11 most festive cities, towns and villages to visit in the UK

Lauren Hughes

December 19, 2024 at 11:44 a.m.·6 min read

castle combe snow scene — 11 most festive cities, towns and villages Getty Images

It's easy to romanticise the festive season with its twinkling lights, quaint markets and the occasional snowfall. For many of us, the month of December has us dreaming of escaping to a quaint countryside village reminiscent of The Holiday — and luckily, in the UK, we are spoilt for choice when it comes to these charming festive cities, towns and villages.

“One of the biggest travel trends we’re seeing is a desire for unique experiences on holiday, which is why Christmas-focused breaks are proving particularly popular at this time of year," the Association of British Travel Agent's Director of Communications, Graeme Buck, tells us.

"Christmas markets in the UK are particularly popular where you can sample festive food and drink, find one-off trinkets to keep or gift to a friend, and enjoy beautifully decorated surroundings, making them a magical part of any winter break."

snowcovered urban street decorated with festive lights and colorful buildings — Getty Images

From the historic city of Edinburgh and the bright lights of London to the chocolate-box Cotswolds town of Castle Combe and the remote festive wonderland of Oban in Scotland, we asked experts for the most festive UK destinations and what makes them shine at Christmas time...

Bamburgh, Northumberland

Bamburg is a somewhat overlooked festive destination, but this beautiful coastal destination, famed for its historic castle, really comes alive at Christmas. Emma Crabtree, founder of leading independent holiday cottage Crabtree & Crabtree, cites it as one of her top picks for the festive season — and it's rising in popularity, among holidaymakers.

"The incredible Christmas Kingdom at Bamburgh Castle is a real highlight, offering a magical experience within a truly iconic setting," she told Country Living. "The Monteviot Light Trail and Lilidorei at Alnwick Garden, with their enchanting light displays, provide unforgettable family experiences."

Castle Combe, Wiltshire

Widely considered one of the most picturesque villages in the UK, Castle Combe has an old-world appeal with its chocolate box houses and quaint shops. The Christmas markets surrounding the village's church are particularly charming. Here, you can pick up artisan gifts and enjoy Christmas carols.

Wandering through its cobbled streets, visitors will feel like they've stepped back in time into a medieval village. There are also some enchanting countryside walks right on your doorstep, if you choose to stay in this quaint Cotswolds location.

Durham, County Durham

Another one of Emma's top picks for the festive season is Durham. "County Durham, on the whole, is becoming increasingly popular, with fantastic festive events at The Auckland Project and Raby Castle leading the way," the travel expert explained.

"These attractions, part of a wider £350 million investment in the county's visitor economy, are drawing growing numbers of holidaymakers (visitor numbers rose by 12.5% last year according to Visit County Durham stats). Highlights include Raby Castle’s £14m redevelopment, The Auckland Project’s £70m transformation, and exciting additions to Beamish Museum."

Stratford-Upon-Avon, Warwickshire

Stratford-upon-Avon is famed as Shakespeare's birthplace and for its incredible theatre, where visitors can watch contemporary and classic performances. The medieval market town in England’s West Midlands is a must-visit for culture lovers, who can explore the town's many galleries and museums, as well as the UK's largest butterfly farm. When it comes to Christmas activities, there are plenty of choices, and visitors will enjoy dipping into the atmospheric Tudor pubs dotted around the town.

Mousehole, Cornwall

Mousehole is a beautiful village brimming with Cornish charm, with fabulous restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood. One of the most notable festive dates for the diary in Mousehole is Tom Bawcock’s Eve on 23rd December, when locals typically bake a 'stargazy pie' with seven different types of fish.

During the evening, a parade winds through the village with residents holding homemade lanterns. Visitors are welcome, but parking outside the village and walking into the town is advisable to avoid congestion.

York, Yorkshire

aerial view of a historic cityscape featuring a prominent cathedral and surrounding buildings — Getty Images

York is a historic town with stunning architecture at every turn and another one of Crabtree's top picks. "York stands out as a truly incredible destination, offering something magical at Christmas," she explains.

"The city's cobbled streets, nestled within its historic walls, are a joy to explore, and its festive atmosphere is unmatched, with plenty of activities, excellent restaurants, and seasonal charm. This year’s Alice’s Christmas Wonderland at Castle Howard adds an extra layer of enchantment, making York an unmissable festive getaway."

Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh's gothic architecture is made for Christmas, where visitors can wander around the city and enjoy its many wine bars, cafes, restaurants and artisan shops. The city comes alive during the festive season with bustling Christmas markets, installations and light shows.

For those searching for a festive shopping trip, St James Quarter boasts a stunning shopping Galleria house of more than 80 brands, including some luxury boutiques. Visitors can expect dance shows, carol singing, and interactive window displays throughout the festive season.

Oban, Scotland

town waterfront at dusk with colorful reflections and illuminated shops — Getty Images

With its twinkling harbour, Oban is a magical destination during the festive season. The town also offers a full calendar of winter activities, including the Oban Winter Festival and Shakespeare-themed candlelit walks.

Coastal Scottish towns, in general, are popular with guests who want to twin a city break with a trip to the seaside in December.

"Many of our regular December guests in Scotland relish the opportunity to experience the magic of Edinburgh, including the iconic Edinburgh Christmas Market, before retreating to the tranquillity of the surrounding countryside," Emma explains.

"It’s the perfect way to balance the vibrant festive celebrations of the capital with the peaceful allure of the quaint market towns in the Scottish Borders."

Winchester, Hampshire

Winchester is one of the smaller cathedral cities in the UK, and it is a beautiful winter destination. Inspired by traditional German markets, its quaint Christmas markets surround the impressive monument during the festive season, providing a bustling focal point.

Winchester's tourist popularity has also increased in luxurious restaurants and boutique hotels, making it a chic city break to sample some of the UK's finest cusine.

Arundel, West Sussex

Arundel offers old-fashioned country allure in the heart of the South Downs, for those searching for a traditional and quaint festive town. The high street is decorated with around 300 illuminated fir trees, making for an incredibly festive shopping experience.

London, Greater London

illuminated indoor market with holiday decorations — Getty Images

While it might not seem an obvious addition to the list, central London is one of the most festive places you can visit during the festive season. Oxford Street, Regent's Street, Carnaby Street and the surrounding areas boast incredible light displays with different themes, and they're a joy to experience — as long as you don't mind braving the crowds.

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