There’s something special about Christmas in Rutland – twinkling village lights, cosy fires, big seasonal flavours and the unmistakable feeling of community. Two beloved local spots, The Finch’s Arms in Hambleton and The Hornblower Hotel in Oakham, have released their festive line-up, and it’s packed with everything from wreath-making to jazz lunches and even a drag diva Christmas special.
If you’re looking for a cosy celebration, a delicious seasonal feast or something a little different this December, here’s what’s coming up.
“Cosy fires, festive flavours and a calendar full of magic – Rutland’s inns know exactly how to make Christmas feel special.”
At The Finch’s Arms, Hambleton
Wreath Making with Maddy
Wed 3 Dec
A festive workshop using seasonal florals and winter textures, followed by a beautifully curated two-course Christmas lunch.
£90 per person – includes coffee, mince pies, wreath workshop and lunch.
Festive Party Menu
26 Nov – 19 Dec
Perfect for anything from intimate gatherings to full-on office parties.
Two courses £32 / Three courses £36
Available Monday-Friday, lunch & dinner.
Six-Course Tasting Menu with Simpson’s Wine
Thu 4 Dec
A luxurious evening of seasonal dishes paired with exquisite English wines.
£100 per person – six courses + wine pairing.
Christmas Carolling Dinner
Thu 18 Dec
Carols under the stars, followed by a three-course festive feast and live jazz piano.
£55 per person – bring a warm coat!
Christmas Eve Lunch with Jazz
Wed 24 Dec
Celebrate early with warming tipples, delicious food and live jazz.
£65 per adult / £30 for under-10s – three-course set menu.
Boxing Day Lunch
Fri 26 Dec
Keep the Christmas spirit going with a relaxed three-course lunch.
£65 per adult / £30 for under-10s
The New Year’s Eve Big Bash
Wed 31 Dec
An evening of feasting, cocktails and live music from London band Jazz Bomb, with a Finch’s Speakeasy twist.
£135 per person – includes French 75, four-course dinner and live entertainment.
At The Hornblower Hotel, Oakham
Festive Party Menu
26 Nov – 19 Dec
A joyful Christmas menu for groups big or small.
Two courses £28 / Three courses £32
Christmas Singalong
Wed 27 Dec
Carols by the fire, mulled wine and full festive cheer.
The Christmas Social
Thu 11 Dec
Great food, great music and a DJ night designed to get everyone dancing.
£30 per person – includes two-course dinner + DJ.
Drag Diva & Decks with Betty Bangs
Fri 12 Dec
Expect glamour, hilarity and plenty of sparkle as Betty Bangs hosts a festive dinner before taking over the decks.
£35 per person — includes two-course dinner, drag show + DJ.
Boxing Day Lunch
Fri 26 Dec
A cosy way to stretch the celebrations.
£45 per adult / £20 for under-10s — three-course lunch.
Booking Details
The Finch’s Arms – Oakham Road, Hambleton
📞 01572 756575
The Hornblower Hotel – High Street, Oakham
📞 01582 723004
QueenBee Takeaway
Christmas in Rutland is all about warmth, connection and celebrating the season together – and both The Finch’s Arms and The Hornblower Hotel offer beautifully curated festive events to help you make the most of it. Whether you’re after a luxury tasting evening, a family lunch or a lively night out, there’s something for everyone.
