As the winter season approaches, the entire United Kingdom is covered with snow which makes it a perfect place to visit during the Christmas getaway.
It’s said to be the most wonderful time of the year, so we’ve handpicked the 10 best places to visit during the Christmas holidays. Every place promises the best celebrations with lovely vibes, typical for the holiday season, and warm and luxurious accommodations.
Whether you’re looking for Xmas lights and mulled wine, can’t wait to explore Christmas markets or simply want to marvel at the holiday light displays, there’s something for everyone—whatever your taste and budget.
So, let’s dive in and explore the top 10 destinations for the Christmas holidays in 2024 in the UK!
The 10 Best Places To Travel During Christmas
1. London, England
The capital is a charming place to visit all year round, but it comes alive at Christmas. London has some of the best Christmas markets, including places to shop in the weeks to December 25. With the unrivalled festivities, the nation’s capital buzzes with events dedicated to spreading Christmas holiday vibes and festive cheer.
From the giant Christmas tree and famous festive circus show in Hyde Park to the Christmas markets at the Southbank Centre, to Covent Garden and the Winter Wonderland, London is truly the best place to visit during Christmas.
Stay at: London’s Magical Grand Hotel – The Corinthia Hotels offer luxury and elegance in the most vibrant city of historic London centre.
2. Edinburgh, Scotland
Many cities in the UK blend Xmas and New Year celebrations, but Edinburgh combines both. Edinburgh is undoubtedly one of the best places to go between Christmas and New Year. It offers a spectacular light show at Edinburgh Castle and along Princes Street Gardens.
The city is festooned with twinkling lights, which set off the historic streets and transform the world-famous Christmas markets like nowhere else in Scotland’s capital. From ice skating on George Street to enjoying the Hogmanay Christmas party, Edinburgh shines that December winter magic under the sun or snow-covered holidays.
Stay at: Waldorf Astoria Caledonian Edinburgh – Experience timeless luxury and impeccable amenities & services at this iconic hotel via Hotels.com.
3. Bath, Somerset
The city’s historic Georgian architecture gives you a picturesque backdrop; for a Christmas getaway 2024. The festivities begin on November 28 this year, but aside from the traditional markets that will light up the city, Bath’s charming city centre is primed for Christmas shopping, and there are plenty of cosy pubs to grab a drink and hearty meal, too.
Here you’ll find unique gifts, artisan crafts, seasonal treats, and local delicacies, as well as cheerful events for Xmas holidays. Bath ranks among the best places in Europe for Christmas 2024 holidays because of its festive charm, historic beauty and even its famous hot springs.
Stay at: The Bath Priory Hotel and Spa – Book with Expedia to relax in an elegant setting featuring luxurious spa facilities on site.
4. Nottingham, East Midlands
Nottingham is another of the best places to visit in UK during Christmas. For those wanting to go out on a limb, there is the Winter Wonderland, shopping stalls around the Old Market Square; and even a skating rink which glows with colourful lights. There are very few cities in the UK which look so much like the set of a Christmas movie as Nottingham.
The city offers a touch of history, also often hosting special events like festive concerts and theatre shows. The nearby Sherwood Forest, home to Robin Hood, is also beautifully decorated, with a forest path offering a magical light show and, many shops and attractions offer special Christmas day holiday deals.
Stay at: Mill View Duplex – Sykes Cottages presents this inviting property, providing easy access to Nottingham’s holiday events and attractions.
5. Manchester, North West England
Manchester truly provides something for everyone during the festive season through the events held throughout November and into the New Year. The city’s varied festive offering gives it the title of one of the best places to visit during Xmas getaways, from the giant Santa Claus and the Winter Funland at Trafford City, to the UK’s biggest ice attraction in the Cathedral Gardens.
In the city centre, the magic and charm of the popular Manchester Christmas Market return to Albert Square and the Ice Village is also back in Piccadilly Gardens. So guests can experience a whole range of things to do and see across Manchester when they visit during the Christmas holiday season.
Stay at: Marton Mere Holiday Village – Haven Holidays ensures a fun-filled and cheerful stay for the whole family while exploring Manchester’s holiday offerings.
6. York, North Yorkshire
The next best place to travel during the Christmas holidays on the list is York; where Tinkerbell has sprinkled her fairy dust at Castle Howard thus bringing an enchanting festive atmosphere to the city. The Peter Pan-themed Main House comes alive with dazzling projections, displays lights, and offers magical surprises along with festive performances for visitors. Afterwards, you can sample mulled wine in the bustling Christmas market of York.
Yorkshire’s Christmas Festival kicks off every year, offering themed spectacular light shows and ice skating. And then you can go to Castle Howard and take a quick tour of its beautifully adorned decorations; then amble around St. Nicholas Fair for last-minute Christmas gifts or souvenirs and enjoy festive treats.
Stay at: Middletons Hotel in York – Book with Expedia and stay in a cosy, charming retreat perfect for the Christmas holidays in the Sun.
7. Cardiff, Wales
Christmas in Cardiff has a magical charm, doesn’t it? Every Christmas season the Welsh capital hosts a winter wonderland at the historic Cardiff Castle which has a covered ice rink, a lively funfair and Santa’s grotto. While adults can enjoy their time in a cosy alpine ski lodge bar or chilly ice bar with beverages in hand.
Just a short walk away, Bute Park hosts one of the most popular Christmas light trails outside London. The city is also best known for its Christmas market in Wales; with local crafts, delicious food, and unique gifts. Cardiff is one of the best places to spend Christmas together with family and friends.
Stay at: Radisson Blu Hotel Cardiff – Book with Hotels.com to enjoy comfort and convenience close to Cardiff’s festive events and Christmas markets.
8. Winchester, Hampshire
Winchester, also known as ‘England’s Christmas capital’ will put you in the festive spirit right away. They turn on the Christmas lights on the 18th of November and the traditional lantern parade takes place on the 25th of November. The Christmas market at Winchester Cathedral is one of the best in Europe, set in the cathedral’s grounds, the charming market offers a range of handmade gifts, food, and drinks and will last until 22nd December.
Apart from the market, walking through the beautifully illuminated city streets of Winchester small shops and local restaurants offer special Christmas treats and festivities. Out of the top 10 Christmas holiday destinations in UK, Winchester can be seen as one of the best places during the winter season and is famous for its market.
Stay at: The Roost Cottage in Winchester – This picturesque property from Sykes Cottages is perfect for enjoying Winchester’s festive spirit and local charm.
9. Birmingham, Central England
Birmingham, England’s second most populous city of culture, bringing holiday cheer. For a bit of seasonal spirit, festive activities often occur outside the city’s town hall on weekends, and be sure to keep an eye out for performers while you’re there enjoying the sights.
Birmingham boasts the largest German Christmas market outside of Austria and Germany, and it is one of the best UK places to visit during the Christmas holidays. The Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market is world-famous for its ice-cold stein-litre beers, footlong bratwursts, and a pop-up indoor ice rink beside the city’s striking library.
Stay at: The Grand Hotel Birmingham – Book one of the most luxurious hotels in Birmingham via Expedia for a festive stay.
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10. Whitby, North Yorkshire
Whitby located in North Yorkshire, should be at the top of your list of places to visit at Christmas! Like at any time of the year, Whitby is one of the most beautiful coastal towns in England has a rich and historic culture that visitors would love to explore, also offers cheap Christmas holidays in UK.
Head to the market for some unique gifts, and enjoy the Christmas tree competition at St Mary’s Churchyard. Beyond the market, wander through the winding narrow streets, the cosy Whitby pubs and charming Xmas shops make Whitby one of the most magical places to visit at Christmas in the UK.
Stay at: Harbour Sunset – This Sykes Cottages offers a charming coastal retreat, ideal for a peaceful and festive stay in Whitby.
Wrapping Up Your Perfect Christmas Holidays in the UK
In conclusion, the United Kingdom boasts numerous amazing destinations that are ideal for embracing the Xmas holidays. Be sure to check out available Christmas holiday deals & discounts to make your festive season even more special. So, get your luggage, put on your Christmas socks and make this festive season more memorable by seeing the top Christmas destinations across the United Kingdom.
