With international travel currently on hold, I have been eyeing up simple but beautiful staycation spots for Christmas Break. As a frequent traveller, this is the longest I have gone without boarding a flight to somewhere in the clouds. But, of late, I have found pleasure in exploring the UK spots that have changed my perspective on local travel. The idea of a staycation has become increasingly popular for a Christmas getaway.
The UK is an incredible location that many are envious of and with good reason and I am hoping to show 5 simple but beautiful staycation spots for Christmas Break that you didn’t know you needed. Within the UK, we are blessed with an abundance of incredible destinations to visit and explore. And with that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of our top staycation spots to enjoy the perfect cosy Christmas break this year.
5 Simple but Beautiful Staycation Spots for Christmas Break
I know it seems too early to be thinking about Christmas and too unpredictable to be thinking about staycations but like is too short. If there is anything I have learnt in that last couple of months is to make each day count whether that is planning for the future or living in the moment. I am a planner by nature and I mapped our 5 simple but beautiful staycation spots for Christmas Break without breaking the bank.
Travel is such a huge part of my life as it is for many other people and I think it’s important to continue embracing that part of your life. You don’t have to be jetting off every single day but sometimes it’s about exploring your own backyard. And from my backyard I am sharing these 5 simple but beautiful staycation spots for Christmas Break, let me know if you have ever been to any of these locations.
Bath, Somerset
Whilst Bath’s Christmas markets may not be going ahead this year, there is still chance to get yourself in the Christmas spirit with an array of festive events happening around the city; from local musicians, poets and storytellers performing in the streets to experiencing food at the many unique and independent artisan food stalls.
Equally, immerse yourself in the ancient history of the picture-postcard city by visiting the Roman Baths. This walk-through experience is lit by torchlights to create a cosy and warming, yet authentic atmosphere.
York, North Yorkshire
A fantastic destination to visit during the festive months, York is filled with history and culture, along with quaint independent shops to explore. The Shambles, a stunning 14th Century street, is a picture to behold at Christmas with the cosy timber-framed buildings adorned with festive lights and decorations.
The city also boasts a range of restaurants and cosy pubs where you can indulge in a variety of winter dishes after a day out exploring. Why not visit the Minster or take a walk around the walls which surround the city, to get a view of the impressive architecture?
To make your stay extra luxurious, opt for a five-star hotel such as The Grand, York which offers a perfect place to relax and unwind. With gorgeous decorations during the winter months, a tranquil spa, one of York’s best restaurants on-site and stunning suites to stay in, you’ll never want to leave.
The Cotswolds
The Cotswolds is an idyllic location for those who enjoy the great outdoors at Christmas as it boasts a variety of picturesque walks, such as Chipping Campden to Broadway Tower and Bourton-on-the-Water to Stow-on-the-Wold. Remember to wrap up warm and perhaps plot a route with a traditional cosy pub along the way to experience some classic winter warmers.
In addition to the great outdoors, the Cotswolds is also home to a variety of unique farm shops and tearooms where you can experience locally sourced foods. Remember to call and book ahead for dining-in experiences.
The Lake District, Cumbria
Similarly, to the Cotswolds, the Lake District boasts a wide range of walking trails for those who enjoy the fresh outdoors, such as Tarn Hows Circular walk and Helvellyn via Thirlmere.
Contrastingly, wrap up warm and take a boat trip over the famous lakes, such as Windermere Lake Cruises and Ullswater Steamers. You can admire the views in one of the cabins on the boat or brave the crisp winter weather on the deck.
Edinburgh
Why not experience a traditional Scottish Christmas with a warming glass of whisky. There are many bars and pubs which offer whisky tasting around the city for an authentic and different Christmas activity.
Although the traditional Christmas markets are not going ahead this year, the Royal Botanical Gardens are continuing with their outdoor light show extravaganza. As night falls, the gardens are lit up with brightly coloured festive lights, which mark a beautiful trail, guaranteed to get you into the Christmas spirit.
The UK is home to many incredible holiday destinations which could be perfect for a getaway this Christmas. We hope that these 5 simple but beautiful staycation spots for Christmas Break we have recommended take to your fancy. Please, make sure to do your research, and keep in mind local restrictions and government guidelines.
Elizabeth Williams says
We live exploring the UK as there are so many amazing places. We love York in North Yorkshire and have always wanted to visit Bath.
Kara Guppy says
We visited Bath earlier this year and it is such a gorgeous city. I would love to stay for more than a day
kacielmorgan says
I am thinking of taking a UK staycation next year sometime, although it would be lovely to go away for Christmas too.
Lucy says
When we are able (I’m in tier 3!) id love to visit Edinburgh x
Rhian Westbury says
York and Edinburgh are two of my absolute favourite places to visit, I’d love to spend New Year especially in Edinburgh x
clairelomax2018 says
We went to York last year and I absolutely loved it, it is such a beautiful place but at Christmas it was spectacular. This year we were due to get married on the 23rd December, instead we are spending a few days in the cotswolds and I can’t wait x
Cherryl says
Which did you think was the best at Christmas? 😊