From grand steeples in Edinburgh to the Victorian villages of Chester — here are the best places in the United Kingdom to experience a white Christmas with your loved ones this December.
In case you didn’t know, the United Kingdom comprises England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. We’ve done a VTL UK guide to London — but for the rest of you who would prefer to step away from the capital and explore the best of what Great Britain and Northern Ireland have to offer, this one’s for you. We’ll be leaving details of the best Christmas markets happening in these cities and providing some festive activities not to be missed for a truly jolly holiday to close up the year. Keep scrolling for the best UK Christmas spots in 2021!
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1. Belfast, Northern Ireland
Why it’s one of the best UK Christmas spots: Watch the entire city come alive with Christmas lights — from Victoria square’s festive performances to Belfast city centre’s iconic Christmas tree, and of course, the Botanic Gardens that come alive with larger-than-live illuminations. The Hillsborough Gardens get especially gorgeous this time of year, with over a million twinkling lights drenching the trees in jewel-like colours. If your little ones are dying to see Santa, why not head on over to Colin Glen Forest Park for a themed family walk with Gruffalo characters and good ol’ Saint Nick!
Temperature: 3°C
Christmas Market: Belfast City Hall, from now till 23 December, 10 am – 10 pm
Find out more here.
2. Chester, England
Why it’s one of the best UK Christmas spots: With its handsome Tudor-and-Victorian black-and-white buildings glowing with fairy lights, Chester becomes even prettier during Christmas time. It’s also a great place to bring the kids because of its beloved Lanterns event where the Chester Zoo is transformed into a sparkling wonderland. Of course, the Christmas Light Trails are not be missed where iconic buildings and forests are dressed up in kaleidoscopic colours to ring in the festivities.
Temperature: 6°C
Christmas Market: Town Hall Square, from now till 22 December, 10.30 am – 6.30 pm (Sunday till Wednesday, and till 8 pm from Thursday to Saturday
Find out more here.
3. Cardiff, Wales
Why it’s one of the best UK Christmas spots: Cardiff is one of the best places to set up camp if you’re planning to explore the surrounding coast, ancient woods and castle ruins. However, make sure to spend some in the city during Christmas time. There’s the famous Winter Wonderland that stretches across the heart of the city centre — with ice-walks and skating at Cardiff Castle, funfairs at the City Hall Lawn, the return of the popular ski lodge bar Sur la Piste, as well as a not-to-be-missed Ice Bar.
Temperature: 5°C
Christmas Market: Cardiff City Centre, The Hayes, from now till 23 December, 10 am – 6.30 pm
Find out more here.
4. Edinburgh, Scotland
Why it’s one of the best UK Christmas spots: First of all, the city is gorgeous. It’s got a hauntingly beautiful cityscape that is reminiscent of those in Mary Poppins — monuments perched on top of hills that stand out in front of the sea-and-sky backdrop. It’s a hotspot for creatives and art, yet devoid of anything remotely pretentious. That’s probably why Santa is said to have taken up residence here this year, turning West Princes Street Gardens into his very own grotto. Expect a Christmas Tree Maze and a magnificent alpine ice rink amongst the many activities planned for the festive season.
Temperature: 3°C
Santa Land: West Princes Street Gardens, from now till 4 January, 10 am – 8 pm
Find out more here.
5. Norwich, Norfolk, England
Why it’s one of the best UK Christmas spots: Ahh, the City of Stories. While it is one of the gentler entries in the list, do not mistake that quiet confidence with dullness or boredom. Have a wander around Norwich Market (one of the oldest outdoor markets in the country), immerse yourself in the rich history of Norwich Cathedral and Castle, see a live theatre show — but do not miss out on a walk down Norwich Lanes which sees over 300 indie boutiques, cafes, music venues and a cinema. There are also not one but twelve Christmas markets here!
Temperature: 6°C
Find out more here.
Get Merry At These Best UK Christmas Spots This Year
As the pandemic rages on, and health professionals all over the world work hard to combat it, let’s do our part to ensure that we have taken the necessary precautions when going out or travelling. Till then, make sure you’ve got your YouTrip card ready to take advantage of our Wholesale Exchange Rates for all purchases when embarking on the UK VTLs. Meanwhile, you can still enjoy great savings with us on all your international online shopping!
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