Gouda by Candlelight & The Royal Christmas Fair

DAY 1

Travelling by Eurostar from London St Pancras to Rotterdam, then onwards to The Hague and our hotel for four nights, the Carlton Beach Hotel, where we check in and enjoy our first evening meal together.

DAY 2

This morning, we enjoy free time to explore Scheveningen, perhaps stroll along the seafront or relax in the hotel's leisure facilities before we travel by rail to the historic city of Gouda, world-famous for its cheese and picture-postcard market square. Here, we enjoy our lunch together accompanied by a tasting of the region's renowned cheeses before having time at leisure to soak up the magical atmosphere of Gouda by Candlelight. One of the Netherlands' most cherished Christmas traditions, the city centre is transformed as thousands of candles and festive lights illuminate the streets with seasonal activities, entertainment, storytelling, and holiday cheer. Browse the Christmas market, indulge in festive food and drink, and admire the magnificent Gothic Town Hall before the highlight of the event - the ceremonial lighting of the city's Christmas tree creating an unforgettable festive spectacle.

DAY 3

Today, we visit the charming city of Utrecht whose medieval centre is threaded with canals and dominated by the magnificent Dom Tower, and we enjoy free time to explore the atmospheric streets, browse the independent shops, or relax in one of the many unique canal-side cafés. This afternoon, we return to Gouda for a deliciously Dutch experience at the Gouda Cheese Experience where we will discover the history, traditions, and craftmanship behind one of the world's most famous cheese including tastings, of course! Afterwards, we visit the Siroopwafel Factory to learn the story behind this much-loved Dutch treat and watch the bakers at work before savouring a freshly baked, warm syrup waffle straight from the oven. On our return to the hotel, we enjoy our evening meal together.

DAY 4

After breakfast this morning, we will discover The Hague, a city of grand boulevards, royal palaces, and sandy beaches and we enjoy a day at leisure to explore the city's excellent museums and galleries, stroll along the beautiful coastlines, and indulge in the rich culinary traditions. We are also treated to one of the Netherlands' most beautiful Christmas markets, the Royal Christmas Fair, set in the heart of The Hague and featuring charming wooden chalets, festive food and drink, sparkling lights, musical performances, and seasonal entertainment. After our magically festive day, we retrace our steps to the hotel in time for our final evening meal together.

DAY 5

We bid farewell to The Hague and to the Netherlands, returning by rail to Rotterdam, where we will join the Eurostar service to London St Pancras.

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner