The Best Places for a Festive Winter Break in the UK

As the leaves fall and autumn turns into winter, places become a little more festive as Christmas approaches. From magical snow-covered villages to cities that have mastered that familiar festive nostalgia, the UK is perfect for exploring as the air becomes cooler. To see in the winter and the approaching festive season, why not consider heading on a mini break? 

There’s no better way to celebrate Christmas than enjoying a wintry weekend away in a place that knows how to simulate the feelings you get at Christmas perfectly. Let’s take a look at some of the UK’s top places for a festive winter break:

Where are the UK’s best places to enjoy a festive winter break ahead of Christmas?

7. Pembrokeshire 

Wales’ Pembrokeshire Coast is everyone’s go-to for the summer thanks to its many beaches and seaside towns. But it can be as exciting and enjoyable in the winter, too. Places like Tenby and Saundersfoot are perfect for enjoying a laid-back trip. There’s no better feeling than curling up by the pub fire with a dog unfurled at your feet, or braving a windy walk across the beach. Just make sure you wrap up warm! 

If you want to escape the cold, there are indoor activities that are perfect for both kids and adults. Try Folly Farm or Pembroke Castle for some exciting indoor activities. Finish off the day indulging in a roast in one of the many pubs dotted along the coastlines. 

6. Inverness

The gem of the Scottish Highlands, Inverness, is one of those places that is constantly thriving, whether warm or cold. Inverness plays host to both indoor and outdoor activities, most of which are enhanced by the city’s long history and natural beauty. In winter, the highlands become blanketed with snow and frost, creating a vast winter wonderland that ramps up the festive atmosphere. 

In December, Hogmanay celebrations kick off around the city, and twinkling lights decorate every street corner. If you aren’t a big fan of the cold, take shelter in Hootananny Bar and experience live ceilidh dances as you sip on Scottish whisky.

5. Lake District

Want to experience your own natural winter wonderland? The Lake District is an ideal place for those who love the cold snap, with its vast lakes and mountains. Beyond the lake cruises and hiking trips, the Lake District offers up something a lot more special. Steeped in culture and with a thriving yet laid-back way of life, this Cumbrian gem may be just the answer you’re looking for. 

And, if you’re daring enough to brave the cold, why not try wild swimming? But, if you do this, ensure you follow any safety precautions. Enter the water slowly to avoid cold water shock and wear a wetsuit to keep you warmer in the water. Also, don’t swim alone, especially if you’re not very experienced. Even so, the Lake District can be safely explored all year round, and is the perfect place for a relaxing winter break before the chaos of Christmas starts. 

4. Bath

Bath often ranks highly for cities with the best festive atmospheres or celebrations. From its bustling Christmas market to its ice rink and thermal spa, your wintertime stay is likely to be full of intrigue. Enjoy the beautiful Georgian architecture, or learn more about the city's two-thousand-year history. 

Take a dip in the Thermae Bath spa, or visit the iconic Roman baths from which the city gets its name. Bath is one of those cities that can be enjoyed all year round, but it's especially magical during the winter. Twinkling lights adorn every street corner, and bars become alive with friends catching up over a pint or impromptu get-togethers. For all these reasons and more, Bath should top your list of winter break destinations.

3. York

Been meaning to visit York? Well, now that Christmas and the festive period are fast approaching, now is the perfect time. What you can experience during the winter in this medieval city is likely far beyond anything you could've imagined. You can, of course, just explore the city on a walking tour, but we'd suggest doing something a little more unique. 

Why not try a ghost tour, as York is notorious for its haunted halls thanks to its rich and turbulent history? Or, find a handmade Christmas gift for a loved one at the Christmas market. And, a trip to York wouldn't be right without visiting The Shambles, the preserved medieval street that every local and tourist raves about. Your wintertime visit to York is certain to be one to remember; we can guarantee that. 

2. Edinburgh

Edinburgh is not just the capital of Scotland, but it's also one of the UK's festive capitals. We say this mostly because of its Hogmanay celebrations and Christmas market. Edinburgh sure doesn't know how to do things in a low-key way, as it is consistently rife with festivals and citywide events like the world-famous Fringe Festival in August.

With such a wide array of things to do all year round, it's hard to know when the best time to visit is. So why should you visit Edinburgh in winter? You may have seen the collection of cosy coffee shops and bookshops Edinburgh boasts. Well, they become vastly more aesthetic and warming when it's raining or overcast. The ice rink and Christmas market reinforce the festive atmosphere, and Edinburgh Castle's doors remain open come rain or shine. 

1. The Cotswolds

We've put this at number one simply for its aesthetic appeal, laid-back way of life and the cosy, warming atmosphere exuded by every pub and village. The difficult thing about the Cotswolds is that you will likely be unsure of what to do or see first. Cirencester and Cheltenham offer a lively but controlled nightlife with plenty of pubs. 

The tiny, picturesque villages of Bibury and Bourton-on-the-Water are perfect for curiously exploring. And, nature lovers will thrive at Westonbirt Arboretum or Cotswolds Wildlife Park. Plus, in winter, the place becomes all the more beautiful and intriguing. So, you've seen our list of suggestions, but where will you choose for your next festive winter break? Personally, we'd recommend all of them.