best cities in uk to visit at christmas

11 Best UK Cities At Christmas

From vibrant christmas markets and fragrant mulled wine, to thrilling fun fairs and peaceful carol concerts, here’s our pick of the best uk cities at christmas..

What are the key ingredients for the best UK Christmas celebrations? Christmas markets with mulled wine and toasted marshmallows? Huge trees adorned with pretty lights? How about ice skating on a frozen rink wrapped up in warm coat and scarf, then warming up with a delicious hot chocolate? Sounds perfect!

There are so many elements that we love in the UK during the festive period. Lots of people have an annual trip to a pantomime or a funfair. Then there are the visits to see Father Christmas or spending an afternoon listening to a beautiful carol concert. Whatever you look for at Christmastime, there are some amazing UK cities to visit to celebrate this lovely time of year.

We’ve narrowed our list down to our 11 favourites. From seeing in New Year in Edinburgh, to ice skating in London and a refreshing Christmas Day swim in Weymouth, these are the best places to visit in the UK at Christmas.

Edinburgh  

Scotland traditionally celebrated Hogmanay (New Year), and Christmas Day didn’t become a Scottish public holiday until the 1950s. Despite this, Edinburgh is now one of the best UK cities at Christmas. With festive events from mid-November to early January, it’s a great place to spend Christmas, Hogmanay, or both!

The Edinburgh Christmas market is spread across the city centre. It’s a great place to spend a few hours with friends, eating and drinking some festive treats. Plus, there are plenty of market stalls to pick up some Christmas gifts. Alongside the stalls of German bratkwurst and schnitzel, look out for the local haggis and mulled Irn Bru!

Christmas in Edinburgh is known for the Christmas lights along the Royal Mile, and for its large funfair. As well as family rides, you’ll find a Christmas Tree Maze and ice-skating rink. End your evening at the Dome to see the views over the top Christmas decorations, while sipping a tasty Christmas cocktail.

The Bath Christmas market takes place in the attractive Georgian streets around Bath Abbey. It has over 150 stalls, making it one of the biggest and best Christmas markets in the UK. You’ll find everything here from presents to traditional festive foods.

Bath is rated amongst the best UK cities at Christmas thanks to its programme of family friendly activities . You’ll find an outdoor ice rink, illuminated Elf trail, wreath making workshops and winter walks. And don’t forget your tickets for the annual Christmas panto at the Bath Theatre Royal.

Cardiff is another of the best places to visit at Christmas in the UK. The market here runs from mid-November and has an emphasis on original handmade crafts. Combine it with the independent shops in the city’s Victorian arcades for an epic Christmas shopping trip!

You’ll find more things to do at City Hall Lawn which has a programme of Winter Wonderland attractions . The funfair has a ferris wheel with magnificent views across the city. Or you could head over to the grounds of Cardiff Castle for some fun on the ice rink.

Cardiff has two great destinations for a Christmas rest stop! Head for the Bavarian themed cabins on Working Street for German beer and bratwurst. Or you could book a slot at the stylish Ice Bar, an amazing venue built entirely from ice!

The Frankfurt Christmas Market in Birmingham is the largest authentic German Christmas market outside of Germany and Austria. The market runs from early November, and sells traditional wooden toys and decorations, glass lamps and other gifts. You’ll also find plenty of authentic German winter foods to wash down with wheat beer or glühwein.

This German Christmas market has a lively atmosphere, and free music concerts. As one of best UK cities at Christmas, it’s a destination for people from all over Europe! It’s an ideal place to enjoy some Christmas shopping, ice skating, or you could take a ride on the carousel or big wheel.

If you fancy adding a touch of luxury to your trip, how about visiting one of these Michelin starred restaurants in Birmingham .

If you’re looking for Christmas getaways in the UK, London offers something for everyone! Christmas lights, shopping, markets, carols, panto, ballet and circus. you might struggle to fit it all in!

The myriad of entertainment options makes London one of the best UK cities at Christmas. You’ll find everything from traditional pantomimes and the Nutcracker ballet to Christmas themed drag shows. Or how about making ice skating against the backdrop of Hampton Court your winter holiday highlight?

The Cairngorms

Although this isn’t a city trip, if you’re dreaming of a white Christmas, then statistically your chances are higher if you travel to Scotland’s Cairngorms. Even if it doesn’t snow, it’s a great place to get into the festive spirit!

As one of the best places in the UK at Christmas, Santa, Rudolph and the team are regular visitors! You can see reindeer at the wildlife centre, or at their Elf House at Cairngorm Reindeer Centre. They even pop up at Christmas street parades!

If you can’t ski, snowboard or sledge, then there are other adventure activities to try. You’ll find ice skating and curling, and even night time zip lining. Or how about joining a distillery tour and warming up with a wee dram of whisky? Sounds perfect for chilly days!

The Manchester Christmas markets take place at six different sites across the city. You’ll find hand-crafted items by local makers on Market Street. For the family area with kids’ shows and an ice rink, head for Cathedral Gardens. 

Many of Manchester’s venues also offer Christmas themed events. You’ll find shows on ice at the AO Arena, and light installations in Heaton Park. For concerts and musicals, check out the programme at Manchester Opera House. It’s a great city during the festive period, so definitely add it to your list!

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay during your trip, don’t miss our top picks for where to stay in Manchester .

If you need more ideas for the best places to visit at Christmas in the UK, how about York? The city is pretty at any time of year, but it’s even more charming when it’s lit up and decorated. It’s also home to the St Nicholas Fair, or Christmas market.

If you’re visiting York at Christmas you should definitely go to a carol concert. Held in the spectacular setting of York Minster , they connect with the spiritual meaning of Christmas. It’s popular though, so you’ll need to book tickets in advance.

The Oxford Christmas market is held from early to mid-December on Broad Street. It features stalls with decorations and unusual gifts ideas. You’ll also find festive foods and plenty of mulled wine. It’s such a pretty place during the festive season.

The Sheldonian Theatre and Christchurch Cathedral both have a programme of carol concerts.  And will you find pantomime at the Oxford Playhouse?  Oh yes you will!

The short and sweet Lincoln Christmas market takes place over just one weekend in early December. The site, right by the Cathedral and the Castle, gives the event an ‘ancient’ and traditional Christmassy feel. Look out for the ‘Lincolnshire Larder’ area, with local artisan cheeses, ciders and other regional foods. Mmm!

Over on the Lincolnshire coast, you can visit Santa on a miniature steam train. The Cleethorpes Coastal light railway run a ‘Christmas Express’, which leaves for ‘Lapland Central’ each weekend in December. The elves get very busy, so book in advance to insure your place!

Are you looking for something different to do over Christmas? Ok, so Weymouth might not have city status, but this town organises one of the UK’s largest Christmas Day swims. Register in advance, or cheer on the swimmers as they brave the cold water to raise money for charity.

You’ll find more Christmas quirks in Weymouth. In late November, there is a world record attempt for the most people dressed as elves. And in early December you’ll find a steampunk Christmas weekend and pirate party! People in Dorset definitely know how to celebrate the festive period!

There are so many amazing UK cities to visit at Christmas! Which is your favourite? We hope you have a lovely winter, wherever you pick!

If you’re looking for more fun getaway idea in the UK, don’t miss these guides:

The Best Destinations For Relaxing Breaks in England 21 Places To Add To Your Great British Bucket List This Year The Best Of Britain: 20+ Trips To Add To Your Great British Bucket List

Enjoyed this post? Pin it for later…

Leave a comment Cancel reply

A Lady in London

And Traveling the World

Lady’s 17 Best Places to Visit at Christmas in the UK

Today I want to share my guide to the best places to visit at Christmas in the UK with you. There are lots of festive destinations in the United Kingdom, from bauble-laden cities to tinsel-clad towns. Whether you’re seeking the top Christmas markets in Britain or the perfect Christmas village, there’s a place you’ll love this winter.

Best Places to Visit at Christmas in the UK

The best places to visit at Christmas in the UK range from urban spaces to towns and villages in the countryside. Some are home to famous British Christmas markets , and others are renowned for British Christmas food or festive annual events.

Whatever you’re looking for, these exciting places to visit in the UK in winter are bound to get you in the Christmas spirit.

I’ve been to all of these places, and I can personally attest to how worthwhile they are to visit. I hope my list inspires you to see one or more of them this Yuletide season.

1. Edinburgh at Christmas

Edinburgh tops my list of the best places to visit at Christmas in the UK. Not only does the city look magical in winter light, but there are also festive decorations up all over town. This might just be the most Christmassy place in the UK.

The Christmas market in Princes Street Gardens is enormous, and every inch of ground around the Scott Monument is packed with gift-laden chalets, fun fair rides, and vendors of comfort food.

Walking around the market is one of my favorite things to do in Edinburgh at Christmas (along with a lot of other fun things, of course).

Add to that Christmas shopping, ice skating, and festive entertainment, and the Scottish capital is the place to be at Christmastime.

If you can stay through New Year’s Eve, you’re in for a treat. Hogmanay in Edinburgh is one of the biggest and best celebrations in the UK.

If you want to take this trip, you can book a hotel in Edinburgh here . I’ve stayed in the city many times and my favorite is the Radisson Collection Hotel, Royal Mile Edinburgh . It’s in a great location right by Edinburgh Castle. You can book a room here .

2. York at Christmas

York is another of the best places to spend Christmas in the UK. This city in the north of England is beloved for its festive markets, of which there are many all throughout the center.

I once took a day trip from London to York to discover the best York Christmas markets . I was in awe of the size and variety of the city’s offerings.

Beyond markets, York’s shops and restaurants come alive with Christmas cheer. From festive facades to seasonal mince pies and mulled wine, there’s a lot to love about this place during the winter season.

The city is also home to Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland, an annual experience featuring the north of England’s largest outdoor ice rink, a funfair, a Santa’s Grotto, and an alpine cafe. It’s the perfect place to get into the Christmas spirit in Britain.

It’s fun to stay in town for a night, too. There are lots of great accommodation options in the city. You can book a hotel in York here .

3. Bath at Christmas

I’ve long considered Bath one of the best Christmas day trips from London . The city is magical at any time of year, but it really comes alive with markets and decorations during the Yuletide season. A day in Bath is a great way to take it all in.

Bath has a lot of unique events and markets on offer during the season. The Bath Christmas Market takes over the city center, and it’s a great place to find unique gifts and soak up the atmosphere.

In addition, traditional Christmas celebrations take place around the Abbey Quarter, and festive lights adorn the city’s iconic heritage buildings.

There’s also an ice skating rink in Royal Victoria Park right in front of the stunning Royal Crescent, and there are lots of street performances and carol singing.

Additionally, many of the best shops in Bath go all-out for Christmas. From outdoor lights adorning the facades to twinkling ones inside the stores, the decorations are top-notch.

The seasonal gifts on offer in the shops make perfect Christmas presents for family, friends, and other special people in your life as well. They make Bath one of the best places for Christmas shopping in the UK.

If you want to take a city break , you can book a hotel in Bath here . I’ve stayed at The Yard in Bath and I adore its stylish atmosphere. You can book a room here .

4. Canterbury at Christmas

Canterbury is another of the best places to visit at Christmas in the UK. This city in Kent is famous for being the home of Canterbury Cathedral. It’s one of the most important churches in the United Kingdom, and it comes alive during the festive season.

The cathedral puts on everything from Cathedral Carol Services to family services, Choral Evensong, and a Christmas Day Eucharist with the Archbishop of Canterbury.

Outside the cathedral, a day trip to Canterbury is a great way to take in the the city’s Christmas festivities.

The Canterbury Christmas market on Whitefriars Street and St George’s Street features festive chalets rife with fun gifts and lots of food and drinks. There are also plenty of experiences for children and a Santa Paws experience for dogs.

Add to that live music events and entertainment, and there’s a lot to love about a Christmas trip to Canterbury.

If you want to stay overnight, there are plenty of options for hotels and other accommodation in the city. You can book a hotel in Canterbury here .

5. Birmingham at Christmas

Next on my list of the top places to go at Christmas in the UK is Birmingham . This Midlands powerhouse is packed with Christmas markets and other festive fun during the winter season.

I once took a day trip to explore the Birmingham Christmas markets . I was in awe of everything from the gift-laden chalets to the sizzling sausages and seasonal decorations throughout the city center.

From the lights on New Street to the carols in Victoria Square, there’s always a lot going on during the festive period.

For ice skaters, the Ice Skate Birmingham rink in Centenary Square is the perfect place to glide through the winter air. The views of it from the contemporary Library of Birmingham are great as well.

If you want to do this as a weekend trip from London or elsewhere, you can book a hotel in Birmingham here . There’s a wide variety of accommodation on offer in the city center.

6. Windsor Castle at Christmas

Windsor Castle is next on my list of the best places to visit at Christmas in the UK.

One of the most famous castles near London , it’s not only a great place to get into all things royal, but also the perfect place to immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit.

That’s because Windsor Castle has amazing Christmas decorations. From special exhibitions to festive garlands and twinkling lights throughout the halls, they’re always magnificent to see.

The piece de resistance is the enormous Christmas tree in St George’s Hall. It’s decorated with beautiful ornaments and pretty lights.

There are other Christmas decorations dotted throughout the State Rooms, too. These include the Semi-State Rooms, which are only open to visitors in the winter.

Special events take place at Windsor Castle during the Christmas season as well.

From themed activities around the castle to choir concerts and arts and crafts workshops, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on a Christmas day trip to Windsor Castle .

If you want to stay a night, you can find plenty of accommodation in and around Windsor and Eton. You can book a hotel in Windsor here .

7. Hever Castle at Christmas

Hever Castle is another of the top places to visit at Christmas in the UK. This moated fortress in Kent gets into the Christmas spirit each year as it offers visitors a range of festive activities and events.

Hever Castle has a themed Christmas lights trail visitors can follow through the gardens and around the lake, Christmas gifts and food in the cafes, and a Father Christmas experience.

Inside the castle, there are traditionally decorated rooms, log fires, and bright Christmas trees galore. They bring the interiors alive with festive atmosphere and magical surprises.

8. Exeter at Christmas

Exeter is one of my favorite places to stay at Christmas in the UK. Down in Devon, this cathedral city comes alive with exciting festivities every winter. I spent a night here once during the run-up to December 25th, and I had a great time.

One of the best things to do here is visit the Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market on Cathedral Green. It’s Devon’s largest festive market, and it’s worth a special trip.

The market features a labyrinth of winding lanes lined with chalets packed with handmade gifts, Christmas drinks and food, and fun decorations. There’s live entertainment for all to enjoy, and free entry to the cathedral.

Speaking of which, Exeter Cathedral does a lot for the occasion. It hosts carol services, concerts, events, and candlelight tours throughout the run-up to Christmas.

Elsewhere in the city, there are twinkling lights, festive decorations, and Christmas trees in Princesshay. Shops and restaurants go all-out with seasonal decor, and there are pop-up markets and bars throughout the city center.

If you want to follow in my footsteps, you can book a hotel in Exeter here . I stayed at the Hotel du Vin Exeter and I liked my spacious room and the restaurant. You can book a room here .

9. Belfast at Christmas

Over in Northern Ireland, Belfast is another of the best places to visit at Christmas in the UK. From markets to festive events, this city comes to life during the season.

One highlight of visiting in winter is the Belfast Christmas Market in City Hall Gardens. With games to play and chalets selling everything from food to local crafts, it has everything you need for a great day out.

An international market, there are things to eat and gifts to buy from all over the world. There are lots of countries represented, and it has a truly global feel.

In addition to the market, Belfast has great Christmas shopping, a Christmas Fayre with live performances and a Santa’s Grotto in Victoria Square, family events, and more.

If you want to take this trip, you can book a hotel in Belfast here . I’ve stayed at the Malmaison Belfast and I like its beautiful exterior and city center location. You can book a room here .

10. Winchester at Christmas

Out in Hampshire, Winchester is one of the best UK cities at Christmas. This historic place has been called ‘England’s Christmas Capital’, and the Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market is recognized as one of the best of its kind in Europe.

The historic grounds of the cathedral fill with wooden chalets each year to offer visitors and locals festive food, gifts, and fun. Twinkling lights and the sound of Christmas carols rounds out the scene. It’s a great place to see on a Winchester day trip .

The cathedral itself offers plenty for visitors at Christmastime, too. From carol concerts to Christmas services and events, it’s an ideal place to get into the seasonal spirit in the United Kingdom.

Elsewhere in Winchester, there’s great Christmas shopping, performances, lights, and events to enjoy. There’s even an annual Santa Fun Run in the heart of the city.

If you want to stay overnight, you can book a hotel in Winchester here . There are a lot of options for accommodation in and around the city center.

11. Inverness at Christmas

Underrated Inverness is another of my favorite places to visit at Christmas in the UK. The cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands, this city is a fun place to explore during the festive season.

One of the best things to do in Inverness in winter is go to the annual Christmas fairs at Eden Court. They feature seasonal food and a mix of art, fine textiles, and home accessories that make great gifts for family, friends, and loved ones.

The city also has lots of Christmas shopping, decorations, and lights to enjoy during the winter season.

If you want to stay for a night or two, you can book a hotel in Inverness here . There are plenty of options for accommodation in and around the city.

12. Manchester at Christmas

Manchester is another of the best places to visit at Christmas in the UK. In fact, it’s been called the ‘UK’s capital of Christmas’. From markets to lights and entertainment, there’s a lot going on here every year.

The annual Manchester Christmas markets are some of the best festive markets in the United Kingdom. They entertain visitors with hundreds of wooden chalets in the city’s squares.

From mulled wine and seasonal foods to fun gifts and decorations, there’s a lot to love about them.

Beyond the markets, the Winter Gardens at Piccadilly Gardens offer festive food and drinks plus music or live entertainment every night.

Add to that great shopping and decorations throughout the city center, and you’re all set for a festive visit.

If you want to make this a city break, you can book a hotel in Manchester here . I’ve stayed at the Malmaison Manchester , and I like its lively atmosphere and central location. You can book a room here .

13. Nottingham at Christmas

Next on my list of the best places to visit at Christmas in the UK is Nottingham. This city is known for everything from its festive markets to its ice skating and shopping.

Taking a Christmas day trip to Nottingham will allow you to explore the annual Winter Wonderland extravaganza in the Old Market Square.

It features everything from an ice rink to an observation wheel, bars, live entertainment, a Christmas market, and food and drink.

Elsewhere in the city you can enjoy great shopping, decorations, lights, events, and smaller Christmas markets.

If you want to stay overnight, you can book a hotel in Nottingham here . I’ve stayed at the Lace Market Hotel , and I’m a fan of the unique rooms and great location. You can book a room here .

14. Leeds at Christmas

One of the top cities in England , Leeds is another of my favorite places to go in the UK at Christmastime.

Leeds is known for shopping all year, but in the winter it’s one of the best places for Christmas shopping in the UK. From Victoria Quarter to County Arcade, the city’s famous 19th-century shopping arcades get all dressed up for the occasion.

Another draw is the Christmas markets. The Corn Exchange hosts a fun festive one. It’s a great place to pick up gifts and revel in the atmosphere.

Kirkgate Market has a special Christmas program with a pop-up Christmas market, trees, fairs, and live entertainment.

There’s an independent Winter Market at the Royal Armouries, too.

Add to that exciting shows, seasonal food and drink, traditional pubs, the Wheel of Light, ice skating, and artisan gifts, and there’s a lot to love about Leeds at Christmas.

If you want to stay overnight, you can book a hotel in Leeds here . There are lots of options for accommodation here.

15. Glasgow at Christmas

Glasgow goes all-out for Christmas every year, and it’s a great place to visit during the festive period. From markets to lights, fairs, and food, this Scottish city is hard to beat.

Christmas Fairs take over Glasgow’s main squares and offer visitors a plethora food, drinks, games, rides, and entertainment. They’re some of the main attractions in the city in the winter.

There are Christmas markets dotted throughout the city, too. They feature chalets with gifts, food, drinks, and festive cheer aplenty.

If that’s not enough, there are ice skating rinks, workshops, performances, comedy shows, and other events throughout Glasgow all season. Add to that Christmas shopping and decorations, and there’s a lot to get excited about.

If you want to take this trip, you can book a hotel in Glasgow here . I’ve stayed at the Grand Central and I like the convenient location by the train station. You can book a room here .

16. Chipping Campden at Christmas

When it comes to the best Christmas towns in the UK, Chipping Campden is hard to beat. Located in Gloucestershire, it offers the best of the beauty of the Cotswolds combined with the spirit of the season.

The annual Chipping Campden Christmas market is a treat to visit, and the Chipping Campden Christmas tree is a sight to behold. Together with the lights, the tree adds festive magic to the town throughout the winter.

There’s also a Christmas Carol Service where locals and visitors come together to sing the songs of the Yuletide season in the town square. With refreshments afterwards, it’s a great way to immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere.

It’s fun to stay in town for a night, too. You can book a hotel in Chipping Campden here . I’ve stayed at the Cotswold House Hotel and Spa and I loved its beautiful rooms and pretty garden. You can book a room here .

17. London at Christmas

For me, London is the most magical place to spend Christmas in the UK. The capital comes alive during the season with markets, ice skating , lights, performances, events , and more.

Some of my favorite things to do in London at Christmas include visiting the city’s Christmas markets , seeing the Christmas trees , standing in awe of the lights , going Christmas shopping , walking around Covent Garden at Christmas , and seeing London’s shopping arcades all dressed up for the season.

If you want to see the best of it, you can follow my London Christmas itinerary or take one of my free self-guided Christmas walks in London . They’ll show you the highlights of Christmas in London .

You can also take a Christmas walking tour, bus tour, or black cab tour in London if you want a guided experience. You can book one through GetYourGuide . They’re fun ways to see the highlights of the festive season in the city.

If you need a hotel, you can take a look at my guide to the best places to stay in London . It has my top picks for accommodation throughout the UK capital.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this list of the best places to visit at Christmas in the UK, and that it’s inspired you to get out and discover some of the most festive spots in the country.

I’m sure they’ll help you get into the seasonal spirit as much as they’ve helped me. Happy travels!

Find this post helpful? Buy me a coffee!

New here? Join thousands of others and subscribe to the A Lady in London blog via email .

Some of the links in this blog post are affiliate links. At no cost to you, I earn a small commission when you click on them and make a purchase. It doesn’t affect the way you shop, and it’s a great way to support the A Lady in London blog.

2 Comments on Lady’s 17 Best Places to Visit at Christmas in the UK

I’ve just returned from the UK. Went to York on “Black Friday” and was amazed at all the people. The Christmas market was almost standing room only. The UK is simply stunning at Christmas.

Yeah, Christmas is a popular time in the UK!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

© Copyright A Lady in London 2007 - 2024. Privacy Policy.

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Arts & Culture
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

The 10 most festive Christmas towns in the UK

From cobbled streets to chocolate box cottages, these getaways will get you in the festive mood

While the UK can’t guarantee a white Christmas, there’s something to be said for its picture-perfect towns and villages. You know the ones: those quaint spots with cobbled streets, mock-Tudor high streets, weekly farmers markets and all that good stuff. 

The best part? Throughout November and December many of these towns turn into something out of a Christmas movie, with everything from Shakespeare-themed candlelit walks and renowned light shows to festive railway rides and good old pantomimes on show. Don’t worry, we’ll spare you the dodgy panto jokes. 

RECOMMENDED: 🎄 The best places to visit at Christmas in the UK 🎅 The best   Christmas shops in the UK 🛍️ The most magical   Christmas markets in the UK 🏘️ The cosiest   winter cottages to stay in the UK

Richard Franks  is a travel writer based in Birmingham.  At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines . This guide also includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our  affiliate guidelines . 

An email you’ll actually love

Best UK towns to visit at Christmas

1.  Windsor, Berkshire

Fancy a right royal knees up this festive period? Windsor Castle’s 2023 Christmas display , between 30th November – 1st January, will mark the 675th anniversary of the Order of the Garter – England’s oldest order of chivalry; one that was founded right here in 1348. Various tree and wider castle decorations will mark both the anniversary and the recent Coronation. Windsor’s popular ice rink also returns to the town between 17th November – 7th January,  while various Christmas markets take place across the wider borough .

📍 Check out more of the best things to do in Windsor

2.  Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire

The birthplace of the world-famous Bard, William Shakespeare, is romantic at the best of times… but we think there’s few places better than here at Christmas. Not only are its cobbled streets framed with regal festive lights and decorations, his many attractions – like the Shakespeare Birthplace Museum – turn into a Tudor Christmas paradise; look out for the candlelit walks. Some 300 stalls selling local crafts and wares return at the Victorian Christmas Market in early December, but fear not for those of you who like to arrive ‘a minute too late ’ – there’s a year-round Christmas shop on Henley St.

📍 Check out the best things to do in Stratford-upon-Avon

3.  Mousehole, Cornwall

The Mousehole Harbour Lights attracts visitors from all over the UK and beyond; it’s easy to see why. Proudly celebrating its 60th year of operation in 2023, this harbour attraction features cascading hillside lights, the famous Mousehole cat and even a floating Loch Ness Monster, among other favourites. Some 10,000 bulbs adorn this pretty fishing village - which is pronounced ‘Mowzul’, by the way - with the lights on this year after dusk from December 11th to January 6th. A few boutique shops, cafes and galleries pepper the harbour surrounds, and are ideal for dipping in and out of on a crisp winter’s evening.

📍 Check out more of the best places to visit in Cornwall 🥧 Explore more of the best things to do in Cornwall

4.  Ludlow, Shropshire

It’s worth visiting Ludlow for its Ye Olde pubs, timber-framed buildings and centuries-old cathedral at any time of year… but there’s just something about a historic market town in the winter, isn’t there? On various dates throughout December, Father Christmas will be taking a break from his busy schedule to meet children at the 11th-century fortress Ludlow Castle , which overlooks both the town and the lush Shropshire countryside. The Castle will also host a winter festival across the weekend of 24th - 26th November.

📍 Check out more of the best things to do in Ludlow

5.  Oban, Argyll

Oban may be known as the ‘gateway to the isles’ but you’ll definitely want to stick around during the festive period. Its highlight is without a doubt the 10-day Oban Winter Festival , between 17th-26th November, which celebrates the town’s tight-knit, unique Scottish heritage and culture through a series of art, craft, language, game and music sessions. There’s also a family-friendly winter woodland walk planned each day and a Santa’s sleigh parade (with real reindeer) ahead of the lights switch on. After the festival, Oban remains a popular spot for Christmas shoppers, seafood lovers and whisky drinkers alike, with much of the town’s popular bars and restaurants remaining open year-round. Don’t forget your walking boots for a steep jaunt up to the iconic McCaig’s Tower, to bask in the lights from above.

📍 Check out our essential guide to Scotland

6.  Bournville, Birmingham

There’s little more synonymous with Christmas than a chocolate box village, and Bournville is (literally) that. Founded in 1901 by the Cadbury family for its factory employees, Bournville feels like it was built for Christmas. The star of the town is its famous 1948-planted Atlas Cedar tree, whose annual lights switch on attracts locals and visitors in their droves. It is undoubtedly the region’s most iconic Christmas tree. Much of the village remains the same, too: its inviting Green is flanked by its mock-Tudor independent shopping arcade, and the Cadbury factory indeed still operates. Festive events at Cadbury World include a Santa stage show, while festive-themed trinkets and treats are on sale in the gift shop.

📍 Check out more of the best things to do in Birmingham . 

7.  Llangollen, Denbighshire

Straddling the banks of the River Dee, Llangollen is a gorgeous Welsh gem well worth a winter visit – especially during its Christmas Festival, where the traditional Welsh Siôn Corn (Chimney Jack) dons his green outfit, rather than the famous red, when switching on the lights. The kids will also love the Santa Special: a two-hour journey from Llangollen to Lapland (Carrog) and back including a visit and a gift from Santa.  Over at Llangollen Wharf, adults can enjoy a four-hour luxury Christmas afternoon tea boat ride , or even join the party boat which includes a retro buffet and a DJ playing the biggest festive hits .

📍 Check out more of the best places to visit in Wales

8.  Whitby, Yorkshire

Whitby’s Christmas Festival  is back with a bang between November 17th-19th, featuring an explosive firework display, the town’s Christmas lights switch on and a number of local food, drink and gift traders. Whitby itself is draped in history and makes for an ideal pre-Christmas getaway – not least for its quirky gift emporiums and pubs. Then there’s the picturesque Harbour, the 199 Steps and Whitby Beach, which all make for a bracing winter’s walk; its overlooking ruined Gothic Whitby Abbey inspired Bram Stoker’s ‘Dracula’. In Winter, you’ll also have the nearby Saltwick Bay all to yourself, a favourite beach with fossil hunters.

📍 Check out more of the best things to do in Whitby

9.  Chipping Campden, Cotswolds

Chipping Campden – one of the UK’s best preserved market towns – is famous locally for its Christmas market, this year taking place on December 2nd and 3rd. Its historic High Street, with its Cotswold-stone buildings laid out in the 7th century by King Henry II’s close friend Hugh de Gondeville, is known for its particularly wide avenue, as it was built to be a wool trading street. Today, regular markets and indeed a Christmas-themed one sprawl beside the river and the Market Square, while an indoor fayre is held over the famed Town Hall’s two floors. Visiting this jewel of the Cotswolds at any time of year is a delight, but at Christmas? Just magical.

📍 Check out the best things to do in the Cotswolds

10.  Buxton, Derbyshire

Buxton’s historic charm comes to the fore at Christmas through its family-friendly experiences. The Victorian, Grade II listed Pavilion Gardens will this year host a variety of events including Breakfast with Santa, the Christmas Trail, and the popular Christmas Fair, while a number of Dickensian and artisan Christmas markets will also pop up on various dates in the spa town. Then there’s the famous Christmas Lights Switch-on and Lantern Parade; the Dickensian Ball, with a dress code of 1835-1901; pantomimes at the lavish Opera House; and perhaps the most unusual location for a Santa’s Grotto: the two-million-year-old limestone Poole Cavern, on the edge of town.

📍 Discover where to stay in the Peak District

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

Time Out products

• Time Out Worldwide

12 Most Magical Christmas Towns in the UK

Trying to find the best Christmas town in the UK to visit? Whether it is cosied up next to a fire, drinking mulled wine at a Christmas market, seeing dazzling lights or the food, there are some good Christmassy places to visit in the UK.

The Christmas season is perfect for a weekend break or a day trip to get in the festive spirit. These 12 winter wonderlands don’t disappoint!

Best For: Christmas Markets

Disclaimer: Hi! this post may contain affiliate links which will take you to online retailers that sell products and services. If you click on one and buy something, I may earn a commission, see my  Affiliate Disclosure  for more details.

The award-winning Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market is the largest outside Germany and Austria. Here you will find over 80 Bavarian-style wooden huts serving up the tastiest foreign delicacies such as succulent Bratwurst sausages and mouth-watering waffles with syrup.

Browse the fairy-lit stalls for unique handcrafted gifts and accessories before the children drag you to the funfair for a ride on the helter-skelter or the Victorian merry-go-round. The Birmingham Christmas markets are spread over one kilometre and cover Rotunda Square all the way to the top of New Street, then into Victoria Square, which is located outside the Town Hall and Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery.

Taking the train into Birmingham is advised during the festive period as the roads can be busy (not to mention the nightmare of finding a parking space!). New Street train station is just a few minutes walk away from the markets.

Best For: Christmas Lights

Known for being one of the busiest cities in the world, the hustle and bustle is truly magnified in London at Christmas . So if you are searching for a place with the best Christmas lights , look no further than Oxford Street!

Historically, Christmas lights were first featured in nearby Regent Street in 1954. The idea behind it was brightening up the town as it was deemed grey and miserable after the war. This idea quickly spread to neighbouring streets, and it was in 1959 that Oxford Street introduced its first display. However, it is worth noting that the first-ever display of Christmas lights was financed by Harry Selfridge, owner of the luxury Selfridges department store, which made the store stand out against competing shops on the street.

The Oxford Street switch-on is one of, if not the biggest event of the year. To add to the excitement, the display is usually turned on by a well-known celebrity. So don’t forget to take your notepad and pen for an autograph!

Check out Carnaby Street if you have time. The Christmas lights here are equally attractive and reflect the musical revolution of the sixties. Carnaby Street was known as the heart of ‘swinging London,’ which is mirrored in the aesthetics of this groovy area of the city.

Apart from the incredible display of lights, there is an abundance of fun to be had in London at Christmas. Another event worth paying a visit to is Winter Wonderland – trust us, the kids will love you for it! Bursting with attractions such as funfair rides, Santa’s Grotto, and an ice rink, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is a must-do if you are spending the festive period in London this year.

Best For: Traditional Christmas Break

Winchester is one of the most picture-perfect cities in the UK. With its ancient buildings and fascinating history, this cathedral city is a place the whole family can enjoy – particularly at Christmas!

It isn’t Christmas without a pantomime. Visit the Nutshell Theatre to see a magical performance (yet to be confirmed). With original music and unforgettable characters, a trip to the theatre followed by a festive lunch doesn’t sound like a bad idea. However, if you fancy a quieter activity, a stroll around the fairy-lit streets is just as enjoyable. Take in the stunning scenery while breathing in that fresh country air. It really doesn’t get any better than this. Or does it?

It is a crime to leave Winchester without visiting the Christmas markets dubbed one of the best in Europe. Tantalize your taste buds with walnut, and raisin Stollen washed down with a creamy gingerbread latte.

Each year, the Winchester Cathedral opens its doors to the public whereby choir members sing songs of Christmas around the ethereal-looking tree. The illuminated grounds are a sight to behold and create an air of excitement all around.

Best For: Celebrating Christmas

There is so much to see and do in the Scottish capital over the festive period; you will need a second vacation to rest!  With a jam-packed six weeks of events, Edinburgh town is the best place to celebrate Christmas, and you certainly won’t be at a loss of things to do here. Take a trip on the Big Wheel and feast your eyes on the breathtaking views of this beautiful city. If it is the adrenaline rush you’re after, then maybe the Star Flyer is more your thing. But, at 60 meters high, it’s going to be a no from us!

Santa Land is probably going to be high on your list if you have children. Located in Princes Street Garden, this wonderful event will be like visiting the North Pole itself for your young ones. If you want to find the Elves’ Workshop, then a daring journey through the Christmas Maze is required. Other attractions include an adorable market where exciting toys and games can be purchased, a festive fairground, and of course, a visit to see Santa in his grotto.

When was the last time you donned a pair of skates? Well, now is the time as the ice rink at St Andrew’s Square awaits! Surrounding the Melville Monument, the ice rink is the perfect family event to ensure you go home with some (very) unforgettable memories.

The famous Hogmanay celebrations take place towards the end of the Christmas period, where revellers take to the streets with their whistles and streamers to raise a toast to the New Year. Be prepared to feel quite delicate the next day; the Scotts know how to drink!

Best For: A Cozy Christmas

For some of us, Christmas is a time of reflection, and if you are looking for a quiet corner of the Earth to visit, Keswick may be the place for you.

The Lake District is a wonderful place to visit all year round, and at Christmas, it is simply stunning! The town of Keswick is a snug spot for a chilled-out Christmas. Take an afternoon stroll through the fairy-lit streets and explore the stores for unique festive gifts and home accessories.

The mountain views and glistening lakes are surrounded by sleepy cafes and intimate pubs, so you can meet up with friends for a casual, festive tipple. You could also take a Father Christmas cruise along Derwentwater where the children receive a gift from the man of the moment, and mum and dad get to enjoy a traditional glass of sherry and a mince pie!

Best For: A Romantic Christmas Break

Known for its outstanding architecture, Bath is one of the most beautiful cities to visit in the UK. Discover the fascinating history of this place, aptly named after its Roman-built baths.

The festive period is celebrated in style in this busy Somerset town based in the south of England. Take a stroll and explore the magic of the Christmas Light Trail. This illuminated walk will take you through Abbey Green, Kingston Parade, and Kingsmead Square, to name a few. The old Royal Mineral Water Hospital building and Bath Abbey are also illuminated, creating a real sense of festive spirit.

Many of the stunning open spaces and buildings are taken over by various arts organizations over the Christmas period. Watch out for live singing, dancing, and acting with showstopping performances from the local talent. Candlelit performances are also a firm favourite, which take place annually at the Assembly Rooms. Sit back and relax as local choirs lift your spirits with their remarkable, angelic voices.

Are you a foodie? We hope so! Wandering around Bath can be tiresome as there is so much to see. There are plenty of street food vendors to raise those blood sugar levels. How does a succulent pulled pork sandwich followed by a festive chocolate brownie sound? There are many idyllic tea rooms and snug cafes dotted around Bath, just in case you want to take a break from the cold and enjoy a good old British cup of tea!

Best For: Christmas Shopping

Manchester cannot be beaten when it comes to Christmas shopping. With various destinations to choose from, such as Manchester Arndale, The Trafford Centre, and The Lowry, you are truly spoilt for choice.

Shop ‘til you drop in Manchester city centre with big names such as Selfridges, Harvey Nichols, Reiss, Ted Baker and many more. Manchester Arndale is home to high street stores such as Next, New Look, and the Disney Store. Stop for a festive bite to eat at the Christmas markets on St Ann’s Square, where the gift hunting can resume. Here you will find many Alpine-style wooden chalets selling authentic handcrafted accessories and gifts for that special someone.

Explore the Chill Factore in Trafford to visit Santa, and why not book in for a ski session while you’re there? Hilton House, located in Manchester’s infamous Northern Quarter, takes you on a 60-minute journey retelling the story of Christmas. Santa and his Elves might just make an appearance too.

Scarborough

Best For: Celebrating Christmas By The Seaside

Located in North Yorkshire, this popular seaside resort is bursting with Christmas events for adults and children of all ages.

Visit Scarborough Sparkle for the chance to browse a selection of luxury festive gifts and delicious Christmas goodies. You will find the market at the infamous Scarborough Open Air Theatre, along with an ice rink and a funfair for the children.

Breathe in the fresh sea air by taking a walk along the wintry coastline, and don’t forget to wrap up! The average temperature for December in the UK is around 7 degrees celsius, so a hat and scarf are highly recommended!

Best For: Festive Food and Drink

Home to the undeniably delicious Bakewell Tart, the sleepy town of Bakewell lies in the Derbyshire Dales and is home to around 4000 inhabitants.

Christmas in Bakewell is full of festive cheer, and there is plenty to do for both adults and children. The local Christmas markets are bustling with various stalls selling sizzling Austrian sausages and steaming mugs of mulled wine. Handmade Yuletide gifts and wooden toys for children can also be purchased.

Breakfast with Santa is hosted at The Wheatsheaf Hotel, where you can dine with the man himself before receiving a Christmas gift. Advance bookings are required for this event, so book early to avoid disappointment. Discover the magic of this town by taking a walk under the twinkling fairy lights that line each street. Why not pop into a local bakery for a fresh, doughy treat paired with a festive hot drink of your choice.

The children will love the local funfair with suitable rides for the very young. Prepare yourselves for a surprise visit from characters such as Anna from Frozen, Minnie and Mickey Mouse, and the Christmas-hating fool himself, The Grinch! The air is filled daily with seasonal music from local musical bands, and if you fancy doing a bit of Christmas shopping, why not pay a visit to the local craft fair for some authentic handmade goods.

There is plenty to see and do in Bakewell with its ancient courtyards, historic buildings, and various cosy cafes and intimate restaurants. If you are looking to spend some time alone with your family this Christmas, Bakewell may be the place for you!

Best For: Endless Festive Fun In The Most Magical Town

Visit Harrogate this Christmas for a fun-filled family getaway. Indulge in festive treats while visiting countless attractions for that perfect break away from reality. Harrogate is the most magical place to spend Christmas, and here are the reasons why.

Shopping in Harrogate is like no other with its vast array of independent shops.  Frosted store windows display the finest of Yuletide gifts for the perfect present, and there are also several Christmas fairs and markets nearby. Ripley Christmas Fair is just a short, four-mile drive away. Here you will find over 150 stalls selling jewellery and accessories along with tasty baked goods and refreshments.

Discover the magical winter wonderland at nearby Stockeld Park , where the popular Enchanted Forest is blanketed with animated installations, festive music, and mesmerizing twinkling lights. The children will love it at Mother Shipton’s Cave, where they can write a letter to Santa and work as an elf by getting creative and making some traditional wooden toys.

Check out Betty’s Tea Room for a truly traditional afternoon tea with jam-filled pastries and cream tea. Treat yourself to a mince pie or two; you are on vacation after all! Clocktower at Rudding Park is the place to go if you fancy dining in style. This 2 AA rosette restaurant serves only the finest menus, so sip a festive glass of fizz under the breathtaking pink chandelier and relax!

Best For: A Relaxing Christmas

Located in the centre of the Peak District, the picture-perfect town of Buxton transforms into a place of magic and enchantment over the festive period. Buxton is deemed England’s highest town at 1,000 feet, so blow away the cobwebs by taking a walk to see the stunning mountainous sights and explore this beautiful spa town.

Relax with a coffee and a book in one of the many snug little cafes or enjoy a well-deserved festive tipple in a cosy, intimate pub. Take a candlelit tour of Haddon Hall or visit the Mercatum Winter Artisan Markets to browse, shop, and enjoy the vast array of delicious food, drinks, and gifts.

Best For: Most Scenic Town To Celebrate Christmas

This idyllic seaside town is the best place to celebrate Christmas based on its plethora of stunning panoramic views. Known for its varied culture and history, the town of Whitby is a tourist hotspot and caters to all ages.

Witness the switching on of the Christmas lights (usually turned on by the town mayor), supported by local performers and musicians. The Whitby Christmas Festival is back with a bang this year, having been cancelled in 2020 due to the pandemic. Local artists and designers display their latest pieces available to purchase, and the tasty food outlet can’t be ignored. Any excuse to indulge!

This year, an incredible drone display awaits judgment and is the first time Whitby is testing out this new and emerging technology. Other events include a Street Theatre installation consisting of colourful projections that take place on a 12 meter-high arch. Aerial artists will be seen taking to the arch for some impressive, jaw-dropping performances.  Get your tickets booked ASAP!

Kat Hi, I'm Kat, an Australian that moved to London in 2013 to start a  new adventure.  What a roller-coaster that was! I love helping others move to the UK  and people  explore the world ! I’d be honoured if you’d say, “Thanks!” with a £3 coffee on Ko-fi.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

10 Most Magical Places to Go at Christmas in the UK

Written by, Bojana Atanasovska

Updated November, 26, 2021

For many, Christmas is a time of wonder, excitement, new opportunities, and brilliant decorations. While most create this winter wonderland at home, some choose to travel to far-off places that offer such marvels. You can find a myriad of fantastic places to go at Christmas in the UK , but we’ve compiled a list of the absolute best ones.

Keep reading to learn more about them!

Top 10 Christmassy Places to Visit in the UK

In 2019, over 50% of Brits said they were spending Christmas at home, which was an foreseeable change due to the pandemic. Regardless of which of the following enchanting destinations you choose for your festive escapade, you’ll definitely have a blast.

Bath, Somerset

We begin our list with arguably the best place to spend Christmas in the UK : Somerset’s Bath—the city with one of the UK’s best Christmas markets . Unfortunately, the physical Bath Christmas market is not proceeding as planned in 2021 due to Covid-19 restrictions.

However, visitors can still enjoy other festive activities to get in the Christmas mood despite the market’s cancellation. For example, the city’s iconic light trail will take you through Bath’s most symbolic landmarks. The world-renowned Museum of the Moon will also make an appearance in the Bath Abbey for a most wonderful experience.

From wandering among Abbey Quarter’s artisan stalls to skating, playing Christmassy golf, or enjoying a warm beverage in the Alpine Lodge, Bath offers you one of the best Christmas trips in the UK . Of course, when you grow tired and hungry, you can always get some festive treats and rest while enjoying the city-wide entertainment programme.

• Bath accommodation
• Bath events

Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh’s Christmas is set to return in full splendour in 2021. But why is Scotland’s capital one of the best places in the UK for Christmas fun? Well, aside from its Christmas market that will leave you gasping in wonder, this city offers many holiday events and attractions for festive fun without age restrictions.

The entirety of the city will be decorated in the most magnificent decorations that will enhance its Christmas-fueled activities like the Tree Maze, the ice skating rink, the Star Flyer, the Waltzers and much more! Edinburgh is even one of the best places to stay at Christmas with children with family-friendly attractions such as the Santa Land and Santa’s Grotto.

Note that the Edinburgh festive season lasts for six weeks until 4th January 2022, so you’ll have plenty of time to see all of it.

• Edinburgh accommodation
• Edinburgh events
• Edinburgh Christmas events

York, Yorkshire

York, one of the best Christmas towns in the UK , is putting the most cheerful holiday festival year after year. From chocolate making workshops to the York Minster Christmas Tree Festival, this particular Christmas destination lights up the festive cheer like no other place in the UK.

To fully experience York’s Christmas, you first have to visit the St. Nicholas Fair—the city’s immensely popular holiday market. Then, after enjoying a joyful stroll among its lovely chalets, you can partake in any number of delicious foods and warm drinks while considering which engaging activity to try out next.

Whether you decide to take your family to Narnia or visit a romantic candlelit concert with your significant other, York allows you to experience a fabulous Christmas break in the UK . In case you have some more time to spare, you can choose from a plethora of other merry activities, including visits to several exhibitions, festivals, and musical events.

• York accommodation
• York events

London, England

As the country’s capital, London has a reputation to uphold as one of most Christmassy places to visit in the UK . Even outside of the holiday season, London is one of the world’s most visited cities, so it comes as no shock that it’s the Mecca of Christmas destinations.

To begin with, you must visit Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland—one of the biggest and most varied Christmas markets in the country. To fully embrace its festive spirit, browse through sits charming chalets, skate to live music, or gasp at the acrobatic feats of its magnificent circus.

Even if you can easily spend a whole day in Hyde Park, you should still see more of what London has to offer since it’s one of the best places to go for Christmas in England . While walking the city’s sparkling streets, you’ll discover anything from Warner Bros’ Hogwarts studio to The Nutcracker at the Royal Opera House.

What better place to do your Christmas shopping too than London—arguably the most popular shopping destination in the world. You would need a whole day just to visit all the shopping hotspots. So if you decide to visit London for Christmas, make sure you find enough time to explore all the wonders it hides.

• London accomodation
• London events

The Highlands, Scotland

How does Christmas look like in Scotland’s magical Highlands? Well, Nessie spends all her Christmases there, so it should be fantastic, right? Well, apart from the cheery mythical monsters, the Highlands epitomise cosy winter nights under a thick blanket with a warm drink in your hand. With their snow-capped tops, the Highlands are by far one of the best Christmas getaways in the UK .

These historic mountains are a naturally occurring winter wonderland , with breathtakingly picturesque sceneries, the island’s freshest air, and excellent hotels that offer you the time of your life. There, you can tour the region’s famous trails, visit Loch Ness, knit by cosy fireplaces, and try out as many whiskies as you can!

If you need a break from this outdoors Christmas in Britain , you can always visit Inverness—the Highlands’ capital, which is marvellously decorated and full of wonders during Christmastime.

• The Highlands accommodation
• The Highlands events

Mousehole, Cornwall

Why are we adding this small Cornish fishing port to our list of the best places to visit in the UK at Christmas ? Well, this seaside village is the home to one of the country’s most spectacular Christmas lights displays.

Mousehole’s astonishing light show has been beautifying its harbour with an array of illuminated shapes and colours every Christmas since 1963. The lights are switched on as soon as December comes, and the installation is open to visitors until early January. 

After 2020’s cancellation due to pandemic-induced financial difficulties, Mousehole is bringing back its famed Christmas lights display in full splendour. However, the organisers will gradually light up the displays instead of holding an official switch-on ceremony to avoid large crowd congregations.

Once the initial amazement of this volunteer installation wears off, you can begin enjoying a more romantic and quieter Christmas in this idyllic seaport. Grab a tasty bite from its numerous food stalls, enjoy the village choir, or walk the luminous quayside. Despite being one of the cheap Christmas destinations in the UK, Mousehole still has plenty to offer.

• Mousehole accomodation
• Mousehole events

Oxford, Oxfordshire

If you are wondering where to spend Christmas in the UK in 2021 , how about Oxford? Surely a city with hundreds of years of colourful history knows how to organise a festive and magic-filled holiday.

Under its spire-punctured sky, Oxford welcomes you amid beautiful university buildings, fantastic shops, and festive attractions , all decorated with the most brilliant Christmas lights. You can also do some shopping at the Clarendon Centre and Westgate Oxford or explore some indie shops at the Covered Market. 

Once you get something incredible for your loved ones, visit the city’s world-class museums and attractions, such as the Story Museum or the Oxford Castle and Prison, or even grab a bite to eat and wash it down with a hot wintry drink.

• Oxford accommodation
• Oxford events

Birmingham, West Midlands

Suppose you are still looking for places to visit in the UK in December . In that case, Birmingham is worth considering by virtue of its fantastic Christmas market, as well as the plethora of other events and attractions.

Once you begin to unwrap 2021’s Christmas in Birmingham , you’ll be astounded by its variety of pantomime productions, trails, ice rinks , grottos, displays, shops, and much more. For instance, you can attend a lovely Christmas concert at Symphony Hall or visit the Enchanted Gardens. Then, when you grow hungry, you can stop for festive afternoon tea at The Edgbaston or visit Marco Pierre’s skyline restaurant on the top of The Cube building.

If you’re looking to do some shopping as the perfect ending to a day full of wonders, explore the famous Bullring & Grand Central mall or maybe step into the famed Jewellery Quarter. As you see, Birmingham has a bit for everyone, making it one of the best Christmas trips in the UK .

• Birmingham accommodation
• Birmingham events

Clovelly, North Devon

Speaking of the best Christmas holiday ideas in the UK , have you looked at Clovelly?

This scenic fishing village in North Devon is one of the most charming places you could visit in the UK, especially during Christmas! This unique little UK corner has always been privately owned (even by the Queen), which preserved its magical atmosphere.

Located on a 400-foot cliff, Clovelly’s steep cobbled streets run through flower-covered cottages and picturesque little corners that have lured poets and artists for centuries. This bewitching hamlet welcomes visitors throughout the year, but it truly shines (figuratively and literally) during Christmastime as the most enchanting place for a Christmas break in the UK .

The winter holidays are a fairytale come true in Clovelly. After the grand switch-on in the afternoon, a local brass band paves the way for a choir-led procession down its cobbled streets to the harbour. There, visitors will enjoy a feast with a hog roast, hot dogs, and other Christmassy delights. The spectacle is finally topped off with a carol service and fireworks .

• Clovelly accommodation
• Clovelly events

Nottingham, Nottinghamshire

Last but not least, enter Nottingham: full of wonder, artisan boutiques, luminous events, warm and cosy pubs, and bustling markets—a recipe for one of the best Christmas towns in the UK .

For 2021’s winter holidays, the city council decided to put up a 60-foot Christmas tree as the focal point of the city’s joyful events. Nottingham is also placing an enormous observation wheel, so visitors gaze into the shimmering lights from a 33 m height.

If you’re not one for heights, enjoy a warm beverage in the new Après Ski themed pop-up bar or ride the colourful carousel in the main square. You can even take your family to the Christmas village to have festive fun under its glass igloos.

Make sure to find the time to thoroughly explore the centre’s Christmas market and taste all the delicious wintry treats found within.

• Nottingham accommodation 
• Nottingham events

Before You Pack Your Suitcase

Enjoying a very merry time with your friends and family is the essence of Christmas . By travelling somewhere more festive, you can make that experience even more magical. We hope our list of the best places to go at Christmas in the UK has inspired you to pack your winter clothes and have a jolly good time in another cosy UK corner!

by Bojana Atanasovska

Bojana is my name and writing is my game. I am a content writer from Bitola who is always interested in the latest research in almost all areas of life. I have a Bachelor’s degree in English literature and a perfectionist character, both of which help me find the most accurate data and information available. Although I have my head stuck in studies and reports most of the time, I still have a bit of free time during which I enjoy knitting and watching classic 90’s Disney movies.

Related Posts

• Why Am I Blocked on TikTok? A Safety Guide for 2023
• How Long Can a Reel Be on Instagram? A 2023 Creator’s Guide
• Instagram Restrict Vs Block: Which One to Use?
• How to Contact TikTok in 2023? The Complete Support Guide!
• What Is a Snap Score in 2023, and Does Your Snap Score Increase with Chats?

Accessibility Links

16 best family-friendly things to do at Christmas in the UK

From german-style christmas markets to rides on festive steam trains, we’ve got plenty of ideas to keep you and your family entertained over the festive period – and all in britain.

E very year, it’s guaranteed that a story pops up in the news of a winter attraction that went wrong — where customers promised a snow-covered fairytale full of reindeer and elves were greeted with a damp, empty field and a burger van. They may grab the headlines, but these are very much an exception to the rule: Britain is packed full of top-quality festive events that work their magic on every generation and children of all ages.

We’ve compiled our favourite attractions and activities the length and breadth of Britain — from the town devoted to celebrating in traditional Dickensian style to the city that’s built a winter wonderland right in its centre.

Main photo: Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market (Getty Images)

1. Enchanted Christmas at Westonbirt National Arboretum, Gloucestershire

There’s something particularly magical about a forest in winter, even without a dusting of snow, and Westonbirt National Arboretum takes things up a notch with its Enchanted Christmas experience.

From late November , a mile-long illuminated trail opens on the 600-acre site, with light displays, sculptures and woodland characters making an appearance en route. This year’s theme is “Search for the Lost Reindeer”, and young visitors are encouraged to look for clues among the trees in an attempt to reunite Rudolf and chums with Father Christmas. There are food and drinks stalls and fairground rides at either end of the trail. Kids might also like tracking down the Gruffalo statues in the Old Arboretum.

Advertisement

Where to stay The Holford Arms, a couple of miles away, has B&B rooms sleeping up to four, as well as heated glamping chalets sleeping five.

• Best Christmas light trails in the UK

2. Dickensian Christmas, Rochester, Kent

Christmas and Charles Dickens go together like turkey and stuffing, so you’re guaranteed an extra festive skip in your step if you head to Rochester and its Dickens-themed celebrations.

From late November, the castle gardens turn into a Christmas market , complete with Bavarian food village and fun fair, but the highlight on the historic town’s holiday calendar takes place over the first weekend of December . The action moves to the high street, with parades, costumed characters from Dickens’ novels, carol concerts and a mistletoe ball, with all celebrants encouraged to dress in Dickensian fancy dress. If you miss out, there’s still plenty of festive cheer over December, including a Beauty and the Beast pantomime and interactive theatre and games for smaller kids.

Where to stay Centrally located, comfortable Trivelles Rochester has good room options for families.

• Best hotels in Kent

3. Christmas Afternoon Tea Bus Tour, London

Afternoon tea already has that hint of “special” needed for a festive day out, but add in a trip on a classic London bus, and you may feel that all your Christmases have come at once. Brigit’s Bakery runs Christmas Lights tours on its converted Routemaster buses, trundling through central London for 90 minutes and making a special diversion along Regent’s Street to see the lights.

You may be too transfixed by the tea to notice though: among the many delights likely to pile up on your plate are turkey finger sandwiches, salmon pretzels, chocolate cupcakes topped with snowflakes, and Christmas tree macaroons. Children will be happy to wash it down with mugs of hot chocolate, but adults have the option to add sparkling wine or champagne to their order.

Where to stay There’s the option to add extra beds for free to rooms at the Residence Victoria, and each comes with a mini kitchen.

• Best luxury hotels in London

4. Christmas carols at the Royal Albert Hall, London

If Christmas isn’t Christmas until you’ve belted out “O come let us adore him” at the top of your lungs, check out the festive events at the Royal Albert Hall. A highlight is the carol concerts, with everyone joining in (and the wearing of Christmas jumpers encouraged). There’s plenty of other things on the calendar, including big-band orchestras, gospel choirs and performances of The Nutcracker and The Muppet Christmas Carol , as well as stories in Father Christmas’s grotto and a musical adventure specifically aimed at younger kids. It’s a great option for a multi-generational Christmas day out, particularly as the rides, entertainment and food stalls of Winter Wonderland are a short walk away across Hyde Park.

Where to stay The Royal Garden Hotel is ten minutes away and has family rooms.

• Best things to do in London

5. Edinburgh’s Christmas, Edinburgh

Hogmanay steals all the attention in Edinburgh over the holiday season, but it’s well worth travelling to the Scottish capital from mid-November for some traditional pre-Christmas fun, too. At sites across the city, expect to find fairground rides aimed at all age groups, elves workshops, Santa’s Grotto, an ice rink and a myriad of food and craft markets. The famous castle is also given the festive treatment via a spectacular light installation. Edinburgh looks pretty magical at any time of year, but is especially charming on a cold winter’s afternoon, with the streets lit up and Christmas decorations up in the shops.

Where to stay The Courtyard by Marriott has family rooms, and its restaurant serves burgers, fish and chips and pizza among child-friendly options.

• Best places to stay in Edinburgh • Best things to do in Edinburgh at Christmas

6. Santa Express, North Yorkshire

Any child — and quite a few adults — who has watched the animated film The Polar Express will be hoping their journey on Yorkshire ’s heritage steam train will end at the North Pole, but they’ll just have to make do with Pickering. Throughout December, the North Yorkshire Moors Railway runs Santa specials on the hour-long train trip to/from Grosmont station, with Father Christmas putting in an appearance and dispensing gifts to every child (checking first that they’ve been good), and a merry band of elves wandering the carriages to chat to passengers and tell stories. If you’re especially lucky, a covering of snow on the moors outside will add to the festive atmosphere.

Where to stay The White Swan Inn is a lovely place to stay in Pickering, with sofa beds and interconnected rooms making it ideal for families.

• Best hotels in Yorkshire • Best Christmas train rides in the UK

7. The Lanterns at Chester Zoo, Cheshire

From mid-November, Chester Zoo will be opening its gates after hours for its annual Christmas event. The Lanterns transforms the zoo into an enchanted kingdom, with extraordinary, life-sized animal sculptures and costumed performers drawing visitors along an illuminated trail and into different worlds. The spectacle wouldn’t be complete without an appearance from Father Christmas himself — expect him to be accompanied on his sleigh by reindeer sculptures.

Where to stay Oddfellows in nearby Chester is a fun design hotel with family rooms and apartments available.

• Best kid and toddler-friendly hotels in the UK

8. Father Christmas hunt in Polesden Lacey, Hampshire

For traditional Christmas atmosphere, with lights twinkling on the trees and the smell of oranges and cinnamon hanging in the air, there’s no beating a National Trust property, and Polesden Lacey is the cream of the crop. The Edwardian house is decorated in full festive splendour. In the grounds, there are two reindeer to meet and feed, as well as an immersive experience to find Father Christmas in the woods and a winter trail with Percy the Park Keeper. It’s obligatory that every visit ends with mince pies in the café.

Where to stay The stylish Queen’s Head 11 miles away has family rooms and a kids’ menu.

• Festive Christmas market cruises in Europe

9. Ice-skating in Bath

Practise your arabesques, flips and backspins — or just try not to fall over — at Bath ’s winter ice rink in the grounds of the Royal Victoria Park. Families are well catered for here, with discounted tickets, toddler sessions and skater aids available. Once you’ve finished swooshing, rink-side Mogul’s Alpine Bar, decorated like a classic ski lodge, is a good place to warm up with a hot chocolate or mulled wine, and kid-friendly meals such as pizza and churros. You also have the choice to try a less traditional winter sport in the park — there’s a glow-in-the-dark crazy golf course next door, with 18 fairy-lit holes to tackle.

Where to stay No 15 Great Pulteney is a beautifully decorated townhouse with family rooms in central Bath.

• Best things to do in Bath

10. Frankfurt Christmas Market, Birmingham

The Christmas Market was born in Germany in the 15th century and their modern-day versions are still the pinnacle of the form — so it’s no wonder Birmingham bases its annual market on the original and the best. Taking over the city centre from early November, the Frankfurt Christmas Market is the largest outside of central Europe, and is an impressive sight, with plenty of decorated stalls selling crafts, toys and other gifts as well as traditional German food and drink, including gingerbread hearts and glühwein. The stalls on Victoria Square are looked over by an impressive Christmas tree, and there’s also a fairground, big wheel and ice-rink to entertain.

Where to stay The Radisson Blu is in the city centre and has interconnected family rooms.

• Best hotels in Birmingham

• Best UK Christmas markets

11. Winter Wonderland, Cardiff

The festive entertainment that is Winter Wonderland comes to Cardiff at two central sites, on the lawns of City Hall and in the grounds of the castle. It’s a great choice for families with teenage kids, with plenty of funfair rides such as dodgems, swing rides and a big wheel to get the adrenaline up a bit. Multiple food stalls cater to most tastes, from standards such as burgers to more unusual offerings such as Yorkshire pudding wraps and toasted marshmallows. Elsewhere, there’s an ice rink, with skate aids for little ones, plus an ice walk — a skateable trail leading around the castle grounds. When you’re done roaming, the ski lodge is a good place to settle in and warm up.

Where to stay The Clayton Hotel is a ten-minute walk away and has good room options for families.

• Best hotels in Cardiff

• Best things to do in Cardiff

12. Christmas at Legoland, Windsor

If all that’s missing from your family’s Christmas is a model of Santa Claus made from thousands of tiny red and white bricks, a 33-foot-tall Lego Christmas tree and a pantomime performed by Duplo puppets, step into the alternative universe of Legoland Windsor. Many of the existing attractions of the park have been made festive, with the addition of fairy lights and a dusting of snow on the trees, and there are Christmas-themed activities to join, too. A real human version of Santa also travels around the park in his sleigh, dispensing gifts; he can be visited in his log cabin for an extra fee.

Where to stay Legoland has a hotel right in the resort; kids will love the themed rooms and pool. Book the Festive Family Package for extra perks.

• What to do in Windsor

13. The Snowman, Manchester

If you’d like to guarantee waking up on Christmas morning with an ear-worm of Walking in the Air , book tickets to the screening of Raymond Briggs’ classic The Snowman . At Manchester’s Bridgewater Hall, the score is played live by the city’s symphony orchestra, the Hallé. The film is shown only for a few days; if you miss out, the orchestra has plenty of other special performances throughout December, including an all-singing, all-dancing family concert, and traditional carols. Once you’ve hummed along to a few tunes, hop on a tram or bus north for ten minutes to Piccadilly Gardens and Manchester’s Christmas Market.

Where to stay The stylish Kimpton Clocktower is close to the Bridgewater; it has family packages and interconnecting rooms, and kids under 12 stay free.

• Best things to do in Manchester at Christmas

14. Christmas at Paulton’s, Hampshire

Home to Peppa Pig World, Paulton’s in the New Forest does not do Christmas by halves. It’s a terrific option for families with younger kids. The theme park is decorated in festive style, with illuminations and decorations at every turn. There’s a musical Christmas tree that bursts into life every 15 minutes, and the chance to meet various characters as you explore, including Frosty the Snowman, Rudolf the Reindeer, and George and Peppa in their winter outfits. The Christmas shows are a highlight, with Santa’s Christmas Wish Show! and Santa’s Storytime likely to go down well with any little ones.

Where to stay The Holiday Inn Express Southampton has interconnecting rooms, sofa beds and roll-away mattresses. Ask about free entry to Paulton’s on your second day with your booking.

• Best Christmas trees in the UK

15. Hogwarts in the Snow, Leavesden

It’s hard to get more magical than a visit to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter during the Christmas season. It is the Wizarding World after all. All of the film sets on display are given a festive makeover as part of Hogwarts in the Snow, whether that’s glittering ornaments or a dusting of snow. It’s also a chance to see some seasonal behind-the-scenes extras, like how dressers stage Christmas scenes or use special effects to create fire.

Where to stay Jurys Inn London Watford has family rooms with public transport options nearby for getting to Warner Bros. Studio Tour London.

16. Christmas at Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire

Blenheim Palace’s annual Christmas event is a bit of an extravaganza — but then again, you wouldn’t expect anything less of this fine stately home. You have the option of doing a few different things here, some of which are ticketed separately. Inside the main building there’s a story trail where each room is staged to tell a different chapter of a festive story. The extensive grounds, meanwhile, are brought to life through an illuminated light trail set to music. There are fairground rides, food and drink stalls and gift chalets in the main courtyard as well.

Where to stay Combine it with a visit to Oxford by staying at the centrally-located Randolph Hotel by Graduate, where adjoining rooms are available for families.

Take me there

Looking to go on a Christmas break but yet to book your trip? Here are the best hotels from Mr & Mrs Smith and Expedia .

Sign up for the Times Travel Newsletter here .

Related articles

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

8 Charming Villages Perfect For A Cozy Christmas In The UK

• Activities and Interests
• Destinations
• Holiday Travel
• Seasonal Travel
• United Kingdom

While the big UK cities offer ice rinks and sprawling Christmas markets you can get lost in, there’s something cozier, more intimate, about villages in the UK at Christmas. Cozy village pubs have a real fire burning in the grate and Christmas trees that fill the old rooms with the scent of pine.

Villagers get together to organize carol singing and lantern parades, and the village green sports a large fern tree that’s decorated with lights and tinsel. UK villages at Christmas are magical winter wonderland places to be. There are so many villages up and down the UK that are great places to be at Christmas, but here’s my pick of the best ones.

1. Mousehole

The coastal village of Mousehole in Cornwall is beautiful all year round, but it really becomes something special at Christmas. The harbor lights are famous throughout the UK for being spectacular and unusual. The lights at Mousehole began in 1963 and have become bigger and more impressive year after year. The entire harbor is lit in the shapes of whales and serpents, Christmas trees, and stars.

Lanterns hang from boat to boat, bobbing on the winter sea, and the cottages by the water all join in and trim up their houses in cozy Christmas style. The switch-on of the lights takes place in mid-December and is accompanied by the local male choir singing Christmas carols along with the local brass band. As a backdrop to this wonderful display of Christmas cheer, a 150-foot sign on the hillside welcomes everyone into Mousehole with a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Where To Stay

Mariner’s Cottage is a traditional old fisherman’s cottage that has perfect views over the harbor and out to sea. You can watch the lights from the windows of the cottage and stroll along to see them at the harbor. Then head back to the cottage for a cozy evening.

The switch-on of the lights is very popular and it gets very busy. If you’re driving into Mousehole for this event, it’s unlikely you’ll find anywhere to park. Instead, drive to nearby Penzance and get the park-and-ride bus from there.

2. Clearwell

Gloucestershire.

The village of Clearwell has something a little more unusual in store for visitors at Christmas. For more than 4,500 years, the caves at Clearwell have been mined for ore and stone, and though the village’s “freeminers” are still entitled to mine here, the caves are now more of a tourist attraction. If you visit the caves at Christmastime, you’ll find they are transformed into a kind of grotto.

As you go underground, you can enjoy the fairy lights strewn around the cavern, and children can meet Santa. This is a large series of caves and there’s even a small Christmas market inside, and a café serving hot chocolate and Christmassy treats. This is a real underground mine, and some of the steps are uneven and can be slippery. There are handrails to guide you down, but this isn’t accessible to wheelchairs and isn’t suitable for anyone with walking difficulties.

A stay at Tudor Farmhouse delivers a traditional Christmas full of mince pies, mulled wine, and a local brass band. Visitors can stay over the entire Christmas period and enjoy Christmas dinner at the hotel, a festive winter walk, and champagne with a Christmassy taster menu the next day.

The village of Shere in Surrey is so Christmassy it was used as the location for the movie The Holiday . This is where Cameron Diaz spent the holidays in “that” cottage when she house-swapped with Kate Winslet. And this is also where she met up with Jude Law in the pub, The White Horse. But Shere is much more than a movie set.

Visitors can join Christmas carols in the village square, where the trees are strewn with fairy lights and the small shops are transformed into grottos. You can have Christmas dinner at The White Horse and imagine you’re in a Christmas movie, and nearby is the start of the cycling and walking route, Christmas Pie Trail, which begins with a Christmas pie motif on the starting post.

Northumberland

Craster is a small fishing village on the coast of Northumberland, mostly unspoiled and still retaining its old-world charm. A visit to Craster at Christmastime is a real “get away from it all” trip. This is a quiet and quite remote place, with the waves crashing against the rocks, a sea breeze, and old lanes and cottages. If you like your Christmas quiet and private, this is the place to go.

A walk along to the ruined Dunstanburgh Castle is dramatic in wintertime, and if you’re lucky enough to get a dusting of snow it’s very atmospheric. The cottages along the harbor are trimmed with Christmas lights, and the pubs offer a warm fire and real ale. This is definitely one for those people who like their Christmas traditional, cozy, and quiet.

Middlerigg is a traditional Craster cottage with three bedrooms, so it easily caters to your family or friends over the festive period. It’s perfectly positioned to look out over the harbor, while being set on the hill a little way up, so not too close to the waves.

5. Tarporley

Tarporley in Cheshire is picture-perfect all year round, but at Christmas, its old streets and narrow lanes turn into a wonderland of traditional Christmas activities with an array of lights and decorations. The village has a Victorian Christmas feel to it with a small Christmas market and trees adorned with lights and ornaments.

You can meet real reindeer in nearby woodland, brass bands play in the village, and there’s a gingerbread house where children can post letters to Santa, who’ll be along nearer to Christmas day to meet children and hand out presents. The community comes together to make all this happen, and everyone joins in with carol singing.

At the historic coaching inn, The Swan , you can take part in their festive “Swanderland,” a program of Christmassy events through November and December that includes quizzes, lunches, wreath making, and a Christmas market. This is a classic village inn that’s been offering a welcome stay to visitors for over 400 years.

6. Bray On Thames

The village of Bray on Thames, located just 40 minutes outside of London, makes for a wonderful, cozy Christmas destination. With a 3-mile-long frontage on the Thames, visitors can stroll the streets of Bray by foot to see the riverbank cottages decorated with twinkling lights and garlands, browse through Christmas markets and shops, and ice skate at Alexandra Gardens.

Monkey Island Estate has a history dating back 800 years and has seen monks, royalty, aristocrats, and a host of famous writers visit and stay. Monkey Island is surrounded by seven acres of land and is accessible only by footbridge, boat, or helicopter, giving it a real Christmas escape feel. If you have a large group with you, you can hire out the Marlborough Ballroom for a private festive party.

7. Castleton

A place of Christmas pilgrimage for those in the area and for people from further afield, Castleton is a village well known for how Christmassy it is come November. The lights are switched on this month, and the village becomes a place of cozy streets with the small traditional shops all trimming their windows with lights and decorations. Along the street outside, every cottage, shop, and pub has a Christmas tree lit with brightly colored fairy lights outside its door. There’s also Santa’s grotto in the village and a horse-drawn cart that Santa rides through the streets, inviting visitors to hop on board and take a ride on his sleigh.

Castleton is so famous for its Christmas lights and cozy Christmas feel that it does get very busy. If you want to be sure you can park and wander the streets without the crowds, come early in November when the lights have just been switched on.

For a truly traditional English Christmas, visit the village of Dunster in Somerset at the beginning of December and experience “ Dunster by Candlelight .” This is when the entire village — it seems — parades through the streets, holding paper lanterns and carrying rows of glass-lit lanterns, each holding a lit candle inside, that are hooked onto the old lantern posts around the village.

The parade ends in a fairground festival gathering where amusements, drinks stalls, and hot food are all laid out for everyone to enjoy. Circus performers juggle with fire, and puppet shows spring up around the square. Choirs sing carols and Santa arrives with gifts for the children. If I had to pick, I’d say Dunster is just about the most Christmassy village in the whole of the UK!

For more on travel in the holiday travel , explore these articles:

• Our 8 Favorite International Cities To Visit During The Holidays
• 13 Must-Try European Christmas Foods
• My 4 Favorite Italian Christmas Traditions

Travel writer, author, and playwright, Samantha loves historic buildings, quirky hotels, woodland walks and literary trails, specializing in food and drink, luxury travel, retreats, spas, and anything arts based. Samantha is based in Yorkshire, the UK, where she lives with her artist partner. Learn more on her website .

Select language

What are you looking for.

Brigit’s Afternoon Tea Ltd

Britain's festive experiences

Get stuck into the festive season with Christmas experiences in Britain that are set to up the jolly antics. Pop on your skates for a glide at an ice rink or discover a hidden world of Christmassy grottos. Take a wintery walk through illuminated woodland trails and marvel at the Christmas Lights in London. Visit all-out Christmas displays across the UK and head Christmas shopping at Selfridges and Fortnum and Mason. There’s no better place to be than Britain for atmospheric Christmas experiences in 2023.

Getty Images/Betsie Van Der Meer

Trafalgar square, London, England

Christmas trees and carols in Trafalgar Square

London’s main  Christmas tree stands in Trafalgar Square , and has a charming history. It’s presented as a gift each year by the Norwegian city of Oslo in return for British support during the Second World War and has appeared in the square every year since 1947. It’s absolutely enormous and is something of a Christmas focal point just next to London’s shopping centres. On the first Thursday in December there’s a grand tree lighting ceremony which is extremely popular. This is the place to come to hear traditional Christmas carols, which are often sung by choirs gathered around the tree itself.

Leeds Castle

Maidstone, England

A Narnia Christmas at Leeds Castle

Step into the magical winter wonderland of Narnia as C.S Lewis’ fictional “The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe” comes to life this Christmas. Push your way through the magical wardrobe to begin your very own Narnia adventure. Meet the book’s beloved characters and explore the snowy woodland, all without even leaving the castle walls! Have a go on the White Witch’s sleigh and look out for Father Christmas.

VisitBritain/Rama Knight

London, England

London's Christmas Lights

From Covent Garden to Kew, Carnaby Street to Oxford Street and more, London’s Christmas lights are world famous. Embrace the spirit of Christmas as you walk through spectacular Christmas light displays in the city from November through to early New Year. 

Leftfield Images

Hampton Court Palace, London

Christmas at Hampton Court Palace

Imagine yourself putting on your skates and gliding around outside one of London’s most iconic Tudor buildings. This winter, see the former home of King Henry VIII transform into a wintery wonderland of colourful lights, and icy adventure as you take to the Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink. For an indulgent Christmas treat, kick back and relax at the on-site café and bar, whether it’s a warming sweet hot chocolate or a cheeky tipple of mulled wine it’s sure to bring the festive spirit out in you.

Christmas experience

Christmas at fortnum & mason.

This luxury food seller's window comes alive at Christmas, from enchanted forests to scenes from fairy tales – this is one London shop window not to be missed!

Fortnum & Mason, London, England

Christmas at Blenheim Palace

See the Palace rooms transform into a fantasy Sleeping Beauty world, with icy snowflakes and wintery wonderlands.

Blenheim Palace/Sony Music

Oxfordshire, England

Christmas at Selfridges

Lavish window displays, and endless shopping in the capital’s longest-established department stores.

Alamy/Robert Harding/Mark Mawson

Step into the magical winter wonderland of Narnia as as C.S Lewis' fictional “The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe” comes to life.

Bath on Ice

Test out your best balancing skills this Winter in Bath as you embark on an ice-skating adventure at the Royal Pavilion.

Christmas displays at Bamburgh Castle

Bamburgh Castle’s spectacular Christmas Kingdom is back, inspired by The Enchanted Myths and Legends of Northumbria explore festive displays around every turn.

Stuart Boulton

Bamburgh Castle, England

Harry Potter - Hogwarts in the Snow

Experience The Making of Harry Potter on a whole new festive level, with spectacular decorations and displays, plus, have Christmas Dinner in Hogwarts Great Hall.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

Watford, England

Brighton Royal Pavilion Ice Rink

Glide across the ice at this family-friendly festive experience, set to the spectacular backdrop of the Royal Pavilion.

royalpavillionicerink

Christmas at Wollaton

Expect glistening lights and brand new sparkling illuminations as Wollaton Hall comes aglow with Christmas spirit this winter.

Wollaton Hall

Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland

From Santa's magical grotto to the twinkling lights of the fun fair, cosy alpine cafe and ice rink, Yorkshire's Winter Wonderland has something for all the family.

Yorkshire, England

Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland

Glide around the Ice Rink and Ice Walk within the grounds of Cardiff Castle and stroll through the family funfair at City Hall Lawn.

VisitBritain/Andrew Pickett

From Covent Garden to Carnaby Street, Oxford Street and more, embrace the festive season as you walk through London’s world famous Christmas lights.

Leeds Castle Christmas Lights

Take a walk through the enchanted illuminated trail through the castle grounds and look out for Father Christmas long the way!

Richard Haughton for Sony Music

Christmas at Weston

Let twinkling lights guide your way as you explore the twisting woodlands of Temple Wood with a magical light trail. Look out for other Christmas events like wreath making.

Enchanted Weston

Warwick Castle at Christmas

Set the scene for a noble Christmas at Warwick Castle, take to the ice for a gliding adventure round the castle grounds, and meet Santa!

Warwick Castle

Warwick, England

Durham Christmas Festival

Unwrap unique gifts, shop local crafts and decorations, and sample the festive food and drink on offer at this family-friendly Christmas festival.

Durham Cathedral and Heritage House Media Ltd 2009

Durham, England

Christmas at Fountains Abbey

Each holiday season, see the park illuminate with atmospheric tales from storytellers, candlelit carol concerts and wintery walks.

National Trust Images/Annapurna Mellor

North Yorkshire, England

Merry Zipmas

Delve deep into caves for a subterranean Christmas adventure filled with adventure golf and a hidden grotto.

sandra__mal

Snowdonia, Wales

Birmingham Ice Rink

Glide into the festive season at Birmingham’s undercover ice rink near the library, fill yourself with warming hot chocolate or take to the heights of the big wheel.

VisitBritain/Storyman

Immerse yourself in British Christmas Experiences

Brigit’s Christmas Afternoon Tea Bus Tour, London

Think decadent lady fingers, delightful sweet treats and classic British Scones as you dine in Christmassy style and see the iconic sites of Britain’s capital. Guided by your trustee bus driver, you’ll be tucking into Britain’s best flavours as you take Christmas afternoon tea to new levels.

Advent and Christmas at St Paul’s Cathedral, London

Celebrate Advent and Christmas with traditional church services at St Paul’s Cathedral , including Family Carols, A Celebration of Christmas and Midnight Mass services. All are welcome to experience the Christmas spirit at this iconic location through concerts and services.

Glasgow festive silent disco, Scotland

Throw your best shapes and sing to your hearts content on this festive themed silent disco trot through Glasgow. Whether you’re blasting out the tunes of Christmas classics, or festive pop anthems you’re sure to dance, strut and sing around the city on this adventure.

The Great Christmas Feast, London

For Christmas with a twist, sample  The Great Christmas Feast , a festive experience which takes visitors back to Victorian London and the home of Charles Dickens, where feasting is woven into a magical retelling of  A Christmas Carol . 

Winter Funland Manchester

Expect an all-out festive spectacle to hit up Manchester this winter. From 17 December 2023 to 1 January 2024, step into Winter Funland Manchester at Trafford Park for an indoor carnival full of adrenaline fuelled funfair rides, a circus run by elves, ice-skating and plenty of festive fayre.

Winter Funland Birmingham

The Midlands comes alive from 9 December 2023 to 1 January 2024 with festive cheer and a whole host of Christmassy entertainment. Head to the NEC Arena for   Winter Funland Birmingham . Spy Santa in his grotto, watch acrobats fly through the sky at the circus, and put your driving skills to the test with dodgems!

Hallé Christmas Concerts,  Manchester

The sounds of winter come to Bridgewater Hall from 3 December 2023 to 6 January 2024, with Christmas Concerts set to bring the festive spirit. From the sounds of the Hallé Christmas Family Concert, Hallé Christmas Cracker, Hallé Carol Concerts and the iconic story of The Snowman, let the sounds fill the hall as the season sets in Manchester.

Llandudno Christmas Extravaganza, Wales

With live music, food, drinks, stalls selling gifts, a funfair and more, Llandudno’s Christmas Extraviganza is bringing all the festive joy. From 16 to 19 November 2023, enjoy the Oompah band and other live entertainment, and look out for Mr and Mrs Clause! For something extra special, book a dining igloo complete with twinkling fairly lights.

Leeds Playhouse Christmas shows, Leeds

Look out for productions throughout winter for theatrical entertainment At Leeds Playhouse . Two family-friendly theatre stand-outs include Oliver! and Roald Dahl’s The Enormous Crocodile. Adults might enjoy the slightly more raucous ‘Santa Must Die’, a story about how Christmas can be all work and no play.

Glide, Battersea Power Station, London

Spin round the ice at one of London’s most iconic sites from 10 November 2023 to 7 January 2024. With Battersea Power Station as your backdrop, you’re sure to get into the festive spirit at Glide . Choose to skate over three interconnecting rinks, or for a warming treat head to the cabin for mulled wine, or pick up the adrenaline at the vintage fun fair.

Other festive events in the UK to book now

London by Night with Christmas Lights Tour 

Feel the magic of Christmas invading London’s most famous landmarks and see how the skyline shines against the dark wintery sky on this night time tour.

Illuminations of London on Christmas Eve Tour 

Kickstart your festive celebrations with an unforgettable journey through the enchanting beauty of the city with a tour of London that will leave you spellbound.

Canterbury, Dover and Greenwich Tour with Christmas Lunch

Discover the enchantment of a Canterbury, Dover and Greenwich on this tour with a delightful traditional Christmas lunch.

Salisbury, Stonehenge and Windsor Tour with Christmas Lunch

Embark on a one-of-a-kind holiday adventure with this Salisbury, Stonehenge, Bath and Windsor tour, enhanced by a heart-warming traditional Christmas lunch.

Christmas Eve in London Tour with Dinner and Midnight Mass

Indulge in a festive dinner at a top London restaurant, followed by a memorable midnight Mass service in a historic church on this Christmas Eve London tour.

Oxford, Cotswolds and Stratford-upon-Avon Tour with Christmas Lunch

Indulge in a sumptuous Christmas lunch while immersing yourself in the rich history and picturesque landscapes of iconic English destinations on this festive tour.

Discover more festive experiences at the VisitBritain Shop

Get in the festive mood and book tickets for the best Christmas things to do in London and the UK. Enjoy spellbinding family shows like Disney’s Frozen, Elf and The Snowman. Experience the magic of a London Christmas lights tour. Or treat yourself to a luxurious Christmas lunch with a visit to some of the most enchanting destinations in England. Experience Britain as it comes alive this Christmas.

Discover more festive fun

Christmas markets in britain.

Follow twinkling lights and dive into a festive atmosphere filled with holiday cheer at Britain’s Christmas Markets.

VisitManchester

Not found what you were looking for?

The 12 days of Christmas: 12 places to spend Christmas in the UK

12th October 2018 in Explore Destinations by Belle Connell

Updated 2nd November 2021

It's the most wonderful time of the year, but as the holidays draw closer and the trees go up we are all wondering where to spend this Christmas. Over 23% of Brits have spent Christmas abroad with Dubai being named the most popular destination for the holidays. But, with over 50% of Brits staying in the UK over Christmas, we have racked our brains and researched the depths of the internet to find you the best destinations for Christmas in the UK. Following the COVID pandemic, this Christmas is going to look at whole lot better than last one! Whether you are on a city break staycation, or a day trip to see the twinkling lights, here are the top twelve cities to spend Christmas.

1. Edinburgh

Edinburgh is renowned for its manmade and natural beauty, from Holyrood Park to Edinburgh Castle. At Christmas, this city comes alive with dazzling lights, Christmas markets and a Christmas tree maze. From the 17th November visitors will be able to try out numerous rides including roller coasters, bumper cars, and a Santa train. An ice rink, fireworks and concerts take place from November onward.

Christmas Markets : 20th November 2021 - 2nd January 2022

The capital city has so much to offer those spending Christmas in the UK, from the Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park to the incredible Christmas shopping on Oxford Street. London hosts an array of Christmas markets, ice rinks, and events leading up to Christmas. Our favourites have to be the wintertime market at Southbank Centre, Somerset House ice rink, and Christmas by the River at London Bridge.

Southbank Winter Festival : 4th November - 24th December 2021

Leicester square christmas market : 12th november 2021 - 9th january 2022, hyde park winter wonderland : 19th november 2021 - 3rd january 2022.

Kick-starting Christmas with the Leeds Lights Switch On and becoming home to the sparkling 100ft Leeds Wheel of Light, Christmas markets, Santa's grotto, and spectacular performances from the Northern Ballet and Opera North. Guests can Christmas shop at historical arcades and being the third largest shopping destination in the UK, you are sure to find presents for the whole family, including yourself.  Discover our guide to Christmas shopping in Leeds here .

Leeds German Christmas Market : Unfortunately, the markets are cancelled for 2021, but there are other festivities to be found in the city!

York is the perfect place to spend Christmas in the UK. It's historic lanes and beautiful architecture makes it the ideal chocolate box city to spend the holidays. This year, York is hosting a new Santas's grotto and it will be the first time York has been home to a city centre Christmas tree shop. In 2017 York was named Britain's most festive city, so this city is pushing itself further than ever this year with festive events and attractions.

York Christmas Festival : 18th November - 23rd December 2022

5. nottingham.

The Nottingham Christmas tree in the centre of the city.

Spending Christmas in Nottingham is a magical experience, it becomes home to its very own Winter Wonderland, Nottingham hosts sparkling Christmas markets, an ice rink, and family pantomimes. Taking over Old Market Square in the centre of the city, this attraction is set to bring in over 2.9 million visitors over the Christmas period. The event has over 70 stalls, children's rides and is the biggest Christmas market in the East Midlands.

Winter Wonderland : 15th November - 31st December 2021

6. birmingham.

Birmingham this Christmas is becoming home to pantomimes, parties, and steam train rides. Each winter, Birmingham city centre bursts with the twinkling lights of the Frankfurt Christmas market that has run for over 15 years and is the largest of its kind outside of Germany. This year it is set to attract over 6 million visitors, making it the place to be for those wanting to experience a truly incredible Christmas event.

Frankfurt Christmas Market : 4th November - 23rd December 2022

With so much on offer, Cardiff makes it easily on to the list. From magical ballets to pantos, this city is the perfect city to do Christmas shopping in a range of fabulous shops or at the Christmas markets. Cardiff Bay sparkles under the fairy lights and becomes a gorgeous Christmassy location. Guests will be able to experience a traditional Welsh Christmas at St Fagans National Museum of History or visit the stunning Cardiff Castle home to a Santa's grotto and Christmas parties.

St Fagans Christmas : Each weekend in December

Christmas markets : 11th november 2021 - 23rd december 2022, step into christmas: 9th november 2021, 8. manchester.

An Ice Village, a giant Santa clause, and the Winter Funland at Trafford City, Manchester truly provides something for everyone during the festive season. Events are being held throughout November and through to the New Year, so guests can experience a whole range of things to do and see from a festive afternoon tea at The Monastery to the UK's biggest ice attraction in the Cathedral Gardens.

Manchester Christmas Lights Switch On: 12th November 2021

Ice village manchester: cancelled for 2021, christmas markets : 12th november - 22nd december 2021.

Even as the nights get shorter and the weather becomes colder, Christmas and its magic is something to look forward to. Bristol offer’s a Christmas like no other with an array of fairy lights, a stunning Christmas tree and just a touch of magic. From the Christmas market to its magnificent carol concerts, there is much to do in this magical Christmas city. Oh, and don’t forget to keep an eye out for Santa and his elves!

Bristol’s Christmas Market : 5th November - 23rd December 2021

Offering everything from churros to sweet roasted chestnuts, the city of Bath is just as sweet and delicious at Christmas time. While drinking a steaming mug of mulled wine, you can  truly relax and enjoy the elegance of people skating on the city’s ice rink. With a Victorian carousel and traditional pantomime shows, Bath really is marvellous at Christmas.

Bath Christmas Market : 1st November - 31st December 2021

11. belfast.

Filled with Christmas cheer and joy is the Belfast Christmas Market. With holiday cuisine from around the world, indulge in some sweet treats and delicious Christmas fare. From German bratwurst to roman mulled wine, Belfast has a delightful and refreshing Christmas market for all.

Belfast Christmas Market : 20th November - 23rd December 2021

12. glasgow.

With irresistible cuisine and ‘to die for’ shopping Glasgow city centre, at Christmas, is perfect for a trip away for the weekend. Glasgow Christmas market offers a variety of activities and stalls to participate in. From Christmas trinkets to Christmas decorations, Glasgow is full of unique and exquisite gifts at Christmas.

Glasgow Christmas Market : 21st November - 23rd December 2021

With each city celebrating in their own way, why not tour of them all? With so many of our great apartments located in each city, you can be sure to have a fantastic winter wonderland experience with some cosy and lovely accommodation to go with it. Why not check out our other festive blogs too !

https://www.statista.com/statistics/667098/holidaying-abroad-over-christmas-great-britain/

http://www.geograph.org.uk

Belle Connell

Leave a comment, related blogs.

The 7 Most Memorable and Unusual Date Ideas in London

5 of the Best UK City Break Destinations for Couples

The Six Best Dog Friendly Apartments in the UK for a Super Staycation

The Top 6 Serviced Apartments in London for 1 night

• Explore Destinations
• Benefits of Serviced Apartments

We use cookies to enhance your online experience. By continuing to use this site, you agree to our Cookie Policy

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

10 of the best small UK towns for winter breaks

The historic buildings, modern restaurants, cosy pubs and independent shops of these towns banish any notions of a backwater. And they sparkle in the Christmas season – perfect for a weekend break or day trip

Bakewell, Derbyshire

You’d expect the home of the Bakewell pudding to know a thing or two about keeping its visitors cosy and well-fed, and in this attractive market town, you’re never more than a few steps away from a tea room or pub. And to walk off all the cake and ale, the spectacular Peak District is on the doorstep. In the run-up to Christmas, the town will be hosting a traditional Christmas market to coincide with its lights switch-on (26 & 27 Nov) and, new for 2016, a Winter Wonderland event (18-20 Nov and 9-11 Dec, advance tickets £5, under-fives free, bakewellshow.org ), at the Bakewell Showground, with Christmas grotto, craft marquee, reindeer, market stalls, ice rink, funfair and fireworks. For something more sedate, check out the candlelit tours of Haddon Hall (selected dates 7–13 Dec, £22pp), a romantic medieval manor house which has starred in countless films. The nearby Chatsworth Estate (chatsworth.org) always puts on a good display for Christmas, with beautiful Nutcracker-themed decorations in the house, special evening openings and, until 30 Nov, a Christmas market.

Eat/drink The Manners is a traditional stone-built pub a few minutes’ walk from the town centre, serving well-executed pub fare such as local venison with root veg and red wine sauce, and apple and plum crumble. Wyes Waters (Unit 8, Granby Road)is a charming little cafe with gingham table cloths and a great-value menu of homemade pies, sandwiches and cakes.

Shopping Bakewell’s thriving Monday market is always popular and its attractive cobbled courtyards and market square are home to independent shops and galleries. And of course, no visit to Bakewell is complete without a visit to the Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop which will gift-wrap and post sweet treats to anywhere in the world. Out of town, the excellent Chatsworth Estate farm shop is the place to stock up on Derbyshire specialities such as oatcakes, handmade chocolates from family-run business Holdsworth, and bottled ales brewed on the estate.

Stay On the river in the centre of Bakewell, One Castle Street (doubles from £90 B&B), is a quaint B&B in a Grade II listed building, where substantial breakfasts will set you up for a day exploring. Alternatively, three miles out of town, Haddon Grove Farm has 11 attractive holiday cottages in converted farm buildings (from £490 for a four night December break in a cottage for four). There’s a communal games room and indoor heated pool, making it a perfect winter escape for families. Cottages sleep between two and 10. Joanne O’Connor

Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire

This pint-size town deserves more attention than it gets. Its pretty Georgian houses and former textile mills frame streets lined with small independent shops and cafes. An ancient bridge straddles the Avon at its heart and, just beyond the town’s striking Tithe Barn, a towpath follows one of the prettiest stretches of canal in the country. It’s a half-hour walk to Avoncliff, with its 18th-century aqueduct or a longer nine-mile hike to Bath, but there are trains back to Bradford from both. The first weekend in December sees a Christmas Floating Market (on Facebook) along the Bradford stretch of the canal (expect local crafts, carols, mulled wine and roast chestnuts). For evening entertainment the Wiltshire Music Centre puts on quality classical, jazz and folk concerts: December’s performers include Swedish-Brazilian-Slovenian trio Elda .

Eat/drink Dining pubs are the order of the day in Bradford, with several cosy firesides to choose from. The best is the chic Bunch of Grapes , whose owners have brought the concept of village bar bistros from south-west France to south-west England. Smoked and brined poussin cooked in a beer can is a speciality, but there’s also a feast of small plates: cheese beignets, homemade Charentais sausage, rabbit rillettes, and mixed leaves with preserved lemon, mint, toasted hazelnuts and feta. For a more Spanish accent, Pablo’s Tapas has good jamón, manchego and gambas. For a pint of Rusty Lane ale (from the Kennet & Avon Brewery ) in eccentric but cosy surroundings, head to the Lock Inn and sup by the fire surrounded by a squall of vintage advertising signs.

Shopping Start at just-opened Silver Street Studio (on Facebook) for scarves, ceramics and spoons from British makers. Further down the road, independent wine store Ruby Red sells Somerset Pomona (a moreish cider brandy) and beers from local microbrewery Kettlesmith. Then wander through the quaint Shambles, past posh pet shop Fetch , to The Cheese Shop at 5 Market Street for chutneys and cheeses from local maker In a Pickle . Finally, stroll past arts co-operative Made in Bradford , over the bridge and right along the towpath to the art, pottery and antiques stores of Tithebarn Workshops (tithebarnartscrafts.co.uk).

Stay Timbrells Yard (doubles from £95 B&B) calls itself a gastropub with rooms but feels more like a cool provincial hotel, with a cafe-bar, a restaurant overseen by ex-River Cottage chef Tom Blake, and chic bedrooms. It’s a five-minute walk from the station. The foodie George pub is a 15-minute walk out of town and has two one-bedroom flats (from £110 B&B). Families might prefer the Georgian Lodge (sleeps four from £110 a night), a two-bedroom flat beside the town’s bridge, with green velvet sofas, painted shutters and free parking. Rhiannon Batten

Shrewsbury, Shropshire

Shrewsbury offers a good idea of what London might have looked like without the ravages of the Great Fire. Almost looped by the river Severn, Shropshire’s county town (and birthplace of Charles Darwin) is home to more than 650 listed buildings, many of them half-timbered Tudor or Jacobean marvels, some of them – including its castle – medieval. Its higgledy-piggledy streets and elegant riverside parks aren’t stuck in the past, however. A vibrant music and arts scene makes this compact town a dynamic weekend destination. On the second weekend of December, Shrewsbury Winterfest will involve festive crafts and carols in the Quarry park, a gingerbread-spiced food trail around the market and a ring of Christmas trees at the circular St Chads church.

Eat/drink Shrewsbury’s culinary influences are surprisingly diverse. Ramen bar Momo No Ki does a peppy line in noodles, from a Japanese-inspired miso-crusted salmon version to a Korean BBQ rice noodle salad. Also good is House of Yum , a Thai streetfood cafe in the covered market that vies with neighbour The Bird’s Nest to be the town’s best lunch spot. For veggie comfort food (parsnip and butterbean soup, beetroot and chocolate cake) there’s The Good Life in Barracks Passage, off Wyle Cop. The Bakehouse does spiced plum danishes and other seasonal pastries, while Avatar serves refined Indian and Nepalese food courtesy of a chef formerly from the Oberoi and Taj Hotels. Chicken momos come with tomato and sesame dipping sauce, and Gurkha lamb is spiked with red chilli, shallots, ginger and coriander. For more local flavours, head just out of town for a steak and oxtail pie or trio of pork with black kale at the Haughmond Hotel in Upton Magna, which also has a small farm shop and cafe. On Friday and Saturday nights, there’s a pop-up supper at coffee shop Ginger & Co (message for bookings) in the town centre. Or hunker by the open fire at the Golden Cross . With its mullioned windows, damson walls, theatrical table settings and soft lighting, this “oldest pub in Shrewsbury” is magical in winter and the cooking is adept. Classic dishes include confit duck and venison fillet. For a pint The Three Fishes is a good bet: stop in at neighbouring Pengwern Books (1 Fish Street) then enjoy your purchases over a guest ale from the Salopian Brewery or the Three Tuns.

Shopping The main road , Wyle Cop, sweeps into town with a flourish of independent stores in overhanging Tudor buildings. They include Appleyards deli (at no 85), kitchenware shop Cooking Kneads (no 3), wine store Tanners (no 26) and clothing and accessories stores Oberon and Hibiscus . The town’s market hall on Claremont Street is far more impressive than its brutal 1960s exterior promises, with great local produce.

Stay The Lion & Pheasant (doubles from £115 B&B) breathed new life into Shrewsbury’s hotel scene when it opened, bringing a dose of soft-edged Scandi style, with exposed timbers, pale grey paint and glowing candles – to what had once been a car dealer’s depot. Still going strong six years on, it offers self-catering as well as rooms and a stylish restaurant – ideal if you want a cocktails-and-gin-cured-salmon kind of evening. Cheaper is B&B Hardwick House (doubles from £85 B&B), a fine Georgian home just inside the town walls with wood panelling, dainty antique armchairs and a peaceful walled garden (have afternoon tea by the fire in the summerhouse). RB

Corbridge, Northumberland

With its ancient stone houses, market cross, shops, pubs and banks, this Northumberland village, should surely be reclassified as a town. The fact it has so much infrastructure is thanks to its past as a crossroads on busy north-south and east-west routes, from coaching days to the later half of the 20th century. Though the busiest roads now bypass its heart, Corbridge (see visitcorbridge.co.uk ) is very well-connected: half an hour by car (or train) from Newcastle, 50 minutes from Carlisle and two hours from Edinburgh and Leeds. Following serious flooding last winter, much repair work has been done to restore the village’s spirit as well as its bones. There’s good walking along the banks of the Tyne, and trips back in time at Coria, the remains of Corbridge Roman Town just south of Hadrian’s Wall. Medieval Aydon Castle is also worth seeing on summer visits (it closes October-April).

Eat/drink Restaurant Il Piccolo is known for its pizzas and gelato, though you can go the full Italian hog, from pan-fried sardines to spaghetti with homemade meatballs. For coffee and a slice of homemade treacle tart, there’s Watling Coffee House , while the coffee shop up the road at Activ Cycles (both on Facebook) is a great spot for breakfast or lunch (bacon and cheese crumpets, Moroccan lamb wraps, coconut and butternut squash soup). Walkers could pick up a beetroot bread sandwich or Northumbrian pasty from Grants Bakery , or a DIY deli lunch from The Corbridge Larder . For dinner by the fire, head to the Angel of Corbridge for potted shrimp, wood pigeon or venison ragu. There’s also a fish and chip shop, Angelfish , in the courtyard behind.

Shopping Corbridge punches above its weight when it comes to shopping, with kitchenware, antiques, fashion, shoe and jewellery shops. Two of the best are dynamic independent Forum Books (8 Market Place, children’s books at 20 Watling Street), and the only walk-in branch of the cult mail-order homewares store RE in Bishop’s Yard. From tiny spoons in a rainbow of shades to kitsch pompom Christmas decorations and light shades made from recycled jelly moulds, it’s perfect present-hunting territory. The village shops stay open late on 5 Dec for Corbridge Christmas Late Night Shopping and stalls jostle for space in Market Place alongside carol singers.

Stay A minute’s walk from the railway station (which is over the river half a mile from the village), dog-friendly Dyvels Inn (doubles from £75 B&B) was refurbished after the flooding and now has four comfortable guest rooms. In the evening, order a pint of Pennine Pale (from nearby Allendale Brewery), a trio of Northumberland sausages with mash and onion gravy and dine by the open range. Or, try 22a Hill Street (from £220 for two nights), a two-bedroom self-catering apartment above a shop in the centre of town. RB

Melrose, Scottish Borders

Last year’s rebirth of the Borders Railway has opened up an easy, not to mention scenic, route to Melrose, the pick of the trim Borders market towns. Melrose’s lineage stretches back to the Romans and its romantically ruined Cistercian abbey is home to Robert the Bruce’s heart. It’s a place for hikes in the Eildon Hills , frost-kissed strolls along the salmon-rich Tweed and a visit to Abbotsford the remarkable home Sir Walter Scott built on its banks. Melrose also does a good line in independent shops, cosy pubs and, if you are lucky, the hills that Scott so loved will be sporting a dusting of snow.

Eat/drink Foodie specialities include Borders lamb, smoked Tweed salmon (local producer Teviot is superb) and the sweet, fruity Selkirk bannock. The Henderson family runs Burts , a hotel on the Market Square with a relaxed bistro and a more formal restaurant. Borders lamb is the star in both. The cafe at Scott’s house, Abbotsford, is an ideal lunch option, with braised brisket or smoked salmon on the menu, as well as views down to the writer’s grand mansion.

Shopping The villagers who flock from Melrose’s hinterland to do their shopping are catered for with a brace of butchers, a fishmonger, antique shops and a sprinkling of other small independent businesses. A cosy jumper or cashmere scarf from Abbey Mill makes a good Christmas present. Abbey Wines (17 Market Square) is the place for a special bottle of whisky (Glenkinchie is the local malt), while the Country Kitchen offers great additions to a festive cheeseboard from Kelso’s Brenda Leddy (of Stichill Jerseys , a runner-up in BBC Radio 4’s Food and Farming Awards).

Stay Burts (see above) is also a good stylish bolthole with a roaring fire to sip a wee dram by. It is offering a winter special for £146pp for a two-night break including dinner each night . A fun option for those with a car or bikes is Roulotte Retreat (two-night stay for two is £250). This adults-only glampsite has seven gloriously furnished Gypsy-style caravans dotted around a meadow. All have wood-burning stoves and two also have wood-fired hot tubs, for cosy readings of Scott’s Waverley novels – despite your frosty hair. Robin McKelvie

Totnes, Devon

This riverside town, on the Great Western Railway main line and National Express’s Plymouth coach route, has a glut of independent shops and cafes and more listed (Norman, medieval and Tudor) buildings than any town of comparable size. These make a photogenic backdrop for its Christmas street markets (Tuesdays 6, 13 and 20 Dec, till late). Dining options are not extensive, but a handful of newish openings have raised the bar for beer, coffee and gastronomy.

Eat/drink The best coffee is found at The Curator (2 The Plains), where baristas serve single-estate brews and wholemeal, fruity, not-too-sweet cakes. Upstairs is Curator Kitchen , a “modern osteria” opened in March 2015 and offering excellent Italian fare (set dinner £30). Ten minutes’ walk up Fore Street is family-run Jano , another Italian restaurant, which makes its own pastas, imports fine meats and cheeses, and does set menus from £13. Rumour boasts a family-friendly atmosphere and good burgers. The Totnes Brewing Company , which opened late in 2015 and recently expanded, is the cosiest drinking den in town, with a dozen draught and lots of bottled craft beers. Look out for New Lion ales, a local venture that resuscitated an extinct brand. The Pandit IPA is fruity.

Shopping Totnes is a good place for Christmas food shopping. Riverford Farm , the award-winning organic producer, recently opened a shop at 8 High Street for fruit and veg, plus local salmon, crab, hams and Sharpham wines. Butcher AW Luscombe has been selling quality Devon lamb and beef since 1788; down the road at no 5, CM McCabe is known for its game. For prezzies, the High Street has enough “stuff” shops to service a city. Standouts include Little Blue Budgie for arty crockery and home furnishings, Greenfibres for pricey, but ethical woollens, Drift for cool vinyl and the Devon Harp Centre if you need a new hobby.

Stay Totnes lacks a boutique hotel. The Royal Seven Stars hotel (doubles from £100 B&B) has homely rooms, is dog-friendly and close to everything. A mile away in Dartington, the 14th-century thatched-roofed Cott Inn (doubles from £95 B&B) is known for its pub grub and has three snug bedrooms (weekend availability limited). Chris Moss

Holt, Norfolk

In summer, this handsome Georgian town heaves with holidaymakers who use it as a base for exploring the beaches of north Norfolk. But in winter, when the crowds are gone and the attractive high street is lit by thousands of fairy lights, it takes on an entirely different character. Shop for presents in the town’s many independent shops, wrap up warm for walks on the seafront at nearby Sheringham, and see thousands of overwintering birds gather on the saltmarshes at Cley and Blakeney. Families might like a steam trip on the North Norfolk Railway, which runs Santa Specials on selected dates in December, or a boat trip to see the seal pups at Blakeney .

Eat/drink The Folly Tea Room in Hoppers Yard serves delicious sandwiches and cream teas in a cosy, vintage-themed setting. The Kings Head pub on the High Street is the place to go for pub classics, such as sausage and mash, slow-roast pork belly and steak-and-ale stew with dumplings.

Shopping Holt is renowned for its independent shops and galleries, many of which are in yards and alleys off the High Street. Don’t miss the excellent Holt Bookshop (10 Appleyard) and the food hall at Bakers & Larners (8 Market Place, ), a family-run department store which has been trading since 1770. Shop for local crafts, gourmet foods and unusual gifts at the Christmas Fair in Holt Hall (26-27 Nov, booking recommended, £2, ), where there will be more than 50 stalls, a huge Christmas tree and a log fire.

Stay Byfords Posh B&B (doubles from £155 B&B) offers 16 comfy and characterful bedrooms (exposed brick-and-flint walls, wooden floors and ceiling beams) above the town’s popular deli and bakery. For stylish and cosy self-catering, the four Cartshed Cottages in the grounds of Sharrington Hall (from £450 for three nights, sleep 4), a Jacobean manor house two miles from the centre of Holt, are hard to beat, with log-burners, roll-top baths and four-poster beds. JO’C

Wells, Somerset

OK, one city has snuck into this list, but compact Wells is the smallest city in England, with a small-town feel. It’s gorgeous at any time of year, but in winter it really turns on the charm, with tasteful twinkling lights, a towering Christmas tree and, for the first time this year, a four-day Christmas market with stalls selling gifts, local produce and mulled wine (Market Place, 21-24 Dec). The candlelit carol service at the medieval cathedral (27 Nov) is one of the highlights of the local calendar. The moated Bishop’s Palace and Gardens , which has been home to the Bishops of Bath and Wells for over 800 years, will also be getting into the Christmas spirit, with workshops on creative gift-wrapping and wreath-making. Wander around the medieval streets, including the perfectly preserved Vicar’s Close, or for something more energetic, climb Tor Hill and join the East Mendip Way for a bracing walk across the hills.

Eat/drink The Good Earth offers wholesome lunches as well as gifts such as Neal’s Yard toiletries and St Eval scented candles from Cornwall. Ensemble , the newest addition to Wells’ dining scene, has already proved a big hit with locals for its simple but well-executed menu with its emphasis on local produce . The two/three-course set lunch for £15/£17.50 is particularly good value.

Shopping As you’d expect from a well-heeled cathedral city with a healthy tourist trade, Wells has more than its share of chichi shops and galleries. Stock up on Somerset cheeses and chutneys at the Queen Street Deli at number 14, last-minute presents and traditional children’s toys at Cadeaux & Co (5 High Street), and retro and vintage clothes, trinkets and furniture at the Wells Trading Post in the 12th-century Priory Mill. In addition to the Christmas market, there will be a Christmas brocante fair in the Market Place (11 Dec) selling antiques, crafts and unusual gifts.

Stay Don’t be put off by the name: Beryl (from £110 B&B) is a gem of a B&B in a Victorian gothic mansion set in parkland on the outskirts of town. Guests are greeted by roaring open fires, old-fashioned (in a good way) hospitality and huge bedrooms that ooze character. JO’C

Saffron Walden, Essex

This medieval market town offers the perfect antidote to the pre-Christmas frenzy. Locals start getting into the spirit on 2 Dec, when the Christmas lights are switched on and Santa takes up residence in his town hall grotto. The beautiful 15th-century parish church, St Mary’s, is the largest in Essex and a suitably atmospheric setting for a carol service (27 Nov). Pack your wellies for walks from the town into the rolling parkland surrounding Audley End , a beautiful Jacobean country house which will be hosting seasonal events, from wreath-making to carol concerts. At Saffron Hall, author Michael Morpurgo will be narrating his Christmas story, The Best of Times , (11 Dec). And if that’s not enough to get you in the mood for Christmas, the Saffron Screen , the town’s indie cinema, will be showing festive classics such as Elf, The Polar Express and It’s a Wonderful Life throughout December

Eat/drink Bicicletta – Coffee con Velo is the town’s first cycling cafe and the perfect pitstop, offering great coffee, wholesome food (poached eggs and avocado on toasted sourdough is a house speciality) and the chance to browse top-brand bikes and cycling gear. The Eight Bells is a cosy pub with log fires, chesterfield sofas, real ales on tap and a dining room in a beautiful 16th-century timber-framed barn.

Shopping Saffron Walden’s twice-weekly market (Tues and Sat) has been held in the town since the 12th century and has stalls selling everything from artisan cheese to vintage tools. Hart’s Books (26 King Street), the town’s much-loved independent bookshop, recently reopened in new premises after an absence of several years.

Stay The Cross Keys restaurant-with-rooms (doubles from £110 B&B) may be housed in a building which dates back some 850 years, but the nine en suite bedrooms are kitted out in a contemporary style, with comfortable beds, iPod docks and freestanding baths or monsoon showers. JO’C

Abergavenny, Monmouthshire

At the junction of the rivers Usk and Gavenny, beneath the mountain peaks of Blorenge and Sugar Loaf, near the border between England and Wales, the market town of Abergavenny is a particularly picturesque spot to hole up for a weekend. It’s easy to get to, too, with good road and rail links – and once you’re there, everywhere’s walkable. Without a massive “to-do” list of attractions to tick off, it’s a perfect place to really get away from it all. Wander around the atmospheric ruins of the castle and small museum and climb one of the neighbouring hills to sharpen the appetite and savour some of the finest views in southern Britain.

Eat/drink The Abergavenny Food Festival hosts a one-day Christmas Fair on 11 Dec, with local producers selling their wares, workshops for kids (from Christmas tree decorations to lantern making) plus a musical procession, carol singing and a light parade after dark. The legacy of the renowned food festival may not be obvious on the town’s high street at first glance, but there are some interesting places to eat. For lunch, try the Art Shop and Chapel ; the menu changes, but salmon fishcake, spinach and lovage sauce, and caramelised onion, pea, chorizo and anya potato frittata are favourites. If you’d rather pack a snack and go for a hike, there is an excellent selection of local cheeses (try Gorwydd Caerphilly and Golden Cenarth) and real ales at Marches Delicatessen . For dinner, tuck yourself away in a corner of the Foxhunter’s Bar at the Angel Hotel and watch the locals parade in and out for such delights as glass noodle, pawpaw and peanut salad or Lancashire hot-pot with braised red cabbage. And if you would rather make your food than eat it, spend a day learning to bake with the Abergavenny Baker .

Shopping There’s a decent mix of independent shops dotted between the high-street names, offering some inspired Christmas shopping. Try the Art Shop (8 Cross Street) for everything from drawing accessories to lino-cutting tools, then head next door to the Wool Croft for yarns and fine Welsh wool. The Model Centre (1 Brecon Road) might just have the radio-controlled plane you always wanted. For couture hats, visit Alison Todd ’s award-winning millinery shop (13 Cross Street), and for beautiful Italian shoes try Amanda Jayne ) up the street at no 16. There is also the excellent Cooks Galley (6 Nevill Street) for stylish kitchen supplies.

Stay The Angel Hotel (doubles from £95 room-only) is a historic coaching inn and now the chic heartbeat of the town, with a range of rooms and several neighbouring cottages. Rob Penn

• United Kingdom holidays
• Christmas and New Year holidays
• England holidays
• Wales holidays
• Scotland holidays
• Short breaks
• Food and drink

More on this story

20 UK hotels, rooms and hostels opening in 2017

City breaks with kids: Amsterdam

City breaks with kids: Berlin

10 more of the UK’s best small towns: readers’ travel tips

Family campsites in Europe: readers’ tips

Where to go on holiday in 2017: the hot list

Alt city guide to Birmingham

Novelist Jessie Burton on Amsterdam

The alternative city guide to Newcastle

Alt city guide to Liverpool

Comments (…), most viewed.

15 Places for the Best Christmas Breaks in the UK 2023

Last Updated on 10/10/2023

Everyone enjoys some festive cheer! If you’re looking for a winter getaway this year, here are the best Christmas breaks in the UK. From city breaks to rural escapes, there’s a UK Christmas getaway for everyone!

This guide shares the top 15 places for the best Christmas breaks in the UK. Including unmissable Christmas attractions and how long to stay.

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Find out more  here .

Best Christmas Breaks in the UK

If you’re looking for the best Christmas breaks in the UK for this winter, you’re in the right place! Here are 15 tried and tested winter getaways that you are going to love! The hardest part will be choosing which one to visit first!

Recommended by me

If you’re looking for the best Christmas breaks in the UK, Warwick won’t disappoint! The historic market town of Warwick might not be an obvious choice when it comes to UK Christmas destinations. But this pretty town has a lot of things to do and some beautiful Christmas sights.

One place not to be missed in Warwick at Christmas is Lord Leycester Hospital. This pretty, medieval building is beautiful year-round but looks especially charming at Christmas.

You can take a stroll around Lord Leycester Hospital and see the chapel adorned with Christmas décor. Plus, the grand Christmas tree in the Great Hall is incredible! To get a flavour of Lord Leycester Hospital at Christmas, it can be spotted in the 2019 BBC series A Christmas Carol, starring Tom Hardy!

Another beautiful sight in Warwick at Christmas is Warwick Castle. During the festive season, the Grand Hall and State Rooms are decked out to mark the occasion! You can also enjoy an enchanting light trail beneath glittering trees on the outdoor walk. Plus, there is an outdoor ice rink for some festive fun!

If you want to make the most of Warwick at Christmas, you could just about squeeze it in to a day trip, but a weekend break would be ideal.

The 400-year-old inn Kings Head Inn is the perfect place to stay with beautiful rooms and fine food. Alternatively, the pretty Grade II listed Park Cottage is a quaint place for a unique stay.

Find more accommodation options in Warwick here .

Recommended by Claire from Go South West England

Tourists don’t usually think of visiting Cornwall in the cooler seasons. But there is one place that is especially magical around Christmastime. 

Mousehole is a small village in southwest Cornwall, about three miles from Penzance. It is known for its charming harbour and narrow cobbled streets. But there’s much more to the village than you might expect!

It’s a particularly charming place to visit in winter. Although the weather isn’t quite as appealing as the summer months, locals have done something about it. 

One year around 40 years ago, someone decided to put a few lights in their garden to add some Christmas cheer. Community is strong in Mousehole, and it soon became a village event.

The word spread and tourists started to come at Christmastime. Before long it became one of the best Christmas light displays in Cornwall. 

Nowadays, the entire village, harbour, hillside and St Clements Island is bedecked in lights. You’ll see everything from small lanterns to a giant whale and serpent in the harbour! 

If you can, time your visit for the switching on of the lights. There will be a choir and other festivities! 

Other things to do in Mousehole include enjoying fish and chips on the harbour and walking tours to learn about its history. You can also see the memorial to the last monoglot Cornish speaker, and walk along the South West Coast Path or Mount’s Bay. 

If you are ready to book a Cornish Turkey and Tinsel weekend, find out more here.

Find accommodation in Mousehole here .

Recommended by Cristina from My Little World of Travelling

Leeds, situated in West Yorkshire , is the perfect place for a Christmas break for anyone who loves a cosy and less crowded atmosphere. Not only does it have lovely Christmas events and decorations, but many incredible attractions and hidden gems too.

The city hosts a lovely German Christmas Market in Millennium Square every year. 

The Christmas market becomes the meeting point for many friends and families that want to enjoy a Christmas experience. 

Wooden stalls filled with unique Christmas decorations and gifts, children’s attractions such as the carousel, and plenty of food options. You can find anything from German sausages and chicken gyros to churros!

Not to forget about the mulled wine to keep you warm in the cold weather! When you order a mulled wine, it’s often served in a Christmas cup. You pay a small deposit (3-4 pounds) which is given back when you return the cup. Or you can keep it as a memory of that year’s Christmas market!

For the little ones, Father Christmas is also at the market every Sunday morning.

In addition to the Christmas market, you can’t miss visiting Harewood House , located in the outskirts of Leeds. Every year, they decorate the country house with impressive Christmas decorations. But also, you can wander around its grounds where you may spot deer and eat Christmas treats – their mince pies are the best!

Find accommodation in Leeds here .

Isle of Wight

Recommended by Alice from Adventures of Alice

The Isle of Wight  is an island off the south coast of England. It’s a popular holiday location and has great beaches, family attractions and historic sites.

In winter, the beaches are beautiful, especially if you are lucky and get snow. Also, the villages are filled with thatched-roofed cottages and traditional pubs and bars giving you that Christmas feel. It really sets the mood! 

To get the most out of the island, it’s recommended to stay a minimum of four nights. This is enough time so that you can pick which Christmas activities you want to do. Plus, it gives you time to explore the island too. 

At Christmas, there are loads of festive activities to take part in, including one extremely popular option – the Garlic Farm. The garlic farm opens a pop-up Christmas shop filled with exclusive Isle of Wight made gifts. It also usually has a log fire and other festive Christmassy things available. It opens daily from the 10th November until the 24th December. 

Another thing to do is to see the Needles, which is a row of three white chalk stacks that rise above the sea. It’s in a lovely location and a wonderful place to go for a walk.

There are lots of places to stay on the Isle of Wight, such as hotels, cottages and caravan parks . A small cottage like this one is ideal during Christmas as it sets the mood perfectly! It’s nice and cosy and it’s great for couples and families.

If you’re ready to enjoy Christmas on the Isle of Wight, find out more here.

Find more accommodation on the Isle of Wight here .

Scottish Highlands

Recommended by Tracy from UK Travel Planning

If you love the idea of a cosy Christmas snuggled up with a wee dram of whisky around a roaring fire while surrounded by snow-capped mountains and rugged moorlands, the Scottish Highlands is the place to go.  

A traditional Scottish Christmas includes plenty of eating and drinking so this is not the time to think of your waistline! Whisky may be the beverage of choice to wash down your Christmas lunch of turkey and Christmas pudding. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample Haggis sausage rolls too!

Hours of daylight are fewer during the winter season, but this makes the houses decorated with lights, Christmas trees and wreaths even more welcoming. Expect to hear carol singers in shopping centres and perhaps even making a visit to your hotel.

Plan to spend at least a week and include some day trips to beautiful destinations such as the  Isle of Skye , Glencoe and at least one of the many castles and lochs that dot the Highland landscape. Just remember to wrap up warmly and drive carefully!

Experiencing Scottish New Year’s Eve or Hogmanay is worth stretching the trip a little longer though that may be the time to leave the Highlands behind and head to the Scottish capital Edinburgh where Hogmanay celebrations are legendary.

Find accommodation in the Scottish Highlands here .

Recommended by Shireen from The Happy Days Travels

Hay-on-Wye is a small town found in Brecon Beacons National Park in Wales. It is also by far one of the best Christmas breaks in the UK!

This small town is famous as the world’s first ever book town and is home to over 20 bookshops. The bookshops vary from children’s, hobbies to genre-specific (such as a crime/thriller shop and a poetry store).

You can get books for all budgets too from special editions to second-hand £1 buys in the open-air, 24-hour honesty bookshop. See  this guide  to the bookshops you must visit in Hay-on-Wye. They will be perfect for Christmas gifts and for your Christmas reads! 

You should spend at least a day in Hay-on-Wye (and start early) because as well as the bookshops there’s plenty of other things to do in Hay-on-Wye. Go Christmas shopping in the boutique and vintage stores or take scenic walks along the River Wye. You can even go canoeing or kayaking, listen to live street music and learn about the history of the town in Hay Castle.

Try and visit on a Thursday when Hay Market is held in the town square for special Christmas buys and delicious street food stalls. 

Find accommodation in Hay-On-Wye here .

North Wales

Recommended by Bec from Wyld Family Travel

If you are looking for the best Christmas breaks in the UK, a holiday in North Wales is the answer.

You can get right into the Christmas spirit with festivals in most of the local towns. Or you can escape it all and simply relax during the craziest time of the year.

While North Wales is a hot spot for tourists during the year, most of the caravan parks have been closed for the winter months, making it the perfect place to explore.

Many of the National Trust and Cadw sites will be decorated in festive colours and have activities for children. You will find a few markets in some of the towns where you can buy handmade Christmas cards or unique decorations to take home.

Plenty of local pubs and restaurants will be in the spirit with local foods hot and ready to eat (with a cup of mulled wine to go with it!) Roaring fires are as welcoming as the people themselves.

If you want to escape the festivities, you can venture into the epic natural landscape that Wales is known for. You don’t have to hike for days (although you can if you want to) you can take some short walks to take in the amazing Welsh sights.

The Llechwedd Slate Mine is a brilliant place to spend a day with tours of the mines, ziplining and mountain biking. They also have glamping tents that you can book for a unique stay.

The best way to see it all is to have your own car. Small towns like Bety-s-Coed are the perfect place for a delightful afternoon tea. Larger seaside towns like Llandudno are wonderful to wander. If you can stand the chill that comes off the water!

Find accommodation in North Wales here .

Recommended by Shobha from Epic England Travel

December is a wonderful time to visit Oxford. Not only for the festive atmosphere in the city itself but for the neighbouring areas as well.

There is an annual Christmas market on historic Broad Street which has vendors selling unique gifts and mulled wine. There is a Santa Grotto at Oxford Castle and Jail. The individual Oxford colleges are decked out in festive lights and trees.

Perhaps catch a performance of Handel’s Messiah sung by the world-renowned Queen’s College choir. Alternatively, just swing by a choral Evensong which happens every evening at the Oxford colleges. Oxford Playhouse will have a Christmas pantomime, as well as other family friendly shows.

Nearby, you can watch a Christmas Panto or show at a local theatre like the Chipping Norton theatre. Also, Blenheim Palace does an annual Christmas lighted walk through its parkland which is magical with children (and without!)

Easily one of the big Christmas highlights of the region, Blenheim’s Christmas lights are accompanied by a Christmas village and carnival rides. Finally, don’t miss Bicester Village, an outlet mall village for lots of great shopping in a festive setting.

Find accommodation in Oxford here .

Recommended by Dymphe from Dymabroad

One of the best places for Christmas breaks in the UK is the capital city of London. That’s because there are so many things to do during this time and the atmosphere of London is amazing!

One of the best things to do at Christmas is visiting Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park . This is a lovely Christmas festival where you find lots of attractions that are a lot of fun! Besides that, there are many stalls selling all kinds of food.

Another lovely activity to do during this time is ice skating at the ice rinks in the city. You can find a great ice rink at Somerset House, and there’s one at the Natural History Museum. You can even experience Christmas carols at the Royal Albert Hall for a truly magical Christmas activity!

Furthermore, exploring the Christmas markets of London is a wonderful activity at Christmas. At these Christmas markets, you can find many stalls selling food, gifts, and other items. One of the best Christmas markets takes place at Leicester Square.

Also, visiting the  pretty cafes in London  is a lot of fun during this time.  Another reason to visit London at Christmas is because of the Christmas decorations you can find in the streets.

New Year’s Eve in London amazing as well. There are many parties throughout the city where you can celebrate the new year, and there is a large firework show along the River Thames. To get the best experience of London during Christmas, three days is a good amount of time to stay in the city.

Find accommodation in London here .

Recommend e d by Ania from The Travelling Twins

There are many amazing Christmas breaks in the UK, but few are more enchanting than the medieval town of  Shrewsbury  in Shropshire.

There are plenty of wonderful places to stop for family meals at restaurants like “Riverbank Bar and Kitchen” or our favourite “La Dolce Vita” where you can try a five-star Italian Cuisine. And during the festive season be treated to such a scrumptious meal that makes you almost feel like you are in Italy.

For adults, there are some lovely bars where you can enjoy a drink or two. Our favourite gin bar is Gindifferent, which is in the Market Hall. It is a great place to chill out, stopping for some cocktails and bar food on the way! For something more festive check out “Ten & Six” on Mardol street.

It’s not just adults who will love Shrewsbury though; there’s plenty for children to do too. The city organises many Christmas workshops like lantern building, which keeps kids entertained and lets parents do some shopping. Later kids can join the lantern parade through the town.

Shrewsbury ticks all the boxes making it one of the best Christmas breaks in the UK!

Find accommodation in Shrewsbury here .

Recommended by Sinead from Map Made Memories

Historic York is a perfect destination for a winter break as it is easily accessible by road and rail with the city’s Victorian rail station a short ten-minute walk from the city centre.

York is a small, compact city and winter sightseeing is easy due to its pedestrianised city centre that is easily covered on foot.

Christmas in York  is magical. The city’s Georgian and Victorian era buildings are decorated with lights and trees. Local favourite Betty’s Tea Rooms creates a festive window display whilst festive buskers entertain shoppers and tourists alike.

The city also plays host to a six week-long Christmas Market where over 100 wooden chalets sell locally made crafts, food and drink. Christmas shoppers can warm themselves in front of the fire with a mulled wine at Thor’s pop-up tipi or take advantage of a festive themed afternoon tea at one of the city’s historic hotels.

Catch a pantomime at one of York’s three theatres or attend a candlelit carol service at York Minster, York’s iconic cathedral which is the largest Gothic cathedral in northern Europe. Take a break from Christmas shopping and visit York Castle Museum whose famous full size Victorian street recreation ‘Kirkgate’ is decorated each Christmas.

Stay at the elegant The Principal Hotel next to York rail station or for a fabulous city centre location, stay at Dean’s Court Hotel directly opposite the illuminated York Minster. 

Ready to enjoy Christmastime in York? Plan your trip here!

Find more accommodation options in York here .

Recommended by Ella from Many More Maps

For a festive city break filled with freshly baked mince pies, twinkly Christmas lights and plenty of cosy libraries to warm up in, you should definitely head to Cambridge. At just an hour away from London by train, it’s very popular to visit Cambridge as a day trip . Since it’s a small city, you can definitely see the city’s highlights in one day or a weekend.

This ancient university city is famous the world over for its breathtaking colleges, which you’re able to visit year-round. Many of the colleges charge a small admission fee. However, there are a small number that are free to wander around, such as Christ’s College.

To warm up, it’s worth heading to the Fitzwilliam Museum, which is free to enter and houses countless historical artefacts and pieces of art from around the globe. Just down the road from the Fitzwilliam Museum you’ll find Fitzbillies, a Cambridge institution known for their baked goods. Warm up over a steaming cup of tea and a mince pie before heading out to do more exploring!

Like London’s Winter Wonderland, Cambridge has its very own Christmas attraction – the North Pole. With an ice-rink, Christmas market stalls and plenty of festive rides, it’s an unmissable attraction for any festive visit to Cambridge.

Find accommodation in Cambridge here .

Recommended by Sophie from Solo Sophie

One of the most magical Christmas breaks in the UK is the city of Manchester. Boasting multiple Christmas markets, as well as some truly gorgeous illuminations, the best time to visit is during December. All the city is lit up by twinkling lights and the pop-up Christmas market stalls across the city are in full swing.

In general, one of the top highlights of Manchester includes a plethora of wonderful museums which are perfect for wandering around on cold days when you don’t want to go outside. Think the People’s History Museum and The Manchester Art Gallery- both free to visit.

Another cosy activity that is best enjoyed indoors is to check out the fantastic foodie scene that Manchester has become known for in recent years. Otherwise, the  Manchester Christmas Markets  are the perfect place to warm up with a hot drink and shop for some last-minute festive gifts. In the stalls, visitors will find everything for sale from handmade soaps to luxurious jewellery.

Lastly, it’s worth noting that Manchester is one of the largest cities in the UK and so is best explored over the course of a long weekend (as opposed to a day visit) and never has a shortage of seasonal activities, fairs, and things to do.

Find accommodation in Manchester here .

The Lake District

Recommended by Rose from Where Goes Rose?

The Lake District is a beautiful area of the UK that’s worth a visit around the year. Although the crowds dwindle outside of the summer months, making it a lovely place to escape the crowds of city Christmas markets. Cosy cabins and Christmas movies, what more could you want?

There are plenty of destinations to add your Lake District itinerary that can be visited throughout the year. Although some hikes are better during summer, there are others that can be done during winter and offer spectacular views of snowy peaks. The five-mile path around Derwentwater Lakeshore, for example, would make an excellent hike before heading for hearty winter comfort food.

Festive events that can be enjoyed in the Lake District include a trip on Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway with complimentary mince pies. Foodies can take a trip to Muncaster Castle and tuck into a Christmas-themed afternoon tea or a mulled wine while curled up in front of a roaring fire!

There are countless hearty pubs in the Lake District where you can get cosy and sample regional dishes and local ales. Afterwards, book yourself into a cosy cottage and crack on the Christmas movies. It’s a winter wonderland for sure!

Find accommodation in the Lake District here .

Recommended by Victoria from Guide Your Travel

Aberdeen is somewhat of an underappreciated city in Scotland. Most tourists head to Edinburgh or Glasgow but tend to skip the much smaller Aberdeen. However, the granite city is actually quite beautiful and there is a lot to see and do especially during the festive season.

Aberdeen always has an annual Christmas market which takes place from late November until Christmas. There are booths selling traditional foods, mulled wine, and of course some themed rides. There are also regular events with reindeer which you can feed and pet.

While the weather is sometimes a bit unpredictable Aberdeen actually gets a decent amount of sun even during the colder months. This is the perfect excuse to go on a winter hike along the beautiful coastline to places like Stonehaven, Dunnottar Castle or Newburgh.

There are also a lot of whisky distilleries you need to visit to truly appreciate Scotland. A lot offer guided tours and tastings which is a must do to warm up after a long day of sightseeing in the cold Scottish winter. The Brewdog Brewery is also located close to Aberdeen and can easily be reached by bus so put it at the top of your to do list.

Aberdeen also has a few fantastic museums to try when it rains like the Maritime Museum or the Toolbooth Museum.

Find accommodation in Aberdeen here .

Resources for booking Christmas breaks in the UK

Ready to start planning one of these great Christmas breaks in the UK? Here are some of my favourite travel planning resources to make organising your break easy!

• Book affordable accommodation with  TripAdvisor  or  Booking.com
• Get travel insurance from  Coverwise
• Hire a car through  Travel Supermarket
• Never pay international payment fees again with a debit card from  Currensea  that works with your existing bank account.
• Book a tour with  Get Your Guide  or  Viatour

15 Places for the Best Christmas Breaks in the UK

So, if you’re ready to start planning a winter escape to the best places to visit in the UK at Christmas, be sure to bookmark this page or pin it using the image below.

Are you inspired and planning one of these Christmas breaks in the UK? I’d love to hear about your trip! Let’s connect on  Instagram  and send me a DM telling me where you are planning to visit!

Until our next adventure,

Related Articles

P.S. Love it? Pin it!

If you like this guide to the best places to visit in the UK at Christmas, be sure to follow  Get Lost on Pinterest . That’s where I’ll be sharing all my great  UK travel guides .

Hello, I’m Hannah! I’m a writer and photographer who loves experiencing the wonders of Yorkshire. My guides will help you escape from your daily routine by showing you that you don’t have to go far to find an adventure.

34 thoughts on “15 Places for the Best Christmas Breaks in the UK 2023”

Oh, this would be so much to touch base with all of these locations in one mega trip. I love Christmas and would love all of these destinations.

A huge UK Christmas road trip would be incredible! Sign me up!! I love Christmas too, it is such a magical time of year to travel! I hope you get to experience some of the festive fun this year!

All of these Christmas Markets look beautiful and loads of fun! I of course would love to experience all of these one day but the Mousehole, Leeds, Scottish Highlands, and Manchester would be the first ones I’d like to attend!

There are so many great places for a Christmas break in the UK, aren’t there? I want to visit them all too! The Christmas lights at Mousehole sound incredible! I’d love to see those! I hope you get to enjoy some of the festive fun this Christmas!

Love this curated list of the best Christmas breaks in the UK. Would love to spend an extended holiday at all of them!

I’m so glad you like the list! I’d love to spend all of December just visiting them all too!

We’re trying to figure out where to spend Christmas this year in Europe! Thanks for the great ideas for a Christmas break in the U.K., I’m definitely pinning them! If not Christmas, maybe spring!

Ooh I love a Christmas European break! If you don’t make it to the UK, Berlin is incredible at Christmas! Dublin is also great and Barcelona is ideal if you want somewhere slightly warmer! Christmas in the UK is always enchanting and well worth exploring if you get the chance!

They all look so lovely. I remember going to Oxford several times during Christmas when I lived in London…such an enchanting place. I haven’t traveled to Scotland but Aberdeen looks really cool as well. Any place with a castle always adds a magical feeling. 🙂

They all look like magical Christmas breaks, don’t they? I can’t decide where I want to visit first! I’d love to see more of Scotland so maybe Aberdeen will be up there on the list! We visited Edinburgh a few years ago and it was lovely there!

These pictures are really just so beautiful, and it REALLY feels like a great list of places to visit for Christmas. Is anyone else wishing they could escape internationally for Christmas/winter holidays? I want to visit these enchanting places so much! But I will be stuck here in the Sonoran Desert.

I imagine Christmas in the desert is very different to Christmas in the UK! I think the UK is such a charming place for a Christmas break and there is such a great variety of places to visit! I’m sorry you won’t get an opportunity to experience it this year, I hope you get to enjoy a UK Christmas break in the future!

So many great places I’d be happy to visit any time of year, but I’m sure Christmas is even more special. I’m actually in Cornwall right now and was thinking of visiting Mousehole so even though it’s not Christmas I think I might go there this week as it sounds lovely

I think the UK is especially charming at Christmas and is the ideal place for a Christmas break! Mousehole does sound beautiful, doesn’t it? The Christmas lights in the village sound enchanting! I hope you enjoy your visit!

oh wow these all look incredible! I would love to do a Christmas break in the UK someday. It looks truly magical. thanks for sharing these. Scotland whiskey distilleries sound incredible.

Christmas in the UK is such a charming experience! I love all of the fun festive activities. I hope you get an opportunity to experience it one day! Thanks for reading!

Manchester is one of my favourite Christmas markets in the UK since it’s enormous, but I also enjoyed going to the Edinburgh and Leeds markets too. I haven’t been to many of the ones in your list so thanks for the recommendations!

I need to visit the Manchester Christmas market again, I haven’t been for years! I love to visit the Leeds one, it’s small but so lively! There are so many great Christmas markets in the UK, aren’t there? I want to visit them all!

I love Christmas markets so thank you for putting this great list together. I go to the Manchester one every year but would love to venture out to other places too to compare them 🙂

There are so many beautiful places in the UK to visit at Christmas, aren’t there? I’ve not been to the Manchester one for years so I’d love to get back there! I love to visit anywhere that has a fun Christmas vibe – it is my favourite time of year!

I’ve never heard of Mousehole before and now Im making it my lives purpose to visit this adorably named village. It sounds spectacular!

It is an adorable name isn’t it! Locally they pronounce it like “Mauzel” which I think makes it sounds even cuter! I hope you get a chance to visit!

Hay-on-Wye seemed the most interesting to me. I mean a book tows must be so so attractive to visit. Thank you for sharing.

I agree, Hay-on-Wye sounds so magical! It has been on my list to visit forever and I’ve still not got there! A Christmas trip sounds perfect though! Thanks for reading!

Great post & as I may still not be able to see my family (in Australia) again this year, I may well take full advantage & get into the spirit at home. There are some excellent ideas & love all the light displays to explore too.

What a shame you might not be able to spend Christmas with your family again! I’m sorry to hear you might not be able to celebrate with them. There are definitely so many amazing places for a Christmas break in the UK! All of the Christmas markets and light displays sound so cozy!

Oooh I never considered visiting the Scottish highlands for Christmas, but it would be looovely to stay in a cabin in that gorgeous scenery!! These are all fabulous Cristmassy spots though. 🙂

The Scottish Highlands don’t spring to mind when you think about a Christmas getaway do they, but I bet it is a magical place to for a winter break! I want to visit them all, they all sound so beautiful!

OMG this is a lot to consider, WOW just WOW. Thanks for the info

There are so many incredible places for a Christmas break in the UK! It’s hard to choose where to start!

Christmas is my favorite time of year and I love all the pictures you shared! It’s exciting to see so many amazing places in the UK for Christmas!

Christmas is my favourite time of year too! My birthday is also in December so it is double the celebration! We usually enjoy a festive UK Christmas break for my birthday and it is great having so many lovely places to choose from!

I LOVE it! We wanted to go to the UK for Christmas but there are no direct flights from where I live and the flights are already so pricy. Have you ever been to Liverpool for Christmas? That’s where my boyfriend used to live so we were thinking of going there. Maybe next year, we will plan better and get cheap air tickets ahead of time.

Christmas in the UK is certainly magical! What a shame you’re not able to make it this year but I’ll keep my fingers crossed you can get here next year instead. I haven’t explored Liverpool very much at all to be honest but I am keen to visit. I might see if I can squeeze in a festive trip before the end of the year!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

I accept the Privacy Policy

• Skip to main content
• Skip to main navigation
• Skip to search

Advertisement

Our writers test and research products independently. When you buy through a link on our site we may earn a commission but this never affects our product choices.

Best Christmas breaks in the UK to enjoy as a family

Fully embrace the festive spirit and get away this Christmas season. Whether you want a magical break on a budget or an action packed adventure for the whole family, we’ve researched the best places in the UK for Christmas this year.

By Gemma Wilcock | Last updated Feb 16, 2024

Twinkling lights, giant Christmas trees, festive markets selling crafts and hot mulled wine - these are just some of the things you can expect to see and do when getting away during the winter holiday season.

With so much going on, it’s a wonderful time of the year to escape with your family and make some memories for life. You may fancy a cosy country break with long winter walks or a seaside adventure the whole family will love - thankfully, there’s something out there for every family and budget.

There are so many exciting UK cities and picturesque villages to explore, so we’ve researched the best UK winter escapes for you. As always our recommendations come from our Mumsnet forums so we know we’re getting a range of destinations that have been sampled by families just like you. We also cross-check these with travel websites to make sure we’re recommending breaks that cater for families.

Here are the 10 best Christmas breaks in the UK.

Where to travel in the UK at Christmas: a roundup

Best overall Christmas break: Adventure at Celtic Manor

Best luxury Christmas break: Spa stay at the Grove

Best budget Christmas break: Weekend in York

Best Christmas break for older children: Sightseeing in London

Best city Christmas break: Magical Edinburgh

1. Best overall Christmas break: Christmas adventure at Celtic Manor Resort

Celtic Manor Resort, Cardiff | Check availability

If you’re looking for festive celebrations combined with fun outdoor activities to keep the whole family happy - and maybe a trip to the spa when Mum and Dad need a rest - Celtic Manor Resort in Cardiff has everything you may need for a Christmas family break.

The five-star family resort sits on a lakefront in Newport and is set on more than 2000 acres of parkland. It boasts a huge range of restaurants, bars and cafes offering different cuisines, with a fuss-free children’s menu so you can try and avoid any meltdowns at mealtimes.

There’s no chance of them getting bored either, with a host of activities on offer, from swimming in the indoor children’s pool and mini golf to treetop adventures for older children, as well as tennis, biking trails, archery and air hockey. The hotel has plenty going on to help you get in the Christmas spirit too - you can order a gingerbread house to be delivered to the room, and book a Santa’s tea party or a festive afternoon tea.

If all this sounds exhausting, there’s also a kids’ club and babysitters on site, so your children can be cared for while you take a much needed rest in the spa, work out in the gym or enjoy a quiet drink in the bar. The hotel also hosts a variety of Christmas parties during the festive period. Be aware though that you have to pay for parking during your stay.

Mumsnet users say

“ Two places I have heard good things about but not been to myself are Bluestone (self-catering) and Celtic Manor (hotel). Both have a lot of Christmas activities on-site plus lots of places to visit close by .” cwtchcariad

“ Last year instead of loads of presents we took the children to Celtic Manor for a few days just before and were home for Christmas Eve. It was wonderful! ” Mumof5x

2. Best luxury Christmas break: Enjoy a family spa break

While holidays with kids are rarely relaxing, Christmas is a great time to escape with your loved ones and enjoy a bit of luxury.

Hotels like The Grove in Chandlers Cross, Hertfordshire, are family friendly and offer treats for the adults too. Children stay free and there's a kids' club on site and a babysitting service (at an extra cost), a playground and woodland and nature trails for exploring. Other activities include swimming, archery and a forest school.

Staying there over Christmas, you can expect carol singers, a chance to meet Santa’s reindeer, Christmas art and crafts, mulled wine and live music. At The Grove, parents can make the most of any child-free time to play golf, go for wintery walks or relax in the pool and sauna or have a treatment in the spa.

Other spa hotels recommended on our Mumsnet forums include Chewton Glen Hotel and Spa , a five-star luxury hotel in New Milton, and Rudding Park in Harrogate, which both offer magical Christmas escapes, action-packed activities for kids and the opportunity to take a bit of child-free time to relax or enjoy a quiet coffee - a treat in itself!

These breaks are luxury though so they come with a high price tag - and the chances are you’ll love it so much, you’ll never want to leave!

“ If you really want to spoil yourselves and experience an absolutely amazing spa, then consider Rudding Park, just three miles from Harrogate station .” Ricekrispie22

UK Spa hotels for Christmas

Located in Hertfordshire Price per night from

Located in New Milton Price per night from

Located in Harrogate Price per night from

3. Best budget Christmas break: A festive weekend in York

York | Find a hotel

We all know Christmas is an expensive time of the year, but thankfully you can get away for a few days without breaking the bank. Packed with history and character, York has so much to offer during December that you can easily spend hours just wandering around the pedestrianised city streets taking in the sights and soaking up the atmosphere.

The streets are lit up with twinkling lights and children can enjoy looking at festive window displays in the shops and restaurants, and listening to buskers. York is also well known for its Christmas market where Alpine chalets line the streets offering up stocking fillers and tasty street food and mulled wine to warm you up. If you can stretch your budget, you can watch a pantomime or take in a Christmas concert at York Minster, the city’s iconic Gothic cathedral.

Mumsnet users recommend staying at the YHA York to keep costs down. A 4-star hostel, it doesn’t offer you the same luxury, activities or amenities you’ll get at the likes of Celtic Manor but it has a restaurant and large, clean bedrooms and, at a much lower price, you’ll be left with more money for shopping and eating your way around this magical city.

“ We have had some very good deals at YHAs both York and Brighton were particularly good. You can get Premier Inn rooms from £30 a night. Big breakfast for £10, kids under 16 eat free. I'm sure there are other comparable budget hotels, we are just big Premier Inn fans, and they are everywhere, usually fairly central .” Ted27

4. Best Christmas break for older children: Sightseeing in London

London | Find a hotel

What better way to embrace the festivities than taking a trip to the capital city? There’s so much to do in London during the Christmas season, even older, sometimes harder-to-please children will find something fun to do.

You can take them skating at one of the ice rinks around the city, such as Hampton Court Palace and Somerset House . Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park has the biggest outdoor rink in the UK and there’s plenty of other stuff to do there for children of all ages. Afterwards, you can explore the Christmas market stalls, enjoy some food and drink and make your way round the rides. There’s even a circus!

Other Christmas markets can be found at the likes of Leicester Square and Covent Garden, and you can take a walk to see the famous lights and decorations on Regent Street.

If, somehow, your children get bored there’s a host of other activities and sights on offer, including taking a ride on the London Eye , visiting the Tower of London , spotting celebrities at Madame Tussauds or heading to the West End to see a show, such as Frozen .

Be warned though, you’ll need to be prepared to walk lots and expect crowds as London will be busy at this time of the year. Also, if you plan to enjoy the huge range of attractions on offer you’ll need a fair bit of spending money too.

When it comes to accommodation in London, there are so many to choose from but our Mumsnet users recommend looking for somewhere with a central location, easy access to public transport and big family rooms.

“ I stayed here [Radisson Blu Edwardian] recently on a deal. It was really pleasant. I went with my teenage daughter. Right in the centre of seven dials (Covent Garden). It will be festive around there at Christmas. I would definitely stay there again .” OnTheNatureOfDaylight

Family hotels in London for Christmas

Price per night from hotels.com

5. Best for a weekend Christmas break: Visit beautiful Bath

Bath | Find a hotel

A popular choice on our forums for a weekend getaway at Christmas is Bath. A smaller city break than London, it is beautiful and has plenty of charm and history to explore.

Stroll around Bath’s iconic streets and buildings which are lit up by magical illuminations, then pull on your boots and take to the ice rink at the Royal Victoria Park. Closeby, children can also play Glow Golf , a mini golf course which is decked out with Christmas lights.

For a bit of history and culture, you can take in the beautiful sights of Bath Abbey and visit the Roman baths. And if you need to do a spot of shopping, you can head to Bath Christmas Market, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, where there are more than 170 chalets spread across the Georgian streets selling food, drink, crafts, decorations and jewellery.

Families will also enjoy the Enchanted Garden of Light at The American Museum & Gardens , an magical after-dark light display. For somewhere to stay, check out some of our Mumsnet recommendations for family friendly hotels in Bath, including Abbey Hotel , Bath Mill Lodge Retreat and Apex City of Bath Hotel .

“ Just come back from Bath, found it absolutely delightful. We did a Treasure Trail which was great fun (solving clues etc). We stayed at Bath Mill Lodge Retreat, just outside the city centre. It offers luxury lodges for one night- worth a look .” leccybill

Family hotels in Bath for Christmas

Price shown per week hoseasons.co.uk

6. Best city Christmas break: Explore magical Edinburgh

Edinburgh | Find a hotel

Edinburgh is a city that really knows how to do Christmas and New Year. The Scottish capital fully embraces the atmosphere starting with festive celebrations and moving on to a big party at New Year.

A city break here offers so much. Wander along the historic Royal Mile and see Edinburgh Castle colourfully lit up at night. You can also check out the lights and sounds at the Royal Botanic Gardens , which offers a magical after-dark experience the whole family will enjoy.

The city is packed with culture and history with museums and galleries to visit and plenty of shops for finishing off your Christmas shopping. There’s also Christmas markets to wander around and attractions, like ice-skating, to enjoy. And who can forget Hogmanay? Edinburgh’s famous New Year celebration, with a torchlight procession and an unforgettable street party to bring in the new year.

Hotels can get booked up at this time of the year so make sure to plan ahead. Our Mumsnet recommendations include the Grassmarket Hotel , offering a central location for all your sightseeing, The Radisson Blu Hotel , close to the Royal Mile and with a spa for relaxing, and Motel One , where children stay free.

Mumsnet recommendations:

“ I can recommend the Grassmarket Hotel. Really central. One wall of the room has a large map of Edinburgh, opposite wall is made up of Beano covers. Free coffee in reception .” cdtaylornats

Where to stay in Edinburgh for Christmas

Price per night from Hotels.com

7. Best coastal Christmas break: Escape to Cornwall

Cornwall | Find a hotel

With its sandy beaches and picturesque coastlines, Cornwall may not be an obvious choice for a Christmas break but if you’re looking for long coastal works, breathtaking views mixed in with some festive magic it could be the place for you.

A popular place to visit in Cornwall is Mousehole, near to Penzance, a charming village with a harbour and cobbled streets, which comes alive at Christmas. The whole town decorates their homes, gardens and businesses, and people flock to see the beautiful twinkling lights and displays.

Falmouth and Fowey are also lovely places to visit at this time of the year and you can go for brisk, windy walks on the beach before warming in front of a fire with a hot chocolate or a mulled wine.

If you’re looking for accommodation in Cornwall that has plenty to offer for the kids at Christmas, Watergate Bay , set on a beach near Newquay, is a popular choice on our Mumsnet forums. Also in Newquay is the Bedruthan Hotel and Spa , a hotel on the cliff tops offering beautiful views and plenty for the children to do. Polurrian Hotel in Mullion is another hotel offering a good base for seaside activities and adventures.

“ Polurrian Hotel is fantastic. It has up to two hours free childcare in the Four Bears Den. We liked the extra touches, such as Breakfast Club on Sundays where nannies collect the children for breakfast while you and your DH can have breakfast in bed with the morning papers. Little children love the 'mouse safari' (little stone mice hidden around the hotel and grounds) and climbing Crocodilla! As well as indoor and outdoor swimming pools, there’s a play area with swings and a slide, tennis court, a family cinema and a games room.” Ricekrispie22

Where to stay in Cornwall for Christmas

Price per night from watergatebay.co.uk

8. Best Christmas break for babies and toddlers: Visit Crieff Hydro in Scotland

Crieff Hydro | Check availability

Family-friendly hotel, Crieff Hydro , in Crieff, Scotland transforms into a Winter Wonderland in December. Two-night Christmas breaks include daily entertainment for the kids, such as crafts, games, quizzes and movies, as well as hot toddies for the adults and gingerbread men for the kids. There’s also free daily childcare if you want a bit of time to relax.

The hotel offers some Christmas activities too which you can do at an extra cost - children can meet Santa at his grotto and also enjoy a reindeer experience. You can also stay over Christmas for three nights starting from Christmas Eve or a New Year escape to bring in 2023.

Set on 900 acres, the hotel has plenty of other family-friendly amenities too, with over 60 activities, including rock climbing, zip-lining, swimming, golf, hiking and archery, for keeping everyone busy. There’s also a fun adventure playground, childcare (at an extra cost) for children aged 2-12, as well as a spa for some child-free time.

Some customers claim the hotel looks a bit tired in parts and, if you want to use the pool, make sure to check if you need to book first as it may get fully booked during busy periods.

“ Crieff Hydro is family oriented and ticks all your boxes. It's a really lovely place and there is the option of the hotel or self catering houses .” StarryNightSparkles

9. Best Christmas break for animal lovers: A festive Safari in Kent

Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve , Kent | Find a hotel nearby

Imagine waking up on Christmas Day to see lions roaming outside your room. Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve in Kent offers a special Christmas break that you and your family will remember for a long time.

You can choose to stay in one of 11 different accommodations, including a luxury four-star hotel, a treehouse high in the woodland or in one of the special lodges set within the animal’s habitats, allowing you to see some of the animals up close, including the resident lions, tigers, wolves and rhinos. Set in 600 acres on the Kent coast, there are 700 rare and endangered animals to see during your stay. Some of the accommodation comes with its own golf buggy too for getting around!

The two night festive break starts on Christmas Eve and once you’re done exploring the estate, taking in the incredible views and wildlife, there’s a sunset choir and a special guest from the North Pole arrives.

Throughout your stay you will enjoy delicious meals in the restaurant and you can personalise your break to add your own special touches. Before you leave, your children can get to experience some incredible animal encounters.

Costing from £2995 for four guests, it’s an expensive break, especially when you may have to pay extra for animal experiences, but it will be a Christmas your children will be sure to remember forever.

“ Port Lympne zoo in Kent springs to mind. If you stay in the accommodation with the private viewing areas of the wolf/lion/tiger enclosures they are very luxurious (some of the other accommodation is more basic), and you also get two days access to the park with a gold buggy to drive yourself round. It's absolutely amazing, but does cost around £1000 per night! I thought it was worth every penny though .” SantaSue

10. Best countryside Christmas break: Visit the cosy Cotswolds

Cotswolds | Find a hotel 

Picturesque towns and villages, gorgeous landscapes and cosy pubs make the Cotswolds a beautiful place to visit over Christmas. You can wrap up warm for long winter walks around the gorgeous countryside and cosy up in front of a log fire at one of the many charming hotels.

There’s plenty of stuff to keep children happy too. Sudeley Castle in Sudeley is lit up colourfully at Christmas time, with lights hanging off the trees and an enchanting light trail leading you through the grounds. If you want to venture a bit further, Blenheim Palace , which sits on the edge of the Cotswolds, also has a Christmas lights trail and a market.

You can enjoy a festive afternoon tea in one of the little villages and if you want to do a spot of shopping there are plenty of independent boutique shops for picking up something unique. For a big Christmas market, you could head to Bath or Cheltenham, but some of the villages also put on their own, including Burford and Bourton-on-the-Water.

Christmas can be a busy time of the year for the Cotswolds - and parking in the little villages and towns can be tricky - so make sure to plan ahead and book any meals or activities.

For something a bit special at Christmas, our Mumsnetters recommend staying at the Calcot Manor & Spa , a luxury spa hotel suitable for families near Tetbury, or Woolley Grange , which is another great family friendly hotel with a spa, a free children's club and babysitting services. For self-catering, Lakes by YOO offer lakeside woodland cabins set on the Lechlade Upon Thames.

“ Calcot Manor, Watergate Bay, The Alexandra, Polurrian Bay, South Sands, Chewton Glen, Lime Wood should all fit the bill. At a slightly lower price point you could try Ickworth, Woolley Grange, The Elms, Moonfleet Manor .” Sleepthieved

Where to stay in the Cotswolds for Christmas

Price per night from calcot.co

Price per night from thelakesbyyoo.com

Where’s the best place to celebrate Christmas in the UK?

For all round fun for the whole family at Christmas, head to Celtic Manor Resort . There’s a huge range of activities that will keep kids of all ages entertained and plenty of festive fun to be had too, including a Santa’s tea party or a festive afternoon tea.

“We took the children to Celtic Manor for a few days... It was wonderful!”

Celtic Manor Resort

Located in Wales hotels.com

For a city escape, stroll around a Christmas market, take in beautiful light displays, visit Santa and take to the ice in London. The city has everything your whole family could need - children both young and old will enjoy the huge variety of sights, lights and attractions on offer.

"I've been to London a couple of times over Christmas and my favourite part is always just walking around looking at the lights."

Iseeyoulookingatme

Find a hotel in London

Prices from £125 per night hotels.com

What to do with kids during the Christmas holidays

Thankfully, there’s plenty of options for entertaining kids during the festive season, just make sure to think ahead as some places need booking in advance. Some of the most popular activities include:

visiting a Santa's grotto

going to see a Pantomime

gliding around an ice-skating rink

taking a walk around a magical light trail

going on a Christmas train ride

As it’s already an expensive time of the year, you can fill the rest of the Christmas holidays with cheap activities like playdates at the park, baking and decorating festive gingerbread men or, if there are lots of houses locally that go to town on their Christmas lights, why not take a walk or drive around to see the magical displays? A great free activity to get you in the festive spirit.

Which city has the best Christmas market in the UK?

When it comes to Christmas, who doesn’t love browsing around stalls looking for gifts and stocking fillers, eating street food and sipping on Glühwein? We love a good Christmas market in the UK, and we have lots of great ones to choose from.

Bath Christmas market comes up a lot on our Mumsnet forums, while others recommend the bigger markets in Birmingham and York for getting into the festive spirit.

Best Christmas markets in the UK: editor's picks

24th November - 11th December Hotel prices from

3rd November - 23rd December Hotel prices from

17th November - 23rd December Hotel prices from

How we chose our recommendations

Recommendations by real parents.

We always start our research at the Mumsnet forums. With over 10 million users a month, we know we’re going to get a host of suggestions for great destinations and hotels that will cater for a range of needs and budgets. And, best of all, they’ve already been there and done it.

Expert guidance and traveller reviews

We then consult the experts to make sure we’re recommending a destination that is suitable for families. This means cross-checking hotels with travel sites like Hotels.com, TripAdvisor and Booking.com to ensure they cater for a family’s needs.

We also check what consumers say, including the negative comments so that we can give a balanced review.

Celebrated destinations

Finally, to make sure we were finding the best UK Christmas breaks we looked out for destinations and hotels that won awards and came highly recommended, until we were left with a list of ten UK getaways to suit every budget this Christmas.

Why you should trust us

We work hard to provide unbiased, independent advice you can trust. We do sometimes earn revenue through affiliate (click to-buy) links in our articles. This helps us fund more helpful articles like this one.

• Inspiration
• Destinations
• Places To Stay
• Style & Culture
• Food & Drink
• Wellness & Spas
• News & Advice
• Partnerships
• Traveller's Directory
• Travel Tips
• Competitions

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The best cities in the UK: 2023 Readers' Choice Awards

By Condé Nast Traveller

The survey for the 2024 Readers' Choice Awards is open, vote now for your favourite places, hotels, airports, cruise lines, travel fixers and more.

What's your favourite city in the UK? In 2023, we asked our readers just that – and your responses rank the top 10 of the UK's 51 cities in some surprising ways. There are cities from all four devolved nations represented in this list, with a new city in the top spot and two new additions of Brighton and Dundee.

Our annual Reader's Choice Awards are the biggest and most influential in the business, shining a light on the best places around the world. In collaboration with our sister title in the USA, we can now reveal the urban destinations that scored the highest marks when it comes to nightlife, restaurants and friendliness. For more inspiration, see our pick of the best places to visit in the UK .

These are the best cities in the UK, according to the 2023 Readers' Choice Awards . The scores below are percentages representing overall average levels of satisfaction.

10. Brighton. Score 80.22

This bohemian beach city has it all: a wealth of enticing restaurants , one of the UK's best LGBTQ+ scenes and – most importantly for any seaside destination – truly excellent fish and chips .

Where to stay: Bed down in elegant Regency Square in rooms filled with beautiful artworks at Artist Residence . Or opt for this sweet Airbnb in the historic Lanes . See more hotels in Brighton .

9. Dundee. Score 81.11

With its large-scale waterfront regeneration, including the architecturally impressive V&A Museum, Dundee is a thriving cultural hotspot.

Where to stay: Set in a former textile mill, Hotel Indigo has industrial interiors, a buzzy bar and is well located for exploring.

8. Belfast. Score 83.07

The Northern Irish capital is famous for being birthplace to the RMS Titanic – but also for its vibrant culture and art scene and welcoming locals, set against a backdrop of handsome cobbled streets and dapper Edwardian buildings. Check out our local's guide to Belfast to find out more.

Where to stay: At The Harrison , set in Victorian merchants' residences, given a colourful, light-hearted makeover. The hotel is close to some of the city's best cultural highlights, too. For more ideas, read our guide to the best hotels in Belfast .

7. Glasgow. Score 83.27

This buzzy Scottish city has made the list for the sixth year in a row. Read our feature on the best things to do in Glasgow to find out why, or tap into the Glaswegian food scene .

Where to stay: See our round-up of the best Airbnbs in Glasgow from which to base yourself – including this handsome studio in a classic townhouse that sleeps two.

6. Liverpool. Score 83.29

Liverpool comes in sixth place on our list this year, up a spot from last year. The once-gritty city is now a capital of cool, where vintage shops, art galleries and art venues inject a creative atmosphere into the streets – see our guide to things to do in Liverpool for ideas on how to spend a visit here.

Where to stay:

Book a room at Titanic Hotel Liverpool , converted from a soaring, cavernous former warehouse.

5. Cambridge. Score 84.16

History is woven into the medieval lanes and cloistered colleges of this free-wheeling university town. But now a perky batch of new arrivals are adding cocktail and coffee culture to the equation. Before your visit, see our pick of the best things to do in Cambridge .

Where to stay: The smartest choice in town is The University Arms , a coaching inn that’s been artfully reimagined.

4. Manchester. Score 85.36

Vibrant Manchester is packed with excellent chefs, music and culture. Grand libraries, street art, record shops and galleries are among the best things to do in the city , while excellent restaurants in Manchester range from Korean cooking to donut shops via Spanish, Italian, Vietnamese and Indian cuisine. There's a thriving LGBTQ+ scene in Manchester , too.

Where to stay: Whitworth Locke comprises apartments painted in dreamy pastels in an old cotton mill. See more of the best hotels in Manchester .

3. Edinburgh. Score 86.38

Edinburgh, famed for its festival and varied architecture, has come third in our list of the best cities in the UK. For first-time visitors, see our Edinburgh travel guide and the best things to do in the Scottish capital . In the last few years the city has developed into a foodie hotspot – these are the best restaurants in Edinburgh .

Where to stay: Gleneagles Townhouse is the most exciting newcomer on the scene. For a private stay, this loft Airbnb overlooks the city's most famous street. For more options, see our pick of the best Edinburgh hotels and the best Airbnbs in Edinburgh .

Sophie Heawood

Sophie Prideaux

CNT Editors

Connor Sturges

2. London. Score 86.44

London is not just a major city but a thriving hub of 32 boroughs, each with their own, distinct character, from hip Dalston to colourful Notting Hill and buzzing Soho . Stay up to date with the latest happenings via our weekly roundup of the best  things to do in London this weekend , as well as our list of the best restaurants in London  (even better, sign up to our weekly newsletter on London's hottest restaurants right now too).

Where to stay: For something smart and classic, you can't get much better than Claridge's , in splashy Mayfair . For a cooler, more casual stay, look further East to One Hundred Shoreditch , which boasts a gorgeous rooftop bar. For more, see our edit of the best London hotels .

1. Cardiff. Score 86.84

The playful Welsh capital takes the top spot for 2023 with its exciting independent restaurants, buzzy bars and up-and-coming neighbourhoods. Take a bite into the cool food scene and discover the unmissable places to visit with our guide to the best things to do in Cardiff .

Where to stay: Take over an Airbnb in the city to live like a local and explore the Welsh capital at your own pace.

The 5 Best UK Cities To Visit At Christmas With Kids

Wondering where to go this Christmas with the kids to really help you get into the festive spirit? If you can’t stretch to the ultimate Christmas experience of visiting Santa in Lapland , you’ll be pleased to know there is so much on offer in the UK.

From Christmas markets to Christmas lights and Santa’s Grottos, a Christmas city break in the UK offers a wealth of Christmas activites for families.

With 2020 being the year of the virtual Christmas , we’re really hoping that Christmas 2021 will see things open up again so that we can enjoy some of these fabulous Christmas things to do with our loved ones. But with so many top cities in the UK, which are the best UK cities to visit at Christmas with kids?

It feels like 2021 will be the year of staycations in the UK , but if you’re visiting the UK from abroad, you can check out any visa requirements you might need for visiting the UK at Byevisa.

If you are planning  more than just a weekend break at Christmas, you might want to also check out these Christmas breaks in the UK for families.

This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one and book something, we may earn a small commission but this is at no extra cost to you.

Covent Garden at Christmas

Which are the best UK cities to visit at Christmas with kids?

It really is hard to narrow the choice down to the best UK cities to visit at Christmas with kids. There are more and more UK cities with Christmas markets these days so if that is your thing, make sure to check out these best UK Christmas markets.

If you’re looking for outdoor Christmas activities for families, then we have a complete guide to the Christmas light trails in the UK. It’s one of our favourite Christmassy things to do.

Maybe a Christmas Panto is more your thing? Rest assured, each of these top UK cities has something for everyone.

We have picked 5 of our favourite UK cities to visit at Christmas with kids as they all offer so many family-friendly things to do at Christmas. They truly stand out as the best Christmas cities in the UK.

Tower Bridge at Christmas

As you would probably expect from the UK’s capital city, London is the best Christmas holiday destination in the UK. It is also one of the best Christmas cities in Europe.

There are so many amazing things to do at Christmas in London with kids. There is usually something new and different every year as well as all of the traditional Christmas things to do with kids.

If you’re looking for a Christmas show, book ahead as these can sell out early.

London Christmas shows

• The Snowman – an absolute must-see when in London at Christmas with kids.
• Elf – The Musical.
• The Nutcracker
• Christmas Actually
• Peter Pan Goes Wrong

Make sure to check out some of these hidden gems if you want to get away from the crowds.

One of our favourite things to do at Christmastime in London is to take the kids ice skating . Some of these London ice rinks have the most amazing backdrops like Somerset House or the Tower of London – two of the best attractions in London for kids .

If you visit the latter, warm up afterwards with a hot chocolate at the Coppa Club – one of London’s best igloo restaurants .

Winter Wonderland in London’s Hyde Park is one of the best Christmas markets in Europe. Don’t miss the other London Christmas markets while you are wandering around seeing the sights.

You’re bound to see some of the spectacular London Christmas lights on your travels too.

These are some highly rated Christmas lights tours you might want to look into are:

London Christmas lights by open top bus.

London Tootbus Christmas lights tour .

London Christmas walking tour

London Christmas lights private tour by black cab

We’re not forgetting the Harry Potter fans visiting London .  Warner Bros Studios transforms at Christmas into Hogwarts in the Snow. It’s a truly magical experience. See here to book your tickets and read our Harry Potter Studio tour review here.

Break up your days with lunch and dinner at one of these child-friendly restaurants (including kids eat free restaurants ) or treat yourselves to a Great British afternoon tea . Some of them are even Christmas themed.

Last but not least, remember to book your place at one of these fabulous Santa’s Grottos in London . And check out our suggestions of the best family hotels in London, family hotels with pools in London or Premier Inns for families in London if you are looking for accommodation.

Christmas lights on London’s Regent Street

The Scottish capital city, Edinburgh, is one of the most beautiful cities in the UK. Wander the cobbled streets of the Old Town including the famous Royal Mile and the beautiful Victoria Street.

Soak in the Christmassy vibes over the Christmas period. Edinburgh is simply magical and up there with the best European cities for Christmas.

Edinburgh’s Winter Festival puts on a great show over Christmas with the star of the show being the Edinburgh Christmas markets which are a huge draw for so many people.

The Christmas stalls and fairground rides sit nestled below the beautiful Edinburgh Castle and it is a truly spectacular sight at night when it is all lit up.

There is usually a six week programme of events on the run up to and over the Christmas period, much like the famous Edinburgh Festival with a variety of Christmas themed shows.

Get away from Edinburgh city centre to the Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh’s New Town where you’ll find a beautiful Christmas light trail or enjoy Christmas Nights at Edinburgh Zoo where you might have a chance of seeing Santa.

Edinburgh really is a fantastic UK Christmas destination but it gets even better at Hogmanay (New Year). Stick around if you have the time. It’s the biggest celebration of the year in Scotland.

With so much going on, you can check here what’s on in Edinburgh over Christmas and New Year .

Looking to fly to Edinburgh? Check out the cheapest fares on Skyscanner .

Fireworks over Edinburgh Castle

Manchester is one of the best cities for Christmas markets in the UK. It has the largest Christmas market in the UK which is spread over several markets around the city.

The largest of them is located in Albert Square next to the Town Hall. Make sure to climb the steps of the tower (all 173 of them) for the best views of the market.

The Manchester Christmas lights include a giant Santa as well as other light sculptures around the city centre. Take a walking trail to spot them all.

Other Christmassy things to do in Manchester city centre include the Ice Village where you may want to pay a visit to the Santa’s Grotto or the in-store Christmas events at Selfridges department store as well as the UK’s largest indoor fairground, Winter Funland .

Just a little way out of the city centre you will find  Lightopia at Heaton Park. A little further still but just as worthwhile are the Lanterns at Chester Zoo and the Christmas light trail at Dunham Massey .

For steam train enthusiasts there is the Santa Train ride on the East Lancashire Railway.

Manchester Christmas markets

Birmingham is home to the largest authentic German market outside of Germany and if that’s not a reason to visit Birmingham at Christmas, what is?

You can browse the multitude of Christmas stalls selling everything from handmade Christmas trinkets and decorations to Gluhwein and Bratwurst.

If you are visiting the market with kids, there are also fairground rides and an ice rink. To take the winter theme one step further, head to the Tamworth Snowdome where little ones will enjoy a true winter wonderland. There’s a Christmas snow trail, Christmas village and a Santa show.

If you’re a fan of the Polar Express movie, you need to check out the Birmingham Polar Express train ride which aims to recreate the magic of the movie on a steam train.

An hour’s drive from Birmingham (but well worth the drive) you will find Blenheim Palace. The Blenheim Palace Christmas light show is truly spectacular (like Christmas at Kew).

Due to fast train connections, Birmingham is ideal for a family day trip from London .

Birmingham at Christmas

York is one of the prettiest cities in the UK with York Minster at its heart. It is one of the best UK cities to visit at Christmas and has been named the UK’s most festive city. It’s also very easy to visit on a day trip from London by train .

There is a distinct medieval charm to York at Christmas with York Cathedral, the largest of its kind in northern Europe, dominating the skyline.

Head down the historic, narrow lanes and enjoy the shop windows with their Christmas displays and twinkling lights.

Just a stone’s throw from the cathedral is where you will find the York Christmas market. Thor’s Tipi at the end of Parliament Street is the place to go to rest your weary legs after a day wandering around York.

Grab a mulled wine and enjoy the festive atmosphere. The Yuletide Village in the Shambles Market is also worth popping into to see some beautiful local arts and crafts.

If you still have more energy left, head to Yorkshire Winter Wonderland which is home to the largest outdoor ice rink in the north east.

To experience a bit of Christmas past, visit York Castle Museum and wander around Kirkgate, their beautiful recreation of a Victorian street. There is usually a performance of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol and an opportunity to visit Santa.

Heading out of York city centre you will find the elegant Castle Howard and its Illuminated Trail.

These are our recommendations for the best places to visit in the UK at Christmas. Do you have any you would like to add?

Other highly rated places to spend Christmas in the UK

You might also like….

Things to do in Suffolk at Christmas

Things to do in Norfolk at Christmas

Things to do in Essex at Christmas

Things to do in Cambridgeshire at Christmas

Things to do in Hertfordshire at Christmas

Leave a Reply

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

We participate in various affiliate marketing programs. Flashpacking Family is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Most popular posts

Guide to visiting Lake Louise, Canada

Jordan itinerary

Sri Lanka’s best beaches

Things to do in Suffolk with kids

Free things to do in London for kids

15 Absolute Best Cities to Visit in the UK (+Map & Travel Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: September 12, 2023

The United Kingdom’s rich and vibrant culture make its cities among the most fascinating to visit in the world. Whether you’re looking for stunning architecture, world-class museums, or the cool vibe of contemporary art and music, you’ll find it all in the best UK cities.

However, with so many great cities throughout England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland (the four countries of the UK) it can be difficult to decide which ones to visit in a limited amount of time.

So in this guide, we list the very best cities to visit in the UK that are worth your time the most . For each city, we include the main attractions that you simply must see. We also listed a few extras that are well worth visiting if you have enough time. For each town, we also indicate how much time you need for a visit.

Good to know: The great thing about visiting the UK is its small size and good transport links. This makes it quite easy to travel from one part of the country to another. Furthermore, quite a few of these cities can also be visited with organized tours from London (or other nearby towns). So if you plan well, you can visit several of these UK towns in one trip.

To help you plan your trip and see several of the nicest cities and towns in Great Britain, we asked our writer Christine, a UK local, to share the best places and tips for your visit. We also created a map indicating each town. That way, you have a better idea of where everything is and can plan your trip accordingly. Take a look!

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

These are the most beautiful cities in the UK that are worth a visit the most:

London really has to be number one on any list of the best places in the UK! And there are so many reasons to visit the nation’s capital. Located on the banks of the River Thames, London is the country’s financial center, the seat of the Government of the United Kingdom, and home to the Royal Family.

All of this is reflected in its magnificent and historic architecture and a huge variety of things to see and do.

The diversity of London’s population is evident in its wonderful food scene. From traditional British food in local pubs, the finest cuisine in world-famous restaurants, to the ethnic street food in its many markets, London has it all. London also offers some of the very best shopping in the world. You’ll find designer stores, vintage boutiques, eclectic craft fairs, and quirky markets all over the city.

If you want to escape the bustling streets, museums, and galleries, London has some very beautiful and tranquil green spaces too. Don’t miss the scenic Hyde Park! If you have more time, visit the lesser-known Kew Gardens, with its stunning collection of tropical flora and fauna. London is truly a city that offers something for everyone.

Must see: The Tower of London, Buckingham Palace (don’t miss the Changing of the Guard ), Westminster (including Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament), Tower Bridge, the London Eye , the British Museum, St Paul’s Cathedral, Trafalgar Square (home to Nelson’s Column), and Piccadilly Circus. Thames Cruise is also a must.

Nice to see: Greenwich , Hyde Park, Covent Garden, Kew Gardens, Borough Market, Camden Town & Camden Lock Market , National Gallery, Harrods, and Oxford Street. If you are visiting London with kids , don’t miss Madame Tussauds , the Natural History Museum, Leicester Square stores, and the Royal Mews. Also, don’t miss at least some of the best views in London !

How much time do you need. You can quickly see the major sites with just one day in London . However, if you want to be able to visit a few places inside and get a good feeling of the city you really need two days in London . To fully appreciate all of London’s major sights, visit a few of them inside, and check out a few different neighborhoods, you will need at least 3 to 4 days.

If you want to experience the diversity of attractions across the city, discover some of London’s hidden gems , or take a day tour to Windsor Castle or a day trip to other popular places near London , you can easily spend a week or even more.

Where to stay: Best areas to stay in London for first time .

Travel tips: Please see London travel tips for more information for planning your trip.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in London (Must-See!)

2. Edinburgh

Scotland’s capital city, Edinburgh is truly a tale of two cities! It has a New Town – packed with modern shops and trendy eateries – on one side, and a historic Old Town on the other.

The imposing Edinburgh Castle – one of Europe’s oldest fortified places – overlooks the entire city. Surrounding it are rolling green hills which often draw a comparison with Rome. Indeed Italy’s capital, like Edinburgh, was said to have been built on seven hills. Its neoclassical architecture, along with its reputation for philosophy and learning, have earned Edinburgh the nickname of the ‘Athens of the North’.

Edinburgh has a rich history, awesome views, incredible green spaces, and several world-class museums and galleries. In contrast, it also has an intriguingly dark past that you can learn more about by exploring its creepy kirkyards (churchyards) and a fascinating underground street that shows you just what life used to be like in the city.

Scotland’s capital is also known for its many festivals, including the world-famous Hogmanay at New Year.

Must see: Edinburgh Castle, Calton Hill or Arthur’s Seat (for the views), the Royal Mile, Holyrood Palace, National Museum of Scotland, and Royal Yacht Britannia.

Nice to see: Royal Botanic Gardens, St Giles’ Cathedral, Princes Street Gardens, Camera Obscura & World of Illusions (nice views of the city), Scottish National Gallery, The Real Mary King’s Close.

How much time do you need. Given the city’s relatively small size, it’s possible to see the main sights of Edinburgh in 1 day , but it would be quite a rush. We recommend 2-3 days to take in and fully appreciate everything the city has to offer.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Edinburgh

3. Cambridge

Cambridge is probably best known for its University (the world’s 4th oldest surviving university). Which is home to more winners of the Nobel prize than any other university in the UK.

Cambridge is also a beautiful town, with lots of well-preserved historic buildings that are mostly centered around its 31 (!) colleges. Cambridge has some world-famous Alumni too. 14 British Prime Ministers studied here, world-famous physicist Stephen Hawking, and many others who have made a real impact on the world.

A must-do in Cambridge is taking a punt tour along the beautiful River Cam. Punt is a traditional flat bottomed boat and a very typical thing to do here. The river runs through the heart of the city offering great views of the ancient architecture of the city.

Being a student town, this medieval city still has a very modern vibe too. So there’s plenty of music, festivals, and a strong performing arts scene. There are several art galleries exhibiting everything from the classics to contemporary works. And you’ll find some lovely, quirky shops to buy souvenirs.

Must see: King’s College Chapel, Queen’s College and the Mathematical Bridge (built without nails), Trinity College (and other collages if you have more time), Fitzwilliam Museum, Great St Mary’s Church (climb to the top of the tower for incredible city views), the River Cam and punting tours .

Nice to see: The Botanic Garden, Angelsey Abbey, Wren Library (the Trinity College Library where you can see Newton’s “Principia Mathematica”; it’s only open between noon and 2 pm on weekdays, and Saturday morning), the Round Church, the Bridge of Sighs, The Backs (behind the colleges).

How much time do you need. You can see much of Cambridge within one full day, and it’s also possible to visit with a tour from the capital . But to give yourself time to browse the main museum and to go punting along the River Cam, it’s worth planning two days for your visit.

Of all the cities in the UK, the wonderful, walled city of York boasts the most attractions per square mile. Although it has all the modern shops and amenities you’d expect from a major UK city, the main appeal of York is in fascinating history.

As you wander the cobbled, medieval streets – some with beautifully preserved buildings from the 14th and 15th centuries – you can also see hints of its Roman roots and signs of Viking influence.

Among its many attractions, York has 30 museums, the UK’s best racecourse, and festivals on an almost monthly basis.

The city’s Cathedral – York Minster – is one of the largest in Europe. You can enjoy some incredible views of the city from the top. You can also view the city from the water by taking a boat trip along River Ouse or on Foss River. Another fun thing to do is learn about the history of chocolate-making at the place where the famous UK confectioners Terry’s and Rowntree were founded.

Must see: York Minster (formally known as the Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of Saint Peter in York), the 14th century City Walls (you can walk along the top), National Railway Museum, the Shambles (one of the world’s best-preserved medieval streets), views along the River Ouse and river cruises .

Nice to see: York Maze, York Castle Museum, Castle Howard, York’s Chocolate Story, Clifford’s Tower (great views), York Racecourse.

How much time do you need. You can see the highlights of York in a day, but we recommend 2 full days to see things at a more leisurely pace. If you want to also explore the Yorkshire region, plan a few days extra. See the best suggestions for places to see via the link below.

READ ALSO: Best Day Trips from York

Whilst it may have an interesting history and plenty of period architecture to admire, Glasgow is hip and happening. So much so that it is sometimes referred to as ‘Scotland’s city of cool!’.

A mecca for creativity, Glasgow has a strong art scene. You’ll find unique and original products sold everywhere from the city center to its cobbled lanes. You’ll also see impressive murals on walls throughout the city, depicting various figures who have played a large part in Glasgow’s culture.

There are several excellent museums, an architecturally stunning Cathedral, and a full-size sailing ship to explore. Many of Glasgow’s attractions are free to visit, making a visit here much more affordable than in many other UK cities.

There are also some beautiful green spaces throughout Glasgow to sit and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. You’ll find that locals are more than happy to share stories with you of their beloved home. In fact, Time Out magazine once named Glasgow as ‘first for friendliness’. The warmth it extends to its visitors is the reason that Glasgow remains one of the UK’s most popular destinations.

Must see: Glasgow Cathedral and the adjacent Necropolis, Kelvingrove Museum and Art Gallery, Riverside Museum, and The Tall Ship.

Nice to see: George Square, Gallery of Modern Art, Scotland Street School Museum, Botanic Gardens, Celtic Park Stadium , the Science Museum, University of Glasgow, Hunterian Art Gallery & Museum.

How much time do you need. Glasgow is relatively compact and most attractions are within walking distance of each other. So you can see the very best of Glasgow in a day (see below for more information). But because there is so much to see and do in the city, we recommend planning 2-3 days here. If you have a day to spare, you can also make some really nice day trips to Loch Ness and see some of the Scottish Highlands.

READ ALSO: How to See the Best of Glasgow in One Day

Located in the county of Somerset in south-west England, Bath is famous for its Roman ruins. The city is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Bath grew around its ancient Roman baths. Nowadays, you can still experience bathing in Britain’s only natural thermal hot springs at the modern Thermae Bath Spa.

In addition to museums and galleries, there is a great deal of beautiful architecture to enjoy in the city. From the individual honey-colored Georgian buildings to the neo-Classical style of many of its public buildings, Bath is one of the most beautiful cities in the UK!

Bath’s iconic sights, such as the Circus and the Royal Cresent, have become world-famous thanks to TV and film. Some of Jane Austen’s works discussing city life were based on the five years she spent here. Much of the architecture is still just as she described it. A visit to Bath truly feels like taking a step back into history.

Must see: The Roman Baths, Bath Abbey (take the Tower Tour and climb to the top for breathtaking views of the city), Royal Crescent park, The Circus, Pulteney Bridge.

Nice to see: River cruises , Thermae Bath Spa, the Jane Austen Centre , No. 1 Royal Crescent (museum), Fashion Museum, Royal Victoria Park, The Museum of Bath Architecture.

How much time do you need . It is possible to see all the main sights of Bath in half a day to a day. This makes Bath one of the most popular day trips from London , often in combination with Stonehenge and Windsor Castle . However, a lot of the city’s charm is to be found in the evening. So if you have the time, stay a little longer and include an overnight stay in your visit.

Belfast is Northern Ireland’s capital and largest city, but it is still relatively small compared to the other capitals. Nevertheless, there is a lot to see and do here. The close proximity of all its attractions makes it easy to see Belfast’s main sights in a short amount of time.

The city where the Titanic was built, Belfast has several excellent museums that look back over its shipbuilding past. You’ll also find museums celebrating its connection to the linen industry. And – more recently – Belfast’s time of political upheaval (known as The Troubles).

Alternatively, you can head to the lively Cathedral quarter with its lovely Victorian architecture and cobbled streets. It’s a popular place with an ever-developing pub and restaurant scene.

Belfast’s historic market gives you the opportunity to buy some authentic arts, crafts, and souvenirs whilst enjoying some stirring live music. Throughout the city, you can see some incredible street art, with hundreds of murals depicting all sorts of key moments in Belfast’s past.

Must see: Titanic Belfast , St George’s Market (every Friday/Saturday/Sunday), Belfast City Hall, Crumlin Road Gaol, Ulster Museum.

Nice to see: Stormont (the home of Northern Ireland’s Parliament), Queens University, Botanic Gardens, C.S Lewis Square, St. Anne’s Cathedral, Cave Hill Country Park (for the excellent views).

How much time do you need. We recommend planning 2 days in order to see all of Belfast’s main attractions. In addition, you can take a day tour to Giant’s Causeway , which is not to be missed when visiting here!

8. Liverpool

Liverpool’s main claim to fame is as the birthplace of the Beatles. If you’re a fan, it’s a great place to visit the city where the band started and drew their inspiration. But there’s so much more to this city that makes it a fantastic place for anyone!

Liverpool is located on the River Mersey. One of the nicest things to do is walk around the docks, which are teeming with cool boutiques, fantastic eateries, and lively bars. The streets of the modern city center are filled with shoppers and street entertainers. But there is lots of history and culture to explore too, with more museums and galleries than you’ll find anywhere else outside London.

Liverpool really comes alive at night! So make sure to stay the night. Dine at one of the many fine restaurants, ending the evening with live music at the iconic Cavern Club. This is the venue at which the Beatles performed nearly 300 times.

READ ALSO: The Beatles in Liverpool (Best Places to See)

Must see: The Cavern Club, the Beatles Story , the Royal Albert Dock, World Museum, Liverpool Cathedral, Mersey River Cruises .

Nice to see: Tate Liverpool, Anfield Stadium , Sefton Park, Western Approaches WWII Museum , Liverpool Library, British Music Experience , Museum of Liverpool, Strawberry Field , and the views from Royal Liver Building 360 .

How much time do you need. You will need 1-2 days to see Liverpool’s main sights. If you are a Beatles fan and want to be sure to see all the Beatles-related exhibitions and tours, then you may even need 3 days in the city.

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Liverpool & How to visit Liverpool from London (travel info & 1-day itinerary)

Oxford is best known for its university which was established in the 12th century. It’s one of the oldest and most famous universities in the world, and so many of the city’s attractions are related to it.

There are 38 separate college buildings and their architecture is incredible! You should definitely see the Christ Church with its impressive Hall (Harry Potter fans will instantly recognize it!) and Cathedral. The gardens of this cathedral are said to have inspired Lewis Carroll’s ‘Alice in Wonderland’.

This beautiful English city was also used as a filming location for some scenes in the Harry Potter movies. While you can probably spot a few of them on your own, fans should really consider a walking tour of the filming locations .

Oxford also has a few interesting museums, a nice riverside ( sightseeing cruises are available), and even its own ‘Bridge of Sighs’, Hertford Bridge. It connects two parts of Hertford College allowing students and professors to quicker travel between different parts of the university.

Must see: Oxford University with the Bodleian Library and some of the oldest colleges (Christ Church College, All Souls College, Magdalen College, Keble College), Radcliffe Camera, Ashmolean Museum, and Hertford Bridge.

Nice to see: Oxford University Museum of Natural History, University Church, Sheldonian Theater, Oxford Castle and Prison, The Pett Rivers Museum. Boat trips are also nice to do, especially in the warmest months.

How much time do you need. You can see many of the main landmarks in Oxford in half a day to a day. With two days, you should be able to cover most of the best attractions in Oxford.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Tips for Traveling to Europe

10. Cardiff

The Welsh capital, Cardiff is quite small in size. It only takes about 15 minutes to cycle from one side to the other. But it has a lot to offer its visitors! With a 2000-year-old castle and more green space per capita than any other UK city, it offers lots of opportunities for scenic strolls. Make sure to explore the banks of the River Taff which runs through its beautiful Bute Park.

Just outside the city center is Cardiff Bay. Here, you can visit the seat of the Welsh Government or enjoy everything from cultural attractions to boat trips. Cardiff is a quirky, vibrant, and creative city with numerous music and arts venues and an up and coming culinary scene.

Cardiff is also known to sports fans for its world-famous stadium, the home of Welsh rugby, and the venue for Britain’s Speedway Grand Prix. You can enjoy a meal and a drink at a sports bar and restaurant Elevens Bar And Grill, which is owned by professional footballer Gareth Bale.

Must see: Cardiff Castle, Cardiff Bay, Principality Stadium, St Fagans National Museum of History, National Museum, Wales Millenium Centre.

Nice to see: Bute Park, Roath Park, Castell Coch, Cardiff International White Water Centre, the Senedd (the main building for the National Assembly of Wales), Spillers Records (the oldest record shop in the world). Doctor Who tours (popular TV series filming locations) are also very popular.

How much time do you need. Because of Cardiff’s compact size, you can see the best of its attractions in 1-2 days. But there is much worth exploring on its outskirts. So you might want to give yourself an extra day to venture outside the city center.

11. Nottingham

Nottingham is another really nice city that’s worth your time when touring the UK! This city’s imposing, wide streets and scenic parks have earned it the nickname of the ‘Queen of the Midlands’. However, to most of us, Nottingham will always be the home of the legendary outlaw Robin Hood!

Boasting its own castle, a magnificent cathedral, a network of underground caves, and the vibrant Lace Market – teeming with independent cafes, restaurants, and bars – Nottingham is a city with something for everyone.

Yet just minutes away from its center you can enjoy the serenity and beauty of its green spaces. You can also venture a little further into the enormous Sherwood Forest, home to Robin Hood and his Merry Men.

Must see: Nottingham Castle , Wollaton Hall and Park, City of Caves, Old Market Square (Slab Square), Robin Hood Way & the Sherwood Forest.

Nice to see: National Justice Museum, the Arboretum, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem (believed to be England’s oldest pub), Nottingham Contemporary Art Gallery, Highfields Park, D.H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum.

How much time do you need. You can see most of Nottingham’s main sights in one full day. For a more relaxed experience (especially if you plan to include a trip out to Sherwood Forest), plan two days for your visit.

12. Manchester

Probably best known for its Premier League football teams, Manchester has a lot more going on than football! Located in the northwest of England, the city has a rich industrial past, but nowadays, you’ll find a vibrant place where history and modern-day life go hand in hand.

Manchester is a lively city with a warm atmosphere and plenty to see and do to suit all interests. You’ll find some world-class museums, beautiful architecture, great dining and shopping, and lots of fun activities for young and old. 

Be sure to explore the city center and visit some of its historic landmarks! Manchester Cathedral is an absolute must-see, just as John Rylands Library. For contemporary architecture, head to the Quays, where you’ll find the impressive Imperial War Museum North and The Lowry cultural center. River cruises are a great way to explore this part of town as well!

It would be unthinkable to visit Manchester and not check out at least one of its major football stadiums – Old Trafford, home to Manchester United F.C. or Etihad Stadium, home to Manchester City F.C. In addition, the city is also home to the National Football Museum, the largest football museum in the world.

Must see:  City center, Manchester Cathedral, one of the football stadiums , John Rylands Library, and Science and Industry Museum.

Nice to see:  National Football Museum , Imperial War Museum North, Salford Quays, river cruises , People’s History Museum, Manchester Art Gallery, and Castlefield conservation area.

How much time do you need.  It’s possible to see the main sights of Manchester in a day , but you won’t be able to explore much deeper. If you want to visit a few museums and do some shopping as well, you could easily spend 2-3 days here.

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Manchester

13. Norwich

Norwich is a historic city in the heart of rural East Anglia. It was medieval England’s largest walled town. Because of its isolated location, Norwich was virtually bypassed by the Industrial Revolution. So the town has retained many of its medieval Churches and Tudor architecture. All this makes it a truly fascinating place to visit!

A UNESCO City of Literature, Norwich is also the only city in England to be located in a national park (the Norfolk Broads). It boasts a beautiful nature reserve with a river running through the city and an impressive Romanesque cathedral with scenic, peaceful grounds.

Thatched buildings and brightly colored merchant’s houses are just some of the historic sights that give the city its unique and ancient character. You’ll also find cozy pubs dotted everywhere, serving the finest craft beers and ales.

Must see: Norwich Cathedral, Norwich Castle, Norwich Market. Norwich Quayside. Outside the city – Blickling Estate.

Nice to see: The Forum, Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, Plantation Garden, Strangers Hall, City of Norwich Aviation Museum, Norwich Guildhall.

How much time do you need. You can see the main sights of Norwich in one day.

14. Bristol

Bristol in the southwest of England is one of the country’s coolest cities. The home town of famed UK street artist Banksy has a strong reputation for creativity. Ultra-modern museums and trendy restaurants make it a fun and lively place to visit, particularly around the port and harbor area which is full of bars and cafes.

But the city has an interesting history, too, with stunning ancient churches, a cathedral, and galleries. Perhaps most fascinating of all is Bristol’s seafaring links. It was the birthplace of the notorious pirate Blackbeard and inspired parts of the famous maritime novels Treasure Island and Robinson Crusoe.

There are some lovely green spaces to explore in the city. Or you can choose to get away from the crowds by taking a boat trip along the River Avon. from the water, you can admire the unusually brightly colored buildings and houses that overlook it.

Must see: Bristol Cathedral, Waterfront, Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, Clifton Suspension Bridge (looks great at night too), SS Great Britain, Brandon Hill Park & Cabot Tower (great views from the top).

Nice to see: St Mary Redcliffe church, Bristol Zoo Gardens (the 5th oldest zoo in the world), At-Bristol Science Centre, Queen Square. Also, Avon Valley Railway and Blaise Castle Estate (outside the city).

How much time do you need. Bristol is a relatively small city but has lots to see and do. You can cover the highlights in a day, but you need at least 2 days to enjoy it properly.

15. Brighton

The coastal city of Brighton is one of the UK’s most diverse places to visit. It offers everything from vintage seaside attractions to Bohemian markets and Victorian architecture. The city has Britain’s biggest gay scene and some of the best independent shops and boutiques, largely concentrated around the iconic Lanes.

Its pier – packed with rides and entertainment – is one of the biggest attractions in the southeast of England. Brighton even has an exotic palace, Royal Pavilion, that would look more at home in India or China than on the UK’s south coast!

Brighton is also a great UK city for foodies. You’ll find everything from traditional British fish & chips to the finest cuisine at gourmet restaurants. There are lots of bars and eateries lining the pebbled beach, which immediately gives you a vacation feel.

You are never far away from the raw beauty of nature either. Brighton is perfectly positioned to enjoy stunning walks along the England Coast Path. Be sure to visit the white cliffs of Seven Sisters and South Downs nearby!

Must see: Brighton Palace Pier, Brighton Royal Pavilion and Gardens, Brighton Museum and Art Gallery, British Airways i360 Viewing Tower, The Lanes, North Laine.

Nice to see: Regency Square, Brighton Marina, Brighton Toy and Model Museum, Brighton Beach and Promenade, Old Steine Gardens, Brighton Festival (3 weeks every May).

How much time do you need. You will definitely need at least 3 days in Brighton. There is so much to do in Brighton that you could easily spend 5 days in the city, especially in summer.

So, this is our guide to the best, most beautiful cities in the UK.

As you can see, there’s so much more to the UK than just its cities! But even if you visit just a few of these, you’ll get to know a very different country than just by visiting London!

TIP: If you are looking for a more ‘local’ city/ beach holiday in the UK, check out Blackpool . It’s one of the most popular seaside resorts in the UK! Here you can learn all about what there is to see and do in Blackpool . Check it out!

More travel tips and inspiration for all over the UK:

• Must-see in London:  Top London Attractions
• Different London :  Hidden Gems of London  &  Best Views in London
• Good to know:  London Travel Tips & Best Areas to Stay in London
• With kids:  London with Kids  &  Family Afternoon Tea in London
• Greenwich:  Best Things to Do in Greenwich
• Cornwall: Best Places to Visit in Cornwall & Where to Stay in Cornwall
• Yorkshire:  Yorkshire Day Trips
• Blackpool: Best Things to Do in Blackpool & Tips for Visiting Blackpool & Best Day Trips from Blackpool
• Scotland:   Isle of Skye  &  Scotland Whisky Tour
• Edinburgh:  Top Edinburgh Attractions  &  One Day in Edinburgh
• Glasgow:  One Day in Glasgow

READ ALSO: Traditional British Food & Where to Try It in the UK

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

Photos: Personal collection and Depositphotos.com. Additional credits: Featured image: TTstudio/Shutterstock.com// Cardiff Bay – photo by phil_bird/Depositphotos.com// Belfast Titanic – photo by zhuzhu/Depositphotos.com// Beatles – gianliguori/Depositphotos.com// Cambridge Bridge of Sighs – chrisdorney/Depositphotos.com// Cambridge University – Umdash9/Depositphotos.com// Manchester Castlefield – cowardlion /Depositphotos.com//.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Thursday 21st of September 2023

Go to Southampton if you want to see nice cruiseships and the New Forest is very close too.

Tuesday 1st of August 2023

Thank you for sharing useful information ...

Saturday 5th of August 2023

Glad to help. Have a great trip!

Saturday 11th of February 2023

I can't believe Birmingham is not on the list, it's the most underrated city in the UK, perhaps it's because once the heart of the Indudtrial Revolution the slums of back to back houses were there until the 1970's, and its maze of run down underground canals. Most canals have now been restored with many nice bars and restaurants on the side of the canals, in and outside the City. It's a compact City Centre that is easy to walk around. The Art Gallery is one of the best I have ever been in, and each time I'm in the City I can't resist going in there, and it is free to go around, unlike in Venice where you have to pay and is nowhere near as interesting as Brums Art Gallery. For those who like to shop it is a City Centre renown for its Bull Ring Shopping Centre. Eating and enjoying Asian food, there is no-where better in Europe. But go and see the City for yourself. The only thing is traveling into the City by train looks awful, but don't judge the book by its cover. Brum has everything, and is a multi cultural City. I live in Spain these days but my heart is in Birmingham, and it's surroundings Remember Stratford upon Avon is only 20 miles away. 👍👍

Sunday 12th of February 2023

Thanks for your suggestions and tips. I'm sure it can be helpful for some of our readers who are looking for even more cities to explore in the UK. Happy travels!

Jessica Fletcher

Sunday 22nd of January 2023

London does not belong on any list of good cities, end of story. Miserable people, ugly buildings, expensive, nothing worthwhile to see except contrived tourist fodder and obscene wealth. One of the worst cities I've ever been to and I've been to most of the major towns and cities in the UK. Otherwise a great list! Glasgow is one that surprised me a lot, considering its bad reputation but it was surprisingly beautiful and the people were very friendly and down to Earth.

@Jessica Fletcher, Jessica you need to use the underground and look around different parts of the City. London is steeped in history and has something for all tastes..Dont be put off by being expensive. There are a lot of reasonably priced places just be adventurous and seek them out. Including places to stay.

Friday 10th of February 2023

@Jurga, now you know second person 😅 as I just hate London, anytime I have to go there it is a nightmare for me.

Monday 23rd of January 2023

Wow, that's a strong opinion about London, Jessica. You are literally the first person I ever 'met' who doesn't like London. I guess that just proves that everyone is different and likes different things. And that's ok. We all have our experiences and our opinions. For us, London is one of the most interesting cities in the world. No matter how many times we go back, there's always something new and exciting to discover, and so many amazing places everywhere you look. Perhaps you should give London a second chance and look beyond the main tourist attractions... We have a 'hidden gems' guide with some suggestions ;). Happy travels!

Friday 13th of January 2023

cardiff and Oxford do not deserve to be in that list, no where near as good as the others!

Sunday 15th of January 2023

Ha ha, we literally just added Oxford to this list because quite a few people thought it deserved a mention. :) And many of our American readers absolutely love it as a day trip from London too. I guess everybody has their own opinion and I'm sure our readers can make their own decisions on which places look the most interesting to them. Happy travels!

5 Best Places To Visit At Christmas In The UK

Snow way its nearly Christmas! Christmas is fast approaching and everyone is getting into the Christmas spirit, putting up their Christmas decorations, buying presents, sitting in front of the fire and drinking hot chocolate. This time of year is a great excuse to go out with the family, drink lots of mulled wine and prosecco and eat lots of great food.  Everyone already knows about the popular Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park in London and the Manchester Christmas Markets. Here are five best places to visit at Christmas in the UK that you probably don’t know about!

1. St Nicholas Fair – York, Parliament Street

In the beautiful town of York, home of the shambles and York Dungeons and at Christmas the hosts of the St Nicholas fair. The fair brings you the ultimate Christmas experience – soak up the festive atmosphere and drink some mulled wine. Spend the day sat round the log fire with friends and family drinking hot chocolate and Christmas cocktails and don’t forget to shop at the stalls that sell locally made gifts.  

Market opening times:

Sun – Weds: 10:00 – 18:00

Thurs – Sat: 10:00 – 20:00

2. St Albans Christmas Markets – Adjacent to St Albans Cathedral

Start the day off with savory and sweet waffles at the famous waffle house followed by a stroll around the 60 wooden chalets set up outside the Cathedral in the beautiful town in Hertfordshire selling Christmas gifts, mulled wine, cider and hot chocolate. Also don’t miss out on the carols, every hour from 11am!

Mon – Wed: 11:00 – 18:00

Thurs – Fri: 11:00 – 20:00

Saturday: 10:00 – 20:00

Sunday: 10:00 – 18:00

https://www.instagram.com/p/BGT7BmFsx7P/?taken-by=mackenziebrook

3. Winchester Christmas Markets – Winchester Cathedral

Winchester Christmas Markets are inspired by the traditional German Christmas markets from the pretty wooden chalets to an open-air ice-rink.  The Chalets sell festive favorites, like mince pies, bratwursts and Hot Choco, alongside unique gifts and decorations, jewelry, paintings and more.

Thurs – Sat: 10:00 – 19:30

4. Leeds Christkindelmarket – Millennium Square

Leeds is home to one of the best traditional German Christmas markets in the UK. The markets include festive greenery, a carousel ride, traditional colourful lights and wooden stalls creating a festive atmosphere in the heart of the city. Tuck into a hearty bowl of soup or goulash, or treat yourself to some gingerbread and candied fruit. You will leave feeling cheerful and full of Christmas spirit.

The Ultimate Guide To Organising An Interrail Trip Across Europe

Mon – Sat: 10:30 – 21:30

Sunday: 10:30 – 18:30

5. European Christmas Markets – Edinburgh, Princes St Garden

In the heart of Edinburgh sits a traditional and romantic Christmas market, which is host of bespoke and traditional Christmas items. A perfect place to get into the Christmas spirit!

Mon – Sun: 10:00 – 22:00

https://www.instagram.com/p/BNpBr-MjJ9G/?taken-at=49046970

SEE YULE THERE!

Looking for more places to visit this Christmastime? Leave a comment or share this article!

Featured image source: we heart it.

"I’m a 20 year old Art undergraduate studying at The University of Reading. I love travelling, food, music and festivals."

10 Tried And Tested Party Theme Ideas For Sports Socials

How to re-create lily james’ outfits in ‘mamma mia 2’, these are the 15 best things to do at king’s college london, 10 things to do in london this summer, 10 gifs that accurately describe what its actually like to be a student at kings college london, 10 british fashion bloggers you need to follow, the 10 best bags for university students, 20 tricks to decorate a rental apartment.

• King’s College London
• Loughborough University
• University of Birmingham
• University of Essex
• University of Limerick
• University of London
• University of Manchester
• University of Nottingham
• University of Reading
• Southampton