Festive Dining: The best tables to book and bottles to buy

The run-up to Christmas is cue to pull out all culinary stops. Velvet finds the perfect food and drink for the festive season

The Orangery, The Old Hall, Ely

With floor to ceiling windows looking out over stunning views of lawns, lakes and Ely Cathedral, dining at The Orangery at Ely’s Old Hall is guaranteed to be “an unforgettable experience”.
“Our chefs have crafted an incredible festive set dinner menu,” say the team, “using the finest local and seasonal ingredients. Only available in December, it allows for groups to get together, couples to enjoy a romantic evening, and for small businesses to celebrate the festive season with their team!”
£55 for three courses and £50 for two courses
Visit: theoldhallely.co.uk/restaurant-and-dining
Call: 01353 663275
Follow: @theoldhallely

Squires Restaurant, Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa, Newmarket

The award-winning Squires Restaurant offers the perfect spot for all your Christmas dining needs this festive season, with an array of mouthwatering menus available throughout December, from a traditional three-course Christmas Fayre Menu to an indulgent Festive Afternoon Tea.
On Christmas Day itself, Squires will be serving a showstopping five-course lunch, or why not escape the kitchen on Christmas Eve or Boxing Day and let them provide exceptional food in relaxed surroundings? Whether you are planning on celebrating with friends, colleagues or loved ones, Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa has a dining experience to elevate your celebrations.
Festive Afternoon Tea from £29.50 and three-course Christmas Fayre Menu from £37
Visit: bedfordlodgehotel.co.uk/christmas-at-bedford-lodge-hotel
Call: 01638 663175
Instagram: @bedfordlodgehotelspa

Quy Mill Hotel, Cambridge

Experience the magic of Christmas at Cambridge’s Quy Mill Hotel with Sundays with Santa. This enchanting event offers fun for all generations, creating cherished memories during the festive season. Children are in for a treat, as Santa himself will make a special appearance, delighting them with gifts and holiday cheer.
Children can savour a delicious three-course menu, priced at just £22, while adults can indulge in the festive spirit for £35. If you prefer a more relaxed afternoon, Quy Mill also offers a delightful Christmas-themed Afternoon Tea.
Featuring on December 3, 10 and 17.
Visit: cambridgequymill.co.uk
Call: 01223 293383
Instagram: @quy_mill_hotel

Bubbly Bandits

Bubbly Bandits invites you to indulge in the captivating allure of Anima Nera, an Aglianico Rosé. “Its enchanting blush hue is just the beginning of a remarkable journey for your taste buds,” say the founders of the Cambridge-based wine company, which specialises in Italian sparkling. “With each sip, this wine unveils a symphony of flavours, from succulent red berries to the juiciness of watermelon, all kissed with subtle hints of fragrant rose petals. What sets this Aglianico Rosé apart is its perfect balance – dry, yet with a whisper of off-dry sweetness, making it a delightful adventure for both the seasoned connoisseur and the curious novice. A sip of Aglianico Rosé promises a refreshing and tantalising experience, one you won't want to miss.”
Visit: bubblybandits.co.uk
Instagram: @bubblybandits