Top Family-Friendly UK Escape Destinations This Christmas Season
The festive season is a magical time, and a family Christmas getaway can make it even more enchanting. The United Kingdom is home to numerous enchanting destinations, offering everything from cosy cottages to winter wonderlands, making it an ideal place for families to create unforgettable memories. Whether you long for a snowy countryside retreat, a festive city break, or a seaside escape, the UK has a perfect getaway for you. Here's a roundup of some of the best Christmas getaways in the UK for families.
- Lapland UK, Berkshire
For families dreaming of a storybook Christmas, Lapland UK in Berkshire is an ideal choice. Nestled in the British countryside, Lapland UK offers an immersive experience that brings the magic of Christmas to life. Enjoy a visit to Santa's secluded woodland home, join elf-led activities, and experience a magical sleigh ride.
The highlight of the experience is the Santa's workshop, where children can craft their very own toys. The entire park is beautifully illuminated with festive lights, and families can indulge in delicious seasonal treats at the Christmas café. It's a perfect holiday choice for younger children, providing a safe and magical setting to experience the joys of Christmas.
Ideal for: Families with young children who seek an immersive Christmas experience.
- Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh, with its captivating blend of history, culture, and festive cheer, makes a wonderful Christmas getaway destination. The city's renowned Christmas market in East Princes Street Gardens is not to be missed. The market features an ice skating rink, a Ferris wheel, and numerous stalls selling festive treats, handcrafted gifts, and more.
History enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to Edinburgh Castle or the National Museum of Scotland, both offering insight into Scotland's rich past. As the city is beautifully adorned with lights during Christmas, a stroll along the Royal Mile is a must. Here you'll find charming shops and warm cafés to unwind in.
Ideal for: Families who enjoy a mix of history, culture, and Christmas cheer.
- The Cotswolds, England
For families seeking a picturesque countryside Christmas getaway, the Cotswolds is an excellent choice. This charming region is renowned for its rolling hills, scenic villages, and widespread English charm. During the festive season, the Cotswolds transforms into a winter wonderland, with numerous villages hosting Christmas markets, carol singing, and light displays.
Families can enjoy a relaxing stay in a traditional cottage or hotel, allowing them to explore local attractions like the Cotswold Wildlife Park or the Cotswold Farm Park. For a more active holiday, the Cotswolds offers beautiful walking routes, providing an opportunity to explore the countryside in winter.
Ideal for: Families looking for a tranquil countryside escape with plenty of festive charm.
- The Lake District, Cumbria
The Lake District, with its beautiful lakes, rugged mountains, and charming villages, is another ideal destination for families seeking a nature-focused Christmas getaway. During winter, the region takes on a serene and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for families who love outdoor activities.
Take a family-friendly boat ride on Lake Windermere, embark on a winter walk through the frosted landscape, or visit one of the many Christmas markets in towns like Keswick or Ambleside. There is also a wide range of cosy lodges and cottages available for families, offering a warm and comfortable base after a day exploring.
Ideal for: Active families who love outdoor adventures and scenic beauty.
- Cornwall, South West England
For families seeking a festive beach holiday with mild weather, Cornwall is an excellent choice. The coastal 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 displays.
While it may not be covered in snow, Cornwall offers a unique Christmas charm with cosy coastal cottages, fresh seafood, and family-friendly attractions like the Eden Project. The project transforms into a Christmas wonderland with light displays and seasonal workshops during the festive season.
Ideal for: Families seeking a festive beach holiday with mild weather.
- Norfolk, East Anglia
Norfolk offers numerous family-friendly Christmas experiences, and its charming villages and towns make it a fantastic winter escape. Norwich's historic market square hosts one of the best Christmas markets in the country, where you'll find local delicacies, handmade gifts, and festive cheer.
Families can also take a trip to the Norfolk coast, offering long walks on the beach, winter wildlife spotting, and the unique experience of the magical Christmas events at Holkham Hall.
Ideal for: Families who love a blend of rural and coastal beauty with festive fun.
- Oxford, England
Oxford offers a unique Christmas getaway, blending festive charm with academic prestige. The city's Christmas market in the heart of the city is perfect for immersing oneself in the festive atmosphere, with numerous stalls offering gifts, food, and mulled wine.
Families can explore the University of Oxford, where many iconic colleges are beautifully decorated for Christmas. A visit to the Botanic Gardens, adorned with winter displays, is a peaceful and scenic way to spend an afternoon. For families who enjoy theatre, the Oxford Playhouse offers a fantastic family-friendly pantomime during the Christmas season.
Ideal for: Families who appreciate history, literature, and festive charm.
- Snowdonia, Wales
Snowdonia National Park is an ideal winter escape for families who love the great outdoors. This majestic part of Wales features stunning snow-capped mountains, serene lakes, and picturesque villages. While it may be cold, Snowdonia's rugged beauty provides ample opportunities 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, offering a scenic and festive journey to the top of Wales' highest peak.
Ideal for: Families who love outdoor adventures in a dramatic wintry landscape.
- Bath, England
Bath is a scenic city, steeped in history and Roman heritage. During Christmas, the city transforms into a festive wonderland, with beautiful light displays, a charming Christmas market, and various family-friendly events. Don't miss the famous Bath Abbey lit up at night.
Ideal for: Families who appreciate history, architectural beauty, and a touch of festive charm.
- London, England
London, the capital city, offers a vibrant and festive atmosphere during Christmas. The city is known for its dazzling Christmas lights, particularly along Oxford Street and Regent Street, which create a magical ambiance. Hyde Park's Winter Wonderland provides ice skating, fairground rides, and Christmas markets, making it ideal for families seeking festive fun.
London's Christmas events cater to all ages, offering an exciting and unforgettable holiday experience for families.
Ideal for: Families who prefer a bustling city break with festive cheer.
- Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire
Stratford-upon-Avon is the birthplace of William Shakespeare and 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. History enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust.
Ideal for: Families who value history, literature, and festive charm.
Regardless of which destination you select, remember to book early to ensure a memorable Christmas adventure for your family.
When choosing a Christmas getaway, consider the preferences of your family—whether they prefer a storybook experience, a blend of historical and cultural delights, or an outdoor adventure among nature. The UK offers a variety of destinations to accommodate different family preferences, ensuring an unforgettable holiday for all.
For families with young children, Potters Resorts Hopton-on-Sea or Darwin Escapes' holiday parks offer a family-friendly environment with a range of activities and entertainment. The Rubens at the Palace in London or a trip to Cardiff can provide a cultural experience for families who enjoy history, literature, and a touch of festive charm. For families seeking a tranquil countryside escape, the Lake District or the Cotswolds may be the perfect choice. If your family loves outdoor adventures, Snowdonia or the countryside towns in Northumberland or Dorset might suit your tastes.
- If your family dreams of a narrative Christmas, consider visiting Lapland UK in Berkshire for an immersive experience that brings the spirit of Christmas to life.
- For families who love a blend of history, culture, and Christmas cheer, book a trip to Edinburgh, Scotland, where you can explore its medieval streets, ancient castles, and renowned Christmas market.
