As the winter season approaches, many of us start planning our holiday getaways to escape the cold and gloom. The United Kingdom, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes, is an ideal destination to visit in December. With its festive atmosphere, twinkling lights, and warm hospitality, the UK is a perfect place to get into the holiday spirit. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to visit in the UK in December, helping you plan an unforgettable winter wonderland experience.
Overview of the Best Places to Visit in the UK in December
From snow-covered mountains to festive markets, and from historic castles to scenic coastal towns, the UK has a plethora of exciting destinations to explore in December. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a fun-filled family vacation, or an adventure with friends, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to the most popular and off-the-beaten-path destinations in the UK, highlighting the top attractions, events, and activities to enjoy in each location.
What to Expect
In the following sections, we’ll delve into the top 10 best places to visit in the UK in December, including iconic cities like London and Edinburgh, picturesque towns like Bath and York, and stunning natural wonders like the Lake District and the Scottish Highlands. We’ll also provide you with insider tips on the best things to do, see, and experience in each destination, from ice skating and festive markets to winter hiking and cozy pub lunches.
Best Places to Visit in the UK in December
December is a great time to visit the UK, with its festive atmosphere, winter markets, and stunning landscapes. If you’re planning a trip to the UK in December, here are some of the best places to visit:
Winter Wonderland in London
London is a must-visit destination in December, with its iconic Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. This annual event features ice skating, live music, and festive food and drink. You can also visit the famous Oxford Street Christmas lights, take a stroll along the South Bank of the Thames, and explore the city’s many museums and galleries.
Festive Markets in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a beautiful city to visit in December, with its stunning Christmas markets and festive atmosphere. The city’s Royal Mile is transformed into a winter wonderland, with stalls selling festive goods, food, and drink. You can also visit Edinburgh Castle, the National Museum of Scotland, and the Royal Yacht Britannia.
Christmas Magic in Bath
Bath is a charming city to visit in December, with its picturesque streets, festive markets, and stunning architecture. The city’s Christmas market features over 200 stalls selling festive goods, food, and drink. You can also visit the Roman Baths, the Royal Crescent, and the Jane Austen Centre.
New Year’s Eve in Edinburgh
If you’re planning to visit the UK in December, why not stay for New Year’s Eve? Edinburgh’s Hogmanay celebrations are world-famous, with live music, fireworks, and street parties. You can also visit Glasgow, which hosts a massive street party in George Square. (See Also: Best Place To Visit In Europe With Teens)
Winter Walks in the Lake District
If you love the great outdoors, the Lake District is a great place to visit in December. The region’s stunning landscapes take on a serene beauty in the winter months, with snow-capped mountains, frozen lakes, and picturesque villages. You can take a winter walk, go hiking, or try your hand at ice climbing.
Festive Fun in Brighton
Brighton is a fun and festive destination in December, with its vibrant atmosphere, winter markets, and stunning seafront. You can visit the Brighton Pavilion, take a stroll along the seafront, and explore the city’s many shops, bars, and restaurants.
Ice Skating in Manchester
Manchester is a great place to visit in December, with its outdoor ice skating rink in Spinningfields. You can also visit the city’s many museums and galleries, take a stroll along the canal, and explore the city’s vibrant nightlife.
Christmas in Cardiff
Cardiff is a great place to visit in December, with its festive atmosphere, winter markets, and stunning architecture. You can visit the Cardiff Castle, take a stroll along the river, and explore the city’s many shops, bars, and restaurants.
Best Places to Visit in the UK in December: Top 10
Here are the top 10 best places to visit in the UK in December:
| Rank | Destination | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | London | Winter Wonderland, festive markets, and iconic landmarks |
| 2 | Edinburgh | Festive markets, stunning architecture, and Christmas magic |
| 3 | Bath | Picturesque streets, festive markets, and stunning architecture |
| 4 | Lake District | Stunning winter landscapes, winter walks, and outdoor activities |
| 5 | Brighton | Festive atmosphere, winter markets, and stunning seafront |
| 6 | Manchester | Outdoor ice skating, museums, and vibrant nightlife |
| 7 | Cardiff | Festive atmosphere, winter markets, and stunning architecture |
| 8 | Newcastle | Festive markets, stunning quayside, and vibrant nightlife |
| 9 | Bristol | Festive atmosphere, winter markets, and stunning harbourside |
| 10 | Oxford | Festive atmosphere, winter markets, and stunning university buildings |
Whether you’re looking for festive fun, winter walks, or cultural attractions, the UK has something for everyone in December. So why not start planning your trip today? (See Also: Best Place To Visit In Cp)
Conclusion
December is a wonderful time to visit the UK, with its festive atmosphere, twinkling lights, and cozy winter wonderlands. In this article, we’ve explored the best places to visit in the UK during December, from charming towns to vibrant cities and picturesque countryside destinations.
We’ve discovered the magic of Edinburgh’s Christmas markets, the enchanting winter wonderland of Hyde Park in London, and the festive charm of Bath’s Georgian streets. We’ve also explored the natural beauty of the Lake District, the scenic coastal towns of Cornwall, and the historic city of York, with its medieval architecture and festive traditions.
Whether you’re looking for a festive getaway, a romantic winter break, or a fun-filled family adventure, the UK has something to offer in December. From ice skating and mulled wine to Santa’s grottos and Christmas markets, there’s no shortage of festive fun to be had.
So, wrap up warm, grab a cup of hot chocolate, and get ready to experience the best of the UK in December. With its unique blend of history, culture, and festive cheer, the UK is the perfect destination for a winter wonderland adventure.
We hope this article has inspired you to plan your own UK winter adventure and discover the best places to visit in December. Happy travels!
Frequently Asked Questions: Best Place to Visit in UK in December
What are the best winter festivals to attend in the UK in December?
In December, the UK hosts several exciting winter festivals that are perfect for getting into the holiday spirit. Some of the top festivals include Winter Wonderland in London’s Hyde Park, Edinburgh’s Christmas Market, and the Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market. These festivals offer a range of activities, including ice skating, live music, and delicious food and drink.
Which UK cities have the best Christmas markets?
The UK is famous for its festive Christmas markets, and several cities offer an unforgettable experience. Some of the top Christmas markets can be found in Bath, Manchester, Leeds, and Nottingham. These markets typically feature handmade crafts, unique gifts, and traditional food and drink. Be sure to check the dates and locations for each market to plan your visit. (See Also: Where Is The Best Place To Visit In Puglia)
Is it cold in the UK in December, and what should I pack?
December is one of the coldest months in the UK, with average temperatures ranging from 3-6°C (37-43°F). It’s essential to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, hats, and scarves. You may also want to consider waterproof gear, as December can be a wet month. Don’t forget to check the weather forecast before your trip to ensure you’re prepared for any conditions.
What are some indoor attractions to visit in the UK in December?
If you’re looking for a break from the cold, the UK has plenty of amazing indoor attractions to explore. Some top options include the British Museum in London, the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh, and the Manchester Museum. These attractions offer a range of exhibits and activities that are perfect for a cold winter’s day.
Are there any special events or activities in the UK on New Year’s Eve?
New Year’s Eve is a fantastic time to visit the UK, with many cities hosting special events and fireworks displays. London’s fireworks display along the South Bank of the Thames is one of the most famous, but other cities like Edinburgh, Manchester, and Birmingham also offer exciting celebrations. Be sure to book your tickets or accommodation well in advance, as these events can be very popular.