Christmas Breaks

The Best Christmas Breaks in the UK

Christmas is a time to spend with friends and family, and what better way to do that than with a Christmas break in the UK? 

The UK has plenty to offer when it comes to festive staycations. From spectacular Christmas markets where you can warm up on wintery nights to pantomimes perfect for the entire family, there’s something for everyone. 

Are you planning to get into the holiday spirit and book a winter getaway? Read on for tips on the best UK destinations and hotels for a Christmas break.

What makes a great Christmas break?

Choosing a perfect destination is vital when crafting a memorable Christmas break. Many UK cities harness the magic of the festive season with activities ready-made for couples, families and solo travellers. 

The key is finding a location which aligns with your interests. Whether you’re a keen shopper seeking enchanting Christmas markets, a parent eager to take the kids to see Santa or a culture vulture longing for a magical evening at the theatre, there’s a perfect spot for you. 

Explore our selection of destinations which make for the best Christmas breaks in the UK, including hotel recommendations.

1. London

When planning a Christmas break in the UK, a trip to London should be at the top of any list. The capital has plenty going on during the festive season, making it a perfect destination for whatever you want.  

Heading to Hyde Park is a must. It’s transformed into the magical Winter Wonderland at Christmas, where you’ll find everything you need for a festive outing. It's perfect for a family day out, with traditional Christmas markets and roller coasters to the Edelweiss Funhouse and the UK’s largest outdoor ice rink.

You can’t visit London at Christmas without seeing a show in one of the West End’s theatres. The London Palladium, hosting an annual pantomime, is a holiday favourite. Get ready, as famous faces bring your favourite panto stories to life on stage with spectacular sets, magnificent music and lots of laughs.

The Dilly is an ideal location for your London Christmas break. It’s within walking distance of many West End theatres and next to Piccadilly Circus Station, with tubes going to the Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park and other major London attractions. Another option is Leonardo Royal Hotel London Tower Bridge, a 4-star hotel with spa services, a swimming pool and views of Tower Bridge and The Gherkin.

2. Manchester

Manchester is another fantastic destination for a UK Christmas break. The northwestern city turns into a wintery dreamland between November and December with its magical Christmas markets.

There are over 225 stalls spread across the city centre, including in Piccadilly Gardens, which transforms into the Winter Gardens. Grab delicious drinks and snacks, from Korean corndogs, bratwursts and the iconic Yorkshire pudding wrap to craft beers, mulled wine and hot chocolate.

Want to do some Christmas shopping? Many market craft stalls sell unique keepsakes, including handmade candles, personalised tree decorations and artisan foods. Alternatively, head to the Manchester Arndale or Trafford Centre, where you’ll find 100s of high street and independent shops to buy gifts for friends and family.

Leonardo Hotel Manchester Piccadilly is a great option for your Christmas break in Manchester. Located within walking distance of the Piccadilly Gardens Christmas markets, the hotel offers spacious en-suite rooms with flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi and Leonardo DREAM beds.

3. Edinburgh

Medieval buildings, cobbled streets, Georgian townhouses – Edinburgh has a yuletide feel whenever you visit. But for seven weeks around Christmas, Scotland’s capital becomes a hub of festive activity.

Mooch around charming Christmas markets, meet Santa in St Andrew’s Square or jump on the Big Wheel and soak up stunning views of the Old Town, Edinburgh Castle, Arthur’s Seat and more.

Stay for New Year’s and join the Hogmanay celebrations. Discover a range of events across the city, including New Year Revels, Silent Adventures Mega Silent Disco and Concert in the Gardens, which features top-class live music and fireworks as you see in the new year.

Base yourself at Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh for a central location close to the festive parties and celebrations. You’ll find comfortable rooms with high-speed Wi-Fi, an on-site restaurant, bar and gym.

4. Cardiff

Cardiff is famous for its Winter Wonderland at the magical Cardiff Castle and City Hall Lawn. Dust off your skates and glide on the undercover ice rink, check out spectacular views from the Big Wheel or grab a drink in the alpine ski lodge bar.

The Welsh capital also offers theatre shows throughout the festive season. Head to The New Theatre, Utilita Arena, or Wales Millenium Centre and check out the year’s family pantomimes and musicals. Or venture to Sophia Gardens, where you’ll find the Cardiff Christmas Festival. Step into a unique Spiegeltent setting and enjoy a night to remember as you watch fantastic shows, including musicals, concerts, and stand-up comedy.

Fancy a UK Christmas break in Cardiff? Book a room at Leonardo Hotel Cardiff for a city centre location within walking distance of Winter Wonderland, the Christmas markets and theatres. It also offers cosy rooms, a restaurant serving local and international cuisines and room service.

5. Watford

Watford is the perfect place for a weekend Christmas break for Harry Potter fans. The town’s world-famous attraction, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter, gets a festive ‘Hogwarts in the Snow’ makeover, with all sets dressed for Christmas.

Step into the Great Hall as you begin a truly magical experience. Golden decorations from the first Harry Potter film light up the space, with Christmas trees, mistletoe and holly creating a festive feel at every corner. Wander through other Christmassy sets, including the Forbidden Forest and Diagon Alley, before learning the dance steps seen at the Yule Ball in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. Finish your trip in the Christmas shop and pick up souvenirs and stocking fillers.

Leonardo Hotel London Watford is perfect for your Christmas break in Watford. It’s an 8-minute walk from the Harry Potter shuttle bus, which takes you directly to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour. The hotel is also on the doorstep of the atria Watford, an ideal place to do some last-minute Christmas shopping.

6. Birmingham

Over 5.5 million people check into Birmingham each festive season to visit the Frankfurt Christmas Market. Known as the largest authentic German Christmas market outside of Germany and Austria, it attracts visitors from across Europe, and it’s a fantastic destination for a short Christmas break in the UK.

You’ll find various market stalls along New Street serving mouthwatering food. Grab traditional German snacks, including bratwursts, pretzels and schnitzels, or tuck into sweet treats like doughnuts, crêpes and gingerbread. Wash it all down with a festive drink - gluhwein, weissbeer, and hot chocolate are available.

Plenty keeps you entertained as you soak up the Christmassy atmosphere. Enjoy live music, get your skates on and hit the ice rink, or pick up gifts for your loved ones at the markets or the nearby Bullring and Grand Central shopping centre.

Leonardo Royal Hotel Birmingham is an ideal base for your Christmas getaway in Brum. It’s a 12-minute walk from the Frankfurt Christmas Market and offers stylish rooms with flat-screen TVs, en-suite bathrooms, and free Wi-Fi.