The festive season is one of the most magical times of the year, and there’s no better way to make the most of it than by escaping for a family Christmas getaway. The UK is home to many charming destinations that offer everything from cosy cottages to winter wonderlands, making it an ideal place for families to create lasting memories. Whether you’re looking for a snowy countryside retreat, a festive city break, or a seaside escape, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a roundup of some of the best Christmas getaways in the UK for families.
1. Lapland UK, Berkshire
For families who dream of experiencing a magical Christmas straight out of a storybook, Lapland UK in Berkshire is an enchanting choice. Set in the heart of the British countryside, Lapland UK offers an immersive experience that brings the magic of Christmas to life. Your family can visit Santa’s woodland home, take part in elf-led activities, and enjoy a magical sleigh ride.
One of the highlights of the experience is the Santa’s workshop, where children can craft their very own toys. The entire park is beautifully decorated with festive lights, and families can enjoy delicious seasonal treats at the Christmas café. It’s a perfect choice for younger children who want to experience the joy and wonder of Christmas in a safe, magical setting.
Ideal for: Families with young children who want an immersive Christmas experience.
2. Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh is a wonderful destination for a Christmas getaway with its charming blend of history, culture, and festive cheer. The city’s famous Christmas market, located in the heart of the city at East Princes Street Gardens, is a must-see. The market features an ice skating rink, a Ferris wheel, and numerous stalls selling everything from festive treats to handcrafted gifts.
For families who love history, a visit to Edinburgh Castle or the National Museum of Scotland offers an opportunity to learn about Scotland’s rich past while exploring one of the UK’s most scenic cities. As the city is beautifully lit up during Christmas, don’t miss a stroll along the Royal Mile, where you’ll find quaint shops and warm cafes to take a break.
Ideal for: Families who enjoy a mix of history, culture, and Christmas cheer.
3. Cotswolds, England
If you’re looking for a picturesque, countryside Christmas getaway, the Cotswolds is a perfect choice. This stunning region is known for its rolling hills, charming villages, and traditional English charm. During the festive season, the Cotswolds is transformed into a winter wonderland, with many villages hosting Christmas markets, carol singing, and light displays.
Families can enjoy a cosy stay in one of the many charming cottages or hotels, and explore local attractions like the Cotswold Wildlife Park or the Cotswold Farm Park, which are both magical places to visit during the Christmas period. If you prefer a more active holiday, the Cotswolds offers beautiful walking routes, ideal for family hikes to explore the countryside in winter.
Ideal for: Families looking for a tranquil, countryside escape with plenty of festive charm.
4. The Lake District, Cumbria
The Lake District is another idyllic destination for families looking to escape to nature during Christmas. This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its stunning lakes, rugged mountains, and charming villages. In winter, the Lake District takes on a serene and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for families who enjoy outdoor activities.
You can take a family-friendly boat ride on Lake Windermere, go for a winter walk through the frosty landscape, or visit one of the many Christmas markets in towns like Keswick or Ambleside. There are also many cosy lodges and cottages available for families, offering a warm, comfortable base after a day of exploring. For those who enjoy the festive traditions of Christmas, many of the local stately homes and historic houses host magical Christmas events.
Ideal for: Active families who love outdoor adventures and scenic beauty.
5. Cornwall, South West England
For families who want to escape the cold and experience Christmas by the sea, Cornwall is an excellent option. Known for its stunning beaches, picturesque harbours, and mild climate, Cornwall offers a unique Christmas getaway. The seaside towns like St Ives and Falmouth host Christmas markets, where you can shop for local crafts and festive food.
Cornwall’s Christmas lights are another highlight, with many towns and villages putting on spectacular light displays. While it may not be covered in snow, Cornwall offers a different kind of festive charm with its cosy coastal cottages, fresh seafood, and family-friendly attractions like the Eden Project, which transforms into a Christmas wonderland with light displays and seasonal workshops.
Ideal for: Families looking for a festive beach holiday with mild weather.
6. Norfolk, East Anglia
Norfolk is home to many family-friendly Christmas experiences, and its charming villages and towns make it a fantastic winter escape. For families who enjoy Christmas markets, Norwich’s historic market square hosts one of the best in the country, where you’ll find local treats, handmade gifts, and festive cheer.
Families can also take a trip to the Norfolk coast, where you can enjoy long walks on the beach, spotting winter wildlife like seals and migratory birds. For something extra special, visit the magical Christmas events at Holkham Hall, where you can experience the house dressed in festive decorations, enjoy a visit from Santa, and explore the Winter Wonderland.
Ideal for: Families who love the mix of countryside and coastal beauty with festive fun.
7. Oxford, England
Oxford offers a beautiful Christmas getaway that blends festive charm with academic prestige. The city’s Christmas market in the heart of the city is perfect for those looking to soak in the festive atmosphere, with numerous stalls offering gifts, food, and mulled wine.
Families can take a tour of the University of Oxford, where many of the iconic colleges are beautifully decorated for Christmas. A visit to the Botanic Gardens, with its winter displays, is also a peaceful and scenic way to spend an afternoon. For families who enjoy theatre, the Oxford Playhouse puts on a fantastic family-friendly panto during the Christmas season.
Ideal for: Families who want a cultural Christmas break with a touch of tradition.
8. Snowdonia, Wales
Snowdonia National Park is a perfect winter escape for families who love the great outdoors. This stunning part of Wales offers a breathtaking setting with its snow-capped mountains, serene lakes, and picturesque villages. While it may be cold, Snowdonia’s rugged beauty is perfect for a winter adventure.
Families can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and even zip-lining at Zip World. For a unique Christmas experience, take a ride on the Snowdon Mountain Railway, which offers a scenic and festive journey to the top of Wales’ highest peak. Snowdonia is also home to cosy cottages and family-friendly accommodations, ideal for a peaceful, nature-filled Christmas getaway.
Snowdonia, Wales
Ideal for: Families who love outdoor adventures in a dramatic, wintry landscape.
9. London, England
For families who enjoy the hustle and bustle of a city break, London offers a vibrant and festive atmosphere during Christmas. The city is known for its dazzling Christmas lights, particularly along Oxford Street and Regent Street, where the lights create a magical ambiance. There’s also Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland, which offers ice skating, fairground rides, and Christmas markets, making it perfect for families looking for festive fun.
In addition to the Christmas markets and events, families can visit world-famous attractions such as the Tower of London, the Natural History Museum, and Buckingham Palace. London’s Christmas events cater to all ages, making it an exciting and unforgettable holiday destination for families.
London
Ideal for: Families who want a lively city break with festive cheer.
10. Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire
Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare, is a charming and historic town that becomes particularly magical during the Christmas season. The town’s Christmas market is filled with stalls offering everything from local crafts to delicious seasonal treats. For families who enjoy history and literature, a visit to the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust is a must.
The town is also home to beautiful Tudor-style buildings and scenic river views, perfect for a winter stroll. During the Christmas season, the Royal Shakespeare Theatre hosts festive performances that the whole family can enjoy.
Ideal for: Families who appreciate history, literature, and festive charm.
Conclusion
The UK offers a wide variety of Christmas getaways for families, from charming countryside escapes to festive city breaks. Whether you want to experience the magic of Santa’s workshop in Berkshire, explore the historic streets of Edinburgh, or take part in winter adventures in Snowdonia, there’s a perfect destination for every family. Whichever getaway you choose, make sure to book early and plan for a Christmas experience that will create lifelong memories.