Here is the latest issue of the BritainUpdate newsletter which you requested when you made a booking on AboutBritain.com.

• Introduction
• Festive London
• Great Hotel Deals in:

     - London
     - Manchester
     - Heathrow / Windsor

• How to Unsubscribe

Seasons Greetings to all subscribers to Britain Update from About Britain.com. As you read your newsletter, Christmas fast approaches. Some well-organised people have the shopping done and the presents wrapped already, but many of us enjoy hunting down elusive last-minute gifts. (That's our excuse anyway!)

All part of the seasonal fun when the stores are decorated for the festive season, Father Christmas is in his grotto and carol-singers herald the spirit of Christmas. Whether you plan a quick trip to the shops, or a combination of last-minute purchases and an outing to the theatre, a trip to London is an exciting prospect at this time of year.

Quenton Fyfe
Editor

Now is the time to see London at its best. The lights on the great Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square will be switched on at approx 18:30 on 4th December - and the tree will remain in place until 6th January.

In the West End well-known stores on Oxford Street, Bond Street and Regent Street bid to out-do each other with fantastic decorations and lights, offering the finest shopping facilities and inspirational decorative ideas for your home.

The courtyard of Somerset House is transformed into a winter wonderland; London's loveliest ice rink. During the day, special prices and lessons are offered to families and in the evening flaming torches illuminate the classical façade.

When you have 'done the shops' have a break from the hustle and bustle, take a tube to South Kensington and pop into The Victoria & Albert Museum to see 'Gothic Art for England 1400-1547' on display until 18th January 2004.

Children always enjoy visiting the area of South Kensington known as "Museumland" - an idea conceived by Prince Albert which consists of 87 acres of land purchased with the profits from the Great Exhibition of 1851 to build museums and institutions.

The best-known of these are the Science Museum and the Natural History Museum: At the Science Museum the latest exhibition is "The Lord of the Rings Motion Picture Trilogy - The Exhibition", a unique visitor experience based on the famous films, running until 11th January. While at the Natural History Museum, there is a new display of animatronic dinosaurs in the ever popular Dinosaurs Gallery.

Have you had the thrilling experience of flying the London Eye? If not, visit during the day to see spectacular panoramic views of London, or choose to fly after dark, and see London's stunning sky-line lit up.

London's theatres offer the best shows and entertainment, and there is a wide range to choose from at the moment:

These are only a few of the super shows in London, but there are many other superb events on too - for example:

The Olympia International Showjumping Championships take place at Olympia, Hammersmith Road from 19th - 23rd December. Featuring top riders from around the world and a special appearance from Father Christmas.

An exciting exhibition from the Royal collections is on show at The Queen's Gallery, Buckingham Palace from 21st November - 7th March. Over 300 pieces of work by Faberge, the greatest Russian jeweller and goldsmith of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

We hope you plan a trip to London soon, or a visit after New Year to take advantage of the January sales. Either way, don't miss our special offers when you book your hotel on About Britain.com.

  Back this month by popular demand is this great deal on the City Inn Westminster. Featuring spacious bedrooms with the latest plasma television screens and satellite TV with DVD and CD. When you book through AboutBritain.com you can stay at this superb new hotel for £49.50 pppn instead of £89.50

A great alternative is the Melia White House Hotel - a superb 4 star hotel, within walking distance of Regent's Park, London Zoo, Madame Tussauds and the shopping and theatre districts. The hotel features spacious luxury bedrooms and an award-winning restaurant. Until the end of December, you can stay at a weekend for only £49 pppn instead of £82. Why not spend the difference on Christmas Shopping!

  If you fancy a trip to Manchester, we can offer you 25% off your stay of two nights or more at the 3 star Gardens Hotel. Situated within the heart of the city, close to the Metrolink, theatres, Granada Studios and the Arndale Centre, it's an ideal base for a stay in Manchester. Now you can stay for £41.63 pppn instead of £55.50.

  Finally, if you're jetting out of Britain for Christmas and want a hotel near Heathrow - or you want to explore Berkshire or visit Windsor Castle, we have just the thing: A great offer on midweek stays at The Courtyard by Marriott Heathrow. Only 8 miles from the airport, this hotel offers superb quality bedrooms, a fitness room and Brasserie. You can stay for only £35 pppn instead of £72.50

All prices are per person per night - based on 2 adults sharing a twin/double room. (Don't worry about the Standard Rates shown - your special price will be calculated and shown before you book). Availability at these prices is limited, so don't delay!

That's all for this issue of BritainUpdate from AboutBritain.com - we'll be back in the new year with more ideas for breaks in Britain, and more great special offers. Have a wonderful Christmas!

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