This year marks something truly special: our very first Christmas as Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere. Set against the tranquil beauty of the Mere Lake in Knutsford, Cheshire — just a short drive from Manchester — this festive season brings together indulgent dining, joyful family celebrations and unforgettable evenings, all wrapped in the elegance and warmth that define a Fairmont Christmas.
Whether you're planning an intimate escape, a family celebration, or a night to remember with friends, here's everything on offer this Christmas by the lake — from Christmas party nights and Christmas Day dining to Santa Sunday Lunch, festive afternoon tea and New Year's Eve.
Christmas 2026 at a Glance
| Event | Date(s) | Where | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Festive Afternoon Tea | 27 Nov – 1 Jan | Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere | Price TBC |
| Santa Sunday Lunch | Sunday 6 December | Grand Ballroom | £10.00 – £60.00 |
| Festive Party Nights | Fri 4, Sat 5, Fri 11, Sat 12, Fri 18, Sat 19 Dec | Grand Ballroom | £99.00 per person |
| Christmas Day Dining | Friday 25 December | Grand Ballroom or Gordon Ramsay at The Mere | £97.50 – £195.00 |
| New Year's Eve Gala Ball (16+) | Thursday 31 December | Grand Ballroom | £195.00 |
Christmas by the Lake
There's something magical about celebrating the festive season with Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere. From twinkling lights reflected across the water to the warmth of our Grand Ballroom dressed for the occasion, our collection of festive experiences has been thoughtfully curated for coming together, whatever that means for you. From Christmas parties and Christmas Day dining to Santa Sunday Lunches, wreath-making and an unforgettable New Year's Eve, there's something special for every festive occasion this year.
Santa Sunday Lunch in Cheshire
Sunday 6th December, 12pm
Little ones (and grown-ups too) can experience the true wonder of Christmas at our Santa Sunday Lunch in the Grand Ballroom. The afternoon begins with an indulgent three-course lunch and live entertainment, before a very special visit from Santa himself. Younger guests will delight in character appearances, face painting and a festive pantomime performance, with a special gift waiting for every child.
It's a joyful, memory-making afternoon designed for the whole family to share together — one of the most popular family Christmas lunches near Manchester.
Explore all festive offerings and book your place
Christmas Day Dining at Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere
Friday 25th December
Christmas Day at Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere offers a choice of two exceptional ways to celebrate. Guests can enjoy a specially curated festive menu at Gordon Ramsay at The Mere, showcasing the finest seasonal ingredients with the culinary excellence the restaurant is known for. Alternatively, gather in the Grand Ballroom for a six-course festive lunch, beginning with Prestige Cuvée Champagne on arrival, followed by seasonal entertainment and finished with handcrafted Festive Mignardises.
Two settings, one beautifully considered way to spend Christmas Day lunch together in Cheshire.
Explore all festive offerings and book your place
Festive Party Nights in Cheshire
Available dates: Friday 4th, Saturday 5th, Friday 11th, Saturday 12th, Friday 18th and Saturday 19th December.
For those looking to celebrate with colleagues, friends, or family in style, our Festive Party Nights bring an evening of glamour to the Grand Ballroom. The night begins with an arrival drink, followed by a three-course dinner, before the entertainment truly begins: a DJ, a live saxophonist and a 360° photobooth to capture every moment on the dance floor.
A popular choice for office Christmas parties near Manchester looking for something a little more elevated.
Explore all festive offerings and book your place
Festive Afternoon Tea
Available from 27th November through to 1st January
Our Festive Afternoon Tea brings together a beautifully crafted selection of sweet and savoury delights, from delicate pastries to elegant finger sandwiches, all served with the seasonal warmth of the festive period. A wonderfully relaxed way to celebrate with friends and family, any day of the week — and one of the longest-running festive afternoon teas in Cheshire this year.
Explore all festive offerings and book your place
New Year's Eve Gala Ball
Thursday 31st December — this event is strictly for guests aged 16 and over.
As the year draws to a close, welcome 2027 in truly spectacular fashion. Our New Year's Eve Gala Ball begins with a Champagne reception, followed by an exquisite gala dinner and live entertainment throughout the evening. Dance into the New Year with performances from our live band and DJ, before a spectacular fireworks display lights up the resort at midnight.
Explore all festive offerings and book your place
A Season to Remember
However you choose to celebrate, Christmas at Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere is designed around one simple idea: bringing people together. From joyful family afternoons to elegant evenings by the lake, this is a season made for connection, celebration and a touch of Fairmont magic.
We can't wait to welcome you for our first Christmas as Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere.
