Great British Bucket List

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..

Christmas shopping in England

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.

Christmas market

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!

Edinburgh Christmas markets

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 Christmas market

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.

Roman Baths, Bath

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!

Cardiff

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.

Frankfurt Christmas Market in Birmingham

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 .

Birmingham at Christmas

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!

Covent Garden at Christmas

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?

London at Christmas

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!

Winter in The Cairngorms

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. 

Manchester Christmas market

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.

York

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.

Oxford is one of the best UK cities at Christmas

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!

Lincoln

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.

Weymouth

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

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A Lady in London

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

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.

Edinburgh Christmas Decorations

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.

Christmas Market in York, one of the best places to visit at Christmas in the UK

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).

Edinburgh Christmas Market

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 .

Edinburgh Christmas Market in East Princes Street Gardens

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.

York Shambles at Christmas

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 .

York Christmas Market

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.

Bath Christmas Market

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 .

Bath Abbey

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.

Canterbury Cathedral Interior

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 .

Canterbury Cathedral, England

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.

Birmingham Christmas Market

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.

Snowman and Reindeer at the Birmingham Christmas Markets

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.

Windsor Castle Guards

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 .

Windsor Castle, England

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.

Hever Castle Courtyard

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 .

Christmas Market in Exeter

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.

Sculpture in Belfast, Northern Ireland

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 .

Belfast City Hall at Christmas

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 .

Winchester Building

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.

Winchester Cathedral

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.

Inverness shopping arcade at Christmas

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.

Inverness Christmas Market

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 .

Manchester, England

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.

Old Market Square, Nottingham

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 .

Nottingham Lace Market

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.

Leeds Christmas Tree

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.

Leeds Shopping Arcade

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.

Shopping arcade in Leeds, UK decorated for Christmas

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.

Glasgow University Building

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 .

Glasgow Cathedral

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.

Chipping Campden Church

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 .

Chipping Campden

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.

Covent Garden Christmas Decorations

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.

Regent Street Christmas Lights in London

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.

Covent Garden Christmas Tree

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!

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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!

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10 Most Magical Places to Go at Christmas in the UK

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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

Christmas in Bath

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

Christmas in Edinburgh.

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

Christmas in York.

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

Christmas in London.

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

Christmas in the Highlands.

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

Christmas in Mousehole.

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

Christmas in Oxford.

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

Christmas in Birmingham.

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

Christmas in Clovelly.

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

Christmas in Nottingham.

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.

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Birgit's Bakery's bus touring through London during Christmas time

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

Women with outstretched arms in 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

The White Witch outside Leeds Castle as part of A Narnia Christmas at the Castle

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

Couple walking down street under christmas lights

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

An ice rink set within the grounds of Hampton Court Palace in 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

Woman exiting building carrying shopping bags

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

Festive Christmas lights shining onto Blenheim Palace

Christmas at Selfridges

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

Alamy/Robert Harding/Mark Mawson

Selfridges at Christmas, Oxford Street, London, England, United Kingdom, Europe

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

The White Witch outside Leeds Castle as part of A Narnia Christmas at the Castle

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.

Iceskaters gliding across the ice in the evening at Bath on Ice

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

A girl looking at a hanging ornament in front of a decorated christmas tree at Bamburgh Castle's Christmas Kingdom

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

Flaming giant Christmas pudding prop on laid bench table for Hogwarts Christmas dinner feast

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

Ice skating at Brighton Pavilion

Christmas at Wollaton

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

Wollaton Hall

Two lit-up light reindeers in front of beamed lighting and woodlands at Wollaton Hall for Wollaton at Christmas in Nottingham

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

Hands holding a pair of white ice skates by the laces

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

People ice skating on a skating rink under glass ceiling

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

Couple walking down street under 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 Cathedral at Leeds Castle. Image by 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

Three people walking under an arch of lit-up trees towards more light displays in woodland at Enchanted Weston at Western Park, Shropshire

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

Title TBA

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

Durham Castle during Christmas

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

Visitors walking in the garden at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden, North Yorkshire

Merry Zipmas

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

sandra__mal

Snowdonia, Wales

Snowdonia’s Zip World Slate Caverns

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

People posing for selfie in front of the Birmingham Library

Immerse yourself in British Christmas Experiences

Two young women enjoying an festive Afternoon Tea during a Brigit's Afternoon bus experience with fairy lights in the back and Christmas crackers on the table

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

Angel christmas lights hanging near a Regent Street sign

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

Christmas market stalls lining Cathedral Street in Manchester

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People ice skating

The best Christmas events and attractions in the UK

As the days get shorter and the air gets frostier, light up your weekends with some of these fantastic festive things to do

It’s Christmas. Well, almost . If you’re anything like us and are obsessed with the-most-wonderful-time-of-the-year then you’ll have already started thinking about how you’re going to make the most of the festivities. Maybe the tree is already up. Maybe your shopping is already done. Or maybe you’ve already started  planning your visit to as many Christmas markets as physically possible.  

From wholesome activities like ice skating and carol singing, to glam Christmas parties and feasting on Christmas-dinner themed burritos, you can find all sorts of fun festive-themed things to do throughout the winter season. 

Not sure where to start? We’ve picked out some of most essential British  festive happenings that you need on your Christmas list – just call us Santa Claus. 

RECOMMENDED: The best Christmas light trails in the UK The best Christmas markets in the UK

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The Best Christmas Events in the UK

Skate Manchester

1.  Skate Manchester

It’s time to dust off your skates and see what’s what: a re you an effortless glider or a waddling penguin, hanging onto the sides for dear life? Right in the heart of the city at Cathedral Gardens, you won’t be able to hide from the rink at Skate Manchester so you might as well get on that ice and give it all you’ve got. Make sure to grab a picture right in front of the Christmas tree in the centre of the fun, then head to the Christmas market next door after the session for some well-earned refreshments. 

October 27-January 2,  11am-8.45pm.  £17.50 adults; £14 children. T he Cathedral Gardens, M4 3BG.

Illuminated Arboretum

2.  Illuminated Arboretum

Staffordshire

Kick-off the festive season with a kaleidoscope of colours at the National Memorial Arboretum. Across the 150-acre woodland site, beautiful illuminations and light displays will fill the gardens and trails, inviting you to wander along the route and soak up the atmosphere before heading to the restaurant to warm up. Here you can enjoy a selection of hot drinks, pizzas and tasty takeaway treats: making it a pretty wholesome way to get into the festive spirit, if you ask us.

December 7-23, f rom 4:30pm.  From £19.  National Memorial Arboretum, DE13 7AR. 

Twelve Days of Christmas at Belvoir Castle

3.  Twelve Days of Christmas at Belvoir Castle

Leicestershire

Nothing feels quite as festive as a castle at Christmas time – we’re envisioning those snowy Harry Potter banquet scenes. At Belvoir Castle this year, you’ll be able to experience their Twelve Days of Christmas shindig, which is specially curated by Charlotte Lloyd-Webber. Each room will be decorated with whimsical displays and installations that match the theme – and you can also add on a festive afternoon tea or a visit to Santa’s Grotto to round-off your visit. 

November 18-January 2,  11am-4pm.  £25 adults; £10 children.  Belvoir Castle, NG32 1PE. 

4.  Padstow Christmas Festival

This is one for the people who turn into professional chefs every time they hear the word ‘Christmas’. After such a successful event last year, the Padstow Festive Chef Demonstrations and Christmas Market weekend is back for 2023. Watch some of the UK’s top chefs including heroes like Rick Stein, Paul Ainsworth, and Nathan Outlaw in the Festival Kitchen. And for those who prefer to do more of the eating than the cooking, head down to the Christmas market to taste some of the best food and drinks that Cornwall has to offer. 

December 7-10, various times. Price to be confirmed.  Riverside, PL28 8BY. 

Cambridge Botanic Lights

5.  Cambridge Botanic Lights

Journey through Cambridge University’s Botanic Garden for a stunning light display that is sure to spark festive joy in even the most ‘ba-humbug’ of people. Wander along the route to see some of the garden’s most beloved features – such as the fountain, lake, and glasshouse – dazzle with colour and light. 

December 1-22,  5-9.30pm.  £20.35 adults; £13.20 children.  1 Brookside, CB2 1JE. 

6.  Hippodrome Christmas Spectacular

Returning once again for 2023 is the Hippodrome’s Christmas Spectacular – featuring incredible international circus acts and an epic water performance.  This one should not be missed off your holiday calendar: s witch out the traditional pantomime and drawled ‘oh no, he did not’’s from the audience for a circus show full of excitement and action. 

December 9-January 7, various times.  From £24 for adults; £14 children.  St. Georges Road, NR30 2EU. 

Carols in the Cloister

7.  Carols in the Cloister

Nothing says traditional Christmas quite like singing real Christmas carols. No, you won’t find any Mariah Carey or Michael Buble here, but what you will get is even better: we’re talking ‘O Holy Night’, ‘Silent Night’ and ‘Joy to the World’. Settle into the stunning Cathedral surroundings and enjoy a singalong with the choristers under the candlelight. And for extra points? Don’t forget to wear that amazingly ugly Christmas jumper at the back of your wardrobe. 

December 16, 4pm.  Free. Norwich Cathedral,  NR1 4DH. 

Christmas Wreath Making at Polesden Lacey Estate

8.  Christmas Wreath Making at Polesden Lacey Estate

Get into the holiday spirit by putting your crafty hat on at Polesden Lacey Estate. Here, you can l earn to create the perfect wreath to hang on your door  using foliage gathered by the Estate’s rangers from across the grounds,  while enjoying refreshments such as mince pies and mulled wine. At  the estate, there’s also an opportunity to explore the Christmas trail and ride the traditional carousel. Cuteness. 

November 28-December 14, 1 0.15am and 1.30pm.  £45.  Polesden Lacey Estate, RH5 6BD.

Quex Christmas

9.  Quex Christmas

When we said we’d found a Christmas event for everyone, we truly meant it. At Quex Park, you’ll find everything from tractor rides and farm tours to festive goat walking (because that’s a thing). Aside from the animal encounters, you’ll also be able to enjoy the farm after dark and take in the Quex illuminations by following the lights, projections and reindeer hooves round the park. Finish off with a German BBQ feast and a warming mulled wine or hot chocolate for the perfect family day out. 

November 18-December 31, v arious times.  From £8.50.  Quex Park, CT7 0BH.

Edinburgh Christmas Market

10.  Edinburgh Christmas Market

Located in the centre of the city in Princes Street Gardens, the Edinburgh Christmas Market has a reputation for being one of the UK’s ultimate festive destinations – and with good enough reason. For seven magical weeks, you’ll be able to make the most of a traditional Christmas market with funfair rides, live outdoor events and delicious food and drink. Grab a steaming cup of hot chocolate and marshmallows and browse the stalls for handmade Christmas presents, before feasting on a traditional German hot dog. We can’t wait. 

November 17-January 6, a ll day.  Free entry.  Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh City Centre.

11.  Curling Club, Southbank

Why not try something different this Christmas and pick up curling? Just a stone’s throw from Waterloo station, the Curling Club is coming to Southbank for the winter season and it’s a great activity for a Christmas party, a festive meet-up with friends or a quirky date night idea. Try your hand at this winter sport and indulge your competitive spirit – and fill up afterwards with food from the alpine-inspired menu. 

October 13-February 18,  11am-11pm.  From £48.  Southbank Centre, SE1 8XX. 

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at the Mayflower Theatre

12.  Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at the Mayflower Theatre

Southampton

No matter how cringe they can be, you can’t miss out on a traditional panto. At the Mayflower Theatre in Southampton this Christmas, you’ll be able to catch Ashley Banjo and Diversity in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs as well as pantomime legend Christopher Biggins. This family-favourite story will be brought to life on stage with the audience, of course, encouraged to take part in hounding the Wicked Queen. 

December 9-31, various.  From £19.50.  22-26 Commercial Road, Southampton, SO15 1GE.

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Top 10 places to spend Christmas in the UK

Christmas , Days out , Destinations

Posted by Courtney Kelly on 21st September 2022

A child at a Christmas market choosing a sweet treat

It’s the most wonderful time of the year; but just where are the best places to spend Christmas in the UK?

Whether you want to stay local, fancy a trip just down the road or are ready for an adventure across the country, there are plenty of locations up and down the UK which come alive at Christmas.

So, without further ado, here are our top ten ideas for where to spend Christmas in the UK. And if you're looking for somewhere cosy to stay after a day filled with festive fun, take a look at our Christmas cottages by clicking the button below.

Christmas cottage breaks

Northern Lights over Duncansby Head, John O'Groats

The Highlands

If it’s a white Christmas you crave, one of the best Christmas destinations is the Scottish Highlands , which is  one of the best places to find snow in the festive season . The northern reaches also offer a fantastic chance to spot the Aurora Borealis – or the Northern Lights, as they are commonly known.

Should you wish to see a wider range of what the Highlands have to offer, book yourself a festive train journey and take in the snow-white scenery in style.

After this, retreat to your cosy Highlands cottage, safe in the knowledge that there’s not much better than spending Christmastime watching the snow feathering down outside the window and the Northern Lights illuminating the sky.

  • Must see:  Visit the regions of Sutherland and Caithness to witness the Northern Lights
  • Must try:  Haggis sausage rolls with a wee dram of whisky
  • Stay nearby:  Mountain Lodge Retreat , Lochinver | sleeps 6 + 2 dogs

Browse our Highlands cottages

BathChristmas fireworks and Whitby's Gothic abbey in the snow

You may be looking for places to go at Christmas on the Yorkshire coast. If so, we’ve got a couple of excellent options for you. First up is Whitby, which is often associated with Halloween thanks to its Gothic abbey and links with Bram Stoker’s Dracula . However, even the Count himself would be swept up in the Christmas celebrations and merriment in this coastal town.

Whitby’s Christmas Market takes place between 17 and 19 November, giving you plenty of time to buy a local gift for that special someone. The stalls are set up in beach huts, giving a coastal nod to the festive proceedings, and after you’ve seen the Christmas lights switched on, there’s a spectacular fireworks display to round off your visit.

If you’re visiting in December, you’ll be well placed to witness the Whitby Krampus Run too, a costumed street parade that infuses local folklore with the legend of Krampus to raise money for local charities.

  • Must see:  The Boxing Day dip in the ocean is well worth watching … or even joining
  • Must try:  Christmas cake by Stokers of Whitby
  • Stay nearby:  Whitsend , Whitby | sleeps 5

Browse our Whitby cottages

A woman wrapped up in winter clothes stands in a Christmas light tunnel

Scarborough

The second Yorkshire coast hotspot on our list of the best places to visit for Christmas, Scarborough is a place that’s usually synonymous with summertime fun. Whilst holidaymakers are correct to flock here during the warmer months, it’s also an excellent destination to visit during the festive season.

Not only are there mesmeric coastal walks to enjoy with your family and friends (walks that take on a renewed beauty during the frost-covered season of winter), but the Scarborough Fair programme sees a number of light shows taking place throughout the town.

Scarborough Lights is the first event and begins with a jaw-dropping drone display over Scarborough Castle. Next is the Peasholm Park Winter Lights Trail, which combines Christmas lights and artwork from the UK and across Europe. There are many more illuminations besides these, including those at the harbour (where Santa is waiting) and at Scarborough Spa.

  • Must see:  The   Scarborough Lights LED Light Tunnel – 9 metres of festive brilliance that the kids will adore
  • Must try:  Cocktails and Candy Canes at Scarborough Spa
  • Stay nearby:  Church Beck House , Scalby | sleeps 8

Browse our Scarborough cottages

Close up of a Christmas tree and some Christmas Bakewell tart

Come for the tart, stay for the … well, also the tart, but there’s so much more besides this famous pudding going on in Bakewell around Christmastime. The Christmas market held in mid-November in the town centre boasts over 100 stalls selling local goods that include crafts, plants, jewellery, soaps, clothing and books.

The food and drink on offer might harm your wallet as you’ll find a plethora of cheeses, chutneys and fudges to take home, as well as Yorkshire pudding wraps, crepes and waffles to eat as you stroll along. During the weekend, there’s a grotto for the children to visit and live music to keep their toes tapping.

Later in November, the Bakewell Agricultural Business Centre will host the Bakewell Christmas Sparkle. This is a fantastic family-friendly event where the kids can handle small animals, get their faces painted and visit Santa in a tipi grotto. Fear not, the grown-ups are well catered for as well with over 50 stalls to peruse, a heated tipi bar, a street food court and live musical performances. If you’re still in Bakewell in December, head to All Saints Church which hosts a Christmas Tree Festival.

  • Must see:  Christmas carols from Peak Performance Choir at the Bakewell Christmas Sparkle will certainly get you in the spirit of things
  • Must try:  Everywhere will be selling festive Bakewell tarts … it’d be rude not to sample them
  • Stay nearby:  Beech Cottage , Bakewell | sleeps 4 + 2 dogs

Browse our Bakewell cottages

Southwold beach huts with sand dunes in the foreground all covered in snow. The ocean is in the background.

When thinking of the best places to spend Christmas in the UK, Southwold on the Suffolk Heritage Coast might not immediately spring to mind. This seaside town is a quintessential summer mainstay that sees visitors in their throngs heading to the coast to enjoy the beach and the pier amongst other things. However, during winter and in the lead-up to Christmas, Southwold sees fewer tourists than in the warmer months, creating a sense of peace and quiet which, when coupled with serene coastal walks, is hard to beat.

That’s not to say that the Southwold festive scene is a sleepy affair – far from it. There’s a Christmas market for every weekend day during December along the Suffolk coast (including one in Southwold’s town square) so head out and buy your gifts before returning to the picturesque sight of Southwold’s iconic pier and lighthouse amid tumbling snow. Book your tickets at the Southwold Art Centre for Santa's Christmas Show, a festive Santamime for all the family where the kids can join in the fun and watch the elves, Rudolph and the big man himself get themselves into a comical Christmas muddle.

And if you need help waking up on Christmas morning, head to Gun Hill Beach for the annual Southwold Christmas Day swim!

  • Must see:  Southwold Pier in the winter evening sun is a sight to behold
  • Must try:  The Christmas Experience at Southwold Pier – lunch, a visit to Santa, a Christmas quiz and coins to use in the arcade (£15.99 per child)
  • Stay nearby:  Christmas Cottage , Southwold | sleeps 4 + 1 dog

Browse our Southwold cottages

A lady reads a book in the warmth of a glowing fire by a Christmas tree. Hay Castle where much of the Hay Festival Winter Weekend takes place

Representing Wales on our list of best places to go at Christmas, Hay-on-Wye attracts the literary crowds from far and wide thanks to its moniker as the town of books . You may be able to pick up an aged copy of a Christmas classic such as A Christmas Carol or The Nutcracker as you explore over 20 bookshops.

Books are not the only offering though; with a 700-year-old market providing gift ideas every Thursday, you’re bound to pick up something wonderful and merry for a loved one or friend.

During November, the Hay Festival Winter Weekend takes place, a smaller version of the Hay Festival which occurs every spring. The historic market square comes alive during this four-day event, transforming the town into a winter wonderland. Much of the weekend’s festivities take place on the grounds of Hay Castle in a huge 350-seater marquee. Enjoy writing workshops, craft sessions, storytelling, comedy, music and family-friendly workshops.

  • Must see:  This year (2023), Matt Lucas will be introducing his new children’s book The Boy Who Slept Through Christmas
  • Must try:  A brownie from Dugan’s Patisserie, a Hay-based, award-winning artisan baker
  • Stay nearby:  6 Hay Townhouse , Hay-on-Wye | sleeps 2

Browse our Hay-on-Wye cottages

The beautiful village of Clovelly illuminated by Christmas lights

The gorgeous cliff-side village in North Devon is stunning all year round – but it’s Christmas when a medley of events truly showcases its unique spirit and location. Clovelly's cobbled streets provide a multi-coloured path, with Christmas lights – put up in aid of the local RNLI – illuminating your walk down the hill to the harbour.

There’s also an annual Boxing Day BBQ with live music, mulled wine and a treasure hunt, while the fancy dress New Year’s Eve celebrations are also worth a visit.

Recently, the village was dubbed the UK’s most Instagrammable place as well as one of the most Christmassy places in the land. Go during the day for the incredible coastal views and stay late into the evening for the lights, the singing, the live brass band and some warming mulled wine. We'd say this is one of the best places to stay at Christmas for a truly magical getaway. 

  • Must see:  The lobster pot Christmas tree is possibly one of the most unique Christmas trees you’re likely to find
  • Must try:  Order a hog roast on the night of the Christmas light switch on as you await the fireworks display
  • Stay nearby:  Tall Tree Cottage , Clovelly | sleeps 6

Browse our Clovelly cottages

Christmas tree and Newport Minster church at St Thomas Square on the Isle of Wight. Shanklin covered in snow.

Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight is one of the spots that gets the most sun and daylight hours anywhere in the UK. There’s something about the cool winter sunshine that’s intoxicating, whether it’s rising above the pier at Bembridge Beach or setting beyond the Needles and its lighthouse. If you want to see this latter landmark in style, wrap up warm and treat yourself to a trip on the chairlift from the Alum Bay cliffs down to the beach – there is truly no better way to see this magnificent collection of rocks.

Further inland, you’ll find thatched cottages and traditional taverns that will start to fill you with Christmas anticipation ... especially if you’re lucky enough to visit when the snow is falling (also known as a Wight Christmas!)

There’s a host of festive goings-on on the island: Santa and his mobile grotto visit numerous locations including the Isle of Wight Steam Railway, the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary, and the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary; the Shanklin Theatre puts on the ever-indispensable pantomime; and Ventnor Botanic Gardens show off their artistry with a family-friendly illuminated sleighbell stroll. Failing all this, a winter amble along the Isle of Wight’s numerous beaches will set you up for having a merry little Christmas.

Don’t forget, you can save money on your ferry crossing when you book with holidaycottages.co.uk .

  • Must see:  The Garlic Farm’s pop-up Christmas shop sells gorgeous Isle of Wight-made gifts in the warmth of a roaring log fire
  • Must try:  Christmas dinner deliveries straight to your cottage from The Hungry Bear
  • Stay nearby:  The Hayloft Cottage , Godshill | sleeps 3 + 2 dogs

Browse our Isle of Wight cottages

The harbour illuminations of Mousehole

If you’re still thinking about where to go for Christmas and you want to stay coastal, you need to consider this charming seaside location. One of the best places to see Christmas lights in the UK, the Cornish village of Mousehole comes alive with kaleidoscopic light midway through December. The switch-on event is quite the occasion too, with an open-air service leading revellers in a sing-song before the lights illuminate the harbour.

The Christmas light tradition began in 1963 when a local artist placed a string of lights along the quay at Christmas to make the village more welcoming and attractive. This ritual has grown year on year and now the spectacular showing of lights displays local foodie delicacies, sea serpents and sailboats to name just a few of the installations. The lights stay on from 5pm to 10pm and only get turned off on the 19 th in memory of the Solomon Browne disaster.

When the big event is over, you can sit by the water and bathe in the glow of the twinkling lights, making this one of the best places to go at Christmas for a festive break by the sea. 

  • Must see:  Catch a showing of the puppet and live-action production of The Mousehole Cat at the Solomon Browne Memorial Hall during December
  • Must try:  A warming portion   of Stargazy Pie, a local fish and pastry delicacy (just wait until you see it!)
  • Stay nearby:  Seahorse Cottage , Mousehole | sleeps 4

Browse our Mousehole cottages

Father Christmas reading his list amongst festive decorations

Lapland…

Yes, there is an attraction named Lapland UK , and it can be found in Ascot, Berkshire. It’s a 4-hour immersive experience of the Father Christmas story, recreating the North Pole for a month-long celebration of children’s beliefs.

In the attraction, kids can help elves in the Toy Factory, decorate gingerbread houses with Mother Christmas, meet Father Christmas and his reindeer, go ice skating and more. It takes place from mid-November up to and including Christmas Eve.

  • Must see:  Father Christmas House – this enchanting wooden cabin amid snow-covered trees will fill your children’s hearts with Christmas magic
  • Must try:  Popping your most secret wish into one of the Lapland wish jars (purchasable from the gift shop)
  • Stay nearby:  Lynchets Cottage , Wantage | sleeps 10 + 1 dog

Browse our Berkshire cottages

Find more inspiration this Christmas

Feeling in the festive spirit? Check out more of our Christmas blogs dedicated to the most wonderful time of the year, including a stress-free Christmas dinner timeline, top Christmas markets and more.

Find the perfect place to stay for the big day by browsing our collection of Christmas cottages. 

Christmas breaks

Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing, please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.

You might also be interested in...

Where to find snow in the UK this Christmas

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6 Magical Christmas Towns To Visit In England

places to visit during christmas uk

  • Destinations
  • United Kingdom

Festive steam trains, Victorian markets, charming light displays, and Santa Claus, are just some of the things that make towns in England magical at Christmastime. These small communities go all out to make their market squares and shop-lined streets feel as festive as any big city, perhaps even more so. They can’t guarantee you snow, but they can promise a warm cozy pub with a real fire and some genuine Christmas cheer. To get you in the festive spirit, here are 6 towns in England that are magical places to visit at Christmas.

Snowy skyline of Rye, England

A small town near the East Sussex coast, Rye is picturesque at any time of year, but even more so at Christmas. The most perfectly preserved medieval citadel in England, the town is packed with independent shops and eateries. With whispered tales of ghosts and smuggling, the historic town of Rye is even more atmospheric in the darker winter months and without the high-season crowds of the summer. Perched high on a hill with distant views across the Romney Marsh, the town is a labyrinth of winding cobblestone streets, mysterious passageways, and hidden nooks and crannies, which look stunning when all lit up for Christmas. To really blow away the cobwebs take a brisk stroll around the Rye Harbour Nature Reserve where the beaches, grassland, saltmarsh, and lakes host a vast array of wildlife. Stay at the newly rebranded and refurbished The Lookout Rye — sister hotel to the George in Rye, which is currently undergoing refurbishment after fire damage 2 years ago. Rye is well known for its fantastic boutique B&Bs, which all bring a small town Christmassy atmosphere to your stay.

Have a go at a festive cookery course at Webbe’s Cookery School, starting in early December. Bring a guest for lunch, which is included in the price of the class. Then amble off to A Rye Window Wanderland and late night shopping in the town center.

Decorations at the Queens Hotel in Cheltenham

2. Cheltenham

Embrace tradition in both history and style this Christmas by celebrating at the iconic Queens Hotel in Cheltenham . Queens Hotel Cheltenham is offering a sumptuous three-course Christmas Eve dinner, followed by a five-course Christmas Day dining experience in Victoria’s restaurant. The menu includes a duck parfait and hazelnut bonbon, with langoustine and smoked trout terrine to start. This will be followed by a silicon lemon sorbet to cleanse the palette, before the traditional roast turkey with festive stuffing. For dessert, guests can enjoy a delicious traditional Christmas pudding, mince pies, and coffee. The next day you can party away that post-Christmas overindulgence, at the Queens Hotel’s Boxing Day Gala Dinner where guests dress up for a Black Tie event with a three-course dinner followed by dancing and entertainment in the Regency Suite. The festive menus can be enjoyed throughout the winter season, from a private party to a festive meal for the family. The dishes provide a taste of the local area, with fresh, quality produce sourced from local farms and recognized artisans. Guests can also indulge in Queens Hotels’ Tiffin Afternoon Tea served in the Duke’s Tea Room, which will be offering a special seasonal twist this winter. Christmas attractions in town include the Christmas markets, Panto at Everyman Theatre, Christmassy steam train rides around Cheltenham and the Cotswolds, and the amazing Spectacle of Light at Sudeley Castle with a brand new illuminated light trail.

This year Cheltenham is embracing the Christmas spirit with the introduction of an ice rink at the Imperial Gardens for the first time.

Chipping Campden Church and Banqueting House

3. Chipping Campden

The picture-perfect town of Chipping Campden in the Cotswolds hosts its annual Christmas Market and festive lights switch-on at the beginning of December. Stalls featuring local produce and Christmas food and drink will be in attendance for unique gifts alongside local entertainment and choir performances. The tree is lit up at 4.30 p.m., and the town’s lights are switched on 30 minutes later. After the festive fun, head to The Pudding Club at The Three Ways House Hotel in Mickleton. Every Friday evening, visitors are offered a choice of three modest main courses but the main business of the evening begins when seven traditional puddings are served, including favorites such as Sticky Toffee as well as more unusual desserts such as Sussex Pond and Lord Randall’s Pudding. It might even offer a Christmas pudding!

Just outside Chipping Campden, Goose Green Cottage offers everything you could wish for in a festive retreat — a wood-burning stove, freestanding bath, and cozy rooms to curl up in and drink mulled wine. With its period features of charming wooden beams, flagstone floors, and thatched roof, the property oozes the same rural bliss that captivates viewers of The Holiday and is perfectly located in the middle of the rolling Cotswolds countryside. The cottage sleeps two people in a large king size bedroom and offers guests use of a beautiful garden with well-kept flower beds and a vegetable patch full of produce they’re welcome to help themselves to.

Windsor Castle at Christmastime

The royal town of Windsor is a magical place to be at Christmas time. The castle looks like something from a fairy tale, lit up with Christmas decorations and images of Christmas gifts and angels projected onto its outer walls. The quaint streets and small shops all have lots of Christmas cheer on offer and you can pick up some mince pies and mulled wine as you wander around. Castle Hotel Windsor , established as one of Windsor’s finest boutique hotels, is the perfect setting for anyone looking to experience Christmas-like royalty. Guests visiting Castle Hotel Windsor this Christmas can be sure to expect a truly traditional festive season. Guests can enjoy a multitude of festive occasions, including Festive Afternoon Tea at the hotel with live carols to sing along to. Christmas lunches and dinners will be served daily in the hotel’s new restaurant Leaf. With a strong botanical theme throughout and radiating laid-back luxury, the restaurant will transform into a magical winter wonderland. 

For Christmas day itself, the restaurant will serve an extra special five-course meal with all the trimmings, including a blood orange palette cleanser and traditional Christmas plum pudding. With 108-rooms and offering a prime location at the heart of Windsor, the hotel is just a short distance from the famous Long Walk, Windsor Great Park, Savill Garden, and the River Thames, all of which are beautiful when glistening with wintery frost — there really is no better place to dream of a white Christmas. For more to do in Windsor, take a look at 8 Things To Explore In Windsor After You’ve Seen The Castle .

Pubs and shops in Kirksby Lonsdale, England

5. Kirkby Lonsdale

The market town of Kirkby Lonsdale is on the fringe of the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales. This beautiful ancient town is home to a magical Christmas Market each year. The town twinkles with myriad lights and plays host to a German-style market in the square, with stalls selling gifts, hot food, mulled wine, and more. The Christmas Fair takes place in early December and is a great opportunity to mingle with locals and really feel like you’re part of the community. There’s a lot of history in this charming old town and you get the feeling that Christmas here is done just as it’s been done for hundreds of years.

Stay over at Absolute Suites and you can have a luxurious Christmas break in these town center apartments. For a real small-town Christmas experience, spend the festive period right here. Bring all your Christmas treats with you, or nip out to the shops and you’ll get everything you need right there in the town.

Snow and sunshine in Ashford, Kent

In the town of Ashford in Kent you can experience a community Christmas parade unlike any other you’ll ever see. This town does something every year that’s completely unique — The Carnival of the Baubles . It’s held in mid-December to get everyone into the festive spirit and in the run-up to this unusual event, the town’s schoolchildren get busy designing their own lanterns and baubles. The town’s locals then carry these decorated illuminated lanterns and baubles through the streets. Everyone is welcome to make their own lantern and bring it along and there are workshops held a few weeks before the event if anyone needs some inspiration. When the parade reaches its end, there’s a local makers market where you can do a little Christmas shopping.

Head to nearby Frasers, an eco-farm with a restaurant and luxury rooms. In December, Frasers will be running two-hour wreath-making workshops that include afternoon tea or for the evening sessions, grazing boards. It has recently launched its new menus and a feasting option for group dining and is open over Christmas. The accommodation comprises a choice of oak-beamed rooms in The Oast or Pond Cottage and stylish, contemporary rooms in Stag’s Barn, all of which provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape crisscrossed by 6 miles of walks across the countryside.

Consider visiting these other England towns when you vacation:

  • 8 Friendliest Towns To Visit In England
  • The Adorable English Village Perfect For A Cozy Holiday Getaway
  • My 6 Favorite Unique Places To Visit In England

Image of Samantha Priestley

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 .

places to visit during christmas uk

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 during winter

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

London in the snow

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.

Leeds street with Christmas lights

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!

Snowing in York

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.

Nottingham Christmas tree

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.

The christmas market in 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

Cardiff Christmas Tree with fairy lights.

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.

Manchester Christmas Market

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.

Bristol Christmas Market

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

The christmas market in Bath

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.

Belfast sunset at Christmas

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.

Large Christmas decorations

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

Belle Connell

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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

Christmas breaks in the UK

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.

Explore the Cotswolds

25 of the best things to do at Christmas in the Cotswolds [2023]

By Author Lucy Dodsworth

Posted on Last updated: 20 December 2023

With frosty mornings, pretty villages decked in twinkling lights, Christmas carol, cosy fires, the smell of pine trees and maybe even a snow flurry or two, Christmas is a great time to visit the Cotswolds. Whether you’re planning a Christmas break in the region this year or live locally and want to get into the spirit of the season, here are 25 of our top things to do at Christmas in the Cotswolds in 2023, from light trails and ice skating to Christmas markets and festive events.

25 things to do at Christmas in the Cotswolds

25 of the best things to do at Christmas in the Cotswolds

The great outdoors

1. follow a sparkling christmas light trail.

Grab a hot chocolate or spiced apple and explore a magical illuminated light trail this Christmas. With sparkling light displays set to music, these trails through the Cotswolds’ gardens and outdoor spaces are more popular than ever, with five local trails to choose from this year.

Enjoy the grand backdrops of Blenheim Palace for the Christmas Light Trail (17 November 2023–1 January 2024) and Sudeley Castle for the Spectacle of Light (24 November–30 December 2023). Or walk through illuminated trees while you help Father Christmas’ elves decorate Westonbirt Arboretum ready for an Enchanted Christmas (24 November–23 December 2023).

There’s the family-focused Enchanted Light Trail at Adam Henson’s Cotswold Farm Park (24 November–31 December 2023). And new this year is The Enchanted Garden By Night sculpture trail at Painswick Rococo Garden (7 December 2023–6 January 2024). And if you don’t mind travelling a bit further afield, there’s also Longleat’s Festival of Light and Malvern Winter Glow.

Sudeley Castle Spectacle of Light light trail

2. Warm up with a wintery walk

If you’re looking to work off the Christmas indulgence with a winter walk , here are a few of our favourites. Leckhampton Hill south of Cheltenham has spectacular views from the top, with a 3-mile loop across its rare limestone grassland. Or you can follow a 5.4-mile circular route from Bourton-on-the-Water along the Rivers Windrush and Eye to Upper and Lower Slaughter.

From Broadway there’s a 4.4-mile circular walk which climbs up to the fairytale Broadway Tower and through the deer park before descending back down to the village. You can also follow the start of the Cotswold Way from Chipping Campden for the 4.1-mile circular walk to the viewpoint at Dover’s Hill, where you can see as far as the Black Mountains in Wales on a clear day.

Winter walks to the Broadway Tower

3. Take the kids on an outdoor adventure

Get the kids outside this winter with an adventure activity trail. Several National Trust properties have winter walking trails, including Lacock’s reindeer trail and the present discovery trail at Dyrham Park. There’s also an advent trail at Prior Park with 24 doors hidden in logs around the grounds that reveal clues to unlock a festive message (2 December 2023–1 January 2024).

Batsford Arboretum hosts the Big Batsford Elf Hunt (1 December 2023–7 January 2024), where you can win a prize for tracking down the missing elves among the trees. And there’s also both a Christmas Elf Trail and a Christmas Lights Trail around the streets of Cheltenham .

4. Go sledging

If we’re lucky enough to see the snow this Christmas in the Cotswolds, wrap up warm, grab your sledges (or tea tray if you’re improvising) and speed downhill. Some of the best places for sledging in the Cotswolds include Cleeve, Crickley and Leckhampton Hills near Cheltenham, Minchinhampton and Rodborough Commons, Broadway Tower and Cirencester Amphitheatre.

places to visit during christmas uk

‘Tis the season

5. spend a night at the panto.

Christmas wouldn’t be the same without a trip to the panto (oh no it wouldn’t…). With its colourful mix of singing, dancing and audience participation, the Christmas panto is a family tradition. This year the Everyman Theatre in Cheltenham is showing Mother Goose (24 November 2023–7 January 2024) and the Chipping Norton Theatre Cinderella (15 November 2023–14 January 2024).

You can also see a sea shanty Treasure Island at the Barn Theatre in Cirencester (20 November 2023–6 January 2024), Aladdin at the Stratford Playhouse (15–31 December 2023), Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at The Subscription Rooms in Stroud (20 December 2023–6 January 2024), and Beauty and the Beast at Tewkesbury’s Roses Theatre (2 December 2023–6 January 2024).

Cheltenham's Everyman Theatre

6. Get your skates on

After a year’s absence, the Cheltenham Ice Rink returns to Imperial Gardens in 2023 – site of the town’s original Winter Gardens and skating rink in the late 19th century. The rink is open from 17 November 2023–1 January 2024 and is undercover so you don’t have to worry about the weather, with hot drinks and tasty treats available at the Imperial Gardens bar afterwards.

You can also take a spin on the ice at Bath on Ice in Victoria Park (17 November 2023–3 January 2024) and Cotswold Water Park’s Gateway Ice Rink (24 November 2023–3 January 2024).

Cheltenham's ice rink

7. Admire decorated Christmas trees

Many of the Cotswolds’ towns and villages go all out for Christmas with beautifully decorated trees. But there’s something a bit unusual about Bourton-on-the-Water’s . Their tree is set in the middle of the River Windrush, with lights reflecting in the water and ducks swimming by.

You can also admire the trees in Lacock, where Christmas trees decorated by local community groups, charities and schools are on display in the cloister – this year’s theme is ‘Light Struck’ (25 November–24 December 2023). And there are Christmas tree festivals at St Edward’s Church in Stow-on-the-Wold (7–10 December) and St Saviour’s in Tetbury (1 December–1 January).

8. Sing along to Christmas carols

Listen to local choirs singing Christmas classics – or join in yourself – either outdoors or in the Cotswolds’ beautiful churches. Carol concerts take place at St Mary’s Church in Painswick on 1 December 2023, in St Saviour’s Tetbury on 2 December, in Northleach Market Place on 11 December and at weekends in the estate church at National Trust site Dyrham Park.

There’s also a candlelit carol concert with the Flowers Brass Band at Christ Church Cheltenham on 12 December in aid of the charity Maggies . And carol concerts on 23 and 24 December at Gloucester Cathedral , as well as their ‘Carols on the hour’ between 11am and 4pm on 9 December.

Carol singers

9. Treat yourself to a night away

Why not escape for a night or two to one of the Cotswolds’ historic hotels? Many of them are beautifully done up for Christmas with lavishly decorated trees and roaring log fires. If you want to get away for the big day, there are some high-end Christmas packages available with all the trimmings (or if Santa’s not that generous, look out for bargain deals after New Year).

Go for broke at New Year break with a casino night, black tie dinner and live music at the Lords of the Manor * in Upper Slaughter. Celebrate Christmas in gourmet style at the M anor House Hotel * in Castle Combe, or relax with spa treatments and breakfast in bed at Barnsley Hou se .*

10. Make your own Christmas wreath

Decorate your front door with a beautiful handmade Christmas wreath this year, with tuition from expert florists. Wreath-making classes are available on various dates through November and December at Newark Park, Westonbirt Arboretum, Ellenborough Park hotel near Cheltenham, The Slaughters Manor House in Lower Slaughter and Daylesford Organic near Kingham.

Christmas wreath-making

Festivals and events

11. christmas at blenheim.

Grand UNESCO World Heritage Site Blenheim Palace goes all out for the festive season with its Christmas at Blenheim event from 17 November 2023–1 January 2024. This year’s theme is Sleeping Beauty , with the ornate rooms each telling a different chapter of the story. You can also add on afternoon tea in the Orangery, an illuminated light trail and Christmas craft market.

12. Malvern Winter Glow

Located just outside the Cotswolds, Malvern Winter Glow at the Three Counties Showground is a four-in-one Christmas extravaganza that’s worth travelling for. It takes place from 24 November 2023–6 January 2024, with the chance to meet Santa and his elves, a Golden Snowflake light trail, ice rink, fairground rides and a Christmas market with festive food and drink stalls.

Blenheim Palace at Christmas in the Cotswolds

13. Royal Marines Christmas Spectacular

The world-famous Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines comes to C heltenham Town Hall on 7 December 2023 as part of their Christmas tour around the UK. On the programme is a mix of seasonal music, military marches, big band hits and popular showstoppers, featuring the precision skills of the Corps of Drums as well as the band’s talented singers and musicians.

14. Christmas Concert at Berkeley Castle

Celebrate Christmas in the Cotswolds with a concert at Be rkeley Castle on 10 December 2023. The evening starts with mince pies and mulled wine by the fire in the Long Drawing Room, which is decorated with Christmas trees and glittering lights, then moves into the Great Hall where the Orchestra Pro Anima string group will play classical pieces from the last 200 years.

Berkeley Castle in the Cotswolds

15. The Flight Before Christmas

For a Santa’s Grotto with a difference, head to the Cotswold Airport in Kemble for The Flight Before Christmas . From 25 November–24 December 2023, kids can meet Santa on board a British Airways Jumbo Jet. After a naughty or nice security check-in there are activities like decorating gingerbread men and assembling toys, as well as the chance for photos with the man himself.

16. New Year’s Day Racing at Cheltenham

The New Year’s Day race meeting at Cheltenham Racecourse is an annual ritual for horse racing fans, who shake off the New Year’s Eve cobwebs with a flutter and a pint or two in the Guinness Village. As well as a full day of racing action on the track there’s also extra entertainment on the day, including live music and face-painting and bouncy castles in the Family Fun Zone.

Horses at Cheltenham racecourse

Christmas shopping

17. visit the christmas markets.

Christmas markets have become an festive tradition, with Christmas music and stalls draped with colourful lights selling artisan gifts and crafts, tree decorations, local food and drink – not to mention all the tasty treats like mulled wine, roasted chestnuts and spiced biscuits.

Bath Christmas market is back from 23 November–10 December 2023, with over 170 wooden chalets selling crafts and festive food and drink in the streets around the Abbey. Cheltenham’s Christmas market on the Promenade also returns from 14–23 December 2023.

There are several food and craft markets taking place in Cirencester and Stroud, and one-off festive markets including in Painswick (24 November), Moreton-in-Marsh (25 November), Tetbury (1 December), Chipping Campden (2 December) and Winchcombe (8–9 December).

Cheltenham Christmas market

18. Go late-night shopping

Soak up the festive atmosphere and pick up some unique gifts from the Cotswolds’ independent shops at a late-night shopping event. Broadway is hosting theirs on 24 November and 1 December 2023, with beautifully decorated streets and mulled wine and mince pies while you browse. And they’re also being held in Malmesbury (1 December) and Winchcombe (8–9 December).

19. Celebrate Christmas all year at a Christmas shop

Tinsel and tree decorations aren’t just for Christmas, you can buy them all through the year at one of the Cotswolds’ Christmas shops. The Cotswold Christmas Shop in Lechlade sells lovely carved wooden nutcrackers and tree decorations, glass baubles and tree toppers. And the Victorian Christmas Shop in Bourton-on-the-Water specialises in traditional ornaments.

Late night shopping in Winchcombe

History and heritage

20. take a ride on a steam train.

A ride on board the Gloucestershire–Warwickshire Steam Railway is a journey back in time to the golden age of rail travel. This volunteer-run rail route runs from Cheltenham to Broadway through the Cotswold Hills, with vintage carriages hauled by an original steam locomotive – the sounds and smells on board transport you to the days when train travel was a lot more glamorous.

This year they have a couple of festive events planned. The Santa Express family trip departs from Cheltenham Racecourse Station on selected dates from 25 November–23 December 2023 and visits Santa and his elves at his North Pole winter wonderland (aka Winchcombe ). Or you can take a Mince Pie Special steam train day trip between 27 December 2023–2 January 2024.

The Gloucestershire–Warwickshire Steam Railway

21. Have a vintage Christmas at Holst Victorian House

Take a trip back in time to Christmas past with a series of festive events at Holst Victorian House in Cheltenham. This museum recreates life in the Victorian era at the birthplace of composer Gustav Holst. This Christmas there’s a Victorian Christmas Day (9 December 2023), talk and recital of In the Bleak Midwinter (11 December) and a candlelit museum tour (21 December).

22. Experience a country house Christmas

You can also see how Christmas was celebrated through the ages at historic houses around the Cotswolds. At Dyrham Park the house will be dressed in the style of five different eras, from Tudor times right up until the 20th century (1 December 2023–7 January 2024).

You can see how the Fox-Talbot family spent Christmas in the Great Hall at Lacock Abbey, with traditional decorations and an impressive tree (25 November– 24 December). Upton House and Gardens features festive displays inspired by Aesops Fables (11 November–24 December) and there’s a nostalgic 1960s-style Christmas at Chastleton House (29 November–17 December).

Holst Victorian House at Christmas

Food and drink

23. indulge in a festive afternoon tea.

Afternoon tea is an English institution, and it gets a little extra sparkle this Christmas in the Cotswolds with festive afternoon teas at the region’s hotels. You can enjoy seasonal delights like turkey and cranberry sandwiches, spiced scones and mince pies at Ellenborough Park, The Slaughters Manor House, Lygon Arms, Charingworth Manor and Stratton House in Cirencester.

24. Create a Cotswolds Christmas hamper

The Cotswolds is bursting with fantastic artisan food and drink suppliers, and a Cotswolds Christmas hamper makes a great gift – whether that’s for yourself or someone else. Stock up on local favourites from the Cotswold Cheese Company, Cotswold Gold oils, Tubby Tom’s sauces, Costello and Hellerstein chocolates and charcuterie from Saltpig and The Cotswold Curer.

Christmas afternoon tea

25. Drink a local toast

Toast the festive season or welcome in 2024 on New Year’ Eve with a glass of local bubbly from one of the Cotswolds’ vineyards. There’s a selection of white and rosé sparkling wines available, including Poulton Hill Estate’s Bulari White and Rosé, Woodchester Valley Vineyard’s Cotswold Classic, and the award-winning Classic Cuvee from Three Choirs Vineyards.

There’s also the Cheltenham Christmas Wine Fest ival , which takes place at Pip & Jim’s church on 24 November 2023. They have over 150 still and sparkling wines available to taste, so it’s a good opportunity to fill up your cellars for Christmas ready for the festivities to start.

Sparkling wine at Woodchester Valley Vineyard in the Cotswolds

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The best things to see and do at Christmas in the Cotswolds in 2023, from light trails and ice rinks to carol concerts and Christmas markets. | Christmas in the Cotswolds | Cotswolds Christmas | Winter in the Cotswolds | Christmas events in the Cotswolds

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Wednesday 26th of October 2022

Where does the 4 mile circular walk start from in Broadway?

Lucy Dodsworth

Thursday 27th of October 2022

Hi David, it starts at the War memorial on Broadway High Street, and you can find the details and a map link in this post https://explorethecotswolds.com/cotswold-way-circular-walks/

Gary Speckhart

Sunday 4th of September 2022

We are considering visiting the Cotswold the week prior to Christmas. Will need housing and information to reach the Cotswolds by rail from London Airport. Gary Speckhart Family

Monday 12th of September 2022

Hi Gary – this post gives you details of how to get to the Cotswolds from London (it's based on a day trip but would work for a longer stay too) https://explorethecotswolds.com/day-trip-from-london-to-cotswolds/ – and you can find suggestions on places to stay in each of my town ans village guides, or here are some lovely cottages for winter https://explorethecotswolds.com/10-cosy-cotswold-cottages/

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21 of the best Christmas holiday destinations

places to visit during christmas uk

Friday December 22 2023, 15:00pm

‘It’s the most wonderful time of the year,” declares Andy Williams each festive season. But while a roaring fire, presents under a bauble-laden tree and snow gently drifting outside might be the picture of Christmas sold by Hollywood, your reality can be a different kind of magical. How about a rum and coke on the sandy beaches of Barbados? Or meeting Santa Claus in Lapland? Or dialling up the tradition and visiting one of the thousands of Christmas markets in Germany? Here are the best Christmas holiday destinations — whatever kind of break you’re looking for.

Main photo: your reindeer carriage awaits in Finnish Lapland (Getty Images)

This article contains affiliate links, which may earn us revenue

1. The Rhine

The Rhine is one of the best places to spend Christmas in 2022

Spend the Christmas season afloat on the Rhine, accompanied by a glass of local wine as steep vineyards and historic castles slip by. You’ll find a Rhine cruise a soothing way to celebrate the festive season, as most journeys stop at Rhineland cities such as Cologne, Koblenz and Bonn. Here, amid the twinkling lights, yuletide lovers mingle in charming Christmas markets, while the swish of skates on an ice rink, shoppers’ voices and Christmas carols provide a lively soundtrack.

Book a cruise

  • Best Christmas markets in Europe
  • Best UK hotels to spend Christmas in

Germany is one of the best places to spend Christmas in 2022

Christmas holidays are celebrated with gusto in Germany as its famous Christmas markets overflow with copious helpings of mulled wine and shining Christmas lights. Hip Berlin offers up a huge funfair and you can get straight into the Christmas spirit with a ticket to the Alexanderplatz show. There’s a high chance of snow: temperatures can slip well below zero in December and the average low is minus 1C.

Book a stay

  • Best things to do in Berlin

3. Barbados

Barbados is one of the best places to spend Christmas in 2022

The Caribbean is made for Christmas. Barbados , the go-to Caribbean favourite for Brits, is at its most relaxed between mid-September and mid-December, when hotel prices drop by up to a third and the air-kissing, winter-sun-seeking regulars haven’t yet jetted in. There’s a risk of rain, but it never lasts long and the temperature’s still a balmy 27C. Explore the wild east. The island’s Atlantic side is an exhilarating whirl of dramatic shores (particularly around the little town of Bathsheba), rolling surf, flapping coconut palms and topsy-turvy hills that seem a world away from the busy beach resorts lining the west and south coasts. Drive over to bask in the peace and fresh air; Bay Tavern in Martin’s Bay is a mellow spot where Bajans take a break on Thursday afternoons, shooting (and feeling) the breeze at a “lime” (informal hangout).

  • Best hotels in Barbados
  • Best things to do in Barbados

4. Courchevel, France

Courchevel in France is one of the best places to spend Christmas in 2022

Courchevel is still a gathering ground for the world’s superrich. Broad, easy-skiing pistes combine with Michelin-starred restaurants and five-star hotels to create the most luxurious of all ski resorts. Boxing Day to New Year’s Eve has the biggest social buzz: think champagne bars and perfect teeth, set against a razor-sharp mountain ridge. New Year in Courchevel isn’t cheap, so save where you can by booking a central self-catering apartment in the Forum. Brush up your skiing with New Generation Ski School, so you don’t take a tumble outside the key slopeside bars. And don’t wait until December 31 to start the celebrations.

  • Best ski resorts in France

5. Muscat, Oman

Muscat, Oman, is one of the best places to spend Christmas in 2022

Hop on an overnight flight, and wake up seven hours later in Muscat, then get straight to the beach — it’s only 15 minutes from the airport. For the rest of your stay, take a traditional dhow boat trip from Marina Bandar al Rowhda so the little ones can enjoy goggling at rare marine life, or absorb the Bedouin vibes of the Arabian desert with teens. Try stargazing and camel-riding at Wahiba Sands, or head to turquoise-hued Wadi Bani Khalid oasis. Alternatively hire a local driver through your hotel and day-trip around Muscat to explore its frankincense-scented Mutrah Souq. Nearby, the call to prayer echoes around the minarets at the opulent Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, open most days for visits.

  • Best hotels in Oman

6. Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh, Scotland, is one of the best places to spend Christmas in 2022

It’s not just gingerbread-scented markets and riotous Hogmanay parties that make wintry Edinburgh so appealing. Even under grey skies, you’ve got warm, world-class museums and restaurants and the icy North Sea winds are your excuse to duck into a snug watering hole for a soul-warming Scotch.

For bargains, go in early December when the Christmas markets are open, but the city is still relatively peaceful. Take a spin on the panoramic big wheel above Princes Street, bar crawl under the fairy lights of George Street and pop into the Scottish National Gallery to contemplate winter scenes. After dark, head to the Royal Botanic Garden to sip spiced cider and marvel at its Christmas illuminations.

  • Best hotels in Edinburgh
  • Best things to do in Edinburgh

7. Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg, Austria, is one of the best places to spend Christmas in 2022

Revel in the unabashed schmaltz — this is the fantasy festive break. Dressed to the nines in baroque finery and surrounded by snowcapped peaks, Salzburg is the staunchly traditional, chocolate-box city of Mozart and The Sound of Music , and will cocoon you in comfort. Walk around the Old Town streets, dive into vaulted beer cellars and shop for lederhosen. To warm up? Climb every mountain, of course.

Make your first wander an atmospheric browse along the narrow Getreidegasse, Salzburg’s glitzy shopping alley, where five-storey Renaissance houses provide a bulwark against winter weather. Explore its dimly lit arched passages and within a few paces, you might stumble upon Balkan Grill Walter, a kiosk selling Balkan beef sausages since 1950. After, make a prosecco pitstop at Seppo’s intimate wine bar, or cosy up with the crowds in the hidden Sternbräu beer garden.

  • Best ski resorts in Austria

8. Finnish Lapland

Finnish Lapland  is one of the best places to spend Christmas in 2022

For the real deal and endless other wintry activities, such as snowmobiling, skiing and reindeer rides, head north to the smaller resorts of Levi, Yllas or Saariselka. Levi is just 20 minutes from the airport, making transfers with weary tots super speedy. Here, Santa’s village is way out in the wilderness: a huddle of twinkly log cabins hidden among snow-laden pines. Kids can decorate gingerbread cookies with Mother Claus, make decorations and visit Elf school to learn Finnish words such as Hyvaa Joulua (Happy Christmas), as well as having a private tête-à-tête with Santa himself. The focus is firmly on wholesome festive fun and, refreshingly, souvenir stops are sparse.

But don’t go too early — travel from the second or third weekend in December for a guaranteed snowscape. Ample time is crucial: do not book one of those 24-hour round-trips, your child will be so tired and cranky you’ll wonder why you bothered. Four nights is better, and even then you’ll wish you had more. Darkness reigns here: daylight falls between 10am and 2pm, when an eerie green and pink glow illuminates the sky.

  • Best hotels in Lapland
  • Best things to do in Lapland

9.  New York, US

New York is one of the best places to spend Christmas in 2022

This city is the face of Christmas, especially in films. Don’t miss the magical displays at Macy’s ( Miracle on 34th Street ); the steps of the Plaza Hotel ( Home Alone 2 ); and the Rockefeller tree ( Elf ). The chance of snow isn’t as high as in the perma-dusted movies, but it’s always possible as temperatures can dip to a bracing -10C. New York’s stores turn charitable at Christmastime, with epic window displays resembling free galleries. Start with the glittering scene at Bergdorf Goodman on Fifth Avenue, then pass Tiffany’s before nipping over to Saks. Next head to the Rockefeller Center for a mulled wine and a gawp at the tree. For Christmas shopping, Bryant Park is transformed into a Winter Village, with stalls selling affordable gifts such as handmade scarves and soaps. It’s free to hit the ice rink here, too.

  • Best affordable hotels in New York under £190
  • The best things to do in New York

10. Tenerife, Spain

 Tenerife is one of the best places to spend Christmas in 2022

If you’re hoping to add some winter sun to your Christmas this is the place to be. Yes, tourism has made its mark on  Tenerife , but the resorts in the south-coast destinations of Costa Adeje and Playa de las Americas take up only a fraction of the island. Beyond, unspoilt beauty awaits: seaside villages and picturesque coves, gracious colonial towns, a rainforest dripping with lichen, and ravishing ravines. And all beneath the awesome gaze of a 200,000-year-old volcano, Spain’s highest, Mount Teide.

  • Best hotels in Tenerife
  • Best villas in Tenerife

11. Cities along the Danube

The Danube is one of the best places to spend Christmas in 2022

Here is one of Europe’s great rivers, perfect for a Christmas cruise taking in cities along the Danube such as Budapest , Bratislava and Regensburg. Passing through the heart of central Europe, revellers can celebrate the festive season at Christmas markets garlanded with Christmas lights and spirit. A mulled wine here, a juicy, grilled sausage there — which Christmas market will be your favourite?

  • Best river cruises in Europe

12. The Ganges, India

The Ganges, India, is one of the best places to spend Christmas in 2022

Spend Christmas on a luxurious cruise along India’s holiest river where the warmth of the winter sun mixes well with the Christmas spirit. On these cruises, you’ll find a journey whose stand-outs include misty early mornings revealing ancient temples and small boats bumping along in the water, devotees by the edge, followed by the wake-up call of bazaars and the solemn fortresses of Jaipur and Varanasi.

Book a tour

  • Best places to visit in India

13. Marrakesh, Morocco

Marrakesh, Morocco, is one of the best places to spend Christmas in 2022

There’s a local saying that Morocco is “a cold country with a hot sun”, and while snow on the Atlas Mountains from mid-November to April shows you how bitterly cold it can be at night, there are also piercing blue skies and sunshine warm enough for you to hit the pool. This is the time to snag a bargain to Marrakesh , but pack layers and stay somewhere with heating. Only July and August are cheaper, but only worth it if you can handle temperatures in the high 40Cs.

  • Best hotels in Marrakesh
  • Best things to do in Marrakesh

14. Mauritius

Mauritius is one of the best places to spend Christmas in 2022

It’s the blossoming of flame trees rather than the dressing of firs that marks the start of the festive season in Mauritius . These trees, red as Santa’s suit, bloom between late November and early December. Shortly after, hotel lobby decorations and seasonal shop window displays appear across the island. Food is central to a Mauritian Christmas and hotels in beach resorts like Grand Baie and Flic-en-Flac offer gala dinners and festive brunches so you can tuck in with a cocktail or two.

  • Best hotels in Mauritius

15. The Maldives

The Maldives is one of the best places to spend Christmas in 2022

Trade in the traditional festive colour palette of red and green for a landscape that’s a centillion shades of blue. Fly to the capital, Male, then take a seaplane to a private island resort such as Medhufushi. Sleep in a villa suspended on stilts above the Jacuzzi-warm waters of the Indian Ocean, and snorkel and day-sail your way through the season. Many hotels in the Maldives offer traditional menus on Christmas day. However, if you boycott the sprouts, you’ll be rewarded with platters of fresh lobster, oysters and grouper — all washed down with a bottle of something sparkling.

  • Best hotels in the Maldives

16. Singapore

Singapore is one of the best places to spend Christmas in 2022

Singapore soups up the Christmas experience. Festivities start in mid-November when almost four kilometres of Christmas lights are switched on in the Orchard Road shopping area. Shortly after, restaurants debut their festive menus and Christmas Wonderland opens at Gardens by the Bay. The season’s crescendo is the extravagant countdown and fireworks party at Marina Bay. If you’re worried about it all feeling a little too merry and bright, stay at a beach hotel like Capella Singapore on Sentosa Island. With its infinity pools, 30-acre gardens and views of the South China Sea, it’s a sanctuary amid the festive flamboyance.

  • Best hotels in Singapore
  • Best things to do in Singapore

17. Antalya, Turkey

Antalya, Turkey, is one of the best Christmas holiday destinations

No jokes about eating turkey in Turkey please — here in Antalya, you can be as festive or not as you want. Many of the resorts in the region will have stonking good deals on all-inclusive breaks, with gala dinners put on for Christmas day. Even if you’re not set on a fly-and-flop, the fact that Christmas Day isn’t a public holiday here means you can shop, go to restaurants and visit attractions as normal. There’s a good chance of sun, but it’ll probably be too cold to hit the beaches. Instead, why not visit one of the ancient ruins for some light culture without the crowds? Termessos and Perge are particularly impressive.

  • Best hotels in Antalya
  • Best things to do in Antalya

18.  Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo is one of the best Christmas holiday destinations

Tokyo goes all in on the Christmas spirit, but with its own twist. Around the city are illuminations, where lights are strung up around buildings, trees and just about everything else from around mid-November. Look out, too, for festive fairs and Christmas markets where you can pick up kawaii (cute) handmade gifts. If you have kids, a visit to Tokyo Disneyland is essential. And no, you don’t have to adopt the tradition of eating KFC instead of a roast on Christmas Day — plenty of hotels will offer a more traditional festive meal.

  • Best things to do in Tokyo
  • Best hotels in Tokyo
  • Best cities to visit in winter

19. Christmas Island, Australia

Red crabs cross the road during their annual migration on Christmas Island, Australia

What could be more apt than spending the festive period on Christmas Island? This slice of paradise is actually closer to the tropical waters of Indonesia than the Australian mainland, making the weather here pretty much hot all year round. That said, December tends to be the rainy season in the region, with days often overcast — no matter, you’re likely to spend most of your time snorkelling its bath-warm waters anyway. Back on dry land, you’ll see one of the most spectacular annual migrations: it’s mating season for red land crabs and millions of them will be scuttling from the forest to the coast.

20. Iceland

Iceland is one of the best places to spend Christmas in 2022

Iceland is the perfect holiday destination for travellers in search of Christmas spirit. Here, the festive season pulsates with lively Christmas markets where wooden booths brim with food and drink, and gifts glitter as imposing Christmas trees stand guard. Expect a true winter wonderland made up of wild lava fields and craggy mountains topped with snow for added sparkle. Take a self-drive into the mountains and catch the northern lights glimmering in the dark sky, and don’t forget other seasonal sojourns such as trekking near the Snaefellsjokull glacier.

  • Best hotels in Iceland
  • Best things to do in Iceland

21. London, England

A gingerbread man outside Battersea Power Station at Christmas in London

London does a stonking good job of putting on a good Christmas display — as you would expect from any capital city — but what it’s particularly good at is the stunning array of settings where twinkling lights breathe magic into the air. There’s Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, where fairground rides, circus acts and Christmas market stalls selling mulled wine and bratwurst will make anyone giddy. Or Battersea Power Station, where the brightly lit facade overlooks a riverfront ice rink. And of course, who could forget the shopping streets around Oxford Circus and Piccadilly Circus, where shops compete to put on the best displays. Fortnum & Mason’s is unmissable.

  • Best things to do in London at Christmas

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Inspired to go abroad this Christmas but yet to book your trip? Here are the best packages from Jet2 Holidays and Tui .

places to visit during christmas uk

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Damson blossom at the National Trust’s Brockhampton Estate

12 of the best UK breaks to celebrate spring

From blossom trails to bluebell woods, and foraging to farm stays, we’ve picked some of the finest seasonal getaways

Apples and pears, Herefordshire

This is cider country, and the Brockhampton Estate, near the Worcestershire border, is the largest orchard under the National Trust’s care, with over 145 acres of damson, pear, quince, cherry and apple trees, which blossom in great frothy clouds from late March through April.

They surround a handsome moated manor house, built on fortunes made from fruit (as well as salt and timber) in the middle ages. A cluster of 18th-century former farm buildings have been sensitively converted into holiday lets, including a five-bedroom main farmhouse, a circular flat for two in a hop kiln, and the two-bedroom converted Cart Barn , where the old stable partitions now divide the kitchen and dining space.

The 1½-mile Orchard Trail winds through the blossom as sheep graze between the trees, and longer routes snake around 1,500 acres of park and woodland. In the orchard natural play trail, children can find and captain the Hereford Bull, a replica 200-year-old “trow” (cargo boat) hidden among the trees – and there are Easter egg hunts in the school holidays. A new orchard comprises five interlocking “rooms” representing the seed chambers inside an apple, telling the history of the fruit. Three miles away, the market town of Bromyard has lots of independent shops and cafes, and holds the Bromyard Town Criers festival on 4 May. Seven nights from £999 (sleeps four), nationaltrust.org.uk

Gardens tour of subtropical Cornwall

Rhododendrons and camellias  in flower

Spring awakens early in Cornwall. In the steep, sheltered folds of the Helford Valley, just outside Falmouth, Hotel Meudon ’s nine acres of subtropical gardens are quietly warming up. The path that runs down to Bream Cove is flanked by banks of wild garlic and bluebells, wild cherry blossom sits delicately on the branches and the hotel’s rhododendrons and camellias – coddled by the temperate microclimate – start to bloom in a soft blaze of colour. The garden’s stars include a 10-metre-tall magnolia and a foxglove tree, whose purple blooms smell of parma violets.

This can be the jumping-off point for a glorious Cornish garden tour: Trebah and Glendurgan Gardens are just west along the South West Coast Path, while Trelissick – with its wide River Fal views – jungle-like Penjerrick Garden and the spectacular meadow of bluebells at Enys Gardens are within striking distance. And from 23-24 March, Falmouth is holding its Spring flower show .

Back at the hotel, mid-century-style bedrooms look out across the gardens to the sea, and the restaurant showcases local produce (veg from community-supported Soul Farm down the road; fish straight off the boat). The crowds may swarm in summer, but this is secretly Cornwall’s standout season. Doubles from £129 B&B, two-night stay including dinner on the first night £279, meudon.co.uk

Bluebells galore in East Sussex

Walkwood Wagon, Uckfield, East Sussex

Nothing says springtime like a carpet of bluebells, and in April or early May, guests staying at the cosy Walkwood Wagon , a traditional bow-top caravan in secluded woods, can wake up to this spectacle. Set within a clearing on National Trust-protected land in the High Weald, this romantic bolthole for two will soon be surrounded by those delicate bobbing blooms. Inside, the botanical theme continues: the arching ceiling of the wagon is covered in floral wallpaper. Outside, there’s a wood burner for cooking, and a Swedish bath for soaking in while listening to the rustle of the trees and the occasional steam train hoot from the Bluebell Railway . Those vintage engines run for 11 miles from Sheffield Park to East Grinstead, each stop transporting visitors to a different era: the 1880s (Sheffield Park), the 1920s (Horsted Keynes) and the 1950s (Kingscote).

Bluebell Vineyard produces its fruity Hindleap sparkling wines on the fringes of Winnie-the-Pooh’s Ashdown Forest, and offers tours and wine tastings paired with cheeses from nearby High Weald Dairy. In neighbouring Sheffield Park, walks loop through the wildlife-filled meadows along the River Ouse (kingfishers, butterflies, dragonflies), around the Pulham Falls (which link five mirror-like lakes), and in Walk Wood itself, where local artist Keith Petit has created a series of sculptures. From £140 a night (sleeps two), coolstays.com

Surfing and seabirds in the Inner Hebrides

Blackhouse Watersports centre on beach

As the Hebridean Isle of Tiree wakes from winter, the machair pastures that cover the island bloom with cowslips, primroses and other wildflowers. Soon newly born lambs will roam these grasslands, too. Hardier arrivals will be out on the water – cold water surfers are drawn in by the epic Atlantic swells. There’s nothing between here and Newfoundland.

The strikingly contemporary Reef Inn , with its white-washed bedrooms and big picture windows, reopens on 1 April as the waters start to warm up and the surf schools open. On the south-west coast, the consistent Balephuil break offers great views and is a gentle long run into the beach, perfect for children and beginners. More experienced surfers will like the more challenging swells of Balevullin beach on the north coast, which crashes into a sweep of white sand.

Spring is also the ideal time to take a boat trip to see the colonies of puffins (and thousands of other seabirds) on the neighbouring uninhabited island of Lunga, where the friendly birds will waddle close to visitors, who are advised to lie quietly on their bellies like seals for the best vantage point. Doubles from £130.50 B&B, reef-tiree.com

Organic farm stay, Ceredigion

Bed made of two pianos at Nantgwynfaen Organic Farm

Nantgwynfaen farm in the Teifi Valley, about half an hour by car from Cardigan Bay, is the good life in real life, lovingly run by Amanda and Ken Edwards. There’s a mix of places to sleep: a simple bedroom in the farmhouse (its kingsize bed made on the farm from local alder wood); a retro log cabin called Ty Mamgu (grandma’s house in Welsh); a vintage static caravan; and Ty Nodyn, a former barn with a double bed made from two old pianos and a single bed for kids in the crog loft. When the weather warms up there are also camping pitches, where there may be real Easter bunnies hopping around. The honesty shop stocks the farm’s eggs and own-recipe sausages as well as other organic and vegan treats, such as Ken’s flowerpot loaves, which should be ordered in advance.

Caws Teifi Cheese and Da Mhile organic gin distillery are a couple of miles away, for tastings and extra supplies, and gastropub The Daffodil Inn is down the road. A few miles north, the Llangrannog and Penbryn section of the Wales Coast Path is particularly lovely at this time of year – a mass of yellow gorse and pink thrift in clumps on the rocky ground. Two nights from £120 room-only in The Room at the Top, camping pitches from £15pp a night, organicfarmwales.co.uk

Daffodil dale, North Yorkshire

carpet of daffodils against bare trees

The Farndale Estate , in the North York Moors national park, comes into its own in spring when the valley of the River Dove is filled with tens of thousands of native wild daffodils (smaller and paler than some of their more showy cousins). Thousands of visitors come to see this annual spectacle, so the best bet is to stay in the dale and walk up the 3.5-mile riverside footpath from the village of Lower Mill in the early morning. The estate’s 12 cottages range from converted tin schoolhouse East View, which sleeps two in a wrought iron double bed, to the newly renovated four-bedroom Mill Farmhouse. The Farndale Store, added last year, has shelves of local treats including Roost Coffee from Malton and Cooper King gin from York.

There is plenty more hiking here, and the North York Moors national park website lists routes as well as free guided walks, including to Whorl Hill’s bluebells on 1 May. Dalby Forest, to the south-east, is popular with cyclists for its intense singletrack descents and steep climbs through woodland. Four nights from £635, farndalecottages.co.uk

Causeway Coast hideaway in County Antrim

Sitting room at the Workers Cottage

A 20-minute drive from the famous basalt columns of the Giant’s Causeway, the beautifully restored Worker’s Cottage in the grounds of 17th-century Camus House is the perfect base for seeing Northern Ireland’s famous coast. The Causeway Coast, which wriggles from the walled city of Derry to Carrickfergus Castle in the east, can get very crowded, but this is a peaceful spot on the banks of the River Bann, just south of Coleraine. The cottage has two bedrooms overlooking the water, and a kitchen stocked with jars of homemade granola, Bridgetown herbal teas from County Down and some homemade Camus House jam or marmalade.

April is the start of puffin season on rugged Rathlin Island, near Ballycastle, and inland, sustainable Broughgammon Farm runs Easter family fun days (23 and 24 March) with chicks, goats and calves, a spring foraging walk (14 April) and a seasonal farm-to-fork supper club (17 April). Nearby Dunfin Farm offers sheep farming experiences and, in spring, newborn lambs to pet. From £139 a night (sleeps four, two-night minimum), airbnb.co.uk

Lochside swimming and foraging in Argyll

Two cute highland cows

The Pierhouse Hotel sits on the edge of Loch Linnhe, on Scotland’s wildly beautiful west coast. In 2019 – along with much-lauded Three Chimneys on Skye – it became part of the new Wee Hotel Company, founded by Scots-born hotelier Gordon Campbell Gray. It makes the most of its lochside location, with award-winning menus starring langoustines, mussels and lobster from the waters right in front of the hotel.

Among other activities, it offers cold water swimming experiences in the loch with Dan Coyle, known as “Dan the Merman”. The next is on 27 and 28 April, celebrating Là Buidhe Bealltainn (Yellow Day of Beltane), an ancient Celtic celebration midway between the spring equinox and the summer solstice. Wild food specialist Lucy Cooke will lead a spring foraging walk along shore, hedgerow and woodland on 18 May. The hotel has also teamed up with Achinreir Farm (home of Highland Fold ice-cream) to offer Whispering Cow walks – which in spring might take in baby Highland “coos” in the fields. There’s also great hiking along the banks of the loch and south towards the great rock arch of Clach Thoull, passing cliffs, beaches and woodland, and spotting seals, deer and plenty of spring birdlife. Doubles from £150 B&B, pierhousehotel.co.uk

Glamping in Monmouthshire

Penhein glamping.

About 200 lambs are expected to be welcomed in the lambing shed at Penhein farm near the Wye Valley this spring. Guests staying in one of the farm’s eight elegant domed tents (with kingsize beds and wood-burning stoves), can also book for the popular Lambing Live Experience (£35 per tent, 29 March-22 April). Hands-on activities might include bottle-feeding and gathering up newborn lambs, putting them in pens and helping to feed the ewes.

Elsewhere on the farm there’s a new wildlife hide for spotting deer and birds and walking trails through 450 acres, as well as bushcraft courses, campfire cookery classes, yoga in the meadow and dawn chorus safaris with birdsong expert Ed Drewitt. International Dawn Chorus Day, the first Sunday in May, is when nature’s symphony is around its peak.

In spring, the yurt-like tents – which nod to the Iranian heritage of one side of the family with hand-blocked motifs on headboards and bedspreads – will be surrounded by wild garlic and bluebells. Nearby, the Chepstow Walking festival crisscrosses the valley from 2-7 April, the Abergavenny Writing festival is on 19-20 April, the Wye Valley River festival is on 3-12 May and family-friendly Devauden Music festival is on 24-26 May. From £295 for two nights (sleeps five), penhein.co.uk

A wheelchair-friendly farmstay in Norfolk

The viewing gallery at Pensthorpe Natural Park.

Chalk streams are often referred to as England’s rainforests for their rare and valuable habitat. One of the longest is the River Wensum, which winds through Norfolk – a site of special scientific interest along its entire length.

Almost three miles of the Wensum runs through Sparham Hall Farm , whose mixture of water meadows, woods, lakes, arable land and pasture is a haven for wildlife: it’s home to badgers, otters (in the lake), and barn and tawny owls. The Buttery is a converted barn designed with wheelchair-users in mind: the kitchen has a low oven and space under the sink and hob, there’s a large, open-plan living area (with mid century-style armchairs and flashes of cheery yellow), and one fully accessible bedroom and wetroom (the other bedroom can be a twin or super king). To get out and about, Norfolk Trails lists access-tested routes with photographs and notes to help those with varying mobility needs. Popular Pensthorpe nature reserve is also a 20-minute drive away, with an accessible Lake Walk and Wetland Walk, plus a hide for spotting cuckoos, chiffchaffs and willow warblers as they return here from their winter migration. Four nights from £460 (sleeps four), sparhamhallfarm.co.uk

Poetic wanderings in the Lakes

Rydal Mount, exterior

William Wordsworth immortalised Ullswater’s daffodils, “tossing their heads in sprightly dance” in his poem I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud. Guests at Grasmere’s Victorian House hotel can wander in his footsteps. Its 20 bedrooms are furnished with antique finds, upholstered headboards and eye-catching prints; there are also stargazer rooms with telescopes and windows looking out over the fells.

Dove Cottage, where the poet moved with his sister Dorothy in 1799, has been recreated as it would have been over 200 years ago; Wordsworth’s suitcase on the washstand and one room lined with newspaper to keep out the cold. The daffs may be dancing at local community project the Wordsworth Daffodil Garden, next to St Oswald’s Church, where the poet is buried, and the warm, spicy scent of the neighbouring Grasmere Gingerbread Shop fills the air.

Wordsworth’s final Lake District home, Rydal Mount , is an easy walk away along the sombre-sounding Coffin Route, offering views of Windermere and Rydal Water, as well as five acres of gardens, which in spring will be filled with bluebells, rhododendron and, yes, daffodils. Doubles from £127 B&B, victorianhousehotel.co.uk

Food and foraging in Somerset

fish with roasted veg and dill

When chef Nicholas Balfe moved from London to open a restaurant in Somerset in 2021, he swerved the gentrified honeypots of Frome and Bruton and instead chose this former high street bank in pretty South Petherton, just off the A303. At Holm , he has cultivated a community-focused spot – some of the veg comes from the village’s allotment growers, and the new upstairs lounge will host events. When he added seven bedrooms last November, the same ethos applied, with oak cabinets made by Petherton neighbour Tortie Hoare , ceramics from Muchelney Pottery a few villages over, and British wool blankets from Somerset brand Gather .

In March, a series of spring events start with wild garlic foraging on Ham Hill followed by a cookery class and a three-course lunch (6 March). The main menu, too, will focus on seasonal produce, from baby leeks and asparagus to fresh spring salad shoots. Nearby, the gardens at East Lambrook Manor and Barrington Court are starting to burst into life. Later in May, the 180 acres of orchards at Burrow Hill Cider Farm , an hour’s stomp away, will be in full blossom. An orchard trail leads through fluffy white trees then climbs to the top of the titular Burrow Hill for knockout views of the Somerset Levels. Doubles from £140 B&B, foraging classes including cookery session and meal £95pp, holmsomerset.co.uk

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Politics latest: Hunt drops hint about budget - as Galloway arrives in Westminster

Jeremy Hunt is hinting at tax cuts in Wednesday's budget, with the Tories aiming to shift the dial as they languish in the polls. Meanwhile, George Galloway is back in Westminster to be sworn in as Rochdale's MP. Listen to this week's Politics At Jack And Sam's podcast as you scroll.

Monday 4 March 2024 14:21, UK

  • Hunt hints at 'responsible' tax cuts in budget
  • Sam Coates:  Is chancellor spending imaginary cash?
  • Spring budget 2024 : What to expect  | How to watch
  • Galloway arrives to be sworn in as MP
  • Conservatives hit record low in new poll
  • Ex-minister joins growing Tory election exodus
  • Electoral Dysfunction: 'Nothing works' - is it time to head to polls?
  • Live reporting by Faith Ridler

We've just been hearing from Chancellor Jeremy Hunt, who was asked if the UK can really afford tax cuts ahead of his budget on Wednesday.

Speaking in Chippenham, he says any cuts would be made in a "responsible way".

Mr Hunt adds: "We believe that if you look around the world, the countries which are growing the fastest - whether it's North America or Asia - have lower taxes because that makes a more dynamic, more energetic, more entrepreneurial economy.

"We do want to move to a lower tax economy, but we're only going to do so in a way that is responsible and recognises that there are things that taxes pay for, that we couldn't cut taxes by borrowing.

"We'll so do in a responsible way."

Mr Hunt is then asked about reports he could crack down on the non-dom tax status, a key part of Labour's plan for if it should win the election.

Has the chancellor run out of ideas?

"You'll have to see on Wednesday precisely what I am going to announce," he says. "But let me be clear, there is a plan for growth compared to the Labour Party."

Our deputy political editor Sam Coates has just been considering exactly what the Chancellor Jeremy Hunt could announce at the budget on Wednesday.

He says: "I think the chancellor is gearing up probably for a 2p cut in the rate of National Insurance, that's what all the signs are pointing towards.

"In some senses the tone adopted by the chancellor today is effectively trying to warn his own side, as well as the country, that there hasn't been a huge amount of money to play with in the budget this time.

"What's known as the headroom – which is the amount of money the chancellor’s had to spend in five years’ time against the fiscal rules on borrowing – has basically left him with not a huge amount.

"In effect, we're expecting him to give himself a little bit more money to play with by cutting future growth of public spending, cutting back and scaling back the amount by which the budgets for health and education and the like are going to rise.

"In a sense that's sort of imaginary money in the future in order to pay for tax cuts now.

"That's not an uncontroversial idea. He'll say this means the budget is fully funded, others will raise questions on how this is done."

The Sky News live poll tracker - collated and updated by our Data and Forensics team - aggregates various surveys to indicate how voters feel about different political parties.

Labour is still sitting comfortably on a roughly 20-point lead, averaging at 44.0% in the polls, with the Tories on 23.7%.

In third is Reform UK on 10.3%, followed by the Lib Dems on 9.7%.

The Green Party stands at 6.2%, and the SNP on 3.2%.

See the latest update below - and you can read more about the methodology behind the tracker  here .

Our new political podcast, Electoral Dysfunction , has hit the top of the Apple Podcasts chart after its first episode landed on Friday.

In the debut show, political editor Beth Rigby and co-hosts Jess Phillips and Ruth Davidson discuss the fallout from the Rochdale by-election and look ahead to this week's spring budget.

You can find out what all the fuss is about by following the chart-topping show via the link below:

Ministers remain committed to sending flights to Rwanda "in the spring", Downing Street has said today.

It comes as the Safety of Rwanda Bill returns to the Lords, with a number of amendments due to be voted on today and Wednesday.

The prime minister's spokesman said: "The prime minister is focused on delivering for the British people and stopping the boats, and he is clear that our partnership with Rwanda is one of the key levers to deliver this.

"Our legally binding treaty makes clear that individuals relocated to Rwanda under the partnership will not be returned to an unsafe country and building on our treaty the bill will make absolutely clear in UK law that Rwanda is a safe country and a key part of our efforts to stop the boats and save lives.

"Through our treaty and bill we will control our borders, deter people taking perilous journeys, reduce the strain on our public services and end the continuous legal challenges against removals."

He added that the government was "confident that Rwanda is implementing the terms of our treaty".

Apparently not.

Asked about reports of this over the weekend, Downing Street denied that Rishi Sunak believes Chancellor Jeremy Hunt is "timid" and "lacks imagination".

It comes ahead of this week's spring budget, which has seen the chancellor hint at tax cuts ( see 11.26 post ).

Mr Sunak's spokesman said: "Absolutely not.

"The chancellor is working very closely with the prime minister to deliver our plan for the economy and obviously the chancellor will be setting out further measures in line with that on Wednesday at the budget."

Asked if the prime minister had been a "backseat driver" in preparing the budget, the spokesman replied: "No."

Downing Street has reiterated there is no difference between the UK and US positions on the Gaza conflict following American vice president Kamala Harris's call for an immediate ceasefire.

The prime minister's spokesman said: "We agree that we want to see a sustained humanitarian pause agreed as quickly as possible to allow the safe release of hostages and a significant increase in aid to Gaza."

He added: "Our position is entirely aligned with the US who, like us, are calling for a pause in the fighting. 

"We have been clear, as has the US, that the right conditions, however, must be in place for a permanent lasting ceasefire, and that includes the release of all hostages, Hamas no longer in charge in Gaza and a bolstered Palestinian Authority."

In response to suggestions the US position had changed, he said: "A temporary ceasefire and a humanitarian pause are the same thing, we're talking about the same position. The US and the UK have been entirely aligned on this."

He added that the UK would "certainly support" a six-week pause in the fighting "if that is what parties can agree on".

You can follow the latest updates on the war in the Middle East in our dedicated live blog:

The leak of a conversation between German officials regarding British operations in Ukraine is "a matter for Germany", Downing Street has said.

The call, leaked by Russia, heard German air force officers talking about British operations on the ground in Ukraine.

The prime minister's spokesman said: "That's obviously a matter for Germany to investigate, and you've got Chancellor [Olaf] Scholz's words on this.

"I think he said that it's clearly a very serious matter and that's why it's now being investigated very carefully.

"On our part, the UK was the first country to provide long-range precision strike missiles to Ukraine, and we would encourage our allies to do the same. 

"We have been clear from the outset that the UK would provide Ukraine with the necessary aid, including lethal support to defend itself and reclaim its sovereign territory."

Pressed on whether UK troops were actively engaged in targeting and firing Storm Shadow missiles in Ukraine, Downing Street would not comment.

The spokesman also declined to comment on whether the UK was running out of missiles to send to Ukraine.

You can follow more on this in our dedicated Ukraine war live blog:

Peers are to begin voting on proposed amendments to the government's Safety of Rwanda Bill - with ministers once again calling on parliament's unelected upper house to not block a bill which was approved by MPs.

On Monday afternoon the House of Lords will begin its report stage, where votes will take place on changes members have proposed.

The bill - which seeks to declare Rwanda a safe country - passed its third reading in the Commons in December last year.

Voting is expected to start mid-afternoon, and will continue into the evening. This will be repeated on Wednesday.

Currently, there are 48 amendments proposed, although not all of them will go to a vote.

You can read more from Sky News below:

Rishi Sunak may believe the economy is on the right track ( see 11.10 post ) but his optimism doesn't seem to be translating to an improved public perception of how the government's doing.

In fact, the Tories have slumped to their lowest polling score on record.

According to a survey by Ipsos UK, just 20% of voters would go for the Conservatives at the moment, down seven points from January and 27 points behind Labour.

It's the lowest score the Tories have posted with the pollster since it started its regular surveys in 1978 - even beating the period after the disastrous mini-budget delivered by Liz Truss and Kwasi Kwarteng, and the dying days of the Major government before Tony Blair took office.

It should be noted that only 1,000 people took part in the new poll, but it does reflect what has been a difficult start to 2024 for the prime minister.

We've had news of the UK entering recession, several by-election defeats for the Tories, and the suspension of MP Lee Anderson for making allegedly Islamophobic comments about the mayor of London.

And it follows a YouGov poll from Friday that also had the Conservatives languishing on 20%, 26 points behind Labour.

Not that opposition leader Sir Keir Starmer is proving hugely popular, with today's Ipsos poll suggesting 55% of people are dissatisfied with his performance and just 29% saying they were satisfied.

For Mr Sunak, it's 73% and 19% respectively.

Earlier this morning, the new MP for Rochdale, George Galloway, was spotted arriving at parliament to take his seat in the House of Commons.

Asked if he is glad to be back, Mr Galloway says he missed the building.

"I always loved the building," he says. "The people in it? Not so much."

Mr Galloway has not been shy about making his displeasure for MPs known, going so far to say to our deputy political editor Sam Coates last week that he "despised the prime minister".

He'll be sworn-in in the House of Commons this afternoon.

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COMMENTS

  1. 10 Best Places to Visit at Christmas in the UK for 2023

    3. Birmingham, England. Best for: A German experience on UK soil. The UK's second city welcomes in excess of 5.5 million visitors to its annual Frankfurt Christmas Market - the largest of its ...

  2. 11 Best UK Cities At Christmas (2024 Guide)

    You could visit the Roman Baths during your festive break in Bath Cardiff. 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!

  3. 12 Magical Places to Visit at Christmas in the UK

    This, combined with the lights, makes Mousehole one of the most magical places to visit during Christmas in the UK. 8. Staithes. Following 2020's Mortimer and Whitehouse: Gone Fishing Christmas special, Staithes has become one of the UK's most popular Christmas villages.

  4. Best Places to Visit at Christmas in the UK

    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.

  5. 16 best family-friendly things to do at Christmas in the UK

    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 ...

  6. 10 Most Magical Places to Go at Christmas in the UK

    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 ...

  7. 10 Best Christmas Towns in the UK For A Festive Trip

    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 ...

  8. 5 Magical Places to Spend Christmas in England in 2023

    Quick List: 5 Magical Places to Spend Christmas in England in 2023. Best England Christmas Destination for…. Christmas Markets: Birmingham. Best England Christmas Destination for… a Rural Getaway: The Cotswolds. Best England Christmas Destination for…. Historic Charm: Bath.

  9. Britain's festive Christmas experiences

    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.

  10. Magical Places to Visit in the UK at Christmas

    Running for seven magical weeks from Friday 17th November to Saturday 6th January 2024, the historic city centre is transformed into the ultimate festive family destination. The traditional Christmas market in Princes Street Gardens, showcases some of the very best artisanal festive products and goods from local makers.

  11. The best Christmas events and attractions in the UK

    Wander along the route to see some of the garden's most beloved features - such as the fountain, lake, and glasshouse - dazzle with colour and light. December 1-22, 5-9.30pm. £20.35 adults ...

  12. 8 Charming Villages Perfect For A Cozy Christmas In The UK

    Cornwall. 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.

  13. 10 of the best Christmas attractions in the UK

    And this year there's a new way to watch the classic 1982 film - accompanied by a live 25-piece orchestra playing the original score. From 7-18 Dec it tours New Mills, Chesterfield, Buxton ...

  14. 10 Best Christmas Breaks in the UK for a Festive Getaway

    Quiet-Time In a Treehouse. The near-unspoiled beauty and fascinating history of Hampshire's New Forest has attracted visitors for centuries. It's a wonderful place to explore the beauty of nature, and thanks to some truly gorgeous accommodation options, it's also ideal for a quiet Christmas break in the UK. 2 Perfect Days: What to Do in ...

  15. Top 10 places to spend Christmas in the UK

    Whilst holidaymakers are correct to flock here during the warmer months, it's also an excellent destination to visit during the festive season. ... One of the best places to see Christmas lights in the UK, the Cornish village of Mousehole comes alive with kaleidoscopic light midway through December. The switch-on event is quite the occasion ...

  16. Top 10 UK Christmas Destinations

    The Peak District. The Peak District is one of the UK's prime holiday destinations throughout the year, with Christmas bringing in a crowd of very jolly holiday makers. With over five hundred square miles of Lord Of The Rings inspired land available for walks, hikes and rides in the Peak District National Park, there is still an opportunity to ...

  17. Best Places To Visit In The UK At Christmas

    Bath. From pantomimes at the Theatre Royal Bath (this year it's Sleeping Beauty) to seeing the beautiful Georgian buildings decked with lights, Bath sparkles with festive joy. Bath's Christmas Market is the place to head for one-of-a-kind local treats, but note it only runs from November 23 to December 10.

  18. 6 Magical Christmas Towns To Visit In England

    To get you in the festive spirit, here are 6 towns in England that are magical places to visit at Christmas. 1. Rye. A small town near the East Sussex coast, Rye is picturesque at any time of year, but even more so at Christmas. The most perfectly preserved medieval citadel in England, the town is packed with independent shops and eateries.

  19. Winter weekenders: 15 picturesque UK towns for a pre-Christmas break

    Faversham Christmas Sunday Market comes to the pretty Guildhall on Market Place on 22 Dec, for unusual ingredients to pep up a festive feast, and last-minute gifts, toys, jewellery and crafts.

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

    1. Edinburgh. The beautiful city of Edinburgh during the wintertime. 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.

  21. The best Christmas breaks in the UK

    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.

  22. 25 of the best things to do at Christmas in the Cotswolds [2023]

    It takes place from 24 November 2023-6 January 2024, with the chance to meet Santa and his elves, a Golden Snowflake light trail, ice rink, fairground rides and a Christmas market with festive food and drink stalls. Blenheim Palace at Christmas. 13. Royal Marines Christmas Spectacular.

  23. 21 best Christmas holiday destinations

    Tokyo, India and the Caribbean are among the best places to go at Christmas — but there are plenty of destinations closer to home too. Friday December 22 2023, 15:00pm. 'It's the most ...

  24. 12 of the best UK breaks to celebrate spring

    Thousands of visitors come to see this annual spectacle, so the best bet is to stay in the dale and walk up the 3.5-mile riverside footpath from the village of Lower Mill in the early morning.

  25. Politics latest: Speculation mounts over pre-election budget; Labour to

    In third is Reform UK on 10.5%, followed by the Lib Dems on 9.7%. The Green Party stands at 6%, and the SNP on 3.1%. See the latest update below - and you can read more about the methodology ...