The magic of Christmas finally begins all across the United Kingdom, as snowfalls and rains transform every city and countryside into a wonderland. Even though winters bring shorter days, damp, and gloomy weather, the Christmas charm in the UK is unlike any other in Europe. There are fewer crowds, cosy indoor environments and festive celebrations that extend beyond Christmas till the start of a new year.
That is the major reason why many families prefer to travel across the country during the Christmas season. This article will break down all the best places to spend your Christmas in the United Kingdom with families.
London
Best For:
- Christmas lights and decorations.
- Gardens and markets on Christmas Eve.
- Meet with Santa for kids.
- Unique shopping experience.
Nothing can go wrong with a Christmas tour in London. The month of December invites tourists from all across the world to spend time in one of the best Christmas destinations in the United Kingdom. Not to mention, travelling around the city is even more accessible with families, thanks to the availability of transport services like hiring a minibus with a driver available at tailored prices.
Upon visiting the capital, you do not want to miss out the Christmas lights on Oxford and Regent Streets. Like yourself, beautiful backdrops to capture memorable pictures? You can visit the National History Museum and Ice Rink for a family-friendly adventure with the kids.
Canterbury
Best For:
- Largest Christmas events in Kent.
- Winter street food scene and culinary scene.
- Cobblestone walkable streets to enjoy the winter charm.
- A mix of brands and independent shops for Christmas gifts.
The county of Kent is forever beautiful, throughout the year, but when it comes to winter, you must visit the city of Canterbury within the county. The destination blends both historical architecture and festivities to give a cosy medieval setting that is highly rewarding and unique. Seriously, as soon as you visit, your family and kids will love the glowing streets and vibrant Christmas markets that include all kinds of gifts, street food and souvenirs to collect and remember forever.
Chester
Best For:
- Illuminated celebrations at the Chester Zoo.
- Independent shopping experience.
- Christmas decorations and lighting in the medieval streets.
- Family-friendly events and festivals.
Often ignored, Chester is an outstanding destination that shares the Christmas charm like no other crowded city in the United Kingdom. The city’s Roman Walls, Tudor-style buildings, and Chester Cathedral, there are a lot of attractions and sightseeing opportunities to experience during Christmas this year.
More importantly, you should visit the Chester Christmas Market, which also hosts Victorian festive events for a perfect holiday experience. All in all, Chester includes all the vibe and attractions that tourists look for in a capital for Christmas events, minus the crowd, so you can make the most out of the holidays.
Edinburgh
Best For:
- Fantasy and magical landscape during Christmas.
- Traditional German-style markets.
- Family rides and attractions make the Christmas season fun for everyone.
- Festive decorations all across the city.
- Hogmanay New Year event with concerts, fireworks and parties.
Moving into the dramatic landscape and the city of magic, Edinburgh in Scotland, which is known for its magical and fantasy architecture. The city has always been a spectacular destination for all kinds of celebrations and invites tourists globally for one of the best Christmas festivals. Ask anyone, and you will hear recommendations about visiting the Princess Street Gardens and Royal Mile, which spreads the winter charm with the Christmas lighting, ice rinks, and festive rides for families.
There are various street events and performances across the city, which are highly loved by kids and teenagers because of the unique cultural representation and lessons. Apart from that, the visuals of Edinburgh Castle from inside and outside provide a stunning insight into the adventurous heritage that Scotland has to offer. The city ends Christmas with Hogmanay celebrations, which run from December 29th to January 1st.
Betws-y-Coed
Best For:
- Festive lighting that brightens the Victorian village and local neighbourhoods.
- Cosy hotels with affordable and unique Christmas packages.
- Local Christmas events.
- Snowdonia National Park for family friendly walks and fun activities with kids.
What is better than spending quality festive holidays with your loved ones in a smart Welsh village? Located above the River Conwy and the River Llugwy, this sweet village has everything that you can expect from a Welsh village. The Snowdonia National Park, also known as the Eryri National Park, is also just 5.6 miles away from the village, which allows groups to enjoy a perfect outdoor adventure that is lit up with the magic of Christmas.
Castles are especially popular during the Christmas season because of their distinct celebration, festivals and lightings that are loveliest among all age groups. All you need is reliable transportation that will transfer your group comfortably to the uneven terrain of Betws-y-Coed. Travellers opt for a secure and licensed transport like a minibus with a driver to enjoy a local tourism experience in Betws-y-Coed during Christmas, when even public transport shuts down.
Belfast
Best For:
- Festive Shopping at Victoria Square.
- Live music and concerts for perfect family fun.
- Belfast Christmas markets and local stalls for food, crafts and gifts.
- Santa visits, Ice skating and Christmas theme children's shows for an ideal family tourism experience.
When we said the whole United Kingdom spreads the charm of Christmas, we meant Northern Ireland included. And that brings us to Belfast, which transforms into a completely unique winterland this time of the year. There are illuminated markets, local festivals and music concerts that are exciting fun for all types of families.
Numerous destinations like Queen’s Arcade, Antrim Castle Gardens, and Winter’s Den at 2 Royal Avenue will surely keep all age groups entertained, including the kids. Do not forget to miss out the food stalls that share a perfect experience for local produce and heritage that defines the country of Wales.
All of these destinations across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland are distinct but share the same goal. That is to live the moment with families, creating memories and adventures. Christmas is supposed to bring people together with all the best experiences tailored by the beautiful surroundings.
Thanks to the local charm and magical spirit shared by the United Kingdom, you can plan a very exciting Christmas celebration with your family. To address your concerns about easy transport, you can book your journey from our diverse minibus fleet that can accommodate all members of your group easily.
Tell us where you are going this Christmas, with your family members and luggage requirements, and we will sort you a quick personalised quote for your minibus trip.
