Unless you’re Scrooge, who doesn’t love Christmas? A time of drinking too much, spending out on things you can’t afford, and eating more than your body weight in pigs-in-blankets, chocolate and egg-nog – what’s not to like?
All jokes aside though, the festive period is also the ideal time to catch up with friends, family and loved ones from around the globe, sharing fun and laughter in celebration of the year gone by. Whether ice skating in the city, or simply enjoying a cosy Christmas film at home, each family’s festive celebrations tend to be as unique and individual as the next.
However, there are a fair few types of event that all families around the UK partake in over the Christmas period. From ice skating to visiting local Christmas markets, we have compiled a list below of some of the best things to do around the country this year.
Christmas at Kew Gardens.
If you are hoping for a truly magical Christmas experience, then look no further than the Royal Botanical Gardens at Kew. While many of us may dislike the darker evenings that winter brings with it, Kew Gardens takes full advantage, lighting up their already stunning gardens with millions of teeny illuminated globes.
Singing trees, trees wrapped in ribbons of light, and an epic sledge tree are just some of the incredible sights you encounter as you work your way through the garden. Then, when you’re feeling chilly, you can head on over to the Fire Garden to tuck into roasted chestnuts and a nice glass of mulled wine.
If you’re wanting to really get in the festive spirit, you can also visit Kew’s very own fairground. Here, you will be able to take a ride on an old-fashioned Victorian carousel and tell Santa all about what you’d like for Christmas this year.
Location: Kew Gardens, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Richmond, Surrey, TW9 3AE
Date: 20/11/2019 – 05/01/2020.
Time: 17:00 – 22:00.
St. Paul’s Magical Carol Concert.
When it comes to Christmas, it can be easy to forget that it’s actually a religious celebration and not just about receiving presents. With this in mind, London’s infamous St. Paul’s Cathedral is holding a particularly special service in December in collaboration with Cancer Research UK.
Just over two weeks before Christmas day itself, St. Paul’s is bringing together a collection of world-famous singers, musicians and actors for a truly memorable festive evening. With readings from Emily Watson OBE, Luke Evans and Helen George, and an exclusive performance from St Paul’s Cathedral Choir, attending the event is the perfect way to see Christmas in alongside your celeb heroes.
Plus, if you’re not too fussed about attending the event, St. Paul’s is a magnificent attraction in itself and is actually free to visit whenever you like. On the day of the service itself, tickets cost £10 and should be purchased in advance.
Location: St. Paul’s Churchyard, London, EC4M 8AD.
Date: 10/12/2019.
Time: 18:45 – 20:15.
Bath Christmas Market.
While there are a number of Christmas markets held in major towns and cities throughout the UK, Baths’ market particularly stands out. Seemingly only growing year on year, the market pops up along the picturesque streets that surround the Roman Baths and Bath Abbey.
More than 85% of the stallholders sell goods that come from Bath and its surrounding areas in the South West of England as well. Whether you’re looking for handicrafts, locally produced food, or simply a place to wander around and soak in the wintery atmosphere, Bath’s Christmas market offers all this, and much, much more.
Location: Bath City Centre.
Date: From28/11/2019 – 15/12/2019.
Time: All day.
Winter Wonderland.
If you’ve not heard of Winter Wonderland, where have you been living?!
Taking place in Cardiff and, more popularly, London each year, the event certainly lives up to its name. Encapsulating everything there is to love about winter – from sweet treats and real fires, to handicraft stalls and non-stop Christmas songs – the event is a real treat for anyone looking to get into the festive spirit.
That’s not to mention the rides it has available either. With a huge ice rink, two circuses, an observation wheel, and the Magical Ice Kingdom, Winter Wonderland really does spoil you for choice. There’s even the chance to meet Santa for younger children, and plenty of themed bars for the more grown-up visitors.
What’s more, entrance is absolutely free, so you can soak up the festive atmosphere without spending a penny! Make sure to bring lots of cash with you if you’d like to use the rides though, as these tend to be a little on the pricey side.
Location: Cardiff, CF10 3ND and Hyde Park, London.
Date: 08/11/2019 – 06/01/2020 (Cardiff), 21/11/2019 – 05/01/2020 (London).
Time: All day.
This article about “Holidays Are Coming…The Best Things To Do Around The UK At Christmas” was written for Housing Hand – the Award-Winning UK Rent Guarantor Service by Annie Button. For more information on how you can work with Housing Hand, visit housinghand.co.uk or call 02072052625 and select option 2.
