If you’re the type that usually spends their Christmas at home, or are looking to travel to the UK during your holidays, then there’s a chance you’re not aware of the best Christmas destinations. There are plenty of places around the UK that can make your holiday experience much more exciting, especially for those who are used to having to do everything themselves. Heading somewhere exciting means less stress and pressure on you to make the season more exciting. Use this year’s Christmas to get out of the house and see what the UK has to offer you!
London
If you’re interested in heading towards England’s capital, London has plenty to offer for those hoping for a jolly festive Christmas. It wouldn’t be Christmas without shopping, and London’s Christmas markets are open from late November all the way until the start of January. If you’re staying in the area, Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland isn’t something to be missed, will make it a Christmas season to remember. From food stalls to ice rinks to ski-inspired villages; you can make this year’s Christmas different from your traditional stay-at-home holiday. There’s room for everyone at London’s Christmas markets, as they’ll be dotted all over the city, so don’t be hesitant to head in and pay them a visit!
Edinburgh
If the idea of Christmas markets excites you, but London is a little too far south, Edinburgh’s Christmas market will be just as exciting, and something you should consider booking in as soon as possible as Edinburgh hotels fill up fast during the festive season. The markets are huge, but considerably smaller than London’s, so I’d avoid weekends as they are too crowded. You wouldn’t want to miss out on Edinburgh’s breathtaking decorations and activities that are going on throughout November and December. There’s plenty of time for you to come and pay a visit. Once you experience it once, you’ll want to go again every year as it’s a real traditional Christmas experience.
Harrogate
This town in North Yorkshire will give you a real homely, traditional Christmas experience. They have a Christmas market over a weekend in November (with over 200 stalls) and fun things like carol singers. They also host a lot of expos like the Country Living Christmas Fair at their convention centre. The famous Betty’s Tearoom is the place to go for sweet Christmas treats and bakes. This is Christmas on a smaller scale than the other large citys and is definitely a lot less crowded. This is the place to get cosy and watch a Christmas movie.
Bournemouth
Yes, it might seem like a wild card, but you’ll be surprised. Bournemouth is a beautiful destination in the UK throughout the whole year, but it shines even more so during Christmas. On top of the decorations that you can expect to see on your trip through Bournemouth, the Christmas market is something you should absolutely consider visiting! Take time to wander around, get yourself some festive food, and buy some decorations! The traders at Bournemouth’s Christmas market this year are vast, plus there’s an ice rink and Christmas tree wonderland. Head there November 19th to January 2nd. There’s even some beautiful places to stay in Bournemouth for a winter beach break.
No matter what city you’re visiting this year during the festive season, you need to get on top of your accommodation now. Hotels fill up fast and you’ll want somewhere stylish, with great food and that’s all decorated for Christmas. The Inn Collection Group are great for cosy North of England stays, and I love the grander Claridges when in London, which is a completely different feel. It depends on the type of break you want – is it more family orientated, or is it a chic and boujie girls trip? A good hotel is the cherry on top for any Christmas adventure!
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