The holidays are finally upon us, and with them comes so many ways to get into the festive spirit. The Greater Philadelphia area offers a lot of attractions, events and special gatherings to help make the season merry and bright. The Desmond, the Main Line’s premier full-service hotel, is one destination you won’t want to miss visiting this December. Located in bucolic Chester County, The Desmond is more than a well-appointed hotel. Of course, it does have many lovely rooms in which to stay, perfect for friends and family who are in town visiting. But, there are many other reasons to stop by, especially during this merry month!
Here are our top four reasons for visiting The Desmond this holiday season:
Bonhomie at Brunch
Sunday brunch in The Hunt Room at The Desmond (currently under renovation) is one of the best around. It’s not just locals who are in on the secret — it was voted one of the 100 Best Brunch Restaurants in America for 2017 by OpenTable diners! For December, there are two special Sunday brunches featuring holiday themes which are not to be missed:
- Sunday Brunch with Santa: On December 3 and 10, bring the whole family to The Desmond for a meet-and-greet with Santa Claus! Kids can make their gift requests to Kris Kringle and receive a complimentary photo as a keepsake. Brunch is served from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., and pricing is as follows: $26 for adults; $16 for children ages 6–12; and children 5 and under are free. The menu includes a tasty array of brunch favorites, including a made-to-order omelet station, cinnamon and rum brioche French toast, a make-your-own waffle sundae bar and a children’s buffet with chicken nuggets, curly fries, mac and cheese and more! Reservations are strongly suggested; call (610) 249-2180 to snag your seats now.
- The 2nd Annual Charles Dickens Brunch: On Sunday, December 17, celebrate the holidays in a grand traditional style reminiscent of the classic tale, A Christmas Carol. The brunch, with specials such as English sausage and apple stuffing, lamb and root vegetable shepherd’s pie, and chocolate and chai bread pudding, goes from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. and is $29 for adults; $17 for children; and children 5 and under are complimentary. While you’re there, gather your group by the tree and take a photo at the selfie station! Call (610) 296-9800 for reservations.
- Christmas Eve Brunch: Christmas on Monday means the perfect opportunity for a Christmas Eve Sunday brunch! Invite family or friends along for a very special holiday brunch, complete with creative, delicious options. Brunch service is from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. and is $29 for adults; $17 for children; and complimentary for children 5 and under. Call (610) 296-9800 for reservations.
Private Parties
If you need to organize a holiday party for work gatherings, family occasions or fun events, consider all that The Desmond has to offer. The first-class hospitality, expertly created menus and customizable options make party planning a breeze. Situated conveniently close to Philadelphia and the surrounding area, The Desmond is easily accessible to guests, and those who are traveling farther can take advantage of the beautiful accommodations! From fundraisers to birthday parties, reunions to retirement celebrations, The Desmond is ready to help you host an amazing private party. For inquiries about holiday parties, including discounted overnight stays, call (610) 296-9800.
Planning a wedding (a.k.a. “the ultimate private party”)? The Ballroom at The Desmond is a gorgeous location for the big day. The staff and the culinary team go all out to make wedding ceremonies and receptions super-special and low-stress. The elegant ballroom features a large dance floor. Or, if you’re looking for a more casual outdoor feel for a spring or summer wedding, the over-sized outdoor deck is a great alternative. The lush, landscaped property makes a perfect backdrop for photo shoots! The best part is that throughout your entire wedding weekend, from pre-wedding prep to the farewell brunch, you’ll never need to leave The Desmond! Contact one of The Desmond’s wedding specialists now, and plan your preview visit during the holidays to see what’s in store for you!
Grab a Pint at The Fox & Hounds Pub
Between the shopping, menu planning, house cleaning and hosting guests, the holidays can be a stressful time. While you’re out running errands, duck into the cozy bar at The Desmond, The Fox & Hounds Pub. Modeled after a 19th-century English pub, this popular gathering place features a wide selection of beer and wine, an incredible food menu and occasional live music. Happy hour, 4–6 p.m., Sunday through Thursday, is a great time to pop in, with 20% off pub starters and fantastic drink specials: $2 Yuengling drafts, $5 craft beer on draft, $3 domestic bottled beer, $7 house wine and $5 house cocktails.
There are also daily $5 specials, available from 3 p.m. to close, including:
- Sunday: Bloody mary and mimosas
- Monday: House martinis
- Tuesday: Tropical rum cocktails
- Wednesday: Select red or white wine
- Thursday: Refreshing lime or raspberry margaritas.
New Year’s Eve Enchantment
Ring in the new year with The Desmond by enjoying a relaxing, overnight stay. With its special New Year’s Eve package, you won’t have to worry about fighting the crowds, overpriced car services or where to be at midnight! Make your reservations now for Sunday, December 31, and enjoy an overnight guest room, a three-course dinner for two with a Champagne toast and a cozy breakfast for two the following morning. The Desmond’s New Year’s Eve package is $325, which includes all taxes and gratuities.
Can’t spend the night? Enjoy a quiet romantic dinner for two in The Desmond’s new restaurant, Fork & Bottle, featuring a new menu with dishes made from hand-selected ingredients from the freshest farms and finest fisheries America has to offer. Reserving a table is easier than ever, thanks to The Desmond’s partnership with OpenTable.
Whatever you’ve got planned for this holiday season, be sure to include a visit to The Desmond to your agenda. The welcoming staff, comfy atmosphere and first-rate food and drink are sure to add a little sparkle to your day or night.
Find The Desmond Hotel Malvern at 1 Liberty Blvd. in Malvern; phone: (800) 575-1776.
- Champagne photo: Pexels
- All other photos: Courtesy of The Desmond
