Exploring the enchanting festive season in the UK is a delightful experience, especially during Christmas. Here’s a curated list of 15 must-visit places for your holiday travels, where the magical atmosphere and a plethora of events await.
15 places to visit in the UK this Christmas
London: Embracing Festive Magic:
London metamorphoses into a captivating wonderland adorned with Christmas lights, bustling markets, and enchanting ice skating rinks. Immerse yourself in the Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park, featuring rides, markets, and captivating shows. The Christmas lights tour and festive events at Kew Gardens are not to be missed.
Edinburgh: A Scottish Yuletide Celebration:
Edinburgh comes alive with Christmas markets, Hogmanay New Year’s celebrations, and festive events scattered across the city. The Royal Mile and Princes Street dazzle with lights, creating a magical ambiance that’s perfect for the holiday season.
Manchester: Markets and More:
Manchester is renowned for its Christmas markets, but the city also hosts spectacular light shows, ice skating experiences, and various festive events. The city center transforms into a hub of holiday spirit, and MediaCity boasts a Winter Fest for added festivities.
Birmingham: A Touch of German Christmas:
Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market brings a touch of German Christmas traditions to the city. Additionally, witness tree lightings, parades, and a host of festive events throughout the season.
Glasgow Sparkling Festivities:
With festive performances and events taking place all over the city, Glasgow’s Christmas markets and the Style Mile Carnival steal the show. George Square and St Enoch Square are transformed into enchanting wonderlands.
York: Tradition and Charm:
The historic city of York offers traditional Christmas markets, festive events, and beautiful decorations. Candlelit concerts and a variety of Christmas-themed shows add to the city’s timeless charm.
Bath—Markets Amidst History:
Bath’s Christmas Market, open from November 23 to December 10, 2023, features over 170 chalets offering seasonal gifts, food, and drink amidst the city’s historical backdrop.
Cardiff – Winter Wonderland Returns:
Cardiff welcomes back its Winter Wonderland in 2023, boasting undercover ice skating, an Ice Bar, and a family funfair. The Cardiff Christmas Market runs from November 9 to December 23, 2023.
Belfast, Northern Ireland – Traditional Christmas Market:
The Belfast Christmas Market returns to City Hall Gardens in November 2023, providing a traditional taste of Christmas. Additional festive events, such as “A Magical Christmas Experience” at Titanic Belfast, enhance the seasonal cheer from November 24 to December 23, 2023.
Liverpool – Fun for All:
Liverpool’s beloved Winter Wonderland returns in 2023, featuring an undercover ice rink, the Ice Walk, the Big Wheel, and a family funfair, promising a joyous experience for visitors.
Oxford or Cambridge – Historical Christmas Delights:
Oxford’s Victorian Christmas Market on Broad Street from November 16 to 19 sets a festive tone. Cambridge offers charming locations, Christmas events, and the iconic Carols from King’s Christmas Eve broadcast.
The Cairngorms, Scotland – Magical Wilderness:
Experience a magical Christmas in the Cairngorms with activities like meeting the Cairngorm Reindeer Herd and riding the Strathspey Steam Railway’s Santa Express.
Weymouth, England – Coastal Christmas Vibes:
Details for Christmas Eve events in Weymouth 2023 are yet to be confirmed, but expect activities like Gospel Choirs, Brunch, Santa Claus Gift Distribution, and Christmas Dinners.
Gloucester, England
From picking your own Christmas tree at Over Farm, to the enchanting lantern trail at the Museum of Gloucester, and the melodious carols at the historic Gloucester Cathedral, there’s something for everyone. Workshops, family trails, and special services on Christmas Eve and Day add to the seasonal spirit, making Gloucester a delightful destination for holiday celebrations.
Lincoln, England – Illuminated Celebrations:
Lincolnshire’s top Christmas events for 2023 include the Lincoln Castle Illuminated and various Christmas markets, promising a festive spectacle for all.
Remember to check for event confirmations closer to the date for the most accurate information. Happy holidays! 🎄
Christmas foods in the UK
Indulging in the festive culinary delights of a traditional UK Christmas is a sensory journey of savory and sweet dishes that add warmth and joy to the season. Here’s a delectable lineup of classics that grace the Christmas table:
Roasted Turkey Extravaganza:
The undisputed star of the Christmas feast, the roasted turkey takes center stage, adorned with all the trimmings that make the meal unforgettable.
Golden Perfection – Roast Potatoes:
Crispy perfection awaits with roast potatoes, expertly cooked to a golden hue, achieving a delightful contrast of crispy exterior and fluffy interior, often roasted in goose fat for an extra touch of decadence.
Brussels Sprouts Elegance:
Frequently served with the savory allure of bacon or the savory flavors of chestnuts, Brussels sprouts, a Christmas staple, grace the table.
Bacon-Wrapped Delight – Pigs in Blankets:
A cherished side dish, pigs in blankets make an appearance – small sausages enveloped in savory bacon, adding a flavorful twist to the Christmas spread.
Savory Harmony – Stuffing Mastery:
The stuffing, a harmonious blend of breadcrumbs, herbs, and sometimes sausage meat, either nestled inside or served alongside the turkey, enhances the festive flavor palette.
Liquid Gold – Flavorful Gravy:
Liquid gold in the form of flavorful gravy, crafted from the succulent juices of the roast turkey, infused with the aromatic essence of onions and herbs, elevates every bite.
Tart-Sweet Symphony – Cranberry Sauce:
The tart-sweet symphony of cranberry sauce graces the table, perfectly complementing the succulence of the turkey with its vibrant flavor profile.
Bread Sauce Tradition:
A nod to tradition, the bread sauce, a velvety concoction of breadcrumbs, milk, and spices, adds a comforting touch to the festive spread.
Grand Finale – Christmas Pudding Spectacle:
The grand finale arrives with the Christmas pudding, a rich and dense confection featuring dried fruit, nuts, and a generous splash of alcohol, often served flambéed for a spectacular presentation.
Miniature Delights – Mince Pies:
Miniature delights come in the form of mince pies, featuring a delectable filling of chopped dried fruit, distilled spirits, and spices, bringing a burst of flavor in every bite.
Chocolate Bliss – Yule Log Extravaganza:
Indulge in chocolate bliss with the Yule Log, a chocolate sponge cake masterfully rolled and adorned to resemble a log, generously covered in chocolate buttercream.
Layered Decadence – Trifle Elegance:
Concluding the feast is the layered decadence of trifle, a dessert symphony featuring sponge cake, fruit, custard, and a luxurious crown of whipped cream.
These festive delights not only tantalize the taste buds but also contribute to the overall joy of the season. Explore the culinary wonders of a traditional UK Christmas with these timeless favorites!