Christmas shopping doesn’t have to mean battling the crowds, rushing from shop to shop and arriving home exhausted with a car full of bags. Why not make a little getaway of it instead?
With the beautiful city of Chester, Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet and the festive atmosphere of the Christmas markets all within easy reach, this corner of the country is a wonderful place to enjoy a Christmas shopping break. Once the shopping is done, there’s something rather lovely about escaping to the countryside for a peaceful evening together.
Christmas Shopping at Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet
If you’ve got a Christmas list to work through, Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet is a brilliant place to start. With a huge selection of designer and high-street brands, it’s ideal for finding presents for everyone else — and perhaps treating yourself to something along the way!
From fashion and accessories to homeware and beauty, there’s plenty to browse, along with cafés and restaurants when you’re ready for a break.
During the festive season, Cheshire Oaks becomes a particularly lovely place to visit, with Christmas decorations adding to the atmosphere. It’s the perfect excuse to spend a few hours shopping together, stop for a leisurely lunch and tick a few names off that Christmas list.
Discover Christmas in Chester
There’s something very special about Chester at Christmas. The historic streets, beautiful buildings and independent shops make it a wonderful place to wander, particularly when the city is dressed for the festive season.
Chester’s famous Rows are full of interesting shops and boutiques, while the city centre offers everything from familiar high-street favourites to lovely independent businesses.
It’s the sort of place where you can easily lose a few hours browsing, stopping for coffee and discovering somewhere new – of course, there’s always time for a festive cocktail or two!
Visit Chester Christmas Market
If you’re visiting between 18 November and 22 December 2026, Chester Christmas Market is another lovely addition to your shopping trip. Set around the Town Hall, with Chester Cathedral providing a beautiful backdrop, the market brings together around 80 traders selling handmade gifts, jewellery, festive treats and locally produced goodies.
It’s a lovely place to pick up something a little different, enjoy a warming drink and soak up the Christmas atmosphere. We particularly love the idea of spending an afternoon browsing the shops before heading to the market as the Christmas lights begin to twinkle. You might even find a few stocking fillers you hadn’t thought of.
Turn Your Christmas Shopping Trip into a Romantic Getaway
Now, here’s where we think Christmas shopping gets even better. Rather than driving straight home after a busy day, why not make a night of it?
Trelan Farm Luxury Getaways is tucked away in the peaceful countryside of Cilcain, North Wales, making it a lovely place to retreat to after a day exploring Chester and Cheshire Oaks.
Our four individually designed, adults-only retreats offer the perfect opportunity to put the shopping bags down, pour yourselves a drink and enjoy some uninterrupted time together.
Each retreat has its own private outdoor soaking bath, so you can spend the evening relaxing beneath the stars, surrounded by the beautiful North Wales countryside. No more shops, no more queues and absolutely no wrapping presents required. At least, not until you get home!
Our Idea of the Perfect Christmas Shopping Break
Day One: Shopping and a Cosy Evening
Start your day at Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet, enjoying a few hours of Christmas shopping and perhaps a lovely lunch. Once you’ve finished, make your way to Trelan Farm, where check-in is from 3pm.
Settle into your retreat, unpack your overnight bag and enjoy a peaceful evening together.
Whether you fancy a takeaway, something homemade or a meal at a nearby pub, the evening is yours to enjoy. We’d definitely recommend making time for a long soak in your private outdoor bath.
Day Two: Christmas in Chester
After a relaxed morning, check out at 10am and head into Chester. Spend the day exploring the historic Rows, browsing the independent shops and enjoying the festive atmosphere.
If you’re visiting during the Christmas Market dates, wander around the stalls, pick up a few final gifts and stop for something delicious. It’s a lovely way to turn a Christmas shopping trip into a proper little break.
Of course, you could always stay for two nights and take things at an even more leisurely pace.
A Little Christmas Treat for the Two of You
Christmas can be such a busy time of year, and it’s easy to spend the whole season organising things for everyone else.
Sometimes it’s nice to make a little time for yourselves, too.
Whether you’re planning a Christmas shopping trip, celebrating something special or simply fancy a cosy night away before the festivities begin, we’d love to welcome you to Trelan Farm.