10 of the most magical places to visit in the UK during Christmas

There’s something undeniably enchanting about the UK during Christmas – especially in the North of England and Scotland, where festive traditions meet fairy-tale backdrops. Picture twinkling lights on cobbled streets, snow-capped castles and bustling markets filled with mulled wine and festive treats.

From York’s timeless charm to Edinburgh’s gothic wonder, these destinations feel like stepping into a Christmas card. Whether you’re after classic celebrations or a peaceful winter retreat, our guide reveals the most magical places to visit in the UK during Christmas, all accessible by train. Let’s unwrap the season together!

1. Experience Carlisle’s historic beauty and scenic railway

Carlisle is a festive hidden gem in the North of England that offers Christmas markets, candlelit concerts and scenic train rides – perfect for a cosy escape by rail. Begin your day with a treat in a cosy café before boarding the Settle-Carlisle Railway for a magical ride through breathtaking winter scenery. End your day wandering through twinkling city streets or attend a candlelit concert at Carlisle Cathedral. With snowy strolls at Carlisle Castle and historic pubs serving hearty food, Carlisle seamlessly blends tradition and winter wonder, making it one of the top places to go at Christmas in the north of England.

Highlights:

• Settle-Carlisle Railway: Board a magical train ride through wintery landscapes and rolling hills.
• Carlisle Cathedral: Enjoy peaceful, candlelit concerts in a stunning historic setting.
• Carlisle Castle: Take a snowy stroll through medieval history.

2. Discover magical markets and dazzling lights in Liverpool

Liverpool sparkles at Christmas with a captivating mix of festive attractions, making it a must- visit during the holiday season. The city comes alive with vibrant Christmas markets at St George’s Plateau and the Royal Albert Dock, where you can shop for unique gifts and enjoy seasonal treats. Iconic landmarks like the Liver Building and Bold Street dazzle with magical light displays. Catch performances at Liverpool Philharmonic Hall and discover the Ice Box at Box Park for ice-skating fun.

Highlights:

• St George’s Plateau & Royal Albert Dock: Wander through festive Christmas markets filled with seasonal charm.
• Liverpool Philharmonic Hall: Experience magical performances and vibrant live entertainment.
• Ice Box at Box Park: Glide on the ice and indulge in winter treats.

3. Unwrap the joy of Glasgow’s Winterfest

Glasgow buzzes with festivities during the holiday season and is undoubtedly one of the best Christmas destinations in the UK. Winterfest transforms George Square and St Enoch Square into twinkling hubs of celebration. Glide across the ice rink, sip warming drinks at the Festival Bar or join the fun at a silent disco. The Christmas markets overflow with gifts and delicious treats, while amusements and lights add to the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

Check out our full roundup of the 10 best Christmas markets in the UK for even more seasonal inspiration.

Highlights:

• George Square: Skate under the stars at Winterfest’s open-air ice rink.
• Festival Bar: Sip cosy drinks and dance at the silent disco.
• St Enoch Square: Delight in family-friendly rides and amusements.

4. Enjoy festive shopping and Geordie spirit in Newcastle

Looking for a blend of tradition and fun? Newcastle wraps up Christmas in true Geordie style. Stroll through the Christmas markets at Grey’s Monument and Old Eldon Square and admire the lights that illuminate the city’s streets. The highly anticipated, iconic Fenwick’s Christmas window enchants visitors of all ages, while the Life Science Centre’s ice rink adds a touch of frosty fun. Cosy up in traditional pubs or trendy cafés serving festive drinks, then explore the shops at Grainger Market for gifts. Newcastle truly captures Christmas with its warm Geordie spirit, mouth-watering food and fun activities for everyone to enjoy.

Highlights:

• Grey’s Monument & Old Eldon Square: Stroll through Christmas markets brimming with festive delights.
• Fenwick’s Christmas Window: Marvel at enchanting displays with this beloved holiday tradition.
• Life Science Centre: Glide into frosty fun with outdoor skating in a lively atmosphere.

5. Step into York’s storybook Christmas magic

Few places do Christmas quite like York. The city becomes a magical storybook destination during the festive season, earning its place as one of the best places to spend Christmas in the UK. With its medieval streets lit up by fairy lights and market stalls lining historic squares, the city feels like something out of a Dickens novel. Begin your trip at St Helen’s Square under the towering Christmas tree, then wind through St Nicholas Fair. From carol singers to artisanal gifts, York invites visitors to slow down and soak in the magic, whether you’re planning a winter day trip or an extended seasonal getaway.

Highlights:

• St Nicholas Fair: Explore festive stalls, local crafts and delicious treats in the heart of the city.
• St Helen’s Square: Admire the sparkling Christmas tree, the city’s festive centrepiece.
• York's atmosphere: Immerse yourself in the storybook charm of a cosy Christmas wonderland.

6. Discover Manchester’s iconic Christmas attractions

From giant Santas to ice villages, Manchester goes all out for the holidays, and it shows. Known as the 'UK Capital of Christmas', this is one of the best UK cities to visit at Christmas – it truly delivers on every festive front. Explore the expansive Manchester Christmas markets or dive into family fun at Winter Funland. With light displays, seasonal food and performances around every corner, Manchester promises a city-sized dose of Christmas spirit.

Highlights:

• Christmas Markets: Wander through themed zones filled with global street food and handcrafted treasures.
• Winter Funland: Enjoy non-stop family entertainment at Trafford City’s festive hotspot.
• Ice Village: Enter a magical world of ice sculptures and glowing tunnels.

7. Experience the Leeds Wheel of Light and historic arcades

Start your Christmas in Leeds with a spin on the 100ft Wheel of Light, offering stunning views of the city in all its festive finery. As the lights switch on across town, Leeds comes alive with music, markets and merry crowds. Santa’s grotto welcomes little ones, while adults can explore the Victorian arcades filled with gifts and gourmet treats. If you’re wondering where to go for Christmas in the UK, Leeds is a perfect choice. Catch a show at the ballet, indulge in some shopping or enjoy a drink in Leeds this Christmas, where heritage blends with holiday cheer.

Highlights:

• Leeds Wheel of Light: Soar 100ft above the city for stunning panoramic views.
• Christmas light switch-on: Kick off the season with dazzling displays and live performances across the city.
• Christmas Market & Santa’s Grotto: Enjoy traditional festive fun in the heart of Leeds.

8. Immerse in Christmas magic at Edinburgh’s Castle of Light

When it comes to discovering magical places to visit at Christmas in the UK, Edinburgh stands out as a festive paradise. The city’s iconic Castle of Light transforms the historic castle into a spectacle, with glittering displays and enchanting installations. Christmas markets fill the air with the scent of mulled wine and seasonal treats, while funfair rides and live entertainment add to the festive buzz. Whether you’re wandering through twinkling stalls, marvelling at gothic architecture or riding the festive Ferris wheel, Edinburgh delivers an unforgettable Christmas atmosphere.

Highlights:

• Castle of Light: Watch Edinburgh Castle transform into a glowing spectacle.
• East Princes Street Gardens: Enjoy vintage fairground rides and captivating live shows.
• Edinburgh Christmas Markets: Wander cobbled streets lined with stalls offering mulled wine and seasonal Scottish delights.

9. Travel back in time with a festive twist in Berwick-upon-Tweed

Tucked along the Northumberland coast, Berwick-upon-Tweed easily ranks among the best Christmas towns in the UK for a magical holiday steeped in history and tradition. The quaint streets of Berwick-upon-Tweed sparkle with lights, creating an enchanting atmosphere. Visitors can explore local Christmas markets to pick out handmade gifts and enjoy seasonal treats. Just a short drive away, Bamburgh Castle is a festive wonderland with breathtaking decorations and captivating installations, all set against the backdrop of the Northumberland coast. For a blend of tradition, history and heartfelt celebration, this corner of the UK is hard to beat during the holidays.

Highlights:

• Berwick lights: Stroll the streets lined with Georgian buildings aglow with festive lights.
• Historic border town: Experience old-world charm and seasonal warmth in every corner.
• Bamburgh Castle: Step into a wonderland of immersive Christmas installations.

10. Enjoy Scarborough’s coastal Christmas traditions and family fun

Why not trade city lights for sea breezes this Christmas? If you’re wondering where to spend Christmas in the UK, Scarborough offers a festive celebration with a coastal twist. The season kicks off with the town's Christmas light switch-on event, illuminating the streets with displays and hosting a small but spirited Christmas market. Families will love the arts and crafts activities, where little hands can get creative with glitter and glue. A beloved highlight is the Stephen Joseph Theatre’s annual Christmas show, a perfect centrepiece to your holiday visit. With its laid-back charm and community spirit, Scarborough is ideal for families or anyone craving a cosy, feel-good break.

Highlights:

• Stephen Joseph Theatre: Enjoy heartwarming festive storytelling in a cosy, community setting.
• Seasonal markets: Discover family-friendly activities and festive treasures for all to enjoy.
• Coastal walks: Embrace frosty sea air, cliffside views and glowing promenade lights.

With our guide to the best places to visit in the UK during Christmas, choosing just one might be the hardest part! From twinkling castles to bustling markets, these destinations promise unforgettable Christmas experiences, all just a train ride away. Book your train now to any of our destinations to avoid disappointment.

For more inspiration on things to do over the Christmas period, check out The 10 best Christmas markets in the UK and Your guide to our region’s most beautiful Christmas lights.