Getting There and Finding the Domes
Located in the heart of the serene Usk Valley, the Celtic Manor Resort is easily accessible by road and offers ample parking for visitors. Whether arriving from nearby Newport or further afield, the resort’s signage makes navigation a breeze. Once on-site, head toward the rooftop garden—follow the clearly marked signs to reach the domes.
The journey to the domes is an experience in itself, as the Celtic Manor is dressed to impress for the festive season. Twinkling fairy lights, gorgeously decorated trees, and an enchanting holiday ambiance greet you at every turn. The atmosphere is warm, inviting, and filled with seasonal cheer, setting the tone for the magical experience ahead.
An Unforgettable Setting
The domes themselves are a sight to behold. Perfectly heated to keep you cozy, these private igloos accommodate up to six guests and are decorated with luxurious throws, soft cushions, and sparkling lights. The thoughtful details elevate the ambiance, creating a space that feels both intimate and special.
While your dome is being prepared, relax in a cozy seating area featuring an open fire pit, a fully stocked bar, and a festive Santa’s sleigh. This charming space, beautifully adorned for the holiday season, offers a warm and inviting atmosphere to enjoy as you await your magical dining experience.
Each dome is equipped with individual Bluetooth speakers, so you can set your own soundtrack for the evening. Whether you prefer classic holiday tunes like Michael Bublé’s crooning or a festive Mariah Carey singalong, the music adds a personal touch to the experience. Twinkling lights from the domes and the surrounding woodland views make the setting feel like a winter fairy tale.
Live entertainment on Friday and Saturday evenings adds an extra sparkle, with talented performers bringing festive energy to the night. The domes are perfect for a variety of occasions, whether it’s a Christmas catch-up with friends, a family outing, or a romantic date night under the stars.
Festive Treats and Delicious Platters
Running from 22nd November 2024 to 5th January 2025, Drinks at the Domes offers a delectable menu of seasonal drinks and platters that cater to a range of tastes.
The drinks packages are a highlight, featuring everything from cocktails and wine to an impressive selection of beers, and non-alcoholic options including warm drinks. For cocktail lovers, there are plenty of drinks on offer, and for those who don’t or can’t drink a selection of no alcohol wines. They even have packages for celebrating New Years too!
We chose the Celtic Festive Platter (£57.00) for our meal, and it did not disappoint. The hearty, flavorful spread included:
- Roasted turkey breast with cranberry relish and pigs in blankets
- Pork pie, cured gammon, pickles, and chutney
- Welsh matured cheddar fondue
This was served alongside a warm bread basket filled with mixed rolls, sourdough, grissini sticks, and Welsh butter. The bread was soft and fresh, and the fondue added a delightful richness to the meal. The platter was festive, filling, and perfect for sharing, with each element thoughtfully prepared to highlight seasonal flavors.
For dessert, we indulged in the Halen Môn Salted Caramel Profiteroles (£18.50). The choux buns were light yet decadent, filled with fresh cream and served with sides of salted caramel sauce, chocolate sauce, and Biscoff crumbs. This allowed us to customise each bite to our liking—a fun and delicious finale to the meal. The potion provided was ample and could have easily served an additional 2 or 3 people depending on how much of a sweet tooth you have.
Other platters and options include seasonal grazing boards with cheeses, charcuterie, and vegetarian-friendly selections, as well as another indulgent dessert, Pavlova.
Extend the Festivities
A visit to Drinks at the Domes is just the beginning of the festive magic at Celtic Manor Resort. If you’re tempted to stay longer, the resort offers a wide range of activities and amenities to keep the holiday spirit alive.
With seven restaurants, three championship golf courses, and the world-class Forum Spa, there’s something for everyone. During the Christmas season, the resort also hosts family-friendly events, including:
- Elf the Musical
- Santa’s Tea Party
- An Elf Treasure Hunt
Whether you’re visiting for a romantic escape or a family getaway, the resort offers something for all ages. Rooms are available starting from £123 per night, making Celtic Manor a perfect base for a festive retreat.
Make Your Reservation
Drinks at the Domes is open to both hotel guests and the public, with two-hour reservation slots available between 11 AM and 9 PM. Due to the popularity of this unique winter pop-up, early reservations are highly recommended. Bookings can be made online now.
Final Thoughts
Drinks at the Domes at Celtic Manor Resort is the epitome of festive dining. With its cozy ambiance, indulgent food and drink offerings, and magical setting, it’s easy to see why this pop-up has become a cherished holiday tradition. Whether you’re looking for a memorable meal with loved ones, a unique celebration venue, or simply a taste of seasonal magic, this experience promises to leave you enchanted. Don’t miss it!
