The 5 Best UK Cities to Spend Christmas
Many of us dream of travelling abroad when the weather gets colder, but with the credit crunch still in full swing we can’t really afford to spend hundreds of pounds on hotels and plane tickets. If you want to do something a little different this Christmas, why not enjoy a festive weekend right here in the UK? Get inspired with our pick of the best UK cities to spend Christmas this year.
- London
From ice-skating at the National History Museum to pantomimes at the West End, there’s something for everyone in England’s bustling capital city. This year, London is setting up a whopping 18 ice-rinks, so why not get your skates on and treat the kids to a spin on the ice? If you’re a bit shaky when it comes to sport, you can always have a wander around the magnificent Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. Running from the 19th November 2011 to the 3rd January 2012, this magical event offers everything from thrilling fun fair rides to cosy market stalls selling Christmas goodies and warming mulled wine. If you have a moment to spare be sure to head over to Trafalgar Square, where from 5th – 22nd December carol singers will serenade you with their dulcet tones!
- Edinburgh
Scotland’s capital city is a chilly haven for Christmas lovers everywhere. Start Christmas off with a bang and head to George Street on 24th November to see a stunning light display characterised by weird and wonderful costumed figures. Christmas fans looking for something a little more out of the ordinary can bounce around in the giant Bungy Snowdome which will be setting up home in the East Princes Street Gardens from 24th November 2011 to 4th January 2012. If you fancy doing your bit for charity, pop on your snuggest Santa suit and join the throngs in the Great Edinburgh Santa Run on 11th December.
- Manchester
Kids and adults alike will be delighted by the wonderful old fashioned carousel in Barton Square (open from 4th November 2011 – 8th January 2012). For something a little more Hollywood, book a ticket to the 4D Theatre Sleigh Ride at MOSI on Liverpool Road. The fun film shows Santa and Rudolph up to their usual tricks with the added 4D effects of water spray, moving seats and blasts of air (open 14th November – 31st December 2011). If you’re looking to stock up on festive gifts, take a trip to the magnificent Manchester Christmas Markets, which are widely believed to be some of the best in the UK. With markets sitting at 8 destinations across the city centre, you’re certainly spoilt for choice when it comes to Christmas gifts!
- Belfast
Nothing is nicer than sitting by the fire in an Irish pub with a warm glass of mulled wine and the sound of traditional Celtic music filling your ears. Birthplace of soulful singer Van Morrison, Belfast is a lively city that lights up at Christmas time. Be sure to sample a pint of Guinness and sing along to the old folk tunes in the cosy pubs. The Christmas Continental Market (19th November – 19th December) is the perfect place to find hidden treasures and one-off gifts, including interesting carved figures from Kenya and leather handbags from France. When your feet get tired of pounding the pavements, you can always warm up with a glass of Gluhwein and a tasty Dutch pancake!
- Cardiff
Wales’ buzzing capital city is a lovely place to spend the festive season. Get your skates on and have a whizz around on the Admiral Open Air Ice Rink (17th November 2011 – 2nd January 2012) or explore the wonderful Cardiff Bay markets to find that perfect Christmas gift. For something a little less commercial, take the kids along to the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on the 27th November. The Norwegian Church Arts Centre shows us how to celebrate Christmas the traditional way with an annual tree light ceremony and festive folk songs to get you into the giving spirit.
Becky is an aspiring writer who loves exploring the UK by train and finding hidden gems wherever she goes. She is part of the travelling team at Enjoybedandbreakfast, who specialise in wonderful and unique bed and breakfasts from England and across the world. Image by Robert Scoble
