breathtaking backdrop to some of Netflix’s swoon-worthy Bridgerton moments).
Oliver couldn’t resist going full Brideshead Revisited mode — naturally — reciting lines in his best posh accent. I swear he missed his calling as a 1940s aristocrat. I just stood there laughing, snapping photos, and letting him have his moment — who could blame him? Especially after reminding me for the umpteenth time that this visit was non-negotiable; he’s always wanted to see the set in real life. À mon avis, I think he was secretly auditioning for Bridgerton — wink, wink.
We lost hours exploring the noble grounds and gardens — dripping in grandeur, dressed for Christmas, and absolutely bursting with drama. Oliver was in his element. We snapped a thousand photos because, honestly, everything was utterly Instagram-worthy.
A Christmas I won’t be forgetting anytime soon.
With love
Mel x
