At some time during our lives most of us have listened to or sung along with “The Twelve Days of Christmas”. Its specific origins are not known, but it possibly began as a Twelfth Night memory and forfeit game. The song itself may originally have been a French carol going as far back as the 1700’s.
Anyway – enough of the history lesson. Here are our 12 day reminders for you including some Christmas gift ideas, and some ways to pass the time away here at TLH Leisure Resort during your own 12 days of Christmas.
Day One – A Partridge in a Pear Tree
Eat, Drink & Be Merry – this is one day of the year when a little over-indulgence is the norm. Why not celebrate with us? We won’t be serving up a partridge in a pear tree but there will be lots of other delicious treats to be had at each of the hotels and there’s no washing up to do!
Two Turtle Doves
A treat for you and your turtle dove. Join us for a romantic spa break at the TLH Carlton Hotel. You can enjoy 2 nights away with a choice of mini spa treatments from £184. Or why not look further ahead to a January treat to help you recover from the excesses, our January Revival Break from just £108pp.
Three French Hens
The closest we can get to three hens are Giant Chicken Skewers, a Glazed Chicken Strips and a Chicken Tender Burger on our Aztec Bistro Menu. In fact there is no such thing as a French hen but it is thought that the word French simply meant foreign.
Four Colly Birds
The definition of colly is apparently “black” and comes from the old word for coal. So simply speaking a “colly bird” or “calling bird”, is a blackbird. A tenuous link this one, but bear with me! If you are lucky enough to be staying in Torquay during the festive season, take a woodland walk around Cockington village and you’ll see plenty of blackbirds.
Five Gold Rings
It is believed that the five gold rings in the original version may have related to the five golden rings on the plumage of a ringed pheasant, continuing the theme of giving birds as presents over Christmas. Apart from Cockington, there are a whole host of ways to get out and about and enjoy the wildlife when you stay at TLH. Try the Torbay Coast & Countryside Trust for more ideas.
Six Geese Laying
OK – I give up with this as I can’t think of anything remotely connected to geese! However, if you’re looking Christmas gift ideas, there a number of Aztec Spa treatments where you can book six sessions and pay for only five. A great gift, a great saving and something special to look forward to in the New Year. Choose from ELEMIS Anti-Ageing Facials for women and men, ELEMIS Body Sculpting and a range of pedicures and manicures.
Seven Swans Swimming
Here the seven is thought to be related to the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit. We prefer to focus on the swimming part – you can swim every day in our amazing 25 metre indoor Aztec Pool if you’re staying with us – yes even Christmas Day. For the brave (or mad!) amongst you, why not try the traditional Boxing Day dip from nearby Corbyn Head beach?
Eight Maids Milking
Milk maids possibly represent food and romance – milk being an important staple and maids referring to young maidens. You are unlikely to find any milk maids at TLH but don’t forget, the eight day is New Year’s Day and the time for making New Year Resolutions. If one of yours is to get fitter, then a membership to our Aztec Gym will give you the motivation you need.
Nine Ladies Dancing
You‘ll meet a few more than nine ladies on any of our dancing breaks if you join KB Sounds on this Social Dance Break at the TLH Toorak Hotel. There are plenty of other opportunities to dance ’til you drop at TLH with a whole host of dance breaks to chose from, whatever your level.
Ten Lords Leaping
More dancing and revelling references, but it is believed that the 10 lords in the song actually refers to the 10 Commandments, so not much fun there then. However, there’s always plenty of opportunity to ‘leap’ at TLH Leisure Resort with our range of exercise classes at the Aztec Studio. From Zumba to Circuits and plenty in between for locals and guests alike.
Eleven Pipers Piping
We always have a traditional piper on New Year’s Eve, but these pipers may refer to the 11 faithful disciples, or some believe it may be nothing more that a tongue twister to keep carol singers on their toes. Maybe not pipes, but there will be music and dancing on this Festive Party Weekend. It’s a great way to celebrate if you haven’t been able to get together with friends and family over the Christmas period.
Twelve Drummers Drumming
Twelve Drummers Drumming, what about 12 Tastes of Christmas? Brand new menu item for the Aztec Bistro – enjoy our Tapas style festive feasts this Christmas! Only available until the end of December.
Cheers and have a great festive season everyone!