The Lynwood Village Christmas: highlights of our festive season
It was the month before Christmas at Lynwood Village and all around were taking full advantage of all that the festive season had to offer… Throughout December we’ve been enjoying Christmas-related outings and celebrations to extract maximum joy from this most wonderful time of the year. The weather outside might be frightful but life at the village is rather delightful! Here are some of the highlights of our festive season.
It’s behind you!
One of our first December outings was to the cinema to see Judy, which was an absolutely wonderful film, thoroughly enjoyed by all. Later in the month we also went to the panto to see Aladdin (oh yes we did!) and we’re planning a Christmas film afternoon here at the village on the 23rd so we can watch some old favourites together without having to venture out.
Well-educated
On the 3rd of December we were treated to a visit from the Marist school choir, it was such a delight, they sang so beautifully to a large number of owners and we very much appreciated them making the effort to come to the village. A few days later it was our turn to go to the Marist school for their nativity. It brought back happy memories of children and grandchildren carrying on cherished traditions (and tea towels).
Another local school extending Christmas cheer to us is Charters School, who asked us to join them for afternoon tea organised by their sixth form – such a treat, we had a really lovely time. We went back for their Winter concert, which was superb and we thank them for their kind invitations. All of the school children have been so kind, their parents and teachers should be very proud! It’s lovely to feel that the village is part of the community.
Roll up, roll up!
On the 7th December it was time for our fifth annual Christmas fayre which takes place at the village and is well attended by owners, their families and friends. We enjoyed browsing the stalls to choose interesting presents, gathering with friends and family in Prescott’s for delicious festive treats and a certain Mr Claus popped in, to the delight of the many grandchildren who joined us on the day.
Retail therapy
Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without some shopping, and we’ve had a choice of retail therapy opportunities. The village’s private minibus took us to the Milestone Christmas Market where we wandered through this atmospheric Victorian time capsule finding treasures and enjoying each other’s company. The following days saw us off to the Bentalls centre for more shopping, then to Woking and also the Windsor Farm Shop. This is in addition to our regular trips to the supermarkets! While some owners still drive, many take advantage of the minibus instead to save the cost of running a car and the stress of parking, which at Christmas can be particularly challenging.
Morning constitutional
We regularly head off to Savill Garden for a morning walk (and a visit to the coffee shop), even at this time of year it is a truly beautiful place and we are so lucky that it’s on our doorstep. We often visit Windsor Great Park and Virginia Water too, all within easy reach of the village and we just hop on the minibus to travel there and back.
Good food, good friends
Themed meals are a regular event at Lynwood Village, they’re not just for Christmas, we’re good at finding excuses to gather and enjoy good food together all year round! On the 10th of December we had a festive themed meal at Prescott’s where lots of village owners gathered together for an evening of good food and great company.
Choirs of angels
One the best things about Christmas is the music and, having enjoyed some wonderful school performances, we are looking forward to carol services at Holy Trinity church and Guildford Cathedral (in aid of Age UK). On Friday 20th we are bringing the music to the village with a brass band evening which will include sherry and mince pies.
The big day and beyond!
The roast dinner at Prescott’s is a feature throughout the year (on Wednesdays and Sundays) but at Christmas they really go up a gear to produce the most wonderful four course Christmas lunch. We start with soup, then enjoy a starter such prawn cocktail, game terrine or pear, date and walnut salad. Then of course it’s turkey with all the trimmings, beef for the ‘I don’t like turkey’ crowd and a vegetarian option too. Desserts include Christmas pudding, Eton mess, crème brûlée or a cheese board. To say we are looking forward to it would be something of an understatement and as an added bonus, for us at least, there is no washing up! One of the many benefits of having excellent food available within the village!
On Boxing Day and New Year’s Day there is a brunch, which comprises a full English or pastries and fruit salad. And then it’s all over and it’s back to normal.
Fortunately for everyone living in the village, ‘normal’ means enjoying company and friends, good food and lots of things to do all year round. It’s not just for Christmas, it’s village life 365 days a year.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!