In England, December is when the country becomes a winter wonderland. The streets get lined with lights, markets fill up with joyous people and there’s an undeniable spirit in the air. Winter travel to England allows you to see the country at its most magical. From this article, you will get to know the in-depth details about -the best places to visit in December in England. Streets that have been around for centuries and modern cities all become wrapped in holiday charm. However, the magic of England isn’t limited to its famous Christmas markets. The beauty that lies outside the cities, such as the picturesque countryside covered in frost or snow is something else entirely.
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The Best Time To Visit England
December offers ample opportunity for winter travel to England. With a multitude of events taking place throughout the month such as New Year’s Eve celebrations and various Christmas markets—it would be hard not to find something festive happening during your trip.
It’s also freezing so what better excuse could you have to cozy up in one of their traditional pubs with a warm drink? Or take a break from exploring wintry landscapes with some afternoon tea?
If history is more your thing there are still plenty of attractions open and offering tours during this time. However, they’ll all be holiday-themed so you get a twist on what would otherwise just be an ordinary tour.
Top 15 Best Places to Visit in December in England For Winter Travel
London: A Magical Winter Experience
Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park is just one of many reasons why London feels alive during winter months but it does happen to be one of the largest Christmas festivals in Europe so check it out. Other things like skating on ice at Somerset House and eating festive treats can also be found while wandering around the city. Here are a few of the must-visit best places to visit in December in England recommendation places-
- St Paul’s Cathedral
- Loch Lomond
- Royal Observatory Greenwich
- Emirates Stadium
- Kensington Palace
- Westminster Abbey
- Tower of London
- Warner Bros Studio
- Kew Gardens
Bath: Festive Traditions And Historical Charm
With stunning Georgian architecture lining its streets Bath will provide quite a backdrop for whatever you’re trying to do this winter! Go soak yourself at Roman Baths which use natural thermal waters if that tickles your fancy.
Oxford: A Winter Wonderland For Literature Lovers
If you love literature Oxford is a winter destination for you. It’s home to the prestigious University of Oxford and all of its fancy libraries. Take a tour through colleges that have seen countless books be written, explore Bodleian Library, and then cosy up with one of your own in one of their traditional pubs.
York: Stepping Into The Past With Christmas Markets
As you walk down its medieval streets you’ll see York decked out from head to toe in festive decorations. There are embellishments on every nook and cranny but make sure you stop by the York Christmas Market! After that go take in some history at the magnificent York Minster or learn about their rich Viking heritage.
Manchester: A Vibrant City With Christmas Spirit
The city seems like it’s buzzing with energy during the holidays as people begin preparing for whatever festivities they might partake in later. Manchester Christmas Markets have become so well known over the years that they’re now iconic, catch a festive performance at Royal Exchange Theatre and just enjoy themselves around town.
Birmingham: Festive Lights And Shopping Delights
Just looking at Birmingham’s dazzling lights would probably be enough to feel like Winter Wonderland has given them a visit already. Of course shopping at Bullring & Grand Central will be just as delightful as walking through lights—especially if you skate on an ice rink before shopping!
Cambridge: A Cozy Winter Escape
Cambridge is one of the best places to visit in December in England. Walking around Cambridge feels like being transported to another era, even more so when it’s cold enough to keep everyone inside where the heat is. Go punting along River Cam and then warm yourself up in Fitzwilliam Museum next door.
Cornwall: Coastal Beauty And Holiday Festivities
Don’t let Cornwall pass under your radar this winter season! If beautiful cliffs aren’t intriguing enough maybe St Ives can draw your attention—or perhaps celebrations at Eden Project? A peninsula in the southwest of England; Cornwall is more than a place on the map. It’s like an amazing canvas of myths, beaches and culture that lets you escape into a world that is both wild and accessible.
Lake District: Winter Walks & Stunning Scenery
The Lake District is even more magical in winter when the falls are covered in snow. Lace up your walking boots and explore, visit pretty towns like Ambleside and Keswick, then warm up by the fire in a cosy pub. This is the best places to visit in December in England where you can feel alive. You’ll be able to pull yourself away from the city’s chaos and unwind. Whether you’re looking for a thrill, an escape, or a history lesson, The Lake District is here for all of it. It truly offers something memorable to everyone who visits.
Liverpool: Art, Culture & Christmas Markets
In winter, Liverpool’s arts scene shines. Explore the Tate Liverpool, walk along Albert Dock — an iconic spot — and pick up unique gifts at Liverpool Christmas Market. You don’t need to go sightseeing in Liverpool, England to feel its electric energy. This place is a living, breathing energy ball of history, music, and stories from every angle. Whether you’re into history, or music or just want a cute escape, Liverpool’s got you covered.
Brighton: Festive Fun By The Sea
Beachside Brighton has added festive sparkle in the winter months. Take a bracing stroll on Pebble Beach while exploring the eccentric North Laine district before finishing up at Brighton Christmas Market for some of their mulled wine. Then Brighton is the place to be. It offers all that an ideal seaside resort town should, including a vibrant atmosphere, quirky charm, and a spectacular beach.
Anything from looking for historical landmarks to visiting cultural spots or going for a relaxing beach holiday – Brighton is meant for the best places to visit in December in England everyone. Full of friendly locals, diverse attractions and its vibrant atmosphere; it is no wonder why people visit Brighton more often and consider it as one of the best places to go.
Cotswolds
The Cotswolds are renowned for their quintessential English charm, characterized by picturesque villages, honey-coloured cottages, and rolling green hills. During winter, exploring the Cotswolds becomes even more enchanting as the villages take on a cosy, festive atmosphere. Visitors can wander through quaint streets adorned with twinkling lights, visit historic churches, and browse charming boutiques and galleries.
Cosy pubs with roaring fires offer the perfect refuge from the winter chill, where visitors can warm up with a pint of ale or indulge in hearty British cuisine. Whether it’s strolling through the snow-dusted countryside or enjoying the festive ambiance of a traditional village market, the Cotswolds offers a delightful winter escape for travelers seeking charm and tranquillity.
Bristol: History Meets Modern Festivities
Bristol effortlessly combines its rich seafaring history with contemporary winter festivities. Visit the famous Clifton Suspension Bridge, tour historic ss Great Britain, and shop for handmade gifts at Bristol Christmas Market. In the past, Bristol’s harbor was a vital port and it played an important part in human trafficking. This can be seen in many of the city’s museums and tourist spots like M Shed which looks into its social and industrial history.
Newcastle: Foodie Heaven In Winter
The Tyne Bridge is a symbol of Newcastle upon Tyne, as well as the football team Newcastle United. It’s a place that has long been famous as ‘The Toon’. I can still see in my mind’s eye that day when I arrived here; people were very friendly and helped me to feel at home. Newcastle’s food scene takes center stage during the colder months. Try hearty Geordie cuisine (think stotties), and wander Quayside’s lively bars before tasting local delicacies at Newcastle Christmas Market.
Stratford-upon-Avon: Shakespearean Charm & Christmas Markets
As you plan your winter getaway to England, here are some tips to ensure you have the best trip ever. Determine the length of your stay and figure out how many destinations you want to go to. From busy cities to calm countryside, England has it all.
Regardless of what your interests are, spend time researching each destination’s attractions, events, and opening hours so you can smoothly craft an itinerary that leaves room for random discoveries. Think about the transportation options too such as trains or rental cars, and book accommodation in advance so you’re not stuck with a bad deal.
Peak District
The Peak District National Park in England is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, offering visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in breathtaking scenery. Hiking and cycling are popular activities, with numerous trails winding through picturesque landscapes, rolling hills, and rugged moorlands.
Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a casual nature lover, exploring the Peak District’s trails during winter can be a truly magical experience, with crisp air, frost-kissed landscapes, and perhaps even a dusting of snow adding to the charm of the adventure.
Accommodation Options for Winter Travel
There’s no shortage of places to stay in England. Whether you’re looking for a budget option or something more luxurious, England has an answer for that. If you want some immersion then look at traditional inns or cottages in small towns. For city folk who can’t live without modern amenities, there are always centrally located hotels as well. Don’t forget about unique options like boutique hotels or converted historic buildings either.
Tips for Exploring England in December
England turns into a magical place during December but it’s still important to be prepared when exploring it. For starters, dress warm and bring layers because sometimes things get chilly over there fast. Also, think about bringing an umbrella or a waterproof jacket because rain is widespread in England since daylight hours are shorter during this time of year plan accordingly and try not to run out of things to do early on in the day.
Don’t forget about all the festive markets too! And if you’re into savory treats then mince pies and mulled wine will keep you going throughout the night.
FAQ
Which country is England?
England is a country located in Europe. An island country made up of England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, the United Kingdom (UK) is an island country.
Is London in England or the UK?
London is both the capital city of England and the UK as a whole. It has a population of over thirteen million people.
Is it a good idea to visit the UK in December?
The beautiful season is when the leaves change colors before falling from trees and when temperatures go down. Winter is characterized by freezing temperatures, ice on roads, and paths, and sometimes even snow.
Is it cold in the UK in December?
For those who hate larger crowds December might just be their lucky month. Exploring London at this time can help them avoid most of it before it starts to fill up again towards Christmas day itself.
Is it OK to go to London in December?
December is one of the best months to explore London because it is less crowded. In this month the weather starts to change into winter.
Conclusion
England is home to many one-of-a-kind experiences all year round but they seem even more special during December. With every Best Places to Visit in December in England on this list comes a unique way of celebrating the season while also diving into British culture. So it’s no surprise that memories made here last a lifetime. Everyone has different tastes but if historical cities or natural scenic views are your thing, England in December will not disappoint. So go ahead and plan your winter getaway to explore these destinations because I promise you won’t regret it.
