Best places to spend Christmas in the UK
From sparkling cities to festive-filled holiday parks
Posted on 05-12-24, updated on 16-06-25By: Sarah R. | 7 minute read
View across the city of Bath at Christmas
Let the festivities begin!
Are you dreaming of exploring magical Christmas destinations in the UK? Look no further! From charming towns to vibrant cities, the UK offers a plethora of enchanting destinations to celebrate the holiday season. Whether you prefer the hustle and bustle of a Christmas market or the peaceful tranquility of a cosy cabin in the countryside, there is something for everyone. Many of our holiday parks go all out at Christmas, with spectacular shows, light trails and winter wonderlands, adding even more festive cheer to your winter break. We've included some of our favourites on this list so you can stay in the heart of all the action!
Check out our full collection of Christmas getaways and New Year breaks.
Christmas markets & big wheel in Edinburgh city centre
Best place for a festive city spectacular: Edinburgh
The Scottish capital comes alive during Christmas with its traditional markets, stunning light displays and enchanting Christmas events. The famous Edinburgh Christmas Market is a must-visit, where locals and tourists gather to enjoy handcrafted gifts, seasonal treats and warming drinks amid twinkling lights. We’ve featured it on our list of the best Christmas markets in the UK! Princes Street also dazzles with lights, decorations and cheerful carolers, offering a perfect spot for holiday shopping. Whether sipping hot chocolate or admiring the dazzling Christmas tree, Edinburgh at Christmas provides a memorable experience filled with the Christmas spirit.
Book one of our Edinburgh lodges and holiday parks.
Historic streets of York lit up at night at Christmas
Best place for sparkling storybook charm: York
York, with its historic charm and traditional Christmas markets, is a delightful destination to embrace the holiday spirit. A stroll along the medieval city walls offers beautiful views of twinkling Christmas lights that illuminate the streets below, resembling a scene from a storybook. The city comes alive with the annual St Nicholas Fair, where visitors can explore quaint stalls filled with artisanal crafts, festive treats and unique gifts, creating a nostalgic atmosphere. It’s another firm favourite on our list of the best Christmas markets in the UK.
Book one of our holiday parks and lodges in York.
Kielder Winter Wonderland performers in the woods at Kielder Waterside
Best place for a woodland winter wonderland: Kielder Waterside
Enjoy a festive spectacle right on your doorstep when you book a stay at Kielder Waterside, an award-winning holiday park in Northumberland. Nestled in the scenic Kielder Water and Forest Park, the park transforms into Kielder Winter Wonderland at Christmas, with a huge range of festive events to entertain both young and old. Enjoy snowy forest walks, meet real-life reindeer, visit Santa’s workshop, enjoy some classic Christmas theatre or have a go at snow tubing! After all the festive fun, head home to your cosy cabin or luxury lodge and relax in front of a roaring fire or in your bubbling hot tub.
Book your stay at Kielder Waterside now.
Tip: You’ll need to buy tickets for specific festive events and activities as they are not included in your stay. Pre-booking is recommended.
View of the snowy lake at Love2Stay Mid Wales
Best place for a magical winter lodge break: Love2Stay Mid Wales
Dreaming of a Welsh winter wonderland? Well, now you can make it a reality at Love2Stay Mid Wales. Part of our exclusive Magnificent Collection, this scenic park is home to a variety of romantic cabins, quirky shepherd’s huts and luxurious hot tub lodges, catering to couples and families alike. For Christmas 2024, the park will host plenty of festive fun throughout December, including themed arts and crafts for little ones and a very special Santa’s grotto!
Book your festive break at Love2Stay Mid Wales now.
Tip: You’ll need to pre-book festive activities and events with the park as these are not included in your stay.
A snowy King's Chapel in Cambridge, next to the River Cam
Best place for carols and candlelight: Cambridge
With its quaint cobblestone streets and stunning architecture, Cambridge provides a perfect backdrop for Christmas celebrations. The vibrant Christmas fair at Parker's Piece fills the air with mulled wine aromas and twinkling lights as visitors browse for handcrafted gifts and enjoy seasonal treats. For a touch of tranquility, punting on the River Cam offers a unique view of the festive decorations reflecting in the water.
Book one of our Cambridge lodges.
Hot tub lodge at Sandy Balls Holiday Village
Best place for a frosty forest retreat: Sandy Balls Holiday Village
Another enchanting choice for a Christmas getaway is Sandy Balls Holiday Village in Hampshire, where you can enjoy all the festive feels at the Forest of Light. Wander through the ancient woodland of the New Forest, through illuminated pathways lit up with thousands of twinkling lights and past whimsical displays accompanied by magical music. Whether you're strolling hand in hand with a loved one, or exploring with your family, it's a festive event that will leave you feeling warm, happy and full of holiday cheer.
Book your Christmas escape to Sandy Balls Holiday Village now.
Tip: You'll need to buy tickets for the Forest of Light separately as they're not included in your stay. We recommend booking in advance.
Christmas markets in front of Bath Abbey
Best place for a Victorian Christmas: Bath
Bath is a truly magical place to spend Christmas in the UK. The historic city is beautifully decorated with sparkling lights and festive decorations, creating an enchanting atmosphere that is hard to beat. The famous Christmas market transforms the city into a winter wonderland, with over 200 chalets selling a wide range of unique gifts, crafts and delicious food and drink. You can read all about it on our blog post on the best Christmas markets in the UK. In addition to the market, there are plenty of other attractions to enjoy in Bath during the Christmas season, including carol concerts, pantomimes and special events at the city's many historic sites. Whether you're looking for a relaxing weekend getaway or a fun-filled family holiday, Bath is the perfect place to soak up the festive spirit and create lasting memories.
Book one of our Bath lodges and holiday parks.
A snow-covered lodge at Wayfind Pennant Park
Best place for parties and festive fun: Wayfind Pennant Park
If you’re looking for a festive getaway in Wales, look no further than Wayfind Pennant Park in Holywell. Located near the North Wales coast, this picturesque park is the perfect place to spend Christmas, with a range of exciting events and activities for the whole family to enjoy. In 2024, Wayfind Pennant Park is pulling out all the stops with their festive events. From Christmas party nights and traditional Christmas Day lunch to festive family movie nights and the dazzling New Year’s Eve Gala, there’s something for everyone to get into the holiday spirit.
Book your festive getaway to Wayfind Pennant Park now.
Tip: Tickets for festive events and activities are not included in your stay, so you’ll need to buy these separately.
Searching for Santa at Cayton Bay
Best place for a coastal Christmas adventure: Cayton Bay
For Christmas 2024, Cayton Bay in Scarborough will be hosting a range of exciting festive events for guests to enjoy. From Christmas markets and carol concerts to fun-filled family activities and entertainment, there will be something for everyone to get into the festive spirit at this family-friendly holiday park. A highlight will be the traditional Christmas lunch, featuring classic dishes like turkey and all the trimmings. Expect to see beautifully decorated Christmas trees, twinkling lights and festive decorations throughout the park, creating a magical atmosphere. There will also be a special visit from Santa Claus himself, who will be meeting children and spreading joy and cheer throughout the park. Stay in one of the park’s classic caravans or contemporary hot tub lodges and make the most of having all the festive fun right on your doorstep.
Book your stay at Cayton Bay now.
Tip: You’ll need to buy tickets for the park’s Christmas activities and events in advance to avoid disappointment. They are not included in your stay.
Winchester Cathedral at Christmas
Best place for a traditional Christmas: Winchester
Winchester, with its charming streets lined with historic buildings and enchanting decorations, is truly a magical place to spend the holiday season. One of the main attractions in Winchester during Christmas time is the famous Christmas market, which offers a plethora of unique gifts, delicious food and drinks, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The market takes place in the city's picturesque Cathedral Close, adding to the enchanting ambiance of the season. Find out more on our blog on the best Christmas markets in the UK. As well as the markets, you can enjoy ice skating, festive performances and traditional Christmas carol services at the stunning Winchester Cathedral. The city's numerous shops, restaurants and pubs also add to the festive spirit, making it a wonderful place to shop, dine and celebrate during the holiday season.
Book one of our holiday parks, lodges or cottages in Winchester, including Marwell Resort or Lay Your Hat in Winchester.
Plan your festive getaway in the UK
Whether you're seeking a picturesque winter wonderland or a vibrant city break, the UK has no shortage of incredible destinations to choose from for a magical Christmas getaway. From historic streets to snowy peaks, there is something to suit every taste and budget. So pack your bags, grab a loved one (or two), and escape to one of these idyllic locations for a Christmas to remember.
Check out our Christmas breaks and New Year getaways now.
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