The Christmas holidays equal a full house and a lot of energy to burn. The little ones are excited to be out of school and impatiently awaiting Santa Claus’ visit, so unsurprisingly after all the excitement around Christmas it can be hard to keep the kids entertained. How about a magical festive city break? Here are our top four destinations for Christmas city breaks in the UK…
London
London is certainly Christmas heaven for kids. From ice skating round the famous sights to seeing Santa on the River Thames, visiting the famous Winter Wonderland and Kew Gardens, to musicals and pantomimes in the West End and witnessing the brilliant lights from an open-top bus, there’s a lot to amaze kids of all ages in the fantastically festive capital. Why not book a stay at one of our London YHAs and be in the middle of it all? A Christmas break for the whole family.
Stay at one of our London hostels
Manchester
From carol singing in the cathedral to massive family-friendly events – this city boasts that “Nowhere does Christmas like Manchester”. Winter Funland Manchester is the UK’s largest indoor festive theme park — and includes rides, magic shows and lots to capture the kids’ imaginations. Use YHA Manchester for a central base of endless things to do including ice skating and watching Disney on Ice.
Stay at YHA Manchester
Bristol
Tis’ the season of festive favourites in Bristol. Watch The Nutcracker come to life with a magic production at Bristol Old Vic or settle down to watch a wonderful winter story of The Donkey’s Tale at The Redgrave Theatre. Get active with the kids with a spot of ice skating at Avon Valley, or if you fancy a drive, prepare to be wowed with The Festival of Light at Longleat. Finish of your cosy trip with a stay at YHA Bristol.
Stay at YHA Bristol
Bath
Famous for its Roman baths and splendid Georgian architecture, Bath is one of the most picturesque cities to visit during Christmas time. From November to December, the city is transformed into a winter wonderland with a traditional Christmas Market, featuring over 150 chalets selling everything from handcrafted gifts to festive treats. The market is close to Bath's iconic Abbey and Roman Baths, creating a magic atmosphere that's perfect for a festive day out. While you’re visiting Bath, don’t forget to admire the bright Christmas lights along the streets!
Stay at YHA Bath
York
York is another city that you should visit during the festive period. With its impressive architecture, cobbled streets, and the magnificent York Minster cathedral, York is a great location for a festive city break in the UK. The St Nicholas Fair is a must-see, with its quaint wooden chalets filled with local artisan crafts, delicious food, and Christmas delicacies. Wander through the city's streets, where the Christmas lights twinkle against the backdrop of the city walls and the River Ouse.
Make sure to pay a visit to the Shambles, which looks even more magical with its twinkling Christmas lights. And after a evening exploring this beautiful city, head back to YHA York for a well-rested sleep.
Stay at YHA York
Liverpool
Liverpool is known for its energetic atmosphere and the city’s Christmas markets are some of the largest in the UK, offering everything from German-style stalls serving currywurst and mulled wine, to handmade gifts and sweet treats. The iconic Albert Dock area is wonderfully decorated, and the pretty Christmas lights add a festive glow to the city centre. At night time, the local pubs are filled with happiness and Christmas songs - Liverpool’s proud culture and festive spirit make it a wonderful choice for a Christmas getaway for everyone to enjoy.
Stay at YHA Liverpool Albert Dock
Chester
The splendid city of Chester provides a magical and joyous atmosphere during the Christmas season. The Tudor-style buildings, cobbled streets, and historic city walls offer a fairy-tale setting for a Christmas getaway suitable for all the family. Chester’s Christmas Market, located in the scenic town square, is filled with stalls selling local gifts, festive treats, and mulled wine. You can also take a ramble along the famous Rows, where you’ll find sparkling fairy lights and bright Christmas. Make YHA Chester Trafford Hall your spot for resting after a day exploring this pretty city.
Stay at YHA Chester Trafford Hall
Now feeling festive? Here are our top picks of the best winter wonderlands in the UK. We ho ho hope you enjoy!
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Photo credit: jasonbatterham / Adobe Stock
