Christmas 2026

Christmas at The Lion

A Season of Elegance

21st November – 27th December 2026 · Llewelyn's Restaurant, Criccieth

A Season of Elegance

Step into the timeless charm of The Lion Hotel, where every celebration sparkles with style. Surrounded by the natural beauty of Eryri and the Llŷn Peninsula, we are the setting for festive gatherings, refined dining and unforgettable escapes — from glittering party nights to a Christmas you never have to lift a finger for.

Festive Dining

At Its Finest

A refined celebration for a truly magical season, available from 21st November until 20th December 2026. Perfect for teams, friends and families.

Festive plated main course with rosemary and rich jus, served by candlelight at The Lion Hotel

Party Packages

2 Courses £31.95 · 3 Courses £36.95Per adult · Children — £19.95 (two courses) / £24.95 (three courses)

This Christmas, indulge in the spirit of the season with a dining experience to remember. Our chefs have carefully crafted a menu that celebrates the very best of winter's flavours, designed to delight and impress.

Savour every course in the warmth of our festive setting — where fine food, sparkling conversation and cherished memories come together. Relax and enjoy while we ensure every detail is perfect, right down to the last glass of mulled wine.

Add a little extra sparkle

  • House WineHalf a bottle of house wine per person — +£10 per guest.
  • CrackersChristmas crackers included on every table.
  • BuffetBuffet menu option available (supplement charges apply).
  • Booking£15 deposit per guest, non-refundable. Pre-orders due 7 days before the event.
Festive drinks packages at The Lion Hotel bar: beer and cider in an ice bucket, prosecco, white, rosé and red wine with canapés

Festive Drinks Packages

Start in the bar, end in a bed upstairs.

  • BottomlessBottomless Pre-Dinner Drinks & Canapés — £35 per person. 60 minutes of beer, house wine, cider & soft drinks in our bar.
  • Beer & Cider BucketTable drinks special — six assorted bottles of beer & cider, £20.
  • Exotic LionExotic Lion Drinks Package — £80. Three bottles of wine (white, rosé or red) & eight bottles of beer & cider.
  • Make a Night of ItFrom £89 per room, bed & breakfast for two people. £20 supplement per night for Fridays & Saturdays.

The Festive Plated Menu

Two courses £31.95 · three courses £36.95 per adult (children £19.95 / £24.95), served 21st November – 20th December.

Starters

Wild Mushroom SoupA rich and velvety wild mushroom soup, finished with fresh herbs
Duck & Pork ParfaitSpiced kumquats, brioche and hazelnut
Flaky Poached SalmonBlinis with lemon, crème fraîche & rocket salad
Chargrilled Halloumi SaladBroken wheat, cherry tomatoes, salad leaves, red onion, pomegranate balsamic dressing

Mains

Lamb Ragu GnocchiSlow-cooked lamb in a red wine sauce, parmesan & gnocchi
Herb Roast TurkeyPigs in blankets, winter carrots, parsnips, Brussels sprouts, herb roast potatoes & rich roast gravy
Sizzling Spiced PrawnsServed with garlic potato wedges and herb salad
Luxury Chestnut RoastWinter carrots, parsnips, Brussels sprouts, herb roast potatoes & rich roast gravy

Desserts

Traditional Christmas PuddingBrandy sauce with Cheshire Strawberry Ice Cream
Lemon TartServed with sorbet and winter berries

Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are available — please tell us when you pre-order. Pre-orders are due 7 days before your booking.

Christmas Eve dinner at The Lion Hotel: candlelit table with roasted sprouts, winter vegetables and cranberry sauce

Christmas Eve 3-Course Dinner

An Evening to Remember

An Elegant Christmas CelebrationThursday 24th December 2026 · 5:00pm – 9:00pm

Celebrate the magic of Christmas Eve with an unforgettable three-course dining experience. Thoughtfully curated by our chefs, each dish showcases festive flavours and seasonal favourites, creating the perfect prelude to Christmas Day.

Gather with family and friends in a warm, welcoming atmosphere as you savour every course, raise a glass to the season, and create memories to treasure. Leave the details to us while you relax and enjoy an evening filled with exceptional food, festive cheer and holiday spirit.

  • When24th December, 5:00pm – 9:00pm, in Llewelyn's Restaurant.
  • Stay With UsIncluded in our two- and three-night Christmas packages — see below.
  • BookingPre-booking, pre-payment and pre-ordering are essential.

The Christmas Eve Menu

An elegant Christmas celebration — three courses, served 24th December from 5pm to 9pm.

Starters

Wild Mushroom SoupA rich and velvety wild mushroom soup, finished with fresh herbs
Korean Inferno WingsCrunchy Korean-style wings coated in a spicy Korean sauce
Golden Coast Crispy CalamariLightly coated crispy calamari, served with mango mole, burnt lemon and garlic aioli

Mains

Three Cheese TagliatelleWith truffle oil and pulled chicken
Butter ChickenA Delhi-born classic served with saffron rice, poppadum, paratha & cucumber salad
Poached SalmonWith grilled cherry vine tomato and parsley mash, with lemon butter sauce
Grand Southern Fried ChickenServed with four cabbage slaw, peri peri chips and chilli garlic relish
Paneer Tikka MasalaServed with saffron rice, poppadum, paratha & cucumber salad

Desserts

CheesecakeWith mixed berries compote
Sticky Toffee PuddingWith custard
Christmas Day lunch at The Lion Hotel: roast turkey with all the trimmings, red wine and candlelight beside the Christmas tree

Christmas Day Lunch

A Celebration of Festive Elegance

£74.95 per adult£39.95 per child · Friday 25th December 2026 · 12:00pm – 3:00pm

A celebration of festive elegance. This Christmas Day, indulge in the magic of the season with a dining experience like no other. A day for joy, laughter and togetherness deserves to be celebrated in true style — let us take care of every detail while you relax and create cherished memories.

Begin your celebration with Prosecco, Bucks Fizz and canapés, followed by a sumptuous Christmas Day Lunch served from 12 noon onwards. Each dish is thoughtfully crafted by our chefs, brimming with festive flavours and seasonal sophistication.

  • WelcomeA glass of Prosecco or Bucks Fizz at your table with a selection of seasonal canapés.
  • From 12 noonLunch served at your table until 3pm.
  • Stay With UsRooms available over Christmas — see our residential packages below.
  • BookingPre-booking, pre-payment and pre-ordering are essential. Please advise dietary requirements when booking.

Step into a world of festive luxury this Christmas — where fine food, sparkling drinks and warm hospitality combine to create an unforgettable celebration.

See live availability and pre-order your menu when you book.

The Christmas Day Lunch Menu

Festive flavour and seasonal sophistication, thoughtfully crafted by our chefs.

A Sparkling Welcome

Join us at your table for a glass of Prosecco or Bucks Fizz, accompanied by a tempting selection of seasonal canapés — the perfect way to begin your Christmas at The Lion's Den.
Each table is set with a bottle of still or sparkling water, festive Christmas crackers, and a sprinkling of Yuletide magic.

Starters

Spiced Pumpkin and Butter Bean PotWith herb croutons and Greek yoghurt
Silky Chicken Liver ParfaitWith apple chutney and toasted brioche
Salmon GravlaxCeleriac remoulade, capers, honey mustard dressing
Oven-Baked Goat Cheese SaladCrisp mixed leaves topped with warm oven-baked goat cheese, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, toasted walnuts and red onion, finished with a drizzle of honey and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette

Mains

Roast Sirloin of BeefServed with Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, rich port wine jus
Traditional Roast TurkeyWith Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, rich port wine jus
Roasted Sea BassWith buttered Savoy cabbage and chive butter sauce
Vegan WellingtonFilled with wild mushrooms, chestnuts, cranberries, sweet potato and sage, served with Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes and vegan brown gravy

All mains are served with pigs in blankets, honey-roasted carrots, parsnips, Brussels sprouts and chestnuts.

Sweet Finale

Classic Christmas PuddingClotted cream ice cream and warm brandy sauce
Indulgent Chocolate FondantWith Cheshire Strawberry Ice Cream
Fine Cheese SelectionRed onion marmalade, grapes and crackers

To Conclude the Celebration

Freshly brewed coffee, decadent chocolates & traditional mince pies.

Pre-booking, pre-payment & pre-ordering are essential.

Christmas Day evening buffet at The Lion Hotel: festive baking table with dried oranges, cinnamon, pine cones and a lantern

Christmas Day Dinner Buffet

An Evening of Festive Indulgence

Buffet DinnerFriday 25th December 2026 · 6:00pm – 8:00pm

Continue the celebrations with a spectacular Christmas Day Dinner Buffet, featuring an abundant selection of festive favourites, seasonal delicacies and indulgent desserts. Expertly prepared by our chefs, every dish is crafted to bring the warmth and flavours of Christmas to your table.

Gather with family and friends in a relaxed, festive atmosphere and enjoy an evening of exceptional food, joyful conversation and cherished moments. From hearty classics to sweet seasonal treats, there's something for everyone to savour.

  • When25th December, 6:00pm – 8:00pm.
  • Stay With UsIncluded in our two- and three-night Christmas packages — see below.
  • BookingPre-booking, pre-payment and pre-ordering are essential.

25th December Christmas Dinner Buffet Menu

Help yourself from the soup station, salad & bread selection, hot buffet and dessert table.

Soup Station

Spiced Pumpkin Soup

Salad & Bread Selection

Five Bean Salad
Korean Inferno Wings
Garlic Bread

Hot Buffet

Ruby's Chicken Jalfrezi
Heritage Lamb Casserole
Garlic Buttered Mash Potato
Ghee Basmati Rice
Truffle-Inspired Alfredo Mac

Dessert Selection

PhirniTraditional creamy ground rice pudding, delicately flavoured with cardamom
Gulab JamunSoft, golden milk dumplings served warm with fragrant sugar syrup and vanilla ice cream
Boxing Day dinner table at The Lion Hotel with gold Christmas crackers, candles and crystal glasses

Boxing Day Dinner

A Relaxed Festive Finale

Celebrate Beyond ChristmasSaturday 26th December 2026 · 5:00pm – 9:00pm

Unwind after the excitement of Christmas with a delightful Boxing Day dinner, where seasonal flavours and comforting classics come together in a warm and welcoming setting. Thoughtfully prepared by our chefs, each dish is designed to make the most of the festive season.

Whether you're gathering with family or catching up with friends, enjoy an evening of great food, relaxed conversation and lasting memories as the celebrations continue in style.

  • When26th December, 5:00pm – 9:00pm.
  • Stay With UsIncluded in our three-night Christmas package — see below.
  • BookingPre-booking, pre-payment and pre-ordering are essential.

The Boxing Day Menu

Celebrate beyond Christmas — three courses, served 26th December from 5pm to 9pm.

Starters

Cream of Mushroom SoupA rich and velvety cream of mushroom soup, finished with fresh herbs
Escabeche Pepper WhitebaitCrispy whitebait seasoned with escabeche pepper, served with burnt lemon and aioli
Imperial Chicken GoujonsServed with rocket salad and aioli dip

Mains

Lamb Rogan JoshOriginating from the royal Wazwan tradition of Kashmir, served with saffron rice, poppadum, paratha & cucumber salad
Azure Pan Seared Atlantic SalmonServed with creamed potato, glazed seasonal vegetables and rich crustacean bisque
Aurora Glazed Chicken SupremeGolden roast supreme served with tomato cream velouté sauce, mash potatoes & garlic confit vegetables
Flame Grilled Stack Burger8oz juicy flame grilled beef patty, gherkins, pickled onions, tomato, lettuce, bacon, signature sauce & cheese on a toasted brioche bun
Truffle Three Cheese Mac Royale PastaMacaroni pasta blended with cheddar, mozzarella and parmesan cheese in velvety cheese sauce

Desserts

Lemon TartWith sorbet and winter berries
GateauxServed with pouring cream

Christmas Residential Packages

A Merry Little Christmas… with a Touch of Luxury

This festive season, escape to comfort, celebration and indulgence with our exclusive Christmas Residential Packages. Whether for two nights or three, let us surround you with warmth, fine dining and festive cheer in the heart of Criccieth.

A double bedroom at The Lion Hotel, Criccieth

Two-Night Christmas Package

From £225.00 per personChristmas Eve & Christmas Day

  • Luxurious bed & breakfast
  • Elegant Christmas Eve three-course dinner
  • A sparkling Christmas Day five-course lunch
  • Relaxed Christmas evening buffet
A double bedroom at The Lion Hotel with a view of Criccieth Castle from the window

Three-Night Christmas Package

From £299.00 per personChristmas Eve to 27th December

  • Luxurious bed & breakfast
  • Elegant Christmas Eve three-course dinner
  • A sparkling Christmas Day lunch
  • Relaxed Christmas evening buffet
  • Indulgent Boxing Day three-course dinner

Unwrap the magic of Christmas with a festive stay filled with fine food, warm hospitality and memories to treasure forever.

Pre-booking, pre-payment and pre-ordering are essential. To book, call 01766 522460.

What Christmas Could Look Like

at The Lion Hotel

Four days of indulgence, warmth and festive joy — where every detail is taken care of, leaving you free to relax, celebrate and make memories to treasure forever.

Christmas Eve

Arrive in style from 3pm, where a warm festive welcome awaits. Begin your holiday with a glass of chilled prosecco or spiced mulled wine, setting the perfect tone for the days ahead.

Savour a sumptuous three-course dinner, served between 5pm and 9pm and lovingly prepared by our chefs, before rounding off the evening with freshly brewed coffee and mince pies.

Christmas Day

Wake to the excitement of Christmas morning and enjoy a leisurely breakfast served between 8am and 10am.

Take the morning at your own pace, before gathering for a lavish Christmas Day Lunch from 12 noon — the highlight of the season.

Afterwards, perhaps indulge in a refreshing stroll through the beautiful local surroundings, before returning to the hotel for a relaxed Christmas Day Dinner Buffet, served between 6pm and 8pm.

Boxing Day

Start your Boxing Day with a delicious breakfast served from 8am to 10am.

Guests on our two-night package bid us farewell at check-out at 11am, while those on the three-night stay can indulge in a sumptuous three-course dinner, served between 5pm and 9pm — leaving plenty of time to enjoy the Boxing Day sales.

27th December

For those on our three-night package, the festivities conclude with one final luxurious breakfast between 8am and 10am, before we bid you a fond farewell at check-out by 11am.

Reservations

Book Your Christmas at The Lion

We would love to welcome you

Christmas tables and rooms go early. Christmas Day Lunch can now be booked online with live availability. For everything else, call and our team will take your booking, deposit and pre-order over the phone, or send us an email and we will come back to you.

  • Party nights from 21st November
  • Christmas Eve, Christmas Day & Boxing Day dining
  • Two- and three-night residential packages
To book, call 01766 522460 The Lion Hotel, Y Maes, Criccieth LL52 0AA

Pre-booking, pre-payment & pre-ordering are essential. Please tell us about any dietary requirements when you book.

Other Events

New Year's Eve at The Lion Hotel, Criccieth

New Year's Eve

Three courses, DJ music and a midnight toast — £45.95 per person, or stay two nights from £199.

Celebrations at The Lion Hotel, Criccieth

Celebrations

Birthdays, anniversaries, christenings and receptions — private dining in the heart of Criccieth.

Llewelyn's Restaurant at The Lion Hotel, Criccieth

Llewelyn's Restaurant

Contemporary Welsh cuisine, Sunday roasts and The Ruby Room, open to residents and visitors alike.

A full allergen guide is available on request and always available in our restaurant. If you have specific dietary requirements, please tell us and we will be happy to accommodate them. Fresh produce may be substituted in the event of supply disruption.