The Yuletide is the brightest time of the year when people make arrangements to meet their families or friends. If you want your family Christmas vacation to be something you’ll remember for years to come, the UK has a lot of great locations for you. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the 17 best family Christmas vacation spots in the UK from cute cottages to snowy wondertowns.

17 Best Family Christmas Vacation Spots in the UK

1. Lapland UK, Kent

Lapland UK is one of the most mesmerising and spectacular destinations to take your family. Based in Kent, this attraction offers visitors a snow-covered Christmas experience that doesn’t require a flight to Lapland in the Arctic circle.

Pretty much the entire park is turned into a winter wonderland with a beautiful Christmas bazaar, games, and even a tour to see Santa’s workshop! This film sets the perfect scene for a family that would want to have the most magical Christmas out of all.

2. Edinburgh, Scotland

Some of the best Christmas markets in the UK include the Edinburgh’s Christmas market. It features enchanting lighting, nice selling stands and an exquisite ice skating zone hence an appropriate place for families to enjoy the festive season.

You can watch a performance at the famous Edinburgh Castle, have a ride in the large Ferris wheel or just walk along Princes Street Gardens in order to observe the Christmas illumination.

Edinburgh is a city of history, fun and considerable Christmas cheer that will be loved by all during your 17 best family Christmas vacation spots in the UK.

3. London, England

The English specifically London loves Christmas and can be regarded as one of the best destinations for celebrations.

Everything is illuminated nowadays, the city’s lights are warm, the houses are decorated. I have heard that you can ice skate at Somerset House, you can see the Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square, at the same you can ride a round in the Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park.

London is the best place for the family Christmas since it has every event to make the family Christmas memorable like Christmas market shopping, the beautiful lights among others.

4. Bath, England

Bath is a beautiful, historic city that is especially stunning during Christmas time. The Christmas market in Bath is one of the best, with over 170 chalets selling everything from handmade gifts to delicious festive treats.

Families can enjoy a stroll along the cobbled streets, visit the Roman Baths, or just relax in one of the city’s cozy cafes. Bath is the perfect place to enjoy a peaceful and festive family vacation.

5. Lake District, England

The Lake District is the perfect place for families who love the outdoors. During Christmas, this beautiful region transforms into a winter wonderland. You can explore the picturesque villages, enjoy winter walks around the lakes, or cozy up in a warm cottage.

The Lake District is also home to Christmas markets and festive events that families will love. If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, this is a great spot for a quiet Christmas.

6. York, England

York is a historic city that is particularly charming at Christmas. The city is full of cobbled streets and medieval buildings that look even more magical with Christmas decorations.

York’s Christmas market, known as St Nicholas Fair, offers a festive shopping experience, while the city’s museums, including the National Railway Museum, are great for family fun.

York is a great choice for families who want a traditional Christmas experience in a beautiful setting.

7. Cotswolds, England

Cotswolds is beautiful country region with wonderful small towns and beautiful countryside landscape. Christmas is one stunning period to visit it because a lot of the villages celebrate festivals and have markets all through.

It can be to visit such a Christmas market as it is located in the market town of Cirencester or to have a walk through the beautiful shops in Bourton on Water city. Cotswolds provides the kind of Christmas holiday that family will enjoy and one that is way from the hustle and bustle.

8. Brighton, England

Brighton is a lively coastal town with lots of attractions to keep families entertained and in tuned with the holiday spirit. The entire city is marked with decorations and events during the Christmas season common to many countries all over the world.

There is a Christmas market at the sea front, ice skating rink ride which are fun, and the Lanes area which is quite popular. Brittany is a good destination for a family Christmas holiday with a touch of sea side.

9. Windsor, England

Christmas can also be spent in Windsor, where there is a castle boldly represented in guidebooks as Windsor Castle.

Windsor sparkles with Christmas lights; the Christmas market at the Guildhall: a great place to shop for gifts. It is also possible to proceed to the Windsor Castle for the family holiday since the castle is decorated for the season.

Just as a walk through Bath to see the Royal Crescent and other sights of historical interest in the city, Windsor is also full of Christmas atmosphere that will be great for a family Christmas break.

10. Snowdonia National Park, Wales

If your family is an adventurer, Snowdonia National Park is perfect for spending Christmas. This lovely piece of Wales is renowned for its mountain ranges and even more enchanting when winter sets in and we see snow.

Hiking at winter, watching the beauty of Betws-y-Coed, having a nice time at a Welsh cottage are the possibilities.

That’s why Snowdonia is an ideal place to visit at the end of the year – the nature along with the Christmas mood makes everything simply perfect.

11. Stratford-upon-Avon, England

Stratford-upon-Avon is the birthplace of William Shakespeare, and it’s also a lovely place to visit at Christmas. The town is filled with festive markets and light displays, and you can enjoy a traditional Christmas in one of the many cozy pubs.

Families can visit Shakespeare’s birthplace, take a boat ride on the River Avon, or enjoy the Christmas markets. Stratford-upon-Avon is a charming choice for a family Christmas vacation.

12. Chester, England

Chester is a historic city with beautiful Roman architecture and a cozy, festive atmosphere at Christmas. The Christmas markets in Chester are a highlight, offering everything from unique gifts to tasty treats.

You can explore the city’s Roman walls, visit the Chester Zoo (which is beautifully decorated for Christmas), or take a trip to the famous Chester Cathedral. Chester is a great option for families who want to combine history and Christmas fun.

13. Cambridge, England

Cambridge is another beautiful city to visit at Christmas. The city’s Christmas market is full of festive gifts, food, and entertainment.

Families can enjoy a punting tour on the River Cam, explore the Christmas lights on King’s Parade, or visit one of the city’s many museums. Cambridge is perfect for families who want a blend of culture, history, and Christmas cheer.

14. Edinburgh Christmas at the Royal Mile, Scotland

For a Christmas vacation with a bit of history and magic, visit Edinburgh’s Royal Mile. The Royal Mile is lined with Christmas lights and festive stalls that create a magical atmosphere. Families can visit Edinburgh Castle, enjoy some delicious Scottish treats, and shop for unique gifts at the Christmas market.

Edinburgh is one of the 17 best family Christmas vacation spots in the UK, combining history with holiday magic.

15. Isle of Skye, Scotland

For families looking to escape the crowds, the Isle of Skye offers a peaceful Christmas retreat. This island is known for its stunning natural beauty, including rugged cliffs, scenic beaches, and the famous Old Man of Storr rock formation.

During Christmas, the island is quiet and serene, making it perfect for families looking to enjoy the holiday in a tranquil setting.

16. Cardiff, Wales

Cardiff, the capital of Wales, offers a great Christmas experience for families. The city’s Christmas market is a must-visit, and there are plenty of activities for kids, like ice skating and visiting Santa.

Cardiff is home to many family-friendly attractions, including Cardiff Castle and the National Museum of Wales, making it a great destination for a Christmas vacation.

17. Belfast, Northern Ireland

Belfast is a vibrant city that is full of Christmas cheer during the holiday season. The Christmas market in the city centre is filled with festive treats and gifts, and the city’s streets are beautifully decorated with lights.

Families can visit the Titanic Museum, explore the Christmas market, or enjoy some fun at the Winter Wonderland. Belfast is a great option for a family-friendly Christmas getaway.

Conclusion

The UK offers many wonderful options for families looking to enjoy a Christmas vacation. Whether you prefer a snowy wonderland or a festive city break, these 17 best family Christmas vacation spots in the UK offer something for everyone.

From magical Lapland UK to historic Edinburgh, there are plenty of places to make unforgettable Christmas memories with your loved ones. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable Christmas adventure in the UK!