Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
"A Special Christmas Getaway: The "Kelly" Review
Date of Stay: December 14th - 16th, 2025
Guests: Diane & Chris
Planner: Kelly
🏨 The Hotel: Barton Manor Hotel & Spa (Preston)
Booking Strategy:
I initially booked a standard double room for Mum and Chris via Hotels.com. Knowing this was their first big trip together after 12 years of being single, I wanted to make it special. I used my status as a Level 4 Google Local Guide (with 15,000+ views!) to send a "cheeky" request email to the hotel manager, Kajal.
The Result (My "Win"):
The hotel was incredible!
• Upgrade: They upgraded them from a Standard Room to a Classic King Room with a Garden View for FREE.
• Romantic Touches: They agreed to arrange rose petals on the bed in a heart shape with "D & C" in the middle (Complimentary!).
• Leisure Access: They threw in free access to the Pool & Leisure Club for both days (normally a paid extra).
• Check-in: They added a note to allow Chris to check in early if he arrived first.
Verdict: The hotel staff went above and beyond. The "cheeky email" strategy worked perfectly, saving money on the upgrade and spa access while adding huge value.
❄️ The Activity: Preston on Ice
The Plan:
For Monday evening (15th Dec), I booked them a session at the "Preston on Ice" skating rink in the city centre.
• Booking: 18:00 Off-Peak Session.
• Smart Saving: I booked a standard ticket for one and used the "Carer goes Free" option for the second ticket, saving £18! I also found a student discount code (STU"
Assheton Arms is an accommodation that is popular with guests.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Downham?
If you need the flexibility to change your plans to Downham, most accommodations provide refundable* rates you can book. You can find these properties by searching our site and using the "fully refundable" filter to narrow the results down.
What will the weather in Downham be like during my visit?
The warmest months in Downham are usually July and August with an average temp of 57°F. January and February are the chilliest months when the average temp is 39°F. The rainiest months are December and July.
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