There are some great bases for Christmas shoppers who want to stay in and enjoy our vibrant regional cities

PREMIUM hostel Safestay York is helping guests get into the festive spirit with a complimentary glass of mulled wine on arrival. Celebrating its prime location in the heart of this medieval walled city, Safestay York is a great place to stay for an affordable break and for those looking for inspirational Christmas gift ideas.

York's newly rejuvenated Shambles Market will play host to St Nicholas Fair, one of the UK's most popular traditional Christmas markets. This year, from November 19 to December 23, the Victorian-style market will feature more than 100 stalls selling a range of gifts from delicate jewellery and beautiful stained glass to handmade crafts and the finest local produce.

Visitors will also be able to enjoy the delights of carol singers and buskers, food and drink stalls, with seasonal offerings such as brandy-laced hot chocolate, roasted chestnuts and mulled wine. Young visitors will get the chance to meet Father Christmas at King’s Square.

After a busy day shopping and exploring, guests can unwind in Safestay York, a sensitively renovated Grade I listed Georgian townhouse designed by the famous architect John Carr in 1752. An interesting mix of tradition and modernity, the 150-bed Safestay York has accommodation options to suit all budgets, including bunk-bed dorms from £15 per bed per night to private double and family rooms from £80 per night with ornate antique 19th century beds, tea and coffee making facilities, and 40-inch televisions.

A glass of complimentary mulled wine (or a soft drink) will be offered to each guest checking in to Safestay York from November 19 to December 23.

Setting a new standard in stylish, affordable and comfortable accommodation, Safestay Hostels appeal to a broad community of guests with their statement heritage buildings, fabulous interiors and prime city centre locations. "Smart travellers across the spectrum, from backpackers and young adults to families and business travellers, are actively seeking out Safestay Hostels for their design credentials and communal vibe as much as for their affordable offering," says a Safestay spokesman.

Safestay's portfolio includes the Safestay London Elephant & Castle (opened in July 2012), Safestay York (opened in January 2015), Safestay London Holland Park (opened August 2015), and Safestay Edinburgh (set to launch in January 2016). Safestay's expansion plans include a European wide network of hostels.

For further information visit www.safestay.com or call 0203-326-8471

THERE’S nothing better than enjoying a weekend away to get you in the mood for Christmas. Sipping mulled wine, while exploring the Christmas markets and picking up some Christmas prezzies in a great city.

A stylish loft apartment in the vibrant city of Newcastle is available to rent to anyone looking for a last minute city break. The first floor apartment, on Newcastle’s Quayside is perfect for families and groups looking for a relaxing stay in the city with easy access to attractions.

Sleeping up to four guests in two bedrooms, no. 2, Quayside Loft Apartment is ideally located near to the nearby coastline or in walking distance of the city centre, where you can enjoy Newcastle Continental Christmas Market from November 14-28.

No.2 Quayside Loft Apartment is available from November 13-16 (3 nights) for £375; 13-20 (7nights) for £420; 16-20 (4 nights) for £375; 20-27 (7 nights) for £420; 20-23 (3 nights) for £375 through Cottages in Northumberland, by calling 0191-231-3020 or emailing enquiries@cottagesinnorthumberland.co.uk.

W: cottagesinnorthumberland.co.uk.

  • OFFERING value for money, cleanliness, comfort and good service, the Premier Inn hotel chain has topped this year's Which? Hotel Report. Based on feedback from Which? members and the general public, the hotel chain secured an overall score of 83%. Simon Jones, managing director of Premier Inn, said: "Our promise to our guests has always been to ensure we are offering a great night's sleep and this year alone we have made an investment of £140 million in maintaining and refurbishing our hotels and have rolled out luxurious and comfortable Hypnos beds across all of our properties, ensuring that anyone staying with us wakes up feeling wonderful!"