12 days of Christmas: the most magical Christmas breaks in the UK

Best for: A luxury Christmas break

Bath is a good place to visit year-round thanks to its gorgeous architecture, amazing literary connections, incredible Roman history and blissful spa options. If you’re craving a luxury Christmas break in the UK Bath is a great option for these reasons and more.

Bath turns into a winter wonderland during the festive season complete with a charming maker’s market, glittering decorations and an ice rink. If you need to do some Christmas shopping there are heaps of independent shops selling all manner of gifts too.

Best for: Snow and outdoor activities

Britain’s largest lake and one of its best National Parks couldn’t be a better pick for a festive getaway. Loch Lomond sits just an hour from Glasgow and has some of the most picturesque scenery in Scotland – especially in winter when the peaks of the surrounding Trossachs are dusted with snow.

It’s a fantastic spot for a magical Christmas break in the UK filled with Scottish charm and natural beauty. Enjoy strolls through charming waterside villages like Luss and Balmaha, dine at atmospheric local pubs, or treat yourself to a spa day (or overnight stay) at Cameron House Spa.

Fancy joining in with a local tradition? Pack your swimsuit or wet suit and head to Luss or Duck Bay on Boxing Day to join the locals wild swimming in Loch Lomond’s chilly waters.

Best for: Traditional Christmas markets

Fancy a Christmas stay in the UK capital? By that, I mean its ancient capital: enchanting Winchester. This incredible historic city is photo-perfect during the festive season, making it a popular spot for day-trippers. However, a mini-break is ideal to fully soak up its wholesome atmosphere.

The prime reason Winchester is such a magical place to visit at Christmas in the UK is the fantastic festive market. It springs up right outside the city’s 10th-century cathedral and usually runs for a full month, from late November to a few days before Christmas.

You’ll also be able to get into the Christmas spirit at carol concerts or by booking local craft workshops like wreath-making. Stay at The Winchester Hotel & Spa for a central location and spa treats.

Best for: A cosy seaside escape

While many choose to visit Cornwall during the summer to make the most of its beaches, there’s a lot to be said for a winter escape. The entire region is much quieter in December, plus you’ll be able to spend your days strolling along sandy bays (just make sure you wrap up) or warming up with mugs of mulled wine in laid-back country pubs.

Best for: A kid-friendly getaway

North Yorkshire is another region perfect for a magical Christmas break in the UK. From traditional seaside towns and charming fishing villages to sweeping moorlands and rolling hills, it ticks all the boxes for a quintessential British break.

Find a family-friendly hotel, such as The Helaina, near the sea in Scarborough and enjoy walks along the Marine Drive and meals in local seafood restaurants like the Lookout on the Pier. There’s also picture-perfect Robin Hood’s Bay up the coast which hosts its annual Victorian Weekend in early December. Perfect for fans of A Christmas Carol.

Best for: A Christmas adventure in the great outdoors

Pitlochry is known as Scotland’s adventure capital – and for good reason. The town is perched on the edge of the Cairngorms National Park and less than an hour from several ski resorts such as Glenshee and Aviemore.

While snow isn’t guaranteed in December, you’ll still benefit from some truly eye-popping scenery. Think dramatic peaks, tinkling waterfalls and tumbling rapids along the River Tummel. Make sure you pack sturdy walking boots and a thick coat to enjoy the area’s brilliant walking trails (weather permitting, of course).

Best for: A peaceful island escape

If you’re craving an island escape this Christmas but don’t fancy leaving the UK, make a beeline for Anglesey in North Wales. This picturesque island (that’s accessed by road bridge from the mainland) is a sublime spot for a little peace and quiet come Christmastime.

On crisp blue sky days in winter, there’s no better thing to do than take a stroll along one of Anglesey’s golden-sand beaches. My favourite is Llandywyn Beach on the south-east coast. Trust me, it’s among the best beaches in Europe. Visit at low tide to walk across to Llandywyn Island where you’ll find spectacular views and several historic ruins.

Best for: A unique family escape

For a magical Christmas break in the UK with idyllic woodland walks and legends that’ll capture your kids imaginations, consider Sherwood Forest. This ancient oak woodland is a fascinating destination to visit and it’s teeming with tales of the iconic Robin Hood.

As well as delving into the history of the area’s famous thief at the forest’s visitor’s centre, there are numerous walking routes to explore. Sherwood Forest goes all out at Christmas too, with various themed events throughout December – including a festive treasure hunt trail through the trees.

Best for: Christmas hikes and hot tub relaxation

If you’re keen to be surrounded by spectacular rural scenery, a Christmas stay in the UK’s Lake District National Park is a must. This breathtaking region never fails to wow visitors with its natural beauty. And there are plenty of charming villages and towns to choose as your base.

Ambleside is a sublime pick as it sits a stone’s throw from Windermere, plus it’s the starting point of several stunning hiking trails. It’s also packed with independent boutiques, outdoor shops and craft stores for last-minute Christmas gifts.

Best for: A Christmas spa break

If you’re looking for magical Christmas breaks in the UK that are totally stress-free, say hello to this beautiful town. Buxton in Derbyshire has been a destination for rest and relaxation for centuries thanks to its healing spa waters and idyllic surroundings. The entire place is filled with gorgeous Victorian and Georgian buildings hosting hotels, restaurants and spas.

There are three spas to choose from during your festive escape. My favourite is the award-winning Devonshire Spa based inside an 18th century Devonshire Dome. If you fancy some fresh air Buxton is just a hop, skip and jump from some of the Peak District National Park’s best walks.

Best for: A fun winter city getaway

Let’s not forget about Northern Ireland’s festive gems. While you could choose bustling Belfast for your UK Christmas break, Londonderry (or Derry) is an equally as good option. Not just famous for being the setting of a certain comedy TV show, it’s also a city with great shopping, fascinating history and atmospheric festive celebrations.

Best for: Historic Christmas markets and decorations

Ludlow is a top contender on my magical Christmas breaks in the UK list. Nestled in the heart of bucolic Shropshire, it’s bursting with history, local charm and incredible period architecture.

Perhaps Ludlow’s biggest claim to fame is its ruined castle which was once the acting capital of Wales and where Prince Arthur died in 1502, making way for one of England’s most notorious monarchs: Henry VIII. It stays open throughout the winter and even hosts an enchanting Winter Festival in late November if you fancy an early Christmas getaway.