ARE you in need of a break this Christmas? Who says you need to break the bank and go abroad just to get some well-earned distance from your everyday life? There are plenty of great places in the UK to spend the festive period. From the Christmas markets that can be found in every corner of the country to Christmas grottos for the kids, cultural breaks and even steam train experiences, there so much in the UK you haven’t even discovered yet!
If you’re staying somewhere overnight, remember to book in advance and research some discounts to avoid the higher Christmas prices. Wherever you decide to go, make sure to use your Premier Inn NHS discount code and make the most out of your staycation.
What Brits are looking for in a staycation
With household budgets being stretched more than ever this year, it makes sense that Brits are favouring vacations within the country. And this is nothing new. In 2019, 43% of people who took part in a survey said that they were planning on taking one or more overnight trips in England.
Tourism is worth £127 billion in the UK economy. Popular seasonal activities for Brits include going out for food (45%), taking advantage of the post-Christmas sales (38%) and getting festive at a Christmas market (34%). Almost a quarter were planning something outdoors, be it a walk or a cycling trip.
Where to go and what to do
Winchester, Hampshire
Easily accessible from London or Bristol, Winchester brings plenty of Christmas cheer thanks to its magical Christmas market that calls Winchester Cathedral its backdrop. After sampling some Bratwurst and some homemade mince, take to the ice rink for a spin before a well-earned mulled wine or hot chocolate!
York, Yorkshire
The capital of (arguably) the friendliest county in the UK, York basks in a distinctly Dickensian glow come Christmas time. The Shambles – a charming network of old and crooked shops – comes to life with hundreds of fairylights whilst the market sells niknaks that are perfect for the little ones.
Whilst you’re in the county, head to Pickering for one of the North Yorkshire Moors Railway’s Santa Specials. An unforgettable steam train experience, watch the York Moors whizz past in all its frosty glory and enjoy the hospitality on board with a Christmas lunch or mince pie!
Beamish, Durham
Enter the time machine that is Beamish. A perfectly preserved piece of 19th and 20th century history, it only gets better at Christmas time when all the ancient churches hold wintery carol concerts, the old pubs jingle with merriment on any day of the week and the open-air museum grounds offer a ourdoorsy, wintery treat for anyone who wants some brisk fresh air!
