Five Winter Travel Destinations in the UK to Visit This Christmas Season

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For many, Christmas is a nostalgic and adored time of year in which families gather around the world to celebrate. This year, why not dive into the holiday spirit by visiting one of these wintry and festive destinations within the UK? 

Bath, Somerset

This beautiful spot is a very popular city break destination to visit all year round, however Christmas in Bath has a special feel about it. Between the breathtaking architecture and array of wholesome decorations, Bath has a particularly warm and cosy atmosphere. Additionally, the city is filled with historical quirks, a range of eateries, and a large shopping centre – making it an ideal place to do some Christmas shopping. 

photo of a christmas market stall

Edinburgh, Scotland  

Edinburgh is well known for being one of the best city break locations to visit during the winter season. This is partly due to its vibrant nightlife and quirky atmosphere, but one of its main draws is its world-famous annual Christmas Market. The market is huge and incredibly popular, packed with mouthwatering food stalls, bars, rides, and amenities including an ice skating rink. This is truly a bucket list experience, especially to visit Edinburgh during the Christmas season. 

overview of the Edinburgh christmas market lights and rides

Belfast, Ireland

Each Christmas, Belfast is decked out with twinkling lights and impressive Christmas trees, however this year’s festivities will be taken one step further by serving a variety of authentic Christmas dishes from around the world! This vibrant city is filled with Irish charm and is an excellent place to spend a long weekend this Christmas. 

Belfast Christmas Lights

Mousehole, Cornwall

Mousehole Village is a beloved corner of Cornwall and is an ideal location for those searching for a cosy and homely location to spend a couple of days before Christmas. Mousehole is famous for its annual Christmas light display, during  which glowing lights illuminate the village each year and have done since 1963. While this is possibly a slightly quieter short break destination, Mousehole is a wonderful choice for those in search of a location with a wholesome and scenic feel

photo of the famous christmas light display in Mousehole Cornwall

Cardiff, Wales

Cardiff is another destination within the UK that is renowned for its Christmas market. The Cardiff Christmas Market is packed with a variety of unusual market stalls, selling warming beverages, unique trinkets, vintage items, homeware, and delicious food. While the market is incredibly popular with people from all over Wales, Cardiff is also famous for its avid nightlife and bar scene which makes it an excellent choice for people travelling with friends or a significant other.

photo of some light-up dear decorations in Cardiff, wales