Five fabulous ways to bring in the New Year
1) New Year's Eve Medieval Banquet
Enjoy a medieval banquet in the vaulted cellars of Ivory House, a stone's throw from Tower Bridge. Henry VIII and his courtiers will play host, amidst much quaffing of wine and ale (the supply is unlimited). The event kicks off with a Champagne reception, followed by a five-course candlelit meal, with medieval entertainment throughout from minstrels and court troupers. The food is as generous of your host's belly – roast fillet of Aberdeen Angus Beef for carnivores, Wild Mushroom Wellington for herbivores. Round off the night with a few medieval moves on the dance floor. Eat, drink and be merry.
St Katharine's Dock
London
www.medievalbanquet.com
Bookings & Enquiries: (020) 7480 5353
2) The Orient Express – New Year's Eve Aboard the Northern Belle
For the ultimate treat, welcome in the new year aboard the Northern Belle, a train synonymous with sophistication and comfort. The train reflects the affluent 'Belle' trains of the 1930s, and is the first classic train of the new century. As passengers arrive at Manchester Victoria to board the train, they are greeted on the platform by jazz musicians and a glass of mulled wine. A gourmet five-course meal follows, complete with Champagne, wine and liqueur. As midnight approaches, passengers disembark briefly at Chester, where bagpipers herald the new year (with Champagne all round, once more).
Round journey departing from Manchester
www.orient-express.com
Bookings & Enquiries: 0845 0772222
3) New Year Retreat
Here's an idea: wake up on New Year's Day with a clear head. Attend the New Year Retreat at the Madhyamaka Meditation Centre in the Yorkshire Wolds, and you can be sure you'll start the new year perfectly rested. A hearty vegetarian meal is followed by meditation, Buddhist chants and, as the midnight chimes approach, a candlelit vigil to world peace. This three-day course is suited to everyone – Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike will relish the chance to develop techniques for enhanced happiness in beautiful surroundings; the centre is housed in an 18th-century country home complete with manicured gardens and a huge lake.
Madhyamaka Meditation Centre
Pocklington
Yorkshire
www.madhyamaka.org
Bookings & Enquiries: (01759) 304832
4) New Year Spa Breaks
Pamper yourself with a luxury break and enjoy a day at a spa or health farm this New year's Eve. Whatever you decide, a world of indulgence awaits you. Mecure Hotels pride themselves on comfort, quality service and hospitality and you can choose from hundreds of locations across the country, as well as some great offers over the holiday season.
Various locations throughout England
www.mercure-uk.com/offers.aspx
5) New Year's Eve Gala - Manchester Camerata
Experience a magical evening this New year's Eve of classical proportions at The Bridgewater Hall in Manchester and immerse yourself in the music of Puccini, Gershwin and Andrew Lloyd Webber. Arrive early and take advantage of ourdelicious dining options, or just soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the informal foyer entertainment and music. Look out too for some very quirky concert goers and other surprises before the concert. The highlight of the evening is a wonderful gaga concert of music and song from Manchester Camerata, then you can round off the festivities with a celebratory drink in the Stalls Cafe Bar.
The Bridgewater Hall
Manchester
www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk
Bookings & Enquiries: (0)161 907 9000